Tag: Breeders’ Cup

Five Defending Champions Among 175 Horses Entered In 14 Breeders’ Cup Races

A top-class international field of 13 contenders was entered Oct. 30 for the 40th running of the $6 million Longines Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) to be run Nov. 4 as the Breeders' Cup World Championships return to Santa Anita Park for a record 11th time.

The 1 1/4-mile Longines Breeders' Cup Classic is topped by morning-line favorite Arabian Knight (3-1), campaigned by Zedan Racing Stables Inc. and trainer Bob Baffert, with Blue Rose Farm's Arcangelo (7-2) the second choice on the morning line. Ryotokuji Kenji Holdings Co. Ltd.'s Dubai World Cup (G1) winner Ushba Tesoro (JPN) (4-1) opposes in his United States debut in the richest of 14 Championship races worth more than $31 million in purses and awards to be run over two days Nov. 3-4.

The Breeders' Cup World Championships will be televised live by NBC, Peacock, USA Network, and FanDuel TV. Five Championship races will be run on “Future Stars Friday,” all for 2-year-olds, while the Saturday card features nine Championship races anchored by the Longines Breeders' Cup Classic.

A total of 175 horses were entered including five defending Champions: Caravel, Cody's Wish, Elite Power, Goodnight Olive, and Twilight Gleaming. There are 48 international contenders from five countries who traveled to the United States to prove their mettle in the global showcase.

Arabian Knight, a 3-year-old winner of three of four career starts and most recently victorious over older horses in the FanDuel Racing Pacific Classic (G1), will be ridden by Flavien Prat from post 12.

“It's a long run to the turn. I would have liked to have been in the middle; you always like to be in the middle in Breeders' Cup races. Whatever. We're there,” said Baffert, adding he was surprised about the favorite's role. “It's a good field. We got it. You know, I don't worry about anything that is not in my control. I have won races out of horrible post positions I didn't like and I have lost from some good ones. At least I didn't get the rail!”

Trained by Jena Antonucci, Arcangelo has won his past four starts that includes victories in the Belmont Stakes (G1) and Travers (G1). Javier Castellano has the mount from post 1.

Co-third choice on the morning line at 4-1 is Ushba Tesoro, runaway winner of the Dubai World Cup in March at the Longines Breeders' Cup Classic distance of 1 1/4 miles. Freshened for six months after that victory by trainer Noboru Takagi, Ushba Tesoro easily won his comeback race Sept. 27 in Japan under Yuga Kawada, who has the mount Saturday from post position 8.

Also at 4-1 on the morning line is C2 Racing Stable LLC and La Milagrosa Stable LLC's White Abarrio. Trained by Richard Dutrow Jr., White Abarrio enters off a 6 1/4-length victory in the Whitney Stakes (G1) under Irad Ortiz Jr., who retains the mount Saturday from post 3.

Completing the field are Bright Future (post 11, 10-1), Clapton (post 7, 20-1), Derma Sotogake (JPN) (post 5, 20-1), Dreamlike (post 10, 30-1), Missed the Cut (post 4, 30-1), Proxy (post 13, 12-1), Saudi Crown (post 6, 12-1), Senor Buscador (post 9, 30-1), and Zandon (post 2, 12-1).

Idiomatic Carries Win Streak into Longines Breeders' Cup Distaff

Juddmonte's Idiomatic (5-2), daylight winner of the Personal Ensign Stakes (G1) and Juddmonte Spinster Stakes (G1) in her past two starts, is the morning line favorite for the $2 million Longines Breeders' Cup Distaff (G1) to be run at 1 1/8 miles with a field of 11. Trained by Brad Cox, Idiomatic has won her past four starts and will start from post 4 with Florent Geroux aboard.

Co-second choices at 4-1 are Adare Manor and Clairiere.

Michael Lund Petersen's Adare Manor has won her past five starts for trainer Bob Baffert, a streak topped by a 5 1/4-length victory in the Oct. 1 Zenyatta Stakes (G2) at Santa Anita. Juan Hernandez has the mount from post 5.

Stonestreet Stables' Clairiere, who was beaten a head in a three-horse photo in last year's Longines Breeders' Cup Distaff at Keeneland, has two Grade 1 victories this year for trainer Steve Asmussen. Joel Rosario has the mount from post 9.

European Standouts Take On Longines Breeders' Cup Turf

European standouts Mostahdaf (IRE) and Auguste Rodin (IRE), who have combined for five Group 1 victories this year, top the morning line of a 13-horse field for the $4 million Longines Breeders' Cup Turf (G1) to be run at 1 1/2 miles.

Shadwell Estate Company Ltd.'s Mostahdaf (5-2), winner of the Juddmonte International Stakes (G1) and Prince of Wales's Stakes (G1) in his past two starts, is trained by John and Thady Gosden. Jim Crowley has the mount Saturday and will exit post 9.

Owned by Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith, Mrs. John Magnier and Westerberg and trained by Aidan O'Brien, Auguste Rodin (3-1) won the Irish Champion Stakes (G1) in his most recent start. Leaving from post 5, Auguste Rodin will be ridden by Ryan Moore.

