What is the Delaware Handicap?
The Delaware Handicap is a Grade II American Thoroughbred horse race held annually at Delaware Park in Wilmington, Delaware. The race is open to fillies and mares three years old and up, covering a distance of 1 1/4 miles (10 furlongs) on dirt.
When is the Delaware Handicap in 2024?
The Delaware Handicap, also known as the Del 'Cap, is scheduled to take place on July 13, 2024. This prestigious race is a highlight of the summer racing season and attracts top-tier fillies and mares.
Delaware Handicap Winners
Notable winners of the Diana Stakes include superstar mares like Sistercharlie, who won the race in 2018 and 2019, and Forever ToThe Delaware Handicap has seen many notable winners over its illustrious history. Susan's Girl, a Hall of Fame mare, won the race twice in 1973 and 1975, showcasing her exceptional talent and endurance. Relaxing, another Hall of Fame inductee, claimed victory in 1980, further solidifying her legacy in horse racing. Royal Delta, a standout mare, captured back-to-back wins in 2012 and 2013, becoming a fan favorite and one of the most celebrated horses in recent years. These winners exemplify the high level of competition and the prestige associated with the Delaware Handicap.
| Year | Winner | Jockey | Trainer | Owner | Time | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Honor D Lady | José Ortiz | Saffie Joseph, Jr. | Final Furlong Farm and Madaket Stables, LLC | 1:59.86 | |
| 2023 | Idiomatic | Florent Geroux | Brad Cox | Juddmonte | 1:56.41 | |
| 2022 | Miss Leslie | Angel Cruz | Claudio A. Gon | BB Horses | 2:04.50 | |
| 2021 | Miss Marissa | Daniel Centeno | James Ryerson | Cammarota Racing LLC | 2:04.50 | |
| 2020 | Dunbar Road | Irad Ortiz Jr. | Chad Brown | Peter M. Brant | 1:49.02 |
Over the decades, the Delaware Handicap has evolved from a regional race to a nationally significant event. Changes in purse size, track conditions, and the quality of participating horses have all contributed to its current status as a premier race for fillies and mares.
