The respective winners from Friday's GI FanDuel Breeders' Cup Juvenile–Citizen Bull (Into Mischief)–and the GI NetJets Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies–Immersive (Nyquist), will look down the road to their 3-year-old seasons with the GI Kentucky Derby and GI Kentucky Oaks the target.
Trainer Bob Baffert said he knew that Citizen Bull was ready to take on the field at Del Mar, but all week he was careful to not tip his hand too much.
His experience with 'TDN Rising Star' Muth (Good Magic), who skipped the Derby and scratched because of a fever the week of the GI Preakness Stakes, is a fresh reminder for him about expectations.
“Last year, we thought Muth couldn't lose, and Fierceness kicked the hell out of us,” Baffert said. “These are hard races to win.”
The Hall of Fame trainer said that it is exciting to be on the trail to May, but it is too far off at this point.
“That is why we work so hard,” said Baffert. “All my people want to play at the top level. We feel very fortunate just to get one of these.”
As for the favorite in the Juvenile, 'TDN Rising Star' East Avenue (Medaglia d'Oro), the colt is in good shape despite an unlucky run. According to his trainer Brendan Walsh, the goal of getting to the Derby is still the focus with races along the way.
“He's fine, we'll move on,” Walsh said.
Immersive A Slam Dunk In Fillies
In the Juvenile Fillies, Immersive won by 4 1/2 lengths and trainer Brad Cox confirmed that now-three-time Grade I winner came out of the race in good shape.
“I think 2-year-old fillies, she's the best we've had,” said Cox. “To accomplish what she has, we've not had one win three Grade 1s at 2. We're excited about what she accomplished, proud of her, and looking forward to next year.”
Immersive wins the $2 Million @NetJets #BreedersCup Juvenile Fillies on #FutureStarsFriday at @delmarracing! Congrats to all of her connections! pic.twitter.com/4tKPMmjo7z
— Breeders' Cup (@BreedersCup) November 1, 2024
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