Songline Favored in FanDuel Breeders' Cup Mile

Sunday Racing Co. Ltd.'s Songline (JPN) is the 5-2 morning line favorite for the $2 million FanDuel Breeders' Cup Mile presented by PDJF (G1). A three-time Grade 1 winner and earner of more than $6.2 million, Songline will depart post 10 under Keita Tosaki in the field of 14.

Godolphin runners Master of The Seas (IRE) (7-2) and Mawj (IRE) (4-1) are the second and third morning line propositions.

Trained by Charlie Appleby, Master of The Seas exits a tough nose beat in the Coolmore Turf Mile (G1) at Keeneland in his most recent start. Prior to that he won the Woodbine Mile (G1) under William Buick, who has the mount Saturday from post 14.

Saeed bin Suroor trains Mawj, who returned from a five-month layoff to win Keeneland's Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup (G1) on Oct. 14 going 1 1/8 miles. Oisin Murphy has the mount Saturday from post 6.

Inspiral, Dettori Chase Maker's Mark Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf

Cheveley Park Stud's five-time Group 1 winner Inspiral (GB) is the 5-2 morning line favorite for the $2 million Maker's Mark Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1) to be run at 1 1/4 miles. Trained by the Gosdens, Inspiral will be ridden by Frankie Dettori from post 6 in a field of 12.

Mrs. John Magnier, Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith and Westerberg's Warm Heart (IRE), fresh off two Group 1 victories at a mile and a half in Europe, is the 3-1 second choice. Trained by Aidan O'Brien, Warm Heart will be ridden by Ryan Moore from post 2.

Third choice at 4-1 is Peter Brant's In Italian (GB), who set the pace before finishing second in this race last year at Keeneland. Trained by Chad Brown, In Italian will be ridden by Joel Rosario from post 1.

Returning Champions Stand Out in Divisions

Juddmonte's Elite Power, one of four defending champions to return to the World Championships, is the 9-5 morning line favorite for the 6-furlong Qatar Racing Breeders' Cup Sprint (G1). A winner of eight of his past nine starts for trainer Bill Mott, Elite Power will be ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr. from post 8 in a field of nine.

Only two horses have won the Sprint in back-to-back years: Roy H in 2017 and 2018 and Midnight Lute in 2007 and 2008.

Also aiming to repeat for Mott is Godolphin homebred Cody's Wish, the 9-5 morning line favorite for the $1 million Big Ass Fans Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile (G1). A winner of eight of his past nine starts, Cody's Wish will seek to join Goldencents (2013-2014) as the only back-to-back Dirt Mile victor.

Junior Alvarado has the mount on Cody's Wish, who will exit post 3 in a field of nine.

First Row Partners and Team Hanley's Goodnight Olive is the 6-5 morning line choice to defend her title in the $1 million PNC Bank Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Sprint (G1) that attracted nine contenders for the 7-furlong affair. She seeks to join Groupie Doll (2012-2013) as the only back-to-back winner of the race.

Trained by Chad Brown, Goodnight Olive is a three-time Grade 1 winner and has never been off the board in 11 career starts. Irad Ortiz Jr. has the mount from post 1.

The fourth returning champion is Qatar Racing, Marc Detampel, and Madaket Stables' Caravel (5-1). Trained by Brad Cox, Caravel turned back the boys in last year's $1 million Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint (G1) as a 42-1 longshot under Tyler Gaffalione, who has the mount Saturday on the striking gray mare from post 3 in a field of 12.

Favoritism at 9-2 in the 5-furlong Turf Sprint goes to Steve and Jolene De'Lemos' Live In The Dream (IRE). Trained by Adam West and ridden by Sean Kirrane, Live in the Dream won the 5-furlong Nunthorpe (G1) at York in August before finishing fourth after setting the pace in the 5 1/2-furlong Woodford (G2) at Keeneland on Oct. 7 in his U.S. debut. He will exit post 5.

Stonestreet Stables LLC's homebred Twilight Gleaming, winner of the 2021 Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint (G1) at Del Mar, is an also-eligible for the Turf Sprint.

Future Stars Look to Shine

Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners and Walmac Farm's Locked is the 7-2 morning line favorite for the $2 million FanDuel Breeders' Cup Juvenile presented by Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (G1), which drew a field of 11 set to race 1 1/16 miles on the main track. Trained by Todd Pletcher, Locked will be ridden by Jose Ortiz and exit post 6.

Spendthrift Farm's homebred Tamara, a daughter of three-time Breeders' Cup winner Beholder, is the 4-5 morning line choice for the $2 million NetJets Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1), which drew a field of 13 going 1 1/16 miles on the main track. Richard Mandella trains Tamara, who will be ridden by Mike Smith from post 7.

