| PP | Horse | Odds | Trainer | Jockey |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Grittiness | 9/2 | Todd A. Pletcher | Ricardo Santana Jr. |
| 2 | Schoolyardsuperman | 2/1 | Chad C. Brown | Manuel Franco |
| 3 | Ottinho | 9/5 | Chad C. Brown | Jose Lezcano |
| 4 | Star Sweeper | 20/1 | Louis C. Linder Jr. | Angel R. Rodriguez |
| 5 | Mailata | 6/1 | Robert E. Reid Jr. | Mychel J. Sanchez |
| 6 | Talk To Me Jimmy | 12/1 | Rudy R. Rodriguez | Ruben Silvera |
| 7 | Fourth And One | 6/1 | Jeremiah C. Englehart | Jaime Rodriguez |
The Withers Stakes is a non-graded thoroughbred horse race held annually in Aqueduct for three-year-old horses. The race covers 1 1/8 miles and is one of the significant prep races for the Kentucky Derby.
It is often seen as a test of stamina and skill for young horses early in their racing careers. The event draws attention from the online horse betting community due to its role in shaping future champions. This race will continue to serve as a key early-year event for three-year-old horses looking to make their mark on the Road to the Kentucky Derby.
The 2026 Withers Stakes was originally scheduled to take place on January 31st, but has been postponed due to Winter Storm Fern, a powerful winter weather system currently impacting large portions of the United States with heavy snow, ice, extreme cold, widespread power outages, and major travel disruptions. Winter Storm Fern has led to canceled flights, hazardous road conditions, state emergency declarations, and interruptions to public events, prompting organizers to postpone the race while prioritizing the safety of participants, staff, and spectators. The new date is February 6th.
Throughout its long history, the Withers Stakes has seen several standout champions. Older notable winners include Native Dancer (1953), one of the most famous horses in U.S. racing history, and Dr. Fager (1967), who went on to become one of the all-time greats. In 1969, Ack Ack took the title, solidifying his legacy.
| Year | Winner | Jockey | Trainer | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Talk to Me Jimmy | Ruben Silvera | Rudy R. Rodriguez | 1:51.68 |
| 2025 | Captain Cook | Manuel Franco | Richard E. Dutrow, Jr. | 1:51.83 |
| 2024 | Uncle Heavy | Mychel J. Sanchez | Robert E. Reid, Jr. | 1:53.79 |
| 2023 | Hit Show | Manuel Franco | Brad H. Cox | 1:54.71 |
| 2022 | Early Voting | Jose L. Ortiz | Chad C. Brown | 1:55.90 |
| 2021 | Risk Taking | Eric Cancel | Chad C. Brown | 1:51.91 |
| 2020 | Max Player | Dylan Davis | Linda Rice | 1:53.87 |
