Pacific Classic Picks — Betting Preview and Predictions (Aug 30)

Del Mar hosts one of the most competitive races of the season on Aug 30, as a clash of generations is set for the G1 Pacific Classic. This weekend’s race offers a starting berth in the Breeders’ Cup Classic, and the field will compete over 1 ¼ miles. You can find the odds and picks here.

Odds

Pacific Classic Recent Winners

Pacific Classic: Event Information

Race Preview

One of the hottest races on the summer racing schedule is set for Del Mar this Saturday, as a field of eight will go to post in the G1 Pacific Classic. It has been a notable prep race ahead of the Breeders’ Cup Classic, with Flightline famously dominating both races in 2022. But, this weekend, it provides a fascinating clash of generations.

Talented three-year-old Journalism takes on his elders for the first time. The Michael McCarthy runner was the winner of the Preakness earlier this season, and also finished second in both the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes. He was back to his very best last time when edging out Gosger to land the G1 Haskell.

Nysos could actually be sent off as favorite on Saturday for the Bob Baffert yard. The four-year-old is a very lightly raced contender, and he is incredibly unexposed over the trip. Last time out, he comfortably landed success in the G2 San Diego Handicap at Del Mar. But, he is yet to prove himself in this company.

It could be argued that Fierceness has the most proven record on track, winning five of his eleven starts in stakes company. However, questions will need to be answered surrounding his recent form, as he was last seen being well beaten by Sierra Leone in the G1 Whitney at the start of August. Was second in the Classic on his last start over course and distance. Big claims if back in form.

All other runners have a lot to find in this company. Indispensable may be the pick of the remainder for the respected John Sadler yard. The four-year-old was a winner at Del Mar on his latest start, but will need a career-best effort to feature this weekend.

Pacific Classic Picks

The fact that Journalism gets weight from his main market rivals is hard to dismiss this weekend. However, Rispoli’s riding on the talented horses often raises questions. Nysos is unproven over this far, meaning that the value in the market could be on Fierceness. If back at his very best, there’s no reason why he won’t go close.