Three $1 million races complete the Future Stars Friday lineup. In the $1 million Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint (G1), RP Racing Ltd.'s Big Evs (IRE), a two-time Group winner in Europe this year, is the 3-1 morning line favorite for the 5-furlong dash that drew a field of 12. Trained by Michael Appleby, Big Evs will be ridden by Tom Marquand from post 4. In the $1 million Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf (G1), Lael Stables' She Feels Pretty, winner of the Natalma Stakes (G1) in her most recent start, is the 4-1 morning line favorite in a 14-horse field. Trained by Cherie DeVaux, She Feels Pretty will be ridden by John Velazquez from post 11 in the 1-mile affair. In the $1 million Prevagen Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf (G1), Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith, Mrs. John Magnier, Westerberg, Peter Brant and Wertheimer and Frere's River Tiber (IRE) is the 3-1 morning line favorite in a field of 14 for the 1-mile test. Trained by Aidan O'Brien, River Tiber has won three of five starts and most recently finished third in two 6-furlong Grade 1 events. Ryan Moore has the call from post 2.

The post Five Defending Champions Among 175 Horses Entered In 14 Breeders’ Cup Races appeared first on Horse Racing News | Paulick Report.

Source of original post

Arabian Knight Favored at 3-1 from Post 12 for Breeders’ Cup Classic

After firing a five-furlong warning shot at Santa Anita Monday morning, Zedan Racing's 'TDN Rising Star' Arabian Knight (Uncle Mo) was installed as the 3-1 morning-line favorite while drawing post 12 at the Rood & Riddle Post-Position Draw for Saturday's GI Breeders' Cup Classic.

The Bob Baffert-trained GI Pacific Classic hero and $2.3-million OBS April breezer will face 12 rivals in the $6-million centerpiece, including fellow sophomore and the rail-drawn GI Belmont S. and GI Travers S. hero Arcangelo (Arrogate), GI Whitney S. winner White Abarrio (Race Day) and G1 Dubai World Cup winner Ushba Tesoro (Jpn) (Orfevre {Jpn}).

All four of Baffert's Classic winners–Bayern (2014), American Pharaoh (2015), Arrogate (2016) and Authentic (2020)–accomplished the feat during their 3-year-old seasons.

“I know this is going to be a tough race, but if he brings his 'A' game, I don't really care who's running against us,” Baffert said.

Despite missing the last two days of training with a foot issue, trainer Jena Antonucci remains confident that Arcangelo is in good form for the Classic.

“He's rather annoyed with us right now, so yes,” she said at the draw.

“He had a warm hind foot and we pulled his shoe off. We'll be patient, always put the horse first and make sure he's 100 percent.”

From the rail out, the complete field for the Classic: Arcangelo (Arrogate), Zandon (Upstart), White Abarrio (Race Day), Missed the Cut (Quality Road), Derma Sotogake (Jpn) (Mind Your Biscuits), Saudi Crown (Always Dreaming), Clapton (Brethren), Ushba Tesoro (Jpn) (Orfevre {Jpn}), Senor Buscador (Mineshaft), Dreamlike (Gun Runner), Bright Future (Curlin), Arabian Knight (Uncle Mo) and Proxy (Tapit).

Breeders' Cup 40, to be held for the 11th time at Santa Anita, will celebrate the return of four winners–Caravel (Mizzen Mast) (Turf Sprint), Cody's Wish (Curlin) (Dirt Mile), Elite Power (Curlin) (Sprint) and Goodnight Olive (Ghostzapper) (F/M Sprint)–from the 2022 Championships at Keeneland. Twilight Gleaming (Ire) (National Defense {GB}), winner of the 2021 GII Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint, was entered in the Turf Sprint.

Morning-line favorites for Saturday's nine Breeders' Cup events, in race order, as follows:

Cody's Wish (Curlin) (post three) (9/5) (Dirt Mile); G1 Sun Chariot S. winner Inspiral (GB) (Frankel {GB}) (post 6) (5-2) (Filly & Mare Turf); Goodnight Olive (Ghostzapper) (post 1) (6/5) (Filly & Mare Sprint); Japanese-based G1 Yasuda Kinen winner Songline (Jpn) (Kizuna {Jpn}) (post 10) (5-2) (Mile); streaking GI Juddmonte Spinster S. heroine Idiomatic (Curlin) (post four) (5-2) (Distaff); G1 Juddmonte International S. winner Mostahdaf (Ire) (Frankel {GB}) (post nine) (5-2) (Turf); 'Rising Star' Arabian Knight (Uncle Mo) (post 12) (3-1) (Classic); G1 Nunthorpe S. winner Live In The Dream (Ire) (Prince of Lir {Ire}) (post five) (9-2) (Turf Sprint); and Elite Power (Curlin) (post eight) (9/5) (Sprint).

Morning-line favorites for the 'Future Stars' Friday card, in race order, as follows:

G2 Flying Childers S. winner Big Evs (Ire) (Blue Point {Ire}) (post four) (3-1) (Juvenile Turf Sprint); the legendary Beholder's unbeaten GI Del Mar Debutante S. heroine and 'Rising Star' Tamara (Bolt d'Oro) (post seven) (4/5) (Juvenile Fillies); unbeaten GI Natalma S. heroine She Feels Pretty (Karakontie {Jpn}) (post 11) (4-1) (Juvenile Fillies Turf); GI Claiborne Breeders' Futurity winner and 'Rising Star' Locked (Gun Runner) (post 6) (7-2) (Juvenile); and the Aidan O'Brien-trained G2 Coventry S. winner and G1 Middle Park S. third-place finisher River Tiber (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}) (post two) (3-1) (Juvenile Turf).

