2009 Breeders Cup Betting - Rip has to be the Tip

POOLE, DORSET -- The 2009 Breeders Cup gets underway at the Santa Anita Racecourse in California this weekend with 14 races carrying prize money of over $25m. This racing extravaganza has been gaining more and more momentum since its inauguration in 1984 and these days it is becoming established as its original intention desired it to be ; The World Championship of Thoroughbred Racing.  The contenders are still pre-dominantly American, but European and International interest has grown enormously over the years and there are several challengers form this side of the Atlantic this year, with extremely good chances, particularly in the principle races and the Breeders Cup Betting reflects their chances. 

The feature race of the two day meeting is the Breeders Cup Classic, won last year by the John Gosden trained, Ravens Pass who beat his great rival, the Aidan O'Brien trained, Henrythenavigator in a terrific race.  O'Brien will look to redress that defeat this year and it is his Rip Van Winkle who is favourite in what looks to be a very competitive field of runners and would be one of the Breeders Cup Tips. Opposing him will be the unbeaten filly, Zenyatta, who will be racing against colts for the first time in her career after 13 straight wins against fillies and mares. 

The 2008 St Leger winner, Conduit, trained by Sir Michael Stoute is aiming to repeat his success from last season by winning the Breeders Cup Turf, while in the Breeders Cup Mile, the brilliant French Filly, Goldikova will also looking to repeat her 2008 success. In all there are fourteen races, six taking place on Friday and eight on Saturday. Every race is being televised by Attheraces from Sky Sports with coverage beginning on Friday evening at 9pm and the Online Bookmakers are all offering excellent free bets for first time customers.