2011 Breeders' Cup FAQ

What is the Breeders' Cup?

The best and most accomplished horses in each class gather every November to compete in the 15 Breeders' Cup races -- the World Championships for the sport since 1984. There is $26 million in cash and purses at stake. The  two-day event, held from Nov. 4-5, 2011, will be held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky, for the second consecutive year and a record eighth time overall. In 2012 it will move to Santa Anita.

What types of races are on the race card and who are the top contenders?

No matter what your expertise -- turf, sprint, or route -- there will be several of each over the two days. Eleven of the 15 races are Grade 1 races, meaning the highest caliber of competition and prize money in the sport. Three others are Grade 2. Contenders for the richest race of the weekend, the Classic, include the leading Horse of the Year candidate Havre de Grace, 3-year-olds Uncle Mo (2010 BC Juvenile champ) and Stay Thirsty (Travers winner), Jockey Club Gold Cup champion Flat Out and Whitney winner Tizway. Many other major stakes winners of 2011 will be featured in the 15 races. For a complete list of the races and projected fields, please refer to our Breeders' Cup schedule and Top Ten lists.

How do horses qualify for the Breeders' Cup?

The races are non-invitational, meaning horses have to qualify by meeting the eligibility requirements for specific races. The Breeders' Cup Challenge Series races are "Win & You're In" events that ensure automatic entry with fees paid. You can see all the winners and video replays of the BC Challenge Series races here.

Who are some of the notable winners of Breeders' Cup races?

In 2009, Zenyatta became the first female to win the $5 million Breeders' Cup Classic. She nearly defended her title in 2010 but lost narrowly to Blame in an electrifying finish. It was Zenyatta's first and only career loss. DRF.com has video replays of the entire 2010 Breeders’ Cup slate. Nearly all great American champions have proven themselves on this stage, including Azeri, A.P. Indy, Alysheba, Cigar, Curlin, Personal Ensign, Ferdinand, and Sunday Silence. Tiznow is the only two-time winner of the Classic (2000-01), the meet's most prestigious event.

How can I buy tickets for the 2011 Breeders' Cup?

Tickets are on sale at the official Breeders' Cup website.

Why should I consider wagering on these races?

With full fields of top-flight horses, the Breeders' Cup represents the best opportunity for horseplayers to make a score. Payouts for win bets, exactas, and exotic wagers are often among the highest of any weekend of the year. You can wager right here on DRF.com. In fact, you can sign up for a DRF Bets account and get a $100 bonus!

What types of wagers can I make on the Breeders' Cup races?

Click here for a full wagering menu for all the races. New for this year will a 50-cent Pick 5 for both days, 10-cent Superfectas and a Pick 6 for both days that may carry over from Friday to Saturday. The $2 pick six will have a guarantee of $750,000 on Friday and $2 million on Saturday. There is a mandatory payout Saturday. Make sure to watch DRF's Mike Watchmaker and Steven Crist analyze the 2011 Breeders' Cup wagering menu.

What is the best way to follow news about the 2011 Breeders' Cup?

DRF.com will have live video of ALL the Breeders' Cup races. We will have wall-to-wall coverage, with the industry's best reporters and analysts on site providing race previews, video selections, and unmatched insight. You can follow all of the headlines right now on our Breeders' Cup news page.

What is the best way to prepare for the 2011 Breeders' Cup?

With so many races to handicap, you will want to get an early start. Begin by purchasing the Advance Access Package right here on DRF.com. The package will include the early past performances for every race, advice on multi-race wagers, a 2-year-old babies report, key Formulator Facts and much, much more.