Today’s Thoroughbred Horse Racing News – October 24, 2025

Dr. Kapur Graduates at Keeneland with Rising Star Performance

Dr. Kapur, a 2-year-old son of McKinzie out of Ava’s Kitten, secured his maiden victory at Keeneland on Thursday with an impressive performance that earned him TDN Rising Star honors. The Ken Ramsey homebred, entered as the 4-5 favorite, was hustled to the front by jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. but immediately faced pressure from an inside challenger through an opening quarter clocked in 22.47 seconds.

After gaining breathing room on the far turn, Dr. Kapur kicked home and leveled off nicely in the stretch, pulling away to win by 2 3/4 lengths. The winning time for seven furlongs was 1:23.71, with Chip Honcho finishing second. Ortiz expressed satisfaction with the colt’s performance, noting that the horse was continuing to pull away at the finish. Ramsey indicated that Dr. Kapur will be aimed at the Grade II Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes at Churchill Downs on November 29.

Valley View Stakes Set for Friday Card at Keeneland

Keeneland’s Grade 2 Valley View Stakes headlines Friday’s racing card, drawing considerable attention from handicappers analyzing the competitive turf event. The race features several contenders with varying trip circumstances and distance considerations that could significantly impact the outcome.

Racing analysts have identified speed horses as potential factors, with tactical advantage playing a crucial role in the race setup. The consensus suggests that positioning and pace flow will be instrumental in determining which runners can execute their best efforts over the mile course on the turf.

Breeders Crown 2YO Finals in Focus

The Breeders Crown 2-year-old finals at Woodbine Mohawk Park on Friday are shaping up as competitive matchups with multiple accomplished runners crossing paths. Specialists noted the challenge of assessing North American horses against international competition, particularly as horses transition from qualifying races to championship events.

Several quarters have noted that consistency and fitness through the late-season schedule could favor certain contenders heading into the finals.

Looking Ahead

Multiple Grade III stakes are scheduled for Saturday at Keeneland, including the Hagyard Fayette Stakes and Bryan Station Stakes, providing continued opportunities for turf and dirt runners to compete at the black-type level.