California horse racing saw significant improvements in 2025, as thoroughbreds trained at Santa Anita and Del Mar made strong bids for the prestigious Eclipse Awards. Following a challenging period, where California horses failed to secure any awards in 2023, this year’s performance has positioned them to win at least two divisional titles and place among the top three in five out of ten categories. The nominations come ahead of the annual Eclipse Awards dinner, scheduled for January 22, 2025, in Palm Beach, Florida.
The voting concluded recently, and the results indicate a remarkable turnaround for California horses, which had previously earned three championships and placed in the top three in five categories in 2024. This year, the competition is fierce, with several equine athletes standing out in their respective divisions.
Key Contenders for the Eclipse Awards
One of the standout horses is the older male on dirt, Forever Young, a four-year-old from Japan who clinched victory in the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar after two previous attempts. He is joined by Nysos, trained by Bob Baffert, who showcased remarkable talent in the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile and the Laffit Pincay Jr. Stakes at Santa Anita.
In the older female on dirt category, Thorpedo Anna has made an impressive mark with her multiple victories, despite not being a title defender. Scylla, a five-year-old, notably won the Breeders’ Cup Distaff, further solidifying her place in contention.
The turf divisions also feature strong candidates. In the male category, British four-year-old Notable Speech excelled in the Breeders’ Cup Mile, while She Feels Pretty, representing the female turf category, placed second against formidable international competition.
Among the sprinters, Bentornato dominated his two starts, winning the Breeders’ Cup Sprint, while female sprinter Kopion emerged as a remarkable contender, breaking into the National Thoroughbred Racing Association’s top ten list.
A Bright Future for California Racing
The successes of California horses extend beyond individual recognition. In the three-year-old male division, Sovereignty distinguished himself by winning the Kentucky Derby, Belmont, and Travers Stakes before missing the Breeders’ Cup Classic due to illness. His expected return in 2026 promises to keep California racing relevant and competitive.
Additionally, the upcoming races and performances of young talents like Ted Noffey, the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile victor, indicate a robust future for the state’s racing scene. Both Super Corredora and Kopion have shown exceptional promise, demonstrating that California barns continue to produce champions capable of competing on the national stage.
As the horse racing community anticipates the Eclipse Awards, industry experts and fans alike recognize the resilience and talent of California thoroughbreds. With several horses poised for top honors, the state’s racing landscape is undergoing a revitalization, promising an exciting year ahead for racing enthusiasts.
For ongoing insights and updates, follow horse racing correspondent Kevin Modesti on X.com/KevinModesti.
