This weekend’s key Breeders’ Cup Challenge race is the Princess Rooney Stakes (G3) at Gulfstream Park, offering the winner an automatic berth into the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint (G1) at Del Mar. Though it carries a smaller purse and lower grade than other Challenge races like the Ballerina Stakes (G1) and Thoroughbred Club of America Stakes (G2), the Princess Rooney has recently produced Breeders’ Cup winners and Eclipse Award champions such as Ce Ce (2021) and Soul of an Angel (2024). Trainer Saffie Joseph Jr. has dominated the race in recent years, entering multiple contenders again this year, while other notable challengers include Vincey Girl, trained by Jose D’Angelo.

Meanwhile, at Parx Racing, several stakes races are drawing attention as potential stepping stones to the Breeders’ Cup, though none are official qualifiers. Fillies like Scottish Lassie, La Cara, and Good Cheer are considered candidates for the Breeders’ Cup Distaff, while the Pennsylvania Derby (G1) could serve as a launchpad for horses aiming at the Classic or Dirt Mile. With the 3-year-old male championship seemingly secured by Sovereignty, other contenders like Baeza are poised for breakout performances to enhance their credentials ahead of the Breeders’ Cup.