The current forecast for Saturday, September 13, calls for clear skies and a high of 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for a firm turf course. This will favor horses with a good turn of foot and those who can handle a fast pace. The firm ground will also make it a true test of speed and stamina, likely favoring the European imports.
The $500,000 Summer Stakes (G1) is a "Win and You're In" event for the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf. This year's edition brings together a fascinating mix of international talent and promising local contenders, all vying for a spot on racing's biggest stage. With a full field set to go one mile on the inner turf course at Woodbine, this race is one of the most exciting of the day.
While the race is packed with promising 2-year-olds, these three stand out as the best bets for 2025.
European raiders have a strong record in the Summer Stakes, and Wild Desert looks poised to continue that trend. Trained by the masterful Charlie Appleby, who has already won this race twice, this colt enters as the morning-line favorite. He's a Godolphin homebred, which is always a sign of a horse with a top-class pedigree.
He has already proven himself in three starts in England, including a maiden victory at Haydock Park. In his last start, he finished a respectable third in the Superlative Stakes (G2) at Newmarket, a race that has produced future Group 1 winners. This will be his first time racing around a turn, but his powerful connections and talent make him the horse to beat. With William Buick in the irons, he's a very dangerous win contender.
If the European invaders falter, all eyes will be on Two Out Hero. This Kevin Attard trainee is perfect in his two career starts at Woodbine and represents the best of the local talent. He was imposing in his last race, winning the Soaring Free Stakes (LS) by 1 1/2 lengths over a solid field.
The son of War Front is a versatile horse who has won both on the synthetic main track and on the turf. His last race showed he has a sharp turn of foot and the ability to close strong. He has the home-court advantage and is already proven over the Woodbine course, which will be a significant benefit. With Rafael Manuel Hernandez back aboard, they make a formidable team that will be tough to beat.
Every great race has a dark horse, and for the 2025 Summer Stakes, that horse is Thesecretadversary. Trained by James A. 'Fozzy' Stack, this Irish-bred colt will have the legendary Frankie Dettori in the saddle. Dettori's presence alone is a vote of confidence that this horse is ready to perform on a big stage.
He's been steadily improving in his four starts, finishing second in his first three races before finally breaking his maiden in the Churchill Stakes (LS). He's bred to run all day and should appreciate the added distance of a mile. He may be a bit of a wildcard, but with his connections and improving form, he offers excellent value at 6-1 on the morning line.
The 2025 Summer Stakes is shaping up to be an international battle of rising stars. Wild Desert is the European favorite with an impeccable pedigree and connections, Two Out Hero is the dominant local contender with a perfect record at Woodbine, and Thesecretadversary is the intriguing longshot with a world-class jockey. This race is not only a highlight of the day but also a key stepping stone to the Breeders' Cup, and the winner will undoubtedly be one to watch on the biggest stage.
The writing team at US Racing is comprised of both full-time and part-time contributors with expertise in various aspects of the Sport of Kings.
