The Whitney Handicap (often referred to as the "Whitney Stakes") is an American Grade 1 handicap race for Thoroughbred racehorses three years of age and older run at a distance of 1 1?8 miles. In 2007, the Breeders' Cup Ltd. introduced the "Win and You're In" qualification format that means the winner of the Whitney Handicap will automatically qualify for the fall running of the Breeders' Cup Classic.
Since its beggining in 1928, the Whitney Stakes has been synonymous with exhilarating speed, heart-pounding finishes, and unforgettable moments. Named after the renowned racing family, this race pays homage to William Collins Whitney, a visionary who left an indelible mark on the world of horse racing. Each year, the Whitney Stakes stands tall as a true testament to the enduring legacy of the sport.
Since its inception in 1928, the Whitney Stakes has been synonymous with exhilarating speed, heart-pounding finishes, and unforgettable moments. Named after the renowned racing family, this race pays homage to William Collins Whitney, a visionary who left an indelible mark on the world of horse racing. Each year, the Whitney Stakes stands tall as a true testament to the enduring legacy of the sport.
Over the years, the Whitney Stakes has witnessed breathtaking moments that have etched themselves into the annals of racing history. From the awe-inspiring Secretariat's blistering victory in 1973 to the astonishing performances of equine legends like Man o' War, Citation, and Kelso, the Whitney Stakes has always been a stage for true greatness.
In the 2015 listing of the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA), the Whitney tied with the Kentucky Derby as the top Grade 1 race in the United States outside of the Breeders' Cup races.[1]
The Whitney Stakes is an invitation-only event, drawing the crème de la crème of thoroughbred racing. With a hefty purse and a distance of 1 ⅛ miles, this Grade 1 race attracts the industry's finest horses, trainers, and jockeys. The quest for victory in the Whitney Stakes is not for the faint-hearted but rather for those bold enough to chase greatness.
Nestled in the idyllic Saratoga Springs, New York, the Saratoga Race Course provides an unparalleled setting for this prestigious event. With its lush green fields, vibrant grandstands, and a fervent crowd that knows its racing, Saratoga exudes an electric atmosphere that permeates every inch of the hallowed grounds.
