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The advantage of jet lag is that you find yourself wide awake long before the 5 AM alarm rings.
I usually struggle to start my day at such an unholy hour, but even in my grumpy state, I felt surprisingly upbeat as I arrived at Del Mar for track work in preparation for the Breeders’ Cup.
Charlie Appleby is preparing another strong team for the Breeders’ CupCredit: PA
This year, there are more European runners than ever, but only Aidan O’Brien and Charlie Appleby were up early yesterday.
It’s no surprise that a cheerful Charlie was in high spirits; he has historically excelled at this event and has several strong contenders once again.
You might assume his top two horses would be Rebel’s Romance and Notable Speech — but he believes Filly & Mare Turf runner Cinderella’s Dream has a significant chance as well, sitting at an enticing 5-1.
She had a smooth canter alongside her stablemates on the dirt, and Appleby was pleased.
He remarked: “I feel all the runners we have here are enjoying the warm sun on their backs.
“The one I believe has improved the most is Cinderella. Her workouts have been impressive.”
Aidan's Dilemma
AIDAN O’BRIEN was feeling the pressure after two of his Breeders’ Cup favorites drew poor positions.
The champion trainer is pursuing his own record of 28 Group 1 wins in a year and is just three wins shy as he heads into a crucial weekend at Del Mar, California.
He arrived from Ireland with three short-priced favorites: Minnie Hauk, Precise, and Gstaad, but the last two will need to pull off miracles from their unfavorable draws.
Both were assigned the outside gate for the Juvenile Fillies’ Turf and Juvenile Turf, yet they remain steady at around 6-5 with the bookmakers.
Del Mar is as compact as Chester, so Aidan stated that jockey Christophe Soumillon must be at the top of his game to secure a win.
He commented: “The racing here is extremely competitive; you can’t afford to give an inch anywhere, and if you do, it’s quite challenging to recover.
“I don’t recall ever coming over with three short-priced favorites, but two of them have already faced setbacks due to their draws.
“They’re in excellent form. Gstaad has been unlucky this year, and we believe Precise is very special. Christophe will need all his experience and strength.”
Who's Willie?
EVERYONE is aware of who Willie Mullins is, right? Right?
Apparently not. Prominent US journalist Steve Andersen is preparing an explanatory piece for the Americans, as many here have no idea who Willie is.
If Ethical Diamond wins on Saturday, they will never forget their first encounter with big Willie.
Concern for Sovereignty
There was a surprising revelation late in the morning when it was announced that hot Breeders’ Cup Classic favorite Sovereignty was in doubt.
Trainer Bill Mott stated that the colt, who won the Kentucky Derby in May, had developed a fever, and a decision is expected to be made today.
Companion Bear
I’ve heard of horses having companion sheep and anxiety goats, but a giant teddy bear is a first for me.
US filly Dorth Vader, a contender for the Distaff, travels everywhere with a large cuddly toy named John.
Thankfully, they remembered to pack him — it would have been quite distressing for her otherwise.
Remember to Gamble Responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Sets time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chases their losses
- Avoids gambling when upset, angry, or depressed
- Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our resources on responsible gambling.
