What is the California Crown?
The California Crown, formerly known as the Awesome Again Stakes, is a Grade 1 Thoroughbred horse race held annually at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California.
The race is open to horses aged three and older and is run over a distance of 1 1/8 miles on dirt. It serves as a key prep race for the Breeder's Cup Classic , making it highly relevant for bettors in online horse betting platforms.
When is the California Crown?
The 2024 California Crown is scheduled for September 28th. This timing is strategically close to the Breeders' Cup, making it an essential race for horses vying to qualify for the prestigious event, thereby attracting significant interest in online horse betting.
California Crown Winners
Throughout its history, the race has seen some legendary winners. One of the most famous early victors was Game On Dude, who won the race three times (2011, 2012, 2013), showcasing his dominance in the older horse division. Tiznow, another iconic winner in 2000, went on to win two Breeders' Cup Classics, cementing his place in racing history.
Pleasantly Perfect claimed the race in 2002 and later captured the 2003 Breeders' Cup Classic and the 2004 Dubai World Cup. These early champions add to the race's storied history, which continues to draw interest in online horse betting markets.
| Year | Winner | Jockey | Trainer | Owner | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Subsanador (ARG) | Mike Smith | Richard Mandella | Wathnan Racing | 1:48.68 |
| 2023 | Slow Down Andy | Mario Gutierrez | Doug F. O'Neill | Reddam Racing | 1:47.62 |
| 2022 | Defunded | Edwin Maldonado | Bob Baffert | Karl Watson, Michael E. Pegram & Paul Weitman | 1:49.38 |
| 2021 | Medina Spirit | John R. Velazquez | Bob Baffert | Zedan Racing Stables | 1:49.67 |
| 2020 | Improbable | Drayden Van Dyke | Bob Baffert | WinStar Farm, China Horse Club & SF Racing | 1:49.01 |
The California Crown is a major event for those interested in online horse betting due to its Grade 1 status and its role as a Breeders' Cup Challenger Series qualifier for the Breeders' Cup Classic. Horses that perform well in this race often go on to compete at the highest level, making it a crucial betting opportunity for handicappers and racing fans.