Hosted by Britney Eurton and Nick Luck, the draw was held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California.

The post Arabian Knight Favored at 3-1 from Post 12 for Breeders’ Cup Classic appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

Source of original post

From Lahudood to Malathaat, Shadwell Blends the Old with the New

Celebrating 40 Years of the Breeders' Cup

When Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum passed away early in 2021 after decades of prominence in Thoroughbred racing and breeding, it was unclear in the sport what would happen to his vast bloodstock and farm holdings. Racing needn't have worried. His daughter, Sheikha Hissa, catapulted into the public eye as the head of Shadwell right at the same time the racing stable was seeing a resurgence. The bedrock laid over decades of success by Sheikh Hamdan was the perfect foundation for stunning new success under the guidance of his daughter.

Sheikha Hissa is not yet 30, yet she seems to be instilling confidence throughout the sport–on American shores and beyond–by reinvigorating the Shadwell brand. She's doing it in Europe with Shadwell homebreds like English highweight Baaeed (GB), whose granddam was a Breeders' Cup winner for Shadwell, and she's doing it in the U.S. with sales purchases such as 2021 and 2022 champion Malathaat, who closed out her career with victory in last year's Breeders' Cup Distaff.

“Shadwell Farm in America is rebranding as Shadwell Racing,” said Jonathan Smyth, general manager of the American arm. “Under the leadership of Sheikha Hissa, there is a strong passion for the business, much like her late father. It's truly exciting for all of us to be part of the next chapter of Shadwell.”

Few things in this sport inspire passion and hope more than a Breeders' Cup winner. Malathaat provided just that. The elegant bay closed out her stellar career last November with a scintillating final-stride win in the Distaff after finishing third in the same race as a sophomore in 2021. Winner of the Kentucky Oaks, Alabama, and Ashland at three, her Distaff alongside Spinster and Personal Ensign wins at four was icing on the cake.

“What a day to remember! Malathaat's Breeders' Cup win was truly spectacular,” said Smyth. “She's an extraordinary mare, and her victory was a testament to her remarkable talent and incredible determination. I remember the atmosphere at the Breeders' Cup, where the best of the best came together to put on a show.

Malathaat at Shadwell last month | Sarah Andrew

“Malathaat's victory was the result of her not only being physically gifted but also having a beautiful, composed mind. [Trainer] Todd [Pletcher] and his team did an exceptional job preparing her for that race, and Johnny [Velazquez] gave her a thrilling ride.”

With back-to-back Eclipse Awards secure, Malathaat was retired after the Breeders' Cup and bred to leading sire Into Mischief this spring. Smyth reported she caught on the first attempt and has been determined to be carrying a filly. Despite her competitiveness and athleticism on the racetrack, Malathaat was known for her kindness off the track, making her a fan favorite.

“Malathaat's famously sweet disposition at the track has continued on the farm,” said Smyth. “She's like a big teddy bear, as kind and gentle as ever. Her friendly and amiable nature has made the transition from the track to farm life a smooth and delightful experience. She still requires peppermints, though!

“Malathaat has settled into life on the farm remarkably well,” continued Smyth. “She has a great temperament and a sweet disposition, making her a joy to be around. She has formed a close bond with [Shadwell homebred and 2021 GII Mother Goose winner] Zaajel, which is heartwarming to witness.”

GSW Zaajel and Malathaat with Brittany Carter (broodmare manager), Larry Howard, PJ Dilger, and Maddie Danna | Sarah Andrew

Malathaat's presence in the Shadwell racing stable was a bit of a departure from the usual for Shadwell, as she was a $1.05-million buy at the Keeneland September sale from Stonestreet, who bred and consigned her, during Sheikh Hamdan's tenure. Shadwell has had a mountain of success with homebreds in the past, but hasn't shied away from sales purchases either.

“Shadwell has historically been known for its breeding-to-race approach,” said Smyth, “and that continues to be our primary focus in the American division. However, we do participate in sales as well. Sheikh Hamdan had a particular fondness for the Keeneland September sales, and it's been a wonderful tradition to carry on.

“We can't emphasize enough how fortunate we feel to have her as part of our stable. Malathaat is a beautifully balanced filly, and her walk is simply amazing. It's been an incredible journey since that acquisition, filled with victories and a deep sense of pride for Shadwell for owning a horse of such exceptional quality.”

Malathaat's dam, Dreaming of Julia, was named 2022's Broodmare of the Year for Stonestreet, based in no small part on Malathaat's contributions to her accomplishments. Like Malathaat, both her dam and granddam were Grade I winners, which never hurts when one considers the potential of her future foals.

Malathaat with Maddie Danna (left) and Brittany Carter (right) | Sarah Andrew

“We have big hopes for Malathaat's future as a broodmare,” said Smyth. “We have a lot of options when it comes to selecting stallions for her, and our primary focus is on breeding to race. The plan is to race the offspring she produces and continue the tradition of excellence that Shadwell is known for in the world of horse racing.”

While it will be a minimum of nearly three years before Malathaat's first foal can have an opportunity at the races, Malathaat herself has represented new hope for the Shadwell team and an excitement for what the future holds.

