Saratoga Derby Invitational Announced as Next International Qualifier for Ladbrokes Cox Plate

[Wandering Eyes]

The GI Saratoga Derby Invitational, slated for Saturday, Aug. 5 at Saratoga, will offer the winner an automatic berth into the G1 Ladbrokes Cox Plate, the New York Racing Association, Inc. and Moonee Valley Racing Club (MVRC) announced Wednesday.

The new partnership will provide the winner of the Saratoga Derby, a 1 3/16-mile test for sophomores, a place in the starting gate for the Ladbrokes Cox Plate Oct. 28 at Moonee Valley in Victoria, Australia, with winning connections afforded subsidies for transportation and accommodation.

In 2021, the Joseph O'Brien-trained State of Rest (Ire) (Starspangledbanner {Aus}) won the Saratoga Derby before coming to Melbourne to win the Ladbrokes Cox Plate.

“The Saratoga Derby Invitational has proven to be a strong race, attracting both top North American horses as well as well-regarded international shippers,” NYRA Senior Vice-President Racing Operations Frank Gabriel said. “The added bonus of a potential berth in one of the world's top races should only increase the strength of field.”

MVRC Head of Racing Charlotte Mills added, “We feel there is still significant growth to come with the Saratoga Derby and it will continue to attract some of the best 3-year-olds in the world. The Ladbrokes Cox Plate has long been a stallion making race, and this connection between the two races also presents a wonderful opportunity for colts to secure a breeding career beyond racing, with recognition in both hemispheres eminent.”

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