Pacific Classic could be one of the best races in years at Del Mar

It might be won by a nose, a head or a neck. Perhaps a half-length. Maybe even like last year, it could be an 8¼-length blowout.

Will it be one of the superstar headliners, California Chrome or Beholder? How about the dangerous Dortmund? Or can a precocious 3-year-old colt named Dalmore spoil the party?

On Saturday, the 26th running of the $1-million Pacific Classic over 1¼ miles on Del Mar’s main track sets up as one of the best races at the famous seaside oval in many years.

“This is simply a world-class race in every way,” said Hall of Fame trainer Richard Mandella, whose brilliant mare Beholder is trying to become the first back-to-back winner of the Classic since Richard’s Kid in 2009 and 2010. “It’s a tremendous all-time group of horses.”

From Art Sherman, who trains California Chrome, North American racing’s all-time money winner with more than $12.6 million in purses: “It’s really an honor to be part of this race. You’ve got big-time trainers, great jockeys and a wonderful field.”

California Chrome is the 8-5 morning-line favorite. The winner of the 2014 Kentucky Derby and Preakness has won all four of his races this year, including the $10-million Dubai World Cup in March. Chrome, with r Victor Espinoza riding, is trying to become the first Kentucky Derby champion to win the Pacific Classic.

Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert brings in the second choice, the powerful Dortmund (5-2). The only horses ever to beat him are Derby champs American Pharoah (twice) and California Chrome, who held him off by a half-length following a classic stretch duel in the July 23 San Diego Handicap here.

Beholder, a three-time Eclipse Award winner and the only female to win this race, blew away the field last year with an astonishing move on the far turn. She comes in as the third pick at 3-1.

sports@latimes.com