Sierra Leone Triumphs in Breeders' Cup Classic at Del Mar
The victory marks a significant comeback for Sierra Leone after a series of near-misses in major races this year.
- Sierra Leone, ridden by Flavien Prat, won the $7 million Breeders' Cup Classic by 1 1/2 lengths, overcoming earlier setbacks in the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes.
- Trainer Chad Brown celebrated his first Classic win, crediting his team and the horse's consistency despite previous challenges.
- Fierceness, the favorite, finished second, while Japan's Forever Young took third place in the prestigious race.
- The race was marred by the death of Jayarebe, a 3-year-old horse, in the $5 million Turf event due to a suspected cardiac event.
- Thorpedo Anna's victory in the Distaff has put her in the running for Horse of the Year, following an impressive season with multiple Grade I wins.