In a thrilling turn of events at the historic Savoy Hotel in central London, equine excellence from the 2024 racing season was celebrated during the Longines World Racing Awards. For the first time since 2019, and only the fifth time in the award’s 22-year history, a tie emerged in the race for the coveted title of Longines World’s Best Racehorse. This year, the honor was shared by two remarkable contenders: City of Troy and Laurel River, both achieving the pinnacle rating of 128. It’s a testament to the fierce competition and outstanding performances seen in the racing world.
City of Troy, a sprightly 3-year-old bred in Kentucky, is the pride of Ireland under the masterful guidance of trainer Aidan O’Brien. This son of the legendary Triple Crown victor Justify has captured the racing world’s imagination, especially with his awe-inspiring front-running display at the Juddmonte International Stakes held at York Racecourse on August 21. Not only did he secure victory against Royal Ascot winner Calandagan by one length, but he also shattered the course record for the 2,050-meter stretch. The field included notable names like Bluestocking, who went on to win the illustrious Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, and the Japanese sensation Durezza, winner of the St. Leger.
Celebrations were in full swing as City of Troy became the first Irish-trained horse to clinch this prestigious award since Sea The Stars in 2009. Aidan O’Brien, together with jockey Ryan Moore, and Coolmore representatives from Christy Grassick to Sam Pearson, were present to accept the trophy. As Grassick aptly put it, “This horse from day one has done everything superbly,” capturing the team spirit that propelled City of Troy to greatness.
On the other side of the globe, Laurel River also blazed his trail to greatness. A Kentucky homebred, like City of Troy, he added to the domination of American-bred horses in recent years by securing his share of the World’s Best title. His performance at the Dubai World Cup on March 30 was no less than a spectacle—a domination that saw him open an unassailable lead and secure victory by an astounding 8 1/2 lengths. Trained by the UAE’s Bhupat Seemar, Laurel River’s triumph marked the first occasion a UAE-trained horse was recognized as the top racehorse globally.
Seemar, with Juddmonte CEO Douglas Erskine Crum by his side, was brimming with pride as he accepted the acknowledgement of Laurel River’s excellence. As Seemar reflected, winning such an accolade is a rarity that makes the achievement all the more special. Highlighting Laurel River’s consistent brilliance, Seemar remarked, “Laurel River has just been an absolute sensation ever since he came to the stables.”
Beneath these two giants, Via Sistina, the Cox Plate winner, finished the season in a respectable third place. King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes victor Goliath took the fourth slot. Among the American-trained horses, Fierceness and Sierra Leone, both 3-year-old colts, tied for fifth place after winning the Travers Stakes and Breeders’ Cup Classic, respectively.
The celebration didn’t stop there, as City of Troy’s Juddmonte International was recognized as the Longines World’s Best Horse Race for 2024. The awards confirm the meticulous care and incomparable thrill that the racing industry offers, and both City of Troy and Laurel River are imperishable stars of this esteemed racing landscape.
The event encapsulates the relentless pursuit of excellence, dedication, and cross-continental camaraderie that lies at the heart of horse racing. By breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks, both City of Troy and Laurel River have etched their names into the annals of racing history, setting standards to inspire future generations.