“Having a successful American horse like Malathaat early on in the midst of all the changes at Shadwell, with Sheikha Hissa at the helm, is truly significant,” said Smyth. “Sheikha Hissa has achieved phenomenal success globally in the last two years and Malathaat's accomplishments are a testament to that. We hope to build on this success and uphold our commitment to continue the amazing operation her father built. It's a promising start to the next chapter of Shadwell under her leadership.”

While Malathaat may be part of the new look and new future of Shadwell Racing, the old also remains prominent. Nowhere is this more evident than with another Breeders' Cup winner, 2007 Filly & Mare Turf victress Lahudood (GB). Following a French campaign, the Shadwell homebred was supplemented to the Breeders' Cup for $180,000 after a win in the GI Flower Bowl. Eventually named champion grass mare in the U.S., Lahudood was part of the lone Breeders' Cup edition at Monmouth Park. That renewal tends to be remembered as much for the soggy conditions as for the winners.

Lahudood in the 2007 Breeders' Cup | Sarah Andrew/Equi-Photo

“On the day Lahudood triumphed at the Breeders' Cup,” remembered Smyth, “the ground was exceptionally soft due to the rain at Monmouth Park. Undeterred by the conditions, she displayed exceptional skill and resilience. She broke from the gate very well and encountered some tight spots in the pack. However, a remarkably tough-minded filly, [she] held her own and found herself in second place at the halfway mark. As they reached the final turn, she surged forward with unwavering determination and astonishing speed, never slowing down. Her victory was a testament to her remarkable spirit.

“The translation of Lahudood's name, meaning 'no frontiers', couldn't be more fitting. It perfectly encapsulates her fearless and boundless determination on the track.”

Yet, remarkably, Lahudood's Breeders' Cup win would not be her biggest contribution to the Shadwell program. Herself a third-generation Shadwell homebred tracing directly to the wonderful Height of Fashion (Fr), Lahudood has done much to boost that line since Sheikh Hamdan's death. Height of Fashion, of course, was famously acquired from Queen Elizabeth II and produced the magnificent Shadwell homebred champion and G1 Epsom Derby winner Nashwan, as well as additional highweights Nayef and Unfuwain and three more stakes winners. While a number of top-class winners trace to her through her daughters and their descendants, it's a safe bet Lahudood might be responsible for her greatest current legacy.

Lahudood last month at Shadwell | Sarah Andrew

Lahudood's French black-type winning daughter, the Kingmambo mare Aghareed, is the dam of not only Baaeed–a spectacular 10 for 11 in 2021 and 2022 at the most elite level–but also of Hukum (Ire), another multiple Group 1 winner in 2022 and 2023.

“The satisfaction of having a homebred like Lahudood win the Breeders' Cup,” said Smyth, “and then continue to provide excitement through her progeny is immense. Sheikh Hamdan's deep love for homebred fillies makes this accomplishment even more significant. It's a true testament to the success and legacy of their breeding program.”

Baaeed, a son of Sea The Stars (Ire), retired to Shadwell's Nunnery Stud in the UK at the end of 2022 and covered his first mares this year. Hukum, his full-brother, remains in the ownership of Shadwell but will stand his first season at Darley Japan in 2024.

“Without a doubt, the influence of a mare like Lahudood being the second dam of Baaeed and Hukum is nothing short of remarkable,” said Smyth. “She holds a special place within Shadwell's breeding program, and her impact is profound. Owning a mare of such caliber is a testament to the depth and quality of Shadwell's breeding families. It showcases a dedication to preserving and elevating the standards of Thoroughbred racing and breeding. The influence of this exceptional mare continues to shape Shadwell's breeding program, and her legacy is a source of pride for the Shadwell family and all who appreciate the beauty and power of these magnificent animals.”

Lahudood, now 20, had her final foal in 2021. By Kitten's Joy, the colt has been named Sumood and has not yet raced. Smyth said two of Lahudood's daughters remain part of Shadwell's broodmare band in Kentucky.

“We have great hopes that the mares will take after their older sister and produce high-end athletes,” said Smyth.

As for Lahudood, she's been pensioned “and is living her best life in our sheds with the other retired mares.”

Lahudood with Jose Valenzuela | Sarah Andrew

Shadwell has had other Breeders' Cup successes over the years, most notably with 2006 Classic winner Invasor (Arg), Horse of the Year in both the U.S. and Uruguay, and 2016 Dirt Mile winner Tamarkuz. Still owned by Shadwell, Invasor spent most of his stud career in Uruguay, where he was recently pensioned. Tamarkuz stands at Ballycroy Bloodstock in Canada. Shadwell's American arm is not currently standing any stallions.

“The American division of Shadwell–Shadwell Farm–was established in 1984,” said Smyth. “It has been a significant part of Shadwell's global success in the horse racing industry.

“As for the future of Shadwell, we're all looking forward to continuing the remarkable legacy of Shadwell and the exciting developments that lie ahead. It's a joy to see the Shadwell legacy continued with such dedication and enthusiasm.”

