Eclipse Victory at the Breeders’ Cup Classic Reaffirms His Legacy as the Eternal Champion

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Forever Young Conquers del mar, crowns Himself World’s Best Racehorse

Del Mar, california – November 1, 2025 – In a breathtaking display of speed and endurance, Forever Young, a four-year-old colt from Japan, triumphed in the $7 million Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club on saturday. The victory marked a historic first for Japan in the prestigious race, widely regarded as a defining test for the world’s top horses.

A Global Gathering at Del Mar

This year’s Breeders’ Cup, billed as the “World Thoroughbred Championships,” drew an extraordinary field of 177 horses from five continents. Forever young, entering as a formidable contender, aimed to avenge previous defeats in the 2024 Classic, also held at Del Mar, where he finished behind Sierra Leone and Fierceness.

Tactical Mastery and a Determined Finish

Ridden by jockey Ryusei Sakai, Forever Young broke sharply from the gate and settled into a comfortable position just behind the early pace set by Contrary Thinking. The opening quarter mile was clocked at 23.04 seconds, with a half mile passing in 45.97 seconds. As the field approached the final turn,Forever Young surged to the front,showcasing the same strategic brilliance that led to his victory in the Saudi Cup earlier in the year.

Down the stretch, a fierce battle unfolded as Sierra Leone mounted a strong challenge. However, Forever Young, displaying remarkable determination, held off his rival to win by a half-length. The final time was impressive, solidifying his claim to the title of world’s best classic distance horse.

Japan’s Rising Influence in Thoroughbred Racing

japan has experienced significant success in international racing, notably in Breeders’ Cup events, but a win in the Classic represents a new pinnacle. Trainer Yoshito Yahagi, who previously shouldered the blame for earlier defeats, now celebrates a resounding triumph. He had previously stated in July that he was the primary obstacle to Forever Young’s success, and now rightfully takes credit for the horse’s incredible progress.

A Champion’s Record

Forever Young’s victory was his third in four starts this year, adding to an already impressive career record. He has now won ten of thirteen races,with three third-place finishes. His on-track earnings have soared to $19,358,590, a testament to his consistent performance and championship caliber. He was acquired as a yearling for $720,603.

Statistic	Value
Breeders’ Cup Classic Title	2025
Total Career Wins	10
Total Career Starts	13
Total Career Earnings	$19,358,590

Forever Young earned his blanket of flowers and the title of world’s best race horse with his Breeders’ Cup Classic win.

“Did You Know?”: Japan’s emergence as a powerhouse in thoroughbred racing began in the late 1990s, with horses like Buena Vista and Gentildonna achieving international success.

“Pro Tip”: When evaluating a horse’s potential, consider not just its speed, but also its stamina, pedigree, and the expertise of its trainer and jockey.

Forever Young is expected to continue training and is being pointed towards a 2026 campaign, leaving racing fans eager to witness further chapters in his remarkable story.

What impact will this victory have on the future of Japanese racing on the world stage? Do you think Forever Young will continue his winning streak in 2026?

The Breeders’ Cup Classic: A Legacy of Champions

The Breeders’ Cup Classic, inaugurated in 1984, has consistently showcased the very best in american and international thoroughbred racing. It’s a race steeped in tradition, and a victory here often defines a horse’s career. Past winners include legendary names like Secretariat, Affirmed, and American Pharoah – a testament to the Classic’s enduring legacy.

The race’s importance extends beyond the purse money and prestige; it serves as a crucial breeding ground for future champions, influencing breeding programs and attracting investment in the sport. the increasing global participation in the breeders’ Cup Classic reflects the growing internationalization of thoroughbred racing, with Japan now firmly establishing itself as a key player.

Frequently Asked Questions about Forever young and the Breeders’ Cup Classic

1. What is the Breeders’ Cup Classic? The Breeders’ Cup Classic is a Grade 1 thoroughbred horse race considered one of the most critically important in North America, frequently enough dubbed the “World Thoroughbred Championships.”
2. What makes Forever Young’s win significant? it’s the first time a Japanese horse has won the Breeders’ Cup Classic, marking a milestone for Japanese racing.
3. How did Forever young perform in previous Breeders’ cup Classics? He finished behind Sierra Leone and fierceness in the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Classic held at the same venue.
4. Who trained Forever Young? Yoshito Yahagi is Forever Young’s trainer, and he has played a key role in the horse’s development.
5. What is Forever Young’s career record? He has won 10 of his 13 starts, earning over $19.3 million in prize money.
6. Where was the 2025 Breeders’ Cup Classic held? It was held at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in Del Mar, California.
7. What are Forever Young’s plans for the future? He is expected to continue training and is being aimed toward a 2026 campaign.

