Kentucky Derby (G1) winner Rich Strike, campaigned by Richard Dawson of RED TR-Racing, is set to make his next start in the $6-million Longines Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) Nov. 5 at Keeneland, trainer Eric Reed announced Sunday.
Among contenders for the 1 ¼-mile race is undefeated Flightline, the world's top-rated racehorse who was expected ship from California to Kentucky Sunday. Others expected for the race are Life is Good, Olympiad, Epicenter, Taiba, Happy Saver, and Hot Rod Charlie.
Rich Strike's connections had also been considering the Clark Handicap (G1) Nov. 25 at Churchill Downs until deciding on the Classic. Regular rider Sonny Leon will retain the mount.
“This morning after numerous days of discussion Rick and I have made the decision to race Richie in the BC Classic!” Reed said in a Facebook post.
“Yes it's the most difficult race in the world with the best horses in the world but we feel Richie and Rick deserves the chance, and so does all his fans to take on this challenge! Thanks for all the support. Go Richie!!!
In his most recent start, Rich Strike was beaten a head by Doug-O'Neill-trained Hot Rod Charlie in the Lukas Classic (G2) Oct. 1 at Churchill Downs.
A 3-year-old son of Keen Ice, Rich Strike as a 1-1-2 record from seven starts this year. He scored a scintillating Derby win at 80-1 odds, followed by his sixth-place finish in the Belmont Stakes (G1), fourth in the Travers (G1), and tantalizing second in the Lukas Classic.
Rich Strike, who is based at Reed's Mercury Training Center in Lexington, breezed a half mile in :47.60 at Keeneland Oct. 15. The time was fourth fastest of 82 timed moves at the distance.
Reed planned to bring Rich Strike to Keeneland Sunday afternoon with the colt scheduled to gallop Monday morning before moving Monday afternoon to the barns on Rice Road that will serve as the home to all Breeders' Cup runners. Rich Strike is expected to work Tuesday morning.
Breeders' Cup pre-entries are due Monday at noon (ET).
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