Adare Manor emerged victorious in the Grade I Clement Hirsch at Del Mar, securing a place in the Breeders’ Cup Distaff. This win, along with White Abarrio’s upset in the Grade I Whitney at Saratoga, earned both horses spots in the two major events of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. However, the weekend was overshadowed by a series of equine fatalities, which cast a somber mood. The cancellation of the final three races at “Glorious Goodwood” due to heavy rain added to the disappointment. Nonetheless, let’s take a closer look.
In the Classic division, the older horses delivered an intriguing and confusing picture. The reigning Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile champion, Cody’s Wish, had an impressive winning streak heading into the Grade I Whitney at Saratoga. However, White Abarrio pulled off a stunning upset, winning by 6 1/4 lengths and solidifying his place in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. White Abarrio, a four-year-old colt, had previously only won one race since his victory in the Florida Derby. Trainer Rick Dutrow Jr. was thrilled with the performance, noting that the timing of the win was perfect for the upcoming Breeders’ Cup Classic.
In the three-year-old division, the West Virginia Derby showcased Red Route One as a new contender. The Gun Runner colt secured a victory, further adding to the list of quality three-year-olds in the running. On the turf, Program Trading, trained by Chad Brown, emerged as a strong contender with a determined victory in the Saratoga Derby Invitational. However, Brown expressed doubts about entering the Jockey Club Derby due to the distance.
The Grade III La Jolla Handicap at Del Mar featured Maltese Falcon, an Irish-bred who had previously struggled to secure a win. With a strong performance, Maltese Falcon won by one length, showing potential for future races. In the Kentucky Downs Preview Turf Cup, Me and Mr. C surprised with a victory, setting a course record time of 1:57.94. Wadsworth also impressed in the Kentucky Downs Preview Dueling Grounds Derby, winning by a head.
On the fillies and mares front, Safeen triumphed in the Grade III Pucker Up Stakes for three-year-old fillies at Ellis Park, winning by half a length. New Year’s Eve secured her first victory in 15 months in the Kentucky Downs Preview Ladies Turf Mile. Lastly, Hozier came out on top in the Kentucky Downs Preview Mint Millions Turf Stakes at Ellis Park, winning by half a length in a thrilling duel.
Overall, this weekend of racing provided both excitement and disappointment, with notable performances and unexpected outcomes. As we approach the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, the competition promises to be fierce, with talented contenders vying for victory.
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