Horse Racing Odds: Gaming Surprises on Del Mar Futurity

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Bob Baffert’s Gaming Surprises with Victory in 2024 Del Mar Futurity

Gaming, the longest shot of trainer Bob Baffert’s trio, made headlines by winning the 2024 Del Mar Futurity, marking Baffert’s record 18th victory in the race.

This exciting win also solidified a fifth Futurity title for his longtime clients, Mike Pegram, Karl Watson, and Paul Weitman. Gaming’s success further highlighted Baffert’s dominance in the event, as he trained all three top betting choices, with Gaming standing out despite being the least favored among them.

A Surprise Win for Gaming

When the gate opened in the seven-furlong race, Getaway Car, another Baffert trainee, took the early lead, while Gaming, ridden by Flavien Prat, trailed near the back of the seven-horse field. 

A seasoned jockey with multiple Saratoga betting victories, Prat kept Gaming calm, letting him settle into a good rhythm before strategically moving up the rail. By the final stretch, Gaming surged ahead, crossing the finish line 1 ¾ lengths ahead with a final time of 1:23.02. McKinzie Street finished second, while Citizen Bull, the third Baffert horse, claimed third place.

Baffert’s Futurity Legacy

This victory is particularly notable as Gaming is the first stakes winner sired by Game Winner, a former Futurity champion trained by Baffert. It’s also the first time Baffert has taught two generations of Futurity winners, cementing his unparalleled legacy in the event. 

Gaming’s pedigree and unexpected triumph made him a standout for those tracking the horse racing odds leading up to the race.

Bob Baffert’s track record at Del Mar continues to impress. In addition to his Futurity success, Baffert secured his 10th Del Mar Debutante win the day before.

These accomplishments come while Baffert was in Kentucky preparing for the Keeneland yearling sale, leaving his trusted assistant Jimmy Barnes to oversee Gaming’s remarkable performance.

The Road Ahead for Gaming

With a career that spans decades and includes iconic horses like Real Quiet and American Pharoah, Baffert’s ability to train winners remains unmatched. For bettors looking ahead to future events, Gaming’s victory will undoubtedly factor into offtrack betting markets as the young horse continues to develop under Baffert’s guidance. 

The triumph also highlights the ongoing influence of Game Winner, whose stud fee is $20,000. This further boosts interest in his offspring for upcoming races.

As the 2024 racing season progresses, Gaming’s Del Mar Futurity win positions him as one to watch. Whether you’re analyzing Saratoga betting odds or looking for promising contenders, Baffert’s latest champion will surely capture attention.