Not only are we treated to the jumps, but we are treated to the best flat racing action in the world. An exceptional amount of talent is on offer as we head to Del Mar, California for the Breeders’ Cup, where the Brits will be wanting to take full glory.
Mystery Solved
7:41 – Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint (GRADE ONE) – Star Of Mystery @ 11/1 (BetVictor, Boylesports)
There’s one key factor as to why I don’t fancy any horse at single figure prices. They’re all drawn wide, which is a big no-no at Del Mar. Believing is also drawn in one, which isn’t as helpful as might think. So I’m settling for the Charlie Appleby-trained Star Of Mystery, who’s been consistent throughout the season.
She finished third behind the well-fancied Cogburn in a Grade One at Santa Anita, then won a Grade Three over the same track and trip, before being touched off in a Grade Two at Keeneland. With a good draw today, she can fly home for the Brits
An Old Favourite
9:01 – Breeders’ Cup Turf (GRADE ONE) – Emily Upjohn @ 4/1 (General)
We relight an old fire today at Del Mar, as Frankie Dettori reunites with John Gosden and Emily Upjohn. There’s been no pazzaz with Gosden runners in the big races this season, and it looks like Dettori has left to bigger shoes to fill. But with a tried and tested combination, she may be ready to rock in what could be a swansong for the old mare.
She hasn’t disgraced herself in her previous two starts. She’s been given a big form boost from her last start, as the top two replicated the finish in the Arc de Triomphe. She could roll back the years, and score another big prize for the Brits.
Does He Win?
9:41 – Breeders’ Cup Classic (GRADE ONE)
Is City Of Troy worth the hype? Has the Derby winner met a match in the fierece dirt competition America offers. The advantage has is that he is bred by Justify, and ever since a two-year-old, this has been the ultimate goal. He’s negotiated the tight twists of Epsom and has outclassed all before him.
But, no American dirt experience. And, according to those who regularly view American racing, the kickback is fierce to the face. Plus he’s out of a Galileo mare, which means he’s mainly bred for turf. Juvenile horses grow to resemble their mothers, not their fathers. And one other key factor, regarding the best jockey in the world. Ryan Moore is 0/25 in American dirt races. A worrying factor.
Does this mean that Fierceness, bought by Coolmore Stud in the recent days, stand a good a chance as any? Yes. Simply because he’s been aimed at the race, and is best suited to these conditions. Without City Of Troy, you’d be forgiven if this horse was odds-on.
With City Of Troy in his race, it’s a case of see it and believe it. Or rather in this case, personally see it and believe that European horses hold zero advantage when it comes to American specialist races.
One Last Try
10:25 – Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf (GRADE ONE) – Content @ 7/2 (Boylesports)
After a blowout on British Champions Day, where she was really unsuited by the slow pace, Content will end her busy campaign at the Breeders’ Cup. Although people do forget that she is a Group One winner. She won the Yorkshire Oaks in fine fashion, but wasn’t suited by the ground at Longchamp on her next start, and broke slowly. Today conditions will be in her favour and there’s more than likely to be a hot pace to latch onto.
Fortuna Plenty
11:45 – Breeders’ Cup Mile (GRADE ONE) – Porta Fortuna @ 9/4 (General)
This looks to be a cracker of a race. But can Notable Speech be trusted. He’s failed to show up twice this season, at Ascot and Longchamp and the reports are that he didn’t travel over well. However, with Porta Fortuna, she’s been electric, and consistent. Her last win at Leopardstown was nothing short of impressive, and with American owners, has every right to come here and take the last turf prize for the Brits.
Best of Luck!