In addition to all those top-class homebreds gracing the fields, four yearling fillies purchased at the recent Keeneland September sale will be added to the racing stable and eventually the broodmare ranks. Sheikha Hissa attended the sale and personally picked them out, said Smyth. Among the purchases were a $2.3-million Into Mischief filly and a $1.1-million Medaglia d'Oro filly.

“It's an exciting blend of the old and new, combining our traditional breeding approach with strategic sales acquisitions to continue Shadwell's success in the racing world,” said Smyth.

From a freshly retired Breeders' Cup winner carrying her first foal to a pensioned Breeders' Cup winner who has contributed so significantly to the tremendous success synonymous with the Shadwell brand, the new Shadwell Racing is poised to honor the past as it melds into the future.

Later this week, Shadwell Racing has homebred Mostahdaf (Ire) pointing to the 40th renewal of the Breeders' Cup Turf. A win by the dual Group 1 winner would add yet another page to the sequel now being written at Shadwell. Win or lose, yet another Breeders' Cup contender seems a fitting way to honor Sheikh Hamdan's legacy and usher in the future with Sheikha Hissa at the helm.

The post From Lahudood to Malathaat, Shadwell Blends the Old with the New appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

Source of original post

Classic Notes: Dubai World Cup Winner Ushba Tesoro Struggles In Gate School, Frankie Dettori Booked On Zandon

Horse: Ushba Tesoro (JPN)

Trainer: Takagi Noboru
Morning Activity: Leading out a group from the quarantine barn at 6:50 that included Win Carnelian (JPN), Win Marilyn (JPN) and Songline (JPN), he had a routine warmup and canter around the Santa Anita dirt track before parade ring walking and schooling in the gate. The gate schooling did not go as well as planned. The Dubai World Cup (G1) winner kicked out multiple times and was irritable with the gate crew.
Planned Activity: Routine maintenance training scheduled for Tuesday. A blowout breeze on Wednesday.
The Quote: The Quote: “The gate is set lower than in Japan and he's such a big horse that the doors brushed against his hocks in an awkward manner, causing him to kick out. The vet checked him over and there are no issues. We will school him again on Wednesday after his breeze. For horses with similar issues, Santa Anita provides green mats that tie to the inside of the starting gate that we will use with him. They hug the hind-end and make it easier. We will now use that with all of our runners.” – Kate Hunter, Breeders' Cup's Japan representative, overseeing the recruiting, shipping, and general logistics of all Japanese Breeders' Cup runners

Horse: Zandon 

Trainer: Chad Brown
Morning Activity: Jogged a circuit of the Santa Anita dirt before returning promptly to the Chad Brown barn. Shipped in Sunday from New York and had worked on Saturday at Belmont Park.
Planned Activity: Will have a routine gallop on Tuesday.
Closer Look: Zandon Gets Chance to Shine in Breeders' Cup Classic

Trainer Chad Brown has long thought Zandon deserved to run with the best and prove himself among its elite and Saturday the 16-time Breeders' Cup winner will try to take home his first Longines Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) trophy with the Jeff Drown-owned charge. Having shipped from New York on Sunday, the nearly black 4-year-old colt had an easy jog of the Santa Anita Park dirt and appears to be in good flesh as he hopes to do two better than sire Upstart, who was third in the 2014 Breeders' Cup Juvenile (G1) at Santa Anita.

“He looked fine today and just jogged,” Brown said. “All of our horses worked a couple days ago, so they just jogged and all looked well.

“He's coming into the race in the right way and I love the way he finished his last race off. Obviously, if the pace scenario works out for him, I could see him getting the mile and a quarter. It was very important for him last time, I felt, to break through and finish up his race the right way and win one. He did it well.”

A three-time winner who never has finished worse than fourth from 13 starts, the earner of $2,140,000 exits a one-sided victory in the Woodward Stakes (G2) at Aqueduct Racetrack over 1 1/8 miles—the same distance over which he achieved his sole top-level tally in the 2022 Blue Grass Stakes (G1) at Keeneland. Shipping across the country, he now must step back up to 10 furlongs for the first time since finishing third in last year's Kentucky Derby (G1).

“Obviously, he has to step up here against a much tougher group, but I love the way he did it in the Woodward and all of the relative speed figures say he we are within range with him,” Brown said. “I'm hoping we are just catching him at his absolute peak form right now and I feel like we should be.”

In the Woodward, he returned to the closing style that won him the Blue Grass and a highly respectable placing on the First Saturday in May. Placed five times in Grade 1 company, including seconds in this year's Whitney and Met Mile, Zandon picks up a new rider who has no less than 14 World Championships victories of his own.

“Frankie Dettori will ride him and put him wherever he is comfortable,” Brown said. “I don't want him to be too far away, but wherever he is comfortable is what's most important. Frankie has not ridden him before, but he's not only one of the best riders I've ever seen, but also an incredible judge of pace. He will figure out where he's happiest travelling, while also getting him out in the clear where he can make his late run.

“We have always thought highly of him and he's run against the very best, so his form lines are very strong,” he concluded. “It's very important and would be very rewarding to win with this horse.”

