If you happen to’re simply moving into horse racing, one of the vital enjoyable issues to do is construct your individual all-star roster of horses to observe by the season. You possibly can guess on them, in fact, if the value is correct, however Thoroughbreds are additionally thrilling “free agent” athletes to maintain tabs on as they tackle new challenges, simply as you’ll your favourite tennis participant, swimmer, boxer, or gymnast.
Horses designated as grey or roan in shade are with out query a number of the most tasty round, and proper now we’re blessed with a particular group among the many higher echelon in racing. Listed here are six beauties to observe:
White Abarrio
He’s baa-aack! Throughout 2022 and 2023, this proficient racehorse was an everyday presence in big-time races, profitable three Grade 1 stakes together with the Longines Breeders’ Cup Basic two years in the past. White Abarrio was off of the radar for many of final 12 months, however now he’s again on the prime of the game with a powerhouse win within the Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes. This 6-year-old grey relishes working within the pleasant confines of his residence monitor, Gulfstream Park, the place he has received seven of 9 races. Loving life in sunny South Florida – who can blame him?
Pace King and Sandman
This duo began a rivalry final week on the Kentucky Derby Introduced by Woodford Reserve path by ending 1-2 within the Southwest Stakes at Oaklawn Park in Arkansas. Pace King led from begin to end, whereas Sandman reared up and practically misplaced his jockey firstly however recovered and was flying late in a valiant effort. Pace King has a darker, metallic grey coat whereas Sandman is sort of white, which is a trait usually current in sons of his sire (father), Tapit. Spherical 2 between these 3-year-olds might come Feb. 22 within the Insurgent Stakes at Oaklawn.
Muhimma
This beautiful gal is undefeated in three begins and one of many main contenders for the Longines Kentucky Oaks – the fillies’ equal of the Kentucky Derby – which will probably be held on Could 2. She toyed along with her opposition final 12 months, together with a formidable win in a stakes race in New York. Now, she’s coaching in Florida and will make her presence identified as soon as once more very quickly. Muhimma’s putting look comes from her dam (mom), Princesa Carolina, a grey or roan mare sired by … you guessed it … Tapit.
Subsequent
There aren’t too many horses in coaching extra standard than this man, who’s obtained that “middle-aged” grey vibe of a 7-year-old (most horses have retired by then). Subsequent is a gelding, nonetheless, which suggests he received’t be shifting on to a stud profession. As an alternative, he’s taking a a lot deserved winter break with loads of R&R and discipline time till he gears again up for an additional tour of long-distance races within the east and southeast, his specialty. Irrespective of the place he exhibits up, followers are certain to observe.
Hit Present
We may be able to see the most effective from this veteran now that he’s turned 5. Like White Abarrio, Hit Present has been holding his personal over the previous couple of years towards high-level competitors, and a few weeks in the past, he returned in his 2025 debut to win a stakes race at Truthful Grounds in New Orleans. Who is aware of – he might find yourself dueling with White Abarrio by the homestretch of a race someplace within the months forward, and wouldn’t that be one thing to see?
