Locked Eyes Pegasus Glory Amidst Star-Studded Field

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. — Locked, a 4-year-old colt trained by Todd Pletcher, aims to secure his place among horse racing’s elite as he competes in the $3 million Pegasus World Cup on Saturday at Gulfstream Park. The race, one of North America’s richest, features a star-studded field of 12 horses, including 2024 Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan and Breeders’ Cup Classic champion White Abarrio.

Locked, a son of Gun Runner, enters as the 5-2 morning-line favorite despite a challenging post position. The colt has earned $935,650 in his career but will need to overcome stiff competition to claim the $1.8 million winner’s share. White Abarrio (3-1), Saudi Crown (9-2), and Mystik Dan (8-1) are among the top contenders in a race that promises to be one of the most competitive in recent years.

Racing insider Michelle Yu, known for her expert handicapping, has made waves by fading Locked in her picks. “If Locked drew better, he would be my top pick, but I hate his draw and he still needs to improve,” Yu told SportsLine. Instead, Yu is backing a double-digit longshot she believes has a strong chance to upset the field.

The Pegasus World Cup, now in its ninth year, has become a key event for older horses and a launching pad for future stallions. This year’s edition also features a strong undercard, including the Pegasus World Cup Turf, where Nations Pride, a three-time Grade I winner, is the likely favorite. Trainer Charlie Appleby expressed confidence in the 6-year-old, stating, “He’s always shown a good level of ability… I see no reason why the nine furlongs should be an inconvenience.”

Weather conditions are expected to be ideal, with sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-60s forecasted for race day. Post time for the Pegasus World Cup is set for 5:40 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, at Oaklawn Park, the Southwest Stakes and Martha Washington Stakes will kick off the Derby and Oaks series in Arkansas. Eclipse nominee Gaming, trained by Bob Baffert, headlines the Southwest Stakes field, while ‘TDN Rising Star’ Quietside is the horse to watch in the Martha Washington.

As the racing world turns its attention to Gulfstream Park, all eyes will be on Locked and his quest for glory. Whether he can overcome his post position and live up to his favorite status remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the 2025 Pegasus World Cup promises to deliver thrilling action from start to finish.