Forever Young emerged as the standout in a gripping renewal of the 2025 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar, overcoming a contentious field and a tactical contest shaped by pace strategy. In other major headlines, a stellar juvenile debut from Remember Mamba at Keeneland has the industry buzzing about new stars on the rise, while the Keeneland November Sale saw Anywho fetch $1.3 million in another strong signal for the Thoroughbred market. Additionally, notable appointments to the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund board reflect continued stewardship within the industry.
Forever Young Prevails in Breeders’ Cup Classic
Forever Young clinched victory in the 2025 Breeders’ Cup Classic, capitalizing on a measured early pace and showing remarkable tenacity down the stretch. The highly anticipated contest was marked by the late scratch of Sovereignty earlier in the week due to a shipping-related temperature, slightly diminishing what many had called one of the deepest fields in decades. Nevertheless, the trio of Sierra Leone, Fierceness, and Forever Young reprised their rivalry, echoing last year’s trifecta but in a different finishing order.
The addition of the designated pacesetter, Contrary Thinking, drew much debate, although his influence on the race proved marginal as the early fractions remained moderate. While Sierra Leone’s sustained late run was again on display, it was Forever Young who surged ahead in the final strides, refusing to yield his advantage at the wire. Observers noted that Sierra Leone, for all his consistency, could not get past Forever Young in the gallop-out, underlining the winner’s superior resolve this year.
Remember Mamba Impresses on Debut at Keeneland
The juvenile scene witnessed a major new player as Remember Mamba powered home to a commanding victory in a nine-furlong debut at Keeneland, earning ‘Rising Star’ status. The colt, carrying the famed colors inspired by Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, was backed down from 5-1 morning line odds to 8-5 favoritism and delivered accordingly with an assertive move turning for home. Remember Mamba, by Kitten’s Joy and out of an Uncle Mo mare, drew comparisons to some of the most promising turf and classic influences in recent years.
The performance underscored both the legacy of Kitten’s Joy and the continued success of the C R K Stable, whose silks have been prominent at major meets in 2025 following earlier Grade I wins with stablemate Baeza. The win was also noted as a poignant homage to Bryant, with C R K principal Lee Searing citing the late NBA superstar’s enduring inspiration for his racing operation.
Robust Results at Keeneland November Sale
Amid strong trade at the Keeneland November sale, standout mare Anywho (by Bolt d’Oro) fetched $1.3 million, selling in foal to Not This Time. The five-year-old, a multiple graded stakes performer, is a half-sister to GIII-placed Wipe the Slate and was consigned by Grovendale Sales. The purchase highlights the persistent demand for proven racemares with premier pedigrees, reflecting broad confidence at the upper level of the bloodstock market heading into the close of the year.
Industry Developments and Initiatives
In industry news, Craig Bandoroff and Ken Freirich joined the board of the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, demonstrating continued commitment to jockey welfare and the critical role of stewardship within the sport.
In Kentucky, the arrival of November marks a period of transition, as racing stables regroup following the Breeders’ Cup and the sales season continues to reshape next year’s landscape. The Keeneland sales ring and developing talent on the racetrack both underscore the vibrant current—and future—of the American Thoroughbred industry.
