Keeneland’s Fall Meet is set to feature a record-breaking stakes schedule worth $10.85 million, as originally reported by the Paulick Report. The event, held over 17 days from October 3 to 25 in Lexington, Kentucky, will showcase 22 stakes races. The first three days mark a Signature Fall Stars weekend with 11 stakes races led by the $1.25 million Coolmore Turf Mile (G1), attracting top horses aiming for the Breeders’ Cup World Championships at Del Mar.
The Kentucky Thoroughbred Development Fund is contributing $2.55 million to Keeneland’s Fall Meet stakes pool, pending approval from Kentucky’s Horse Racing and Gaming Commission. Gatewood Bell, Keeneland’s Vice President of Racing, highlighted the strong competition among elite horses, jockeys, trainers, and owners, focusing on engaging fans, handicappers, and the broader industry. There will be an additional $100,000 added to the Sycamore (G2) stakes in 2025, increasing the purse for each of its 18 shares by $50,000. Currently, Grade 1 races offer purses between $650,000 and $1.25 million, while Grade 2 races have purses around $400,000.
Fall Stars weekend will open with $6.3 million across 11 stakes, including eight that are part of the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series: “Win and You’re In.” These races guarantee winners an automatic entry and paid admission to the 42nd Breeders’ Cup on October 31 and November 1.
On Friday, October 3, three “Win and You’re In” races will be contested: the $650,000 Darby Alcivia Death (G1) NetJets Juvenile Fillies, the $400,000 Stoll Keenon Ogden Phoenix (G2) Cygames Sprint, and the $400,000 Jessamine (G2). Saturday, October 4, will feature five such races including the $1.25 million Coolmore Turf Mile (G1) and the $650,000 Claiborne Breeders’ Futurity (G1). Sunday, October 5, rounds out the weekend with two “Win and You’re In” races: the $650,000 Juddmonte Spinster (G1) and the $400,000 Castle & Key Bourbon (G2), alongside the $300,000 Indian Summer (L).
The second weekend begins with the Sycamore (G2) on October 10, followed by the $800,000 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup (G1) on October 11, an international invitation for three-year-old fillies racing 1 1/8 miles on turf. The $400,000 Franklin (G2) race is scheduled for Sunday, October 12.
Key races in the third week include the $400,000 Lexus Raven Run (G2) and $350,000 Perryville (G3) on October 18, and the $350,000 Rood & Riddle Dowager (G3) on October 19.
The final week starts with the $400,000 Bank of America Valley View (G2) and $250,000 Dean Dalton Myrtlewood on October 24. Closing day races feature the $600,000 Brian Station (G3) on turf, and the $350,000 Hagyard Fayette (G3) and $250,000 Bowman Mill on dirt.
Public ticket sales begin on Tuesday, August 19, at 9 AM. For details, visit tickets.keeneland.com.
Fan Take: This expanded and lucrative stakes schedule at Keeneland’s Fall Meet promises thrilling competition and top-tier racing action, further elevating the prestige of the event. For horse racing fans, it not only showcases elite horses but also strengthens the sport by linking high-stakes competition with the coveted Breeders’ Cup, ensuring excitement through the season’s climax.
