Location: Fair Grounds Race Course New Orleans, Louisiana
Race type: Thoroughbred, Flat racing
Distance: 1 1/16 miles (8.5 furlongs)
Track: Dirt, left-handed
Qualification: Three-year-olds
Weight: Assigned
Purse: $300,000
Grade II race
As an essential stop on the prestigious Road to the Kentucky Derby, the Risen Star Stakes has etched its name in the annals of thoroughbred racing history. Here, we dive into the race's storied past, its critical role in shaping champions, and the adrenaline-filled journey it offers for three-year-old contenders dreaming of Derby glory.
Participating in the Risen Star Stakes is akin to entering a battlefield where only the strongest contenders survive. The adrenaline-filled journey from the starting gates of the Risen Star Stakes to the final furlong is fraught with challenges and uncertainties. It's where dreams of Derby glory either take flight or are grounded in the reality of this demanding sport. For horse racing enthusiasts, the Risen Star Stakes is not just a precursor to the Derby; it's a celebration of the spirit of horse racing, embodying the passion, drama, and beauty of this timeless sport.
Named in honor of the 1988 Louisiana-bred thoroughbred champion, Risen Star, the Risen Star Stakes has stood as a beacon of talent and determination since its inception. This prestigious race, named after a horse who was not just a champion but a symbol of enduring greatness, reflects the very essence of thoroughbred racing.
Risen Star, a remarkable descendant of the legendary Secretariat, etched his name in the annals of horse racing by triumphing in both the Preakness and the Belmont Stakes. His achievements went beyond mere wins; they were a testament to the power of legacy and the enduring spirit of equine excellence. Each year, as the gates open at the Risen Star Stakes, we're reminded of the race's namesake, Risen Star, whose spirit of determination and exceptional talent continues to inspire and captivate the hearts of racing enthusiasts around the world.
Held annually at the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans, the Risen Star Stakes offer a unique blend of challenge and opportunity. The race is not just about speed; it's a test of endurance, strategy, and heart. Horses and their connections who excel here send a clear message: they are serious Kentucky Derby contenders.
This racecourse, steeped in tradition and atmosphere, has been a proving ground for equine excellence since the early 19th century, making it one of the oldest race tracks in America.
In this arena, strategy becomes as crucial as speed. Jockeys must navigate their mounts with tactical acumen, deciding when to hold back and when to push forward, ensuring their horse has enough reserve for a strong finish. Trainers, on the other hand, are tasked with preparing their charges for this demanding test, balancing rigorous training with the need to peak at the right moment.
The Risen Star Stakes, a formidable 1 1/8 mile (9 furlongs) contest, is more than just a race; it's a crucible where the raw power of speed meets the enduring resilience of stamina. This challenging distance is meticulously chosen to mirror the conditions of the Kentucky Derby's longer and even more demanding 1 1/4 miles. It serves as an essential litmus test, a proving ground where the equine athletes can showcase their ability to maintain speed over a distance that stretches beyond the sprints but falls short of the marathons.
As these young contenders thunder down the stretch at the Fair Grounds Race Course, they're not just racing for victory on that day; they're building the foundation for success at Churchill Downs. The Risen Star Stakes is strategically placed on the racing calendar, allowing enough time for these promising thoroughbreds to recover and peak again for the Kentucky Derby. It's a delicate balance of timing, training, and talent, all converging on this critical juncture in their careers.
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To place a bet on the Risen Star Stakes at BUSR, simply create an account, deposit funds, and navigate to the horse racing section. Select the Risen Star Stakes from the list of races, choose your horse, and place your bet.
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| Year | Winner | Jockey | Trainer | Owner | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Angel of Empire | Luis Saez | Brad H. Cox | Albaugh Family Stables | 1:51.47 |
| 2022 | Epicenter | Joel Rosario | Steven M. Asmussen | Winchell Thoroughbreds | 1:49.03 |
| 2021 | Mandaloun | Florent Geroux | Brad H. Cox | Juddmonte Farms | 1:50.39 |
| 2020 | Mr. Monomoy | Florent Geroux | Brad H. Cox | Madaket Stables, Michael Dubb & Doheny Racing | 1:51.43 |
| 2019 | War of Will | Tyler Gaffalione | Mark E. Casse | Gary Barber | 1:44.59 |
| 2018 | Bravazo | Miguel Mena | D. Wayne Lukas | Calumet Farm | 1:42.95 |
| 2017 | Girvin | Brian Hernandez Jr. | Joe Sharp | Brad Grady | 1:43.08 |