Horse: Arcangelo

Trainer: Jen Antonucci
Morning Activity: Walked for a second morning after left rear shoe was taken off Saturday afternoon.
Planned Activity: TBD
The Quote: “He just walked today. I wasn't able to get the shoe back on yet. He walked for about 45 minutes. There's no reason not to have an extra walk day on him. He's pretty fresh back there, so I probably won't be able to get many more walks on him. I'm happy with the direction it's going. Everything is going the right way.”

(Is there a fear he might not be able to race?): “Fear is not a data point on this. I don't have a concern.”  — Jena Antonucci

Horse: Bright Future

Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Morning Activity: Galloped approximately 1 1/4m under exercise rider Hector Ramos.
Planned Activity: Will gallop approximately 1¼ miles Tuesday morning. Time TBD
The Quote: “I think it's important to place him into the race to get a good tactical position. He's adaptable enough that they go real fast he doesn't have to be on the lead, but he does seem to perform at his best when he's at least involved.” – Todd Pletcher.

Horse: Clapton

Trainer: Chad Summers
Morning Activity: Jogged 2m under Rikki Ramdial
Planned Activity: Will back up to the wire and gallop 1 1/2 miles Tuesday.
The Quote: “We are not going to overdue anything this week. We want to have an easy week. We will go to the gate on Wednesday and school in the paddock. Everything is good.” – Chad Summers

Horse: Derma Sotogake (JPN)

Trainer: Hidetaka Otonashi
Morning Activity: Warmed up with footwork and walking through the parade ring before even more walking and warming up throughout the grounds. Eventually took a couple easy laps, one jogging and one cantering around the Santa Anita main track. All in all, it was approximately one hour of training.
Planned Activity: Will breeze Tuesday
Closer Look: Derma Sotogake Returns to United States

From Kentucky Derby (G1) hype horse to “the other Japanese runner” is the difference six months and an interrupted prep schedule has made for Hiroyuki Asanuma's Derma Sotogake (JPN), a striking chestnut colt who nevertheless continues to show positive signs since shipping in from Japan for the Longines Breeders' Cup Classic (G1).

A four-time winner from nine starts, the son of dual Breeders' Cup Sprint (G1)-placed Mind Your Biscuits spent a Monday morning as unorthodox as his preparation, spending an hour training, including multiple warmup walks and footwork, parade-ring schooling and a couple easy laps of the Santa Anita dirt track.

“They do train longer in Japan, yes, but that was more a function of the training and break schedule at Santa Anita, as well as the uniqueness of the grounds here,” reported international agent Kate Hunter, who has overseen the recruiting, shipping and general logistics of all Japanese Breeders' Cup runners.

A one-sided winner of the UAE Derby (G2) in March, the top-rated dirt 2-year-old in Japan of 2022 came into the Kentucky Derby in May as a contender many believed was Japan's best-ever chance for victory in the Run for the Roses. A 14-of-18 draw and hindered start proved too much to overcome, but he did make a brief bid and ran with credit to finish sixth under Christophe Lemaire, who retains the mount Saturday. Said effort, along with his sprinter sire, also have raised concerns over his stamina.

“He ran in the UAE Derby from the front and that went well, but missing the jump was everything in the Kentucky Derby,” trainer Hidetaka Otonashi said. “I am not concerned at all about (stamina). Mind Your Biscuits' progeny have been winning over 1800 meters and 2000 meters in Japan.”

Since the First Saturday in May, the goal for the three-time stakes winner has been to return to America for the Breeders' Cup. Plans hit a speedbump a mid-September in the form of a foot injury that prevented him from a scheduled late-September prep in the Nippon TV Hai, where he would have faced Dubai World Cup (G1) winner Ushba Tesoro (JPN).

“Unfortunately, after training well, he had a little setback with a hoof issue and he missed the prep race,” Otonashi said. “He recovered very well, and he is moving very well now.

“He was finishing well in Kentucky, and he ran a good race,” Otonashi concluded. “As far as this race, he does not need to be on the front and following the leader would be the best for him — but I don't mind if he leads the race like in Dubai.”

Missing his prep also delayed a much-anticipated clash with Ushba Tesoro, who won the Nippon TV Hai and has coincidentally been his walking buddy to the track in the mornings since arriving at Santa Anita. Adding fuel to the rivalry fire is that many speed-figure devotees believe that Derma Sotogake's UAE Derby effort over 1 3/16 miles at Meydan was a superior run to Ushba Tesoro's win three hours later of 1¼ miles.

In such, it appears that the World Championships in America will be where racing fans finally find out who the better Japanese horse is, even if they had to cross the world to do it.

Horse: Dreamlike

Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Morning Activity: Galloped approximately 1 ¼ mile with exercise rider Dominic Merrit
Planned Activity: Will gallop approximately 1 1/4 miles. Time TBD.
The Quote: “He won an allowance race at Saratoga. Then he came back with a little bit of a disappointing effort in a Saratoga allowance but redeemed himself with a fast-closing second in the Pennsylvania Derby. He was third in the Wood Memorial when he was still a maiden. He's a horse that we've always had high expectations for as well and kind of compared him a little bit to Bright Future in terms of one that's shown a lot of talent and is just on the verge of delivering that.” – Todd Pletcher

Horse: Missed the Cut 

Trainer: John Sadler
Morning Activity: Jogged a mile under Juan Levya.
Planned Activity: Scheduled to gallop at same time Tuesday morning.
The Quote: “He will go to the gate one day this week.” – John Sadler.

