Fierceness Wins $1M Pacific Classic, Beats Journalism at Del Mar

Fierceness, a 4-year-old colt trained by Todd Pletcher and ridden by John Velazquez, overcame a poor start and a sharp veer from the rail to win the $1 million Pacific Classic at Del Mar by over three lengths, defeating the heavily favored Journalism. Journalism, winner of the Preakness and Haskell Stakes, rallied from last place but could not catch Fierceness, who completed the 1 1/4 mile race in 2:01.00. The victory earned Fierceness a spot in the $7 million Breeders' Cup Classic at Del Mar in November, where he finished second last year. The race lost some anticipation after favorite Nysos was scratched due to a bruised hind foot. Fierceness was able to move up from mid-pack on the backstretch, taking the lead in the far turn and maintaining it through the finish, showcasing his resilience and strong closing ability. Owners and trainers expressed pride in the consistent performances of both horses, highlighting Fierceness's championship credentials and Journalism's competitive spirit against older horses for the first time.