Horse Racing Odds: Mint Millions Stakes Contenders

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Horse Racing Odds and News

Emmanuel, Ancient Rome, and International Stars Headline $2 Million Mint Millions

The 2024 Mint Millions at Kentucky Downs attracted a field of 11 strong contenders. With a purse of $2 million, this event is one of the weekend’s highlights.

The race features returning champions and exciting new entries, making it a must-watch for offtrack betting enthusiasts. The horse racing odds are expected to be competitive as talented horses take to the turf.

Key Contenders: Ancient Rome and Emmanuel

Ancient Rome, trained by Charles Hills, is back to defend his 2023 Mint Millions title. Last year, he claimed victory by a half-length at 6-1 odds. This time, he enters the race as the 5-2 morning-line favorite after a solid third-place finish in the Arlington Million (G1) at Colonial Downs. 

Despite not securing a win in his last four starts, Ancient Rome has consistently performed well on firm ground, which he’ll likely encounter again at Kentucky Downs. His return to the U.S. after training in the U.K. makes him a top contender to watch.

Emmanuel is another horse to watch, making his first start for trainer Mike Maker. Purchased for $500,000 at an online auction, Emmanuel is a multiple-graded-stakes winner looking to make a significant impact. Maker is no stranger to success in the Mint Millions, having won the race twice. He also enters Tut’s Revenge, winner of the Kentucky Downs Preview Mint Millions at Ellis Park, hoping to claim a third victory.

European Talent and Rising Stars

The Mint Millions has attracted international talent, including the Aidan O’Brien-trained Mountain Bear. This 3-year-old colt finished second in the Desmond Stakes (G3) at Leopardstown, bringing significant European experience to the race. He’s rounding into top form and will be looking to compete with the best in this field.

Also entered is Brendan Walsh’s Irish Aces, who just won the Tapit Stakes on Kentucky Downs’ opening day. Walsh has previously had success running horses twice during the short Kentucky Downs meet, which could give Irish Aces an edge. Another Walsh entry, Reckoning Force, who won the Kentucky Downs Juvenile Mile in 2022, will also be part of the field.

Additional Contenders and Betting Insights

Funtastic Again, runner-up in the Shoemaker Mile (G1) at Santa Anita, is making his first start since May and could pose a severe threat. Talk of the Nation, who won last year’s Gun Runner Stakes, is coming off a fourth-place finish in the Arlington Million and is looking for a comeback in the Mint Millions. Goliad, who won a $500,000 overnight handicap, enters the race excellently under Hall of Fame trainer Richard Mandella, a Saratoga betting veteran. 

With a mix of experienced graded-stakes winners and rising stars, the 2024 Mint Millions offers plenty of intrigue for bettors. Keep a close eye on the latest events as race day approaches, with favorites like Ancient Rome and Emmanuel facing intense competition from U.S. and international challengers.