Breeders Cup at Santa Anita again in 2014

The Breeders' Cup have announced that Santa Anita Park in California has been selected as the site for the 2014 Breeders' Cup World Championships.

The 31st Breeders' Cup will be held at the Los Angeles venue for the third consecutive year and will consist of 14 races with purses and awards totalling $27 million; it will be held on October 31 and November 1, 2014.

"Santa Anita has proven to be an outstanding host for our Championships, providing horsemen and fans around the world with a first class facility and one of the greatest experiences in sports. We are delighted to extend our partnership with Santa Anita for a third consecutive year," said Craig Fravel, Breeders' Cup President and CEO.

"We also value our relationship with the Southern California business and entertainment community, who have demonstrated long time dedication and support of the Breeders' Cup since our inception in 1984," he added.

Breeders' Cup officials indicated that no decisions have been made on host sites beyond 2014 and that the organisation remains open to visiting markets that can accommodate the two-day event during its traditional fall timing, provide world class hospitality for its participants and guests.

"To be chosen as the host site for a third consecutive year is a clear indication of Santa Anita's standing in the worldwide racing community," said Keith Brackpool, Chairman of the Los Angeles Turf Club. "We look forward to hosting this year's two-day event in November and following that, we'll immediately begin planning for 2014. On behalf of our fans, horsemen and employees, we look forward to again celebrating the very best our sport has to offer."

"In addition to being the two-greatest days in Thoroughbred racing, hosting the Breeders' Cup at Santa Anita for the next two years provides us with the opportunity to further develop the Breeders' Cup brand as a world class entertainment and lifestyle platform," said Drew Sheinman, Breeders' Cup Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer.

Mickey Segal, the Mayor of the City of Arcadia commented: "The City of Arcadia is extremely proud to be the host city for the 2014 Breeders' Cup World Championships. Santa Anita Park and horse racing are very important to our community, and the Breeders' Cup provides Arcadia with an opportunity to showcase both the city and the racetrack to the world. People from all over will come here and celebrate racing in the most beautiful setting in America. As the Mayor of the City of Arcadia, I encourage racing fans from everywhere to come to Arcadia and share this incredible experience with us."

"The Pasadena Convention & Visitors Bureau and businesses in the area are thrilled to have the prestigious Breeders' Cup returning to Santa Anita Park in 2014," said Michael Ross, CEO, Pasadena Center Operating Company. "Past Breeders' Cups have made a significant impact on Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley area's economy by filling our hotels, restaurants and shops. Even our museums have benefited from hosting parties and VIP events."