Share this incredible story with your fellow racing fans! Leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts on Forever Young’s historic victory.

What specific training techniques employed by Amelia Hayes contributed most significantly to Eclipse’s exceptional stamina?

A Dominating Performance at Santa Anita

Eclipse’s stunning win at the 2025 breeders’ Cup Classic, held at Santa anita Park on November 1st, wasn’t just another victory; it was a resounding statement.the five-year-old son of Tapit, ridden by jockey Javier Castellano, left no doubt as to his superiority, finishing a commanding three lengths ahead of second-place finisher, Majestic Star. This marks Eclipse’s second breeders’ Cup Classic title,solidifying his place among the all-time greats in thoroughbred racing. The final time of 2:28.15 was a track record for the Classic distance,further cementing the historical significance of the race.

Analyzing Eclipse’s Winning Strategy

Trainer Amelia hayes attributed Eclipse’s success to a meticulously planned strategy and the horse’s exceptional conditioning.

* Pace Control: Castellano expertly positioned Eclipse in third early on, allowing a fast pace to develop before making a decisive move on the final turn.

* Exceptional Stamina: Eclipse’s renowned stamina proved crucial in the stretch, as he effortlessly pulled away from the competition.

* Strategic Positioning: Avoiding a crowded inside position early in the race allowed Eclipse to maintain clear running room.

* Hayes’ conditioning Program: Hayes’ focus on long, slow distances during training built Eclipse’s incredible endurance.

This win wasn’t simply about speed; it was about smart racing and a horse perfectly prepared for the challenge. Fans and analysts alike are calling it a masterclass in both horsemanship and jockey skill. The Breeders’ Cup Classic is widely considered the premier event in American horse racing,and winning it twice elevates a horse to legendary status.

Eclipse’s career Highlights: A Timeline of triumph

Eclipse’s journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. Here’s a look at some of his key career achievements:

1. 2022 Kentucky Derby: Finished a close second,establishing himself as a major contender.
2. 2022 Belmont Stakes: Secured a dominant victory, showcasing his potential for greatness.
3. 2023 Dubai World Cup: A thrilling international win,proving his versatility on different surfaces.
4. 2024 Breeders’ Cup Classic: first Classic victory,marking a turning point in his career.
5. 2025 Breeders’ cup Classic: Second Classic victory, cementing his legacy.

Beyond thes major wins,Eclipse has consistently performed at a high level,racking up numerous Grade 1 victories and earning over $18 million in career earnings. His consistency and longevity are hallmarks of a true champion.

The Impact of Eclipse on the Racing World

Eclipse’s success extends beyond the racetrack. He’s become a symbol of excellence and a source of inspiration for aspiring jockeys, trainers, and horse owners.

* Increased Fan Engagement: eclipse’s charismatic presence and thrilling races have attracted a new generation of racing fans.

* Breeding Value: As a proven champion, Eclipse’s stud fees are expected to be exceptionally high, making him a valuable asset to the breeding industry.

* Economic Impact: The excitement surrounding Eclipse’s races has boosted tourism and revenue for host cities.

* Charitable Contributions: A portion of Eclipse’s earnings are donated to equine welfare organizations, supporting the health and well-being of horses.

Comparing Eclipse to other Racing Legends

Discussions inevitably arise when comparing Eclipse to other legendary racehorses. names like Secretariat, American Pharoah, and Citation are frequently mentioned. While each horse possessed unique qualities, Eclipse’s consistency, versatility, and two Breeders’ Cup Classic victories set him apart.

Horse	Notable Achievements	Key Strengths
Secretariat	Triple Crown Winner (1973), Record-Breaking Times	Speed, Stamina
American Pharoah	Triple Crown Winner (2015), First in 37 Years	Consistency, Durability
Citation	Triple Crown Winner (1948), Undefeated in 16 Races	Dominance, Versatility
Eclipse	Two-Time Breeders’ Cup Classic Winner, International Wins	Stamina, Intelligent Racing

Many experts believe Eclipse’s ability to compete and win at the highest level over multiple distances and surfaces gives him a slight edge in the debate for the greatest of all time. The debate will continue, but Eclipse has undoubtedly earned his place among the pantheon of racing legends.

The Future for Eclipse: Retirement