Breeders' Cup Classic Picks: Backing Knightsbridge to Win

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Pushing The Odds with Matt Perrault

Knightsbridge Emerges as a Breeders’ Cup Classic Long-Shot Option

After winning last year, Forever Young returns to defend his title in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. While some horses are sent to stud after competing as three-year-olds, others continue racing until they are six or seven, depending on their stud value and owners.

Forever Young has raced around the world, reflecting an ownership group more interested in continuing to race the horse than quickly sending him to stud.

Forever Young, Sovereignty and Golden Temple have short odds, but none is currently the preferred choice at the top of the ticket. Sovereignty could be used in a Billmot Exacta with Knightsbridge, while Magnitude is another horse under consideration.

Golden Tempo was the Kentucky Derby pick and winner, but there are concerns about whether he will get the pace he needs. His price may also be too short to justify a bet.

Knightsbridge, currently around 4.5 or 5-to-1, is the leading option at the price. The approach is to oppose Forever Young and, to a lesser extent, Sovereignty, keeping them in the second or third positions on the ticket.

Exacta and trifecta payouts at the Breeders’ Cup can be substantial even when favorites win, creating opportunities for bettors who like including long shots.