TVG will offer exclusive, live on-site coverage of the $1-million Haskell Invitational (gr. I) at Monmouth Park Aug. 5. The Haskell is expected to lure Preakness Stakes (gr. I) winner Curlin, Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) runner-up Hard Spun, and the undefeated local favorite, Cable Boy.
The 1 1/8-mile Haskell Invitational, the richest invitational Thoroughbred race in the United States, is the centerpiece of Monmouth’s summer meet and an important post-Triple Crown test for 3-year-olds. The Haskell could provide a preview of the competition expected for the $5-million Breeders’ Cup Classic -Powered by Dodge (gr. I) at Monmouth Oct. 27.
TVG in a release said it will be live at Monmouth from noon-6 p.m. EDT, covering all 14 races on the card. Offering insights on the field, including handicapping information and up-to-the-minute trackside reporting, will be veteran TVG analysts Todd Schrupp, Matt Carothers, Jill Byrne, and Hall of Fame jockey Gary Stevens, winner of the 2001 Haskell aboard Point Given.
“Racing enthusiasts look forward to the Haskell Invitational every year, but this year it has even more significance as an early look at the Breeders’ Cup Classic,” Tony Allevato, TVG senior vice president and executive producer, said in a statement. “The Haskell includes some of the finest Triple Crown-tested Thoroughbreds in America, and we are proud to bring all the action to our viewers live from Monmouth Park.”
TVG is offering exclusive television coverage of the entire racing season from Monmouth for the first time in the network’s history.