On November 2, 2024, Del Mar hosts the Breeders’ Cup Classic, a premier event in the horse racing schedule. With a $7 million purse on the line and the sport’s best horses going 1 1/4 miles, we’ll analyze each jockey’s skill and examine horse racing odds to spotlight favorites in this prestigious race.
Ryusei Sakai is a rising star in Japanese horse racing, a jockey known for his determination and skill in high-stakes competitions. Born and raised in Japan, Sakai has spent years honing his craft in a sport that requires not just physical agility but also mental strength and precision.
In the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Classic, Sakai will be riding Forever Young (JPN), a horse with a strong track record and solid odds of 6-1, making them one of the notable competitors in the field.
Early Career and Development
Sakai’s path to success wasn’t easy. Like many jockeys, he began riding at a young age, drawn to the thrill of competition and the deep connection with horses. After completing his initial training, Sakai entered the competitive racing scene, where he quickly made a name for himself. In his early years, he focused on building a reputation in local Japanese races, gaining invaluable experience and learning the nuances of racing strategy.
Over time, his skill and dedication caught the attention of trainers and racing enthusiasts worldwide. He developed a reputation for his calm demeanor under pressure, a trait that has served him well in close finishes and high-stakes races. As he moved up in the ranks, Sakai took on more challenging competitions, proving himself as a versatile and resilient jockey.
Notable Achievements
In Japan, Sakai has won numerous races, including some of the country’s most prestigious competitions. His talent has not gone unnoticed on the international stage either, as he has been invited to participate in races across the globe. His performance in international events has shown his adaptability to different tracks, racing styles, and horse temperaments.
One of Sakai’s standout achievements came in the Japanese Derby, where he showcased his ability to maintain composure and adapt his strategy mid-race. This flexibility and adaptability are qualities that many believe will give him an edge in the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
The Partnership with Forever Young (JPN)
Forever Young (JPN) is a talented horse trained by Yoshito Yahagi, a respected figure in the racing community. This pairing of Sakai and Forever Young has been met with excitement, as both the jockey and the horse bring complementary strengths to the race. While Sakai is known for his strategic insight and calm under pressure, Forever Young is known for a steady pace and strong finishing burst, qualities that make the duo a formidable contender.
With odds of 6-1, Forever Young has a fair shot at winning, but the competition is fierce. Sakai’s role will be to guide the horse skillfully, making strategic decisions in real time to maximize their chances. Sakai’s experience in reading the race and timing his moves could be crucial, especially given the competition from strong rivals like City of Troy and Fierceness.
Strategy for the Breeders’ Cup Classic 2024
In the Breeders’ Cup Classic, Sakai’s strategy will likely revolve around patience and timing. He knows that the competition will be intense, with some jockeys pushing for an early lead. Sakai, however, is known for his skill in pacing, understanding when to conserve his horse’s energy and when to push for a final surge.
Given that Forever Young is a strong finisher, Sakai will likely aim to position himself in the middle of the pack during the early stages of the race. This will allow Forever Young to conserve energy and avoid getting caught up in the initial rush, which can tire out less experienced horses and jockeys. As the race progresses, Sakai will look for openings, assessing his competitors’ positions and planning his final move.
Key Challenges and Rivals
Sakai and Forever Young will face tough competition, particularly from horses like City of Troy, ridden by the accomplished Ryan Moore, and Fierceness, with John Velazquez in the saddle. Both horses have shorter odds and are known for their aggressive racing styles, which means Sakai will need to stay sharp and ready to respond to any sudden changes in pace or positioning.
The biggest challenge will likely come in the final stretch, where timing is everything. Sakai must judge the right moment to make his move, balancing the need for speed with the stamina required to reach the finish line strong. This critical decision-making will be key to staying ahead of competitors who may attempt a last-minute surge.
Final Thoughts
Ryusei Sakai enters the Breeders’ Cup Classic with both confidence and a calm determination. His journey from a promising young jockey in Japan to a competitor on the world stage has prepared him well for this moment. With Forever Young by his side, Sakai has a real chance to make an impact in this year’s Classic.