Bullard will face the most accomplished field of his career Friday night when he contests the $1-million Charles Town Classic (G2) in West Virginia.

The field includes the winners of the last three editions: Skippylongstocking, who captured the race in 2023 and 2024, and defending champion Banishing. The two have earned more than $9 million combined, with Skippylongstocking banking $5,928,650 and Banishing earning $3,102,989.

Bullard enters with a strong recent figure in his corner. His 102 Beyer Speed Figure from a runner-up finish in the Cornhusker Handicap (G3) at Prairie Meadows is the best last-out number in the field. He stalked the pace that day and finished 3 1/2 lengths behind Navajo Warrior while pulling 2 1/2 lengths clear of third-place finisher Gigante.

Kazushi Kimura, aboard for the Cornhusker, retains the mount for trainer Michael McCarthy. Bullard is 6-to-1 on the morning line and will break from post 6 in the field of 10.

A son of Gun Runner, Bullard was acquired at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale. He is campaigned in a racing partnership by Talla Racing, St. Elias Stables, Three Chimneys Farm and West Point Thoroughbreds.

The Charles Town Classic will be decided at 1 1/8 miles around three turns. It is Friday’s 11th race, with post time scheduled for 10:25 ET.