What is the Del Mar Derby?
The Del Mar Derby is a prominent Grade II horse race held annually at Del Mar Racetrack in California. It features three-year-old thoroughbreds running over a distance of 1 1/8 miles on turf. The event is a key highlight of the summer racing season and attracts top horses, trainers, and jockeys.
When is the Del Mar Derby in 2024?
The Del Mar Derby is scheduled to take place on September 1st, 2024. This event is eagerly anticipated by fans and bettors alike, making it a significant date in the horse racing calendar.
Del Mar Derby Winners
Over the years, the Del Mar Derby has seen many impressive champions. One of the most notable winners is Tight Spot, who claimed victory in 1990 under the legendary jockey Laffit Pincay Jr. Another standout is Blackdoun, the 2004 winner, trained by Julio Canani and ridden by Corey Nakatani. Other memorable champions include Hawkster in 1989 and Ocean Crest in 1994. Each of these horses left a lasting mark on the race's history.
| Year | Winner | Jockey | Trainer | Owner | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| 2024 | Formidable Man | Umberto Rispoli | Michael McCarthy | William and Suzanne Warren | 1:49.87 |
| 2023 | Conclude | Hector Isaac Berrios | Philip D'Amato | Little Red Feather Racing, Madaket Stables LLC and The Estate of Brereton C. Jones | 1:48.61 |
| 2022 | Slow Down Andy | Mario Gutierrez | Doug O'Neill | Reddam Racing | 1:48.27 |
| 2021 | None Above the Law | Joe Bravo | Peter Miller | Downstream Racing, LLC | 1:48.97 |
| 2020 | Pixelate | Umberto Rispoli | Michael Stidham | Godolphin Racing | 1:50.25 |
The Del Mar Derby is considered a major test for young horses on the turf. It often serves as a stepping stone for horses aiming to compete in larger stakes races later in their careers. The race is renowned for its challenging distance and the quality of horses that participate, making it a highlight of the summer racing season.
