The Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf Invitational continues to grow in stature, and the fifth running of the Grade 2 event on January 24 promises another deep and accomplished lineup. A total of 19 fillies and mares, many of them graded stakes winners or proven performers at the highest level, have been invited to contest the $500,000 race at Gulfstream Park, one of the centrepieces of the 10th anniversary Pegasus World Cup Day.
Run over 1 1/16 miles on the turf, the Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf Invitational will be staged on a program that features 10 stakes races worth $5.55 million in total prize money. The card also includes the 1 1/8-mile Pegasus World Cup Invitational (G1) on dirt and the Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational (G1), ensuring a full afternoon of elite competition across surfaces.
A race that has quickly built a reputation for producing top-class performers, the Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf Invitational has seen its winners flourish beyond this stage. Regal Glory, the inaugural heroine, went on to capture both the Jenny Wiley (G1) and Matriarch (G1). Queen Goddess, successful in 2023, later placed at Grade 1 level, while Didia followed her 2024 victory with a triumph in the New York Stakes (G1). Last year’s winner, Be Your Best, added further lustre by landing the Gamely (G1).
Strong representation from leading barns
Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf Invitational contenders include several from the powerful Mark Casse stable. And One More Time, a daughter of Omaha Beach, captured the Natalma (G1) at Woodbine last year before returning from a layoff to win at allowance level and finish second in the Tropical Park Oaks at Gulfstream in December. Stablemates Candy Quest and Classic Q have also earned invitations, both bringing consistent graded form from top circuits.
Candy Quest claimed the Colleen (G3) at Woodbine and later placed in the Dueling Grounds Oaks (G2), while Classic Q has been knocking on the door in races such as the Mrs. Revere (G2), Valley View (G2), and Lake George (G3).
Woodbine form features prominently again through Breath Away, trained by Miguel Clement, who secured her place by winning the Dance Smartly (G2) in October. Since then, she has added a second in the Goldikova (G3) and a fourth in the Matriarch (G1). Roger Attfield’s Ready for Shirl, winner of the Canadian (G2), also received an invitation after placing in the Dance Smartly and E.P. Taylor (G1).
Canadian interest is further strengthened by Caitlinhergrtness from the Kevin Attard barn. The Omaha Beach filly enjoyed a productive 2025 campaign, highlighted by victories in the Ontario Matron (G2) and My Charmer, along with solid efforts in top-level company.
Depth from multiple circuits
Brad Cox-trained Destino d’Oro, winner of the Pucker Up (G3) and successful over And One More Time in the Tropical Park Oaks, is among the notable invitees. Jose D’Angelo’s Crevalle d’Oro comes in off a decisive Suwannee River win at Gulfstream, while Saffie Joseph Jr. could be represented by Movin’ On Up and In Our Time, both consistent performers in graded turf races.
Chad Brown, who saddled Regal Glory to victory in the inaugural edition, has two invitations in Whiskey Decision and Oversubscribed. Whiskey Decision arrives in strong form after wins in the Eatontown (G3) and Athenia, while Oversubscribed has been a regular presence in graded company at Saratoga and Aqueduct.
Graham Motion’s Yellow Ribbon (G2) winner Heredia and Autumn Miss (G3) scorer Warming add further depth, alongside California-based Medoro, Awesome Czech, and additional invitees Ramsey Pond, Proctor Street, and Aussie Girl.
With its blend of established stars and upwardly mobile contenders, the Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf Invitational once again shapes as a race that rewards class, versatility, and tactical poise on a global stage.
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