Breeders Cup Classic preview: Curlin ready for Jockey Club Gold Cup
September 23, 2008 by Jarrod Horak
Filed under Breeders' Cup, Handicapping, Horses, Jockeys, Miscellaneous, Racetracks, Stakes Races, Trainers
Curlin is set to defend his Jockey Club Gold Cup title on Saturday (Sept.27th), and if he performs well, the hope is that his connections opt to ship to Santa Anita to defend his Breeders Cup Classic crown as well.
After finishing 2nd in his turf bow to Red Rocks in the Man O’War, Curlin was not as impressive in main track Woodward return at the Spa, but he ground out the victory nonetheless. He tries to recapture the brilliance that was on full display in the Dubai World Cup and Stephen Foster earlier this year, and standing in his way is improving sophomore Mambo in Seattle.
Colonel John spoiled Mambo in Seattle’s coming out party in the Travers, and the Spa photo finish was one of the closest in recent memory. The Neil Howard trainee is trying to emulate rival Curlin as a three-year-old winner of the JC Gold Cup. He seemingly has the raw talent to give the reigning Horse of the Year a tussle.
A.P. Arrow, Frost Giant, Merchant Marine, Ravel, Timber Reserve, and Wanderin Boy are possible for the Gold Cup.
A victory in the 2008 Gold Cup would make Curlin the all-time money leader in North American racing, surpassing Cigar.
Below is a replay of the 2008 Woodward Stakes, featuring Curlin, courtesy of YouTube.