Horse: Proxy

Trainer: Mike Stidham
Morning Activity: Scheduled to arrive from Kentucky on Monday.
Planned Activity: Will likely jog Tuesday morning, with routine training leading up to Saturday's Classic.

Horse: Saudi Crown

Trainer: Brad Cox
Morning Activity: Is en route to California.
Planned Activity: Will jog Tuesday at Santa Anita.
The Quote: “We always knew he was talented. He was just about to make his debut when we had a setback last summer at Saratoga. I give a lot of credit to the owners for their patience. Since his first race in April (at Keeneland), he's shown how talented he is. I have a lot of confidence in him right now.” – Brad Cox

Horse: Senor Buscador

Trainer: Todd Fincher
Morning Activity: Galloped 1 1/2m under exercise rider Dennis Means.
Planned Activity: Same schedule as Monday.
The Quote: The Quote: Regarding post position draw Monday afternoon: “If I could choose, it would be an outside post.”

Horse: White Abarrio

Trainer: Richard Dutrow Jr.
Morning Activity: Galloped 1 1/2 miles under exercise rider Emily Ellingwood.
Planned Activity: Will go to track between 6:30 and 6:45 to gallop 1 1/2 miles, then visit starting gate.
The Quote: “We're very happy with him. I like what I've seen. The owners like what they've seen; they were both here today. We galloped him this morning and the rider said he felt great. We're just going to continue to move forward.” – Chip Dutrow, Richard's brother and assistant
Closer Look: Quick Decision Leads to One Quick Horse

When his brother Mark called, Clint Cornett listened. Within 24 hours they owned White Abarrio, the now 4-year-old colt who is headed to the Longines Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) Saturday at Santa Anita Park.

White Abarrio secured a berth in the Classic with an emphatic 6 1/4-length victory in the Aug. 5 Whitney Stakes (G1), a Breeders' Cup Challenge Series: Win and You're In event at Saratoga Race Course.

The Cornett brothers – Clint lives in Flower Mound, Texas, Mark in Naples, Florida – decided in 2021 to end a 10-year hiatus and return to racing as active owners. Their goal was to acquire a horse that would take them to the Kentucky Derby (G1). On Friday, Sept. 24, Mark called from Gulfstream Park after watching White Abarrio win his debut by 6 3/4 lengths. Clint said his brother was excited by the way the 2-year-old inexperienced colt ran.

“If I remember correctly, he said 'this is the one,'” Clint said, “just seeing him his first time out.”

The Cornett brothers, who had run as Turf Express and were involved in more than 20 partnerships, made the deal with owner-trainer Carlos Perez that evening and sealed it the next day.

“White Abarrio was the second horse we bought,” Clint Cornett said. “(Mark) was at the track, saw him break his maiden, and it just really caught his eye. He did something a lot of horses don't do first time out from the one hole, and then, coming into the top of the stretch, just split two horses like it was no big deal, then carried on and won I think by 6.

“We talked to Carlos, purchased him privately and came up with a plan for him,” Clint Cornett said. “The plan worked out to get to the Derby.”

In the Cornett's C2 Racing Stable colors with trainer Saffie Joseph Jr., White Abarrio romped in an allowance race a month after the purchase, and finished third in the Kentucky Jockey Club (G2) in late November. He opened his 2022 season with a 4 1/2-length score in the Holy Bull (G3) and secured the points he needed for a Derby berth by winning the Florida Derby (G1). In the Derby he was a disappointing 16th of 20. Though he was second in the Ohio Derby (G3), he was off the board in the Haskell Stakes (G1) and Pennsylvania Derby (G1). In his final start of 2022, he was third, beaten a half-length in the Cigar Mile (G1).

“He could have easily won that race if he wasn't stuck down on the rail in 4 inches of water,” Clint Cornett said.

White Abarrio ended up eighth in the season-opening Pegasus World Cup (G1), but turned in a smart win in an allowance race on March 4. Racing for trainer Richard Dutrow Jr. he was third, missing second by a head, in the Met Mile (G1) on June 10. After looking at the probable starters for the Whitney, White Abarrio's connections opted to change course and try the 1 1/8 miles race instead of waiting for 7-furlong Forego (G1) later in August. White Abarrio delivered under Irad Ortiz Jr.

The Cornetts have done very well with White Abarrio, who Clint said was acquired for a “mid six figures” price. He has won five of 13 starts, earning more than $1.8 million and carried them to the Derby and now the richest race run in America.

“It's not only the return on the investment,” Clint Cornett said, “but it's very rare. unless you're just spending multi-multi-millions of dollars that you run across a horse like this. We spend our share of money, don't get me wrong, on that. But it's one of those scenarios where I think these are once-in-a-lifetime experiences with a horse.”

The post Classic Notes: Dubai World Cup Winner Ushba Tesoro Struggles In Gate School, Frankie Dettori Booked On Zandon appeared first on Horse Racing News | Paulick Report.

Source of original post

Verified by MonsterInsights