The 2024 Breeders’ Cup Distaff is set to deliver intense competition, with top favorites capturing much of the spotlight. However, seasoned racing fans know that betting on longshots can bring excitement and potential rewards.
Each year, unexpected contenders rise to the challenge, offering value for those willing to take a chance. If you’re looking to bet beyond the favorites, a few under-the-radar horses are worth considering. Here, we highlight three longshot horses that could surprise the field and provide an edge for bettors hoping to cash in on this year’s Distaff.
Awesome Result
Awesome Result is one of the most exciting longshots to watch for the 2024 Breeders’ Cup, a 4-year-old filly trained by the renowned Yasutoshi Ikee in Japan. With a powerful pedigree, sired by the American Triple Crown winner Justify and out of the mare Blossomed, she has displayed impressive stamina and consistency throughout her racing career.
This unbeaten filly has won all six starts, including her most recent triumph at the Empress Hai (Listed) on May 8 at Kawasaki Racecourse. Her ability to handle distances of 1 1/8 miles to 1 5/16 miles shows she’s well-suited for the Distaff’s challenging race length.
In February 2024, Awesome Result stunned fans when she claimed a jaw-dropping $30 million victory in Kyoto, beating strong competition like Hapi. Bettors who backed her have enjoyed a remarkable 400 percent return on investment, making her an appealing option for those evaluating the 2024 Breeders’ Cup odds.
Trainer Ikee has expressed plans to send her to Del Mar for the Distaff, a race favorable to Japanese-based horses in recent years, including Marche Lorraine’s 2021 upset win.
With her proven stamina and a trainer who prepares horses for the Breeders’ Cup, Awesome Result could deliver a surprise victory this fall, making her one of the most intriguing longshots for the Distaff.
Raging Sea
Raging Sea has become one of the most consistent racemares of the year, making her a compelling longshot to consider for the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Distaff. Patience has been key for her connections, as this talented filly, by Curlin and out of the Storm Cat mare Stormy Welcome, took time to mature.
She needed time to grow and refine her racing skills after showing early promise in 2022, including a third-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1).
Trained by Chad Brown and owned by Alpha Delta Stables, Raging Sea returned in 2023 with notable improvements, securing multiple victories, including the Comely Stakes (G3) and the Doubledogdare Stakes (G3).
Her standout moment came in August 2024 when she defeated Eclipse Award champion Idiomatic by a head in the Personal Ensign Stakes (G1), cementing her status as a Grade 1 winner.
Raging Sea’s upward trajectory and ability to hold her own against top-tier competition make her a fascinating contender for the Distaff. With her proven stamina and determination, she has the potential to disrupt the field.
Raging Sea offers excellent value for those evaluating the 2024 Breeders’ Cup odds, especially given her impressive late-season form and ability to battle in tough races. Keep an eye on this remarkable mare, as she could be poised for a breakthrough performance on one of the biggest stages in racing.
Candied
Candied is holding a +1600 odds promising a high payout for bettors who will place a wager on her name this coming 2024 Breeders’ Cup Distaff race. She is a promising 3-year-old filly with strong credentials.
Sired by Candy Ride (ARG) and out of the stakes-winning mare Toni Tools, Candied has already made a name with earnings totaling $368,125. Trained by the esteemed Todd Pletcher and owned by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Candied has demonstrated impressive ability in high-stakes races.
After winning her debut race at Saratoga in August 2023, Candied immediately impacted the Grade 1 level. She won the Darley Alcibiades Stakes at Keeneland with a powerful late run, securing her spot in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies through the “Win and You’re In” series.
Although she finished third in that Breeders’ Cup race, her performance against top-class competition highlighted her potential.
Candied kicked off her 2024 season in the Central Bank Ashland Stakes at Keeneland, where she finished a respectable fourth, coming off a five-month break. With a solid speed figure of 104 and a 20% win rate, Candied is poised to make waves this season, and her Grade 1 experience gives her an edge as she gears up for the Breeders’ Cup Distaff.
Despite being a long shot, Candied’s ability to rally from off the pace and compete against the best makes her a dark horse to watch as the competition heats up. She offers excellent value for those looking beyond the favorites in the Breeders’ Cup.
Conclusion
The 2024 Breeders’ Cup Distaff promises intense competition, but longshot horses like Awesome Result, Raging Sea, and Candied present exciting opportunities for bettors seeking to take a calculated risk. These under-the-radar contenders each have strong credentials, impressive performances, and the potential to upset the field.
While they may not be the top favorites, their proven stamina and determination make them horses to watch. For those looking to bet beyond the obvious picks, these longshots offer great value and the possibility of a big payout at one of horse racing’s biggest events.