What is the Apple Blossom Handicap?
The Apple Blossom Handicap is a Grade I Thoroughbred race held annually at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Run at 1 1/16 miles on the dirt for fillies and mares aged four and older, it is one of the most prestigious dirt races for females in North America. First run in 1958 and elevated to Grade I status in 1982, the Apple Blossom has served as a proving ground for some of the greatest mares in the sport's history, including Azeri, Zenyatta, and most recently Thorpedo Anna. For 2026, the race was added to the Breeders' Cup Challenge Series, with the winner earning an automatic starting berth and paid entry fees into the Breeders' Cup Distaff at Keeneland.
When is the Apple Blossom Handicap in 2026?
The 2026 Apple Blossom Handicap is scheduled for Saturday, April 11 at Oaklawn Park. With a purse of $1,250,000, it is Oaklawn's signature event and one of the richest dirt races for older fillies and mares anywhere in the country during the spring season. Its new "Win and You're In" status adds even greater significance, giving the winner a direct path to the fall's most prestigious female dirt race.
Apple Blossom Handicap History & Notable Winners
The Apple Blossom has produced a stunning roll of champions over the decades. Azeri won it three times in succession from 2002 to 2004, and Zenyatta swept the race twice during her unbeaten career in 2008 and 2010. More recently, Letruska won back-to-back editions in 2021 and 2022, while reigning Horse of the Year Thorpedo Anna delivered a dominant four-length score in 2025 under jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. as part of her championship campaign. Trainer Ken McPeek, who saddled Thorpedo Anna, is a multiple Apple Blossom winner at the track. Jockey Mike Smith holds the all-time record with seven wins in the race.
| Year | Winner | Jockey | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Thorpedo Anna | Brian Hernandez Jr. | 1:44.27 |
| 2024 | Adare Manor | Juan Hernandez | 1:42.48 |
| 2023 | Clairiere | Joel Rosario | 1:43.36 |
| 2022 | Letruska | Jose Ortiz | 1:42.22 |
| 2021 | Letruska | Irad Ortiz Jr. | 1:43.14 |
Last Updated on 04/07/2026
The Apple Blossom Handicap is the centerpiece of the Oaklawn meet and a key early-season test for the country's top older fillies and mares targeting the Breeders' Cup Distaff later in the year.
