The 2024 Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes guarantees exciting sports entertainment while providing a peek into the future of horse racing. The event is set for November 30 at Churchill Downs. The participants will compete for a cash prize of $400,000 and a chance to win points towards the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve which is exclusive for 2-years-old, within this Grade 2 category race. This event not only has its place in history but also has its share of bettors and fans from every part of the world, including players of premium USA casinos and their horse racing bets. This is a comprehensive guide to the field and the best bet possesses potential in one of the most-watched races on the calendar.
A Storied Event at Churchill Downs
The Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes dates back to 1920 and has occurred every year since then. Such unforgettable names as Super Saver, who won the Kentucky Derby in 2010, or the fan-favorite McCraken, who won in 2016, attended this race. Ten mostly two-year-old horses will be racing for glory during this season’s 1 1/16-mile race and Derby qualifying points.
Not only this, however, as Saturday’s contest provides the immediate winner and the picture of the odds for the Kentucky Derby well in advance. Let us look at the contenders in more detail.
2024 Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes Odds and Field
| Horse Name | Morning Line Odds |
| He’s Not Joking | 8-1 |
| Jonathan’s Way | 5-2 |
| Tiztastic | 5-1 |
| Dapper Moon | 8-1 |
| Filoso | 8-1 |
| Clock Tower | 10-1 |
| Sonic Skidaddle | 6-1 |
| First Resort | 9-2 |
| Render Judgment | 12-1 |
| Redacted | 30-1 |
Contenders to Watch
Jonathan’s Way (5-2)
Phil Bauer’s trainee gears up to the racetrack as the morning-line favorite following his impressive win in the Grade 3 Iroquois Stakes at Churchill Downs. While his exciting performance in Breeders’ Cup Juvenile wasn’t remarkable, his latest periods of competitive activity indicate that his situation may be improved. Jonathan’s Way stands a good chance of being the horse to beat as Joel Rosario will ride.
First Resort (9-2)
First Resort possesses speed-related advantages by nature and in turn, has transcended to both dirt and turf which includes finishing placing in the Grade 2 Saratoga Special Stakes. His Summer Stakes performance was below par; nonetheless, he paces prominently in snippy races such as this. If it isn’t, he might go coast to coast.
Tiztastic (5-1)
This adaptable juvenile has shown talent over both turf and dirt. A near-miss in the Street Sense Stakes at Churchill is indicative of how strong he could be here as well. The experience of trainer Steve Asmussen in the industry provides yet another reason to trust the horse’s ability to compete.
Filoso (8-1)
Because of the closing style, Filoso is an enticing choice. After failing to start properly in Breeders’ Futurity, he made an impressive rally to cross the wire in third position. He is in good shape following recent workouts and will be aided by the veteran John Velazquez sitting in the irons.
Dark Horses
Sonic Skidaddle (6-1)
Sonic Skidaddle cannot be rated much for his speed as it is average but given his late running style and his breeding, it’s possible he will be 2-turns at his best. The presence of Tyler Gaffalione increases the chances of the horse pulling off an upset win.
Render Judgment (12-1)
This colt is coming off a maiden win at Churchill Downs and has shown that he can handle this track and distance. Still, quite a hefty developmental upgrade will be needed to compete at this level.
He’s Not Joking (8-1)
He’s Not Joking has won races on all-weather tracks which can be considered new surfaces, coming in terms of being bred for dirt may have AA run well. The rail is a decent draw enabling him to secure a ground saving trip.
The Best Pick
Even though this year’s Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes offers a competitive field, Jonathan’s Way stands out as a firm favorite. His win at the Grade 3 Iroquois proved that he can compete well on the Churchill Downs turf, and he looks fit ahead of his races. He should have an advantage over the rest of the field, due to his experience and class. For value, the best alternatives are Filoso and First Resort; the former is capable of beating the favorite on a good day and the latter mustered an interesting performance under her ideal circumstances.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes not only offers a preview of potential Kentucky Derby contenders but also presents an exciting opportunity for horse racing enthusiasts to place strategic bets. For fans curious about how to bet on horse racing, this event provides a perfect entry point to explore various wagering options like win, place, and exotic bets. With a field showcasing a mix of speed, stamina, and versatility, the race promises an unforgettable spectacle. Whether Jonathan’s Way lives up to expectations or an underdog surprises the crowd, Saturday’s contest is set to leave a lasting impression on the journey to the Triple Crown.
