Pacific Classic Offers Breeders’ Cup Berth And $1 Million Purse

BusinessSportsMoneyPacific Classic Offers Breeders’ Cup Berth And $1 Million PurseByDanny Brewer,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Danny Brewer has been covering Thoroughbred/horse racing since 2006.Follow AuthorAug 20, 2026, 04:55pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.SummaryThe prestigious Pacific Classic, a $1 million race at Del Mar, is set for August 22, serving as a key pathway to the Breeders' Cup Classic. This 1.25-mile event, California's richest, features a competitive 11-horse field including domestic and Japanese contenders. Among the notable entries, trainer John Sadler's "Full Serrano" is highlighted as the top pick, boasting a strong Del Mar record and a hot jockey. Other strong contenders include "Knightsbridge," the field's most accomplished runner with seven wins, and "Hit Show," a battle-tested Dubai World Cup winner. "Forged Steel" and "Navajo Warrior" are expected to set a fast early pace. The race promises an exciting contest to join past champions like Flightline.Show More The Bill Mott trained Knightsbridge is the morning line favorite in the $1 million Pacific ClassicLauren King The Pacific Classic has long been a pathway to the Breeders’ Cup Classic. First contested in 1991, Del Mar’s biggest race for classic distance horses has evolved into the crown jewel of California races as it offers a higher purse than any other regularly scheduled event in the Golden State. Offering $1 million in prize money and a fees paid berth into the $7 million Breeders’ Cup Classic, the Pacific Classic has once again attracted a solid field of runners. Included in this group of accomplished contestants are runners from all over the United States and even a Japanese import (Finger). This mile and a quarter run around the Seaside Oval features a solid eleven hor...