2023's first major horse race: Place bets this weekend at Pegasus World Cup Invitational

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. (WPEC) — A whopping $3 million is on the line in this weekend's Pegasus World Cup Invitational at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale.

While the Pegasus is less than seven years old, the race has quickly become one of horse racing's most anticipated events attracting celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Lenny Kravitz, and Post Malone, not to mention tens of thousands of fans.

SEE MORE INFO ABOUT THE RACE HERE

Handicapper Brian Nadeau will have a front-row seat for this weekend's main event; he says, "It's just fun to go put a few dollars on a horse." Nadeau's job is to help visitors pick a winner.

Nadeau says, "Pick something and go with it. If you like to bet a name, maybe the color of the horse, whatever works for you, whatever is fun for you."

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Even if you're not betting, former winning jockey Aaron Gryder says there is nothing like seeing a race in person.

"A lot of people come out here; it's about these animals' beauty, power, size, and speed. They're the most beautiful athletes in the world," Gryder said.

And while the fans are encouraged to bet the odds, Gryder wants people to know the sport relies on something other than luck regarding the safety of the jockeys and horses.

"It's all about the safety of the horse and the animal first, they're amazing animals, and we need to protect them and then put on a great show," Gryder said.

A reminder the race is this Saturday, Jan. 28. The main event is around 6 pm but for the fans they'll be a number of undercard races to take in throughout the day.