The 2024 Arlington Stakes (G3T), set for Saturday, June 1st, promises to be a thrilling event at Churchill Downs. With a purse of $275,000, this Grade 3 race has attracted a competitive field of eight horses, ready to showcase their talents over the 1 1/16 miles turf course. The Arlington Stakes will be Race 6 on an 11-race card, with a scheduled post time of 3:18 p.m. ET.
The Field
Here’s a look at the field for the 2024 Arlington Stakes:
- Ottoman Fleet (GB) – Jockey: Flavien Prat, Trainer: Charlie Appleby
- Emmanuel – Jockey: Irad Ortiz Jr., Trainer: Todd Pletcher
- Smokin’ T – Jockey: John Velazquez, Trainer: Shug McGaughey
- Stitched – Jockey: Tyler Gaffalione, Trainer: Greg Foley
- Northern Invader – Jockey: Jose Ortiz, Trainer: Cherie DeVaux
- Chasing the Crown – Jockey: Joel Rosario, Trainer: Mike Maker
- Harlan Estate – Jockey: Declan Cannon, Trainer: Whit Beckman
- Irish Aces – Jockey: Luis Saez, Trainer: Brendan Walsh
Analyzing the Contenders
Ottoman Fleet (GB)
Trained by the renowned Charlie Appleby and ridden by Flavien Prat, Ottoman Fleet enters this race with strong international credentials. This British-bred gelding has shown versatility and stamina, making him a formidable contender. Prat’s ability to navigate through the field and position his horse for a strong finish will be crucial.
Emmanuel
Emmanuel. Ryan Thompson/Coglianese Photos
With Irad Ortiz Jr. in the irons, Emmanuel has a top-tier jockey guiding him. Trained by Todd Pletcher, this horse has shown significant promise in his career so far. Ortiz’s aggressive style can help Emmanuel secure a good early position, which is vital in a race where early speed is expected to be a factor.
Smokin’ T
John Velazquez teams up with trainer Shug McGaughey to bring Smokin’ T into the fold. This duo is known for their success, and Smokin’ T’s consistency on the track adds to his appeal. His ability to maintain a steady pace throughout could be beneficial in a field with several speedsters.
Stitched
Tyler Gaffalione rides Stitched for trainer Greg Foley. This horse has demonstrated a knack for performing well on the turf. Gaffalione’s skill in guiding horses through tight spots and his tactical acumen make Stitched a horse to watch, especially if he can stay near the front without getting into a speed duel.
Northern Invader
Jose Ortiz rides Northern Invader for Cherie DeVaux. Ortiz’s expertise and ability to time his runs perfectly could see Northern Invader making a late charge. This horse’s closing speed could be a decisive factor if the early pace is fast.
Chasing the Crown
With Joel Rosario aboard, Chasing the Crown, trained by Mike Maker, has the potential to upset the field. Rosario is known for his patience and strong finishes, which align well with Chasing the Crown’s racing style. Look for them to come from behind in the stretch.
Harlan Estate
Declan Cannon rides Harlan Estate for Whit Beckman. Though not as well-known as some of the other contenders, Harlan Estate has shown flashes of brilliance. Cannon’s ability to read the race and position Harlan Estate effectively will be key.
Irish Aces
Luis Saez takes the reins on Irish Aces for Brendan Walsh. Saez’s aggressive riding style can help Irish Aces stay close to the pace. If he can find a clear path in the stretch, Irish Aces could be in contention for a strong finish.
Betting Guide
When it comes to betting on horse races, understanding the different types of wagers is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of some popular wagering options:
Race Analysis and Betting Strategy
Given the field and the expected early speed, the race seems poised for a thrilling finish. Here are some strategic insights for betting on the Arlington Stakes:
Top Selections
Ottoman Fleet (GB): With a strong international pedigree and a top jockey-trainer combination, Ottoman Fleet is a solid choice. He has the versatility to adapt to different race scenarios and the stamina to finish strong.
Northern Invader: Jose Ortiz’s mount could benefit from a fast early pace. His closing speed makes him an excellent candidate for both win and place bets.
Value Bets
Chasing the Crown: Joel Rosario’s knack for timing his runs perfectly makes Chasing the Crown an attractive option for exacta and trifecta bets. If he can stay close to the leaders and unleash a strong finish, he could provide a nice payout.
Smokin’ T: Consistent performance and the experienced hand of John Velazquez make Smokin’ T a value pick, especially for show bets. His steady pace could see him finishing in the top three.
Longshot
Harlan Estate: While not as high-profile as some contenders, Harlan Estate could surprise. Declan Cannon’s ability to navigate traffic and find the best route could see Harlan Estate hitting the board at attractive odds.
The 2024 Arlington Stakes at Churchill Downs promises excitement and high-quality racing. With a strong field and a mix of early speed and tactical runners, the race sets up well for those looking to place thoughtful wagers. Ottoman Fleet and Northern Invader stand out as top selections, while Chasing the Crown and Smokin’ T offer value. For those seeking a potential longshot, Harlan Estate is worth considering. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, understanding the horses and betting strategies can enhance your race-day experience.
As always, remember to gamble responsibly and enjoy the thrill of one of the premier turf races of the season. Happy betting!
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.
