Team America: Dubai World Cup Nominations
Despite very large purses, a multitude of race types to choose from, and top class competition, many of the world’s elite thoroughbreds do not make the trip to the United States for the Breeders’ Cup. This is perhaps one of the most frustrating aspects of being a worldwide racing fan here in America. But the coin is two sided, and with the plethora of high quality races abroad, why don’t American trainers seek out the best outside of the USA? The sportsman in us all wish it was purely about competition on a level playing field with the best horse coming out the victor. But unfortunately, there are many more factors at play when sending multi-million dollar animals thousands of miles away for an event that will last around 2 minutes.
However, there are always a brave few. A few that wish to seek out and beat the best. A few that want to prove their horse, an American horse, can still compete and win off their home turf. Of course the prospect of a 10 million dollar purse helps too. The upcoming Dubai World Cup Carnival is the richest race gathering in the sport. It draws thoroughbreds from all over the world to the homeland of its deepest ancestors for fame, glory, and above all: wealth.
Taking a look at the American nominations, there are a few big names that have been pointed to these races for months, and there are few surprises.
Royal Delta (World Cup): This 2 time champion is one tough mare. After a rough trip in last year’s World Cup, she looks for retribution on the synthetic surface of Meydan racecourse. Trainer Bill Mott plans to have her prep for the World Cup in the same fashion as last year with the grade 3 Sabin stakes. Unlike many of the other Americans making the trip, Royal Delta is committed for one thing, and one thing only: The Dubai World Cup.
Dullahan (World Cup, Duty Free, Sheema Classic, Godolphin Mile): One of the 2 Dale Romans trainees making the trip, Dullahan has proven to be a monster on synthetic surfaces. Upsetting Game on Dude in the 2012 Pacific Classic shows there is something very unique about this horse. He doesn’t fair well on dirt, and is ok turf, but synthetics bring out his true talent. He will get a prep race in Dubai to acclimate to the arid climate and track surface, and if he brings his A-game to the World Cup, everyone else is running for second.
Little Mike (World Cup, Duty Free, Sheema Classic, Godolphin Mile): The second of the Dale Romans contingent, Little Mike looks to improve off an outstanding 2012. He is likely going to be pointed at the Sheema Classic, and like Dullahan will get a prep race in Dubai before the big dance. After his jaw dropping performance in the Breeders’ Cup Turf, I think this American gelding has a good chance to steal a turf race from the usually dominate Europeans. A victory will not come easily with horses like Cirrus Des Aigles, Dunaden, and St Nicholas Abby also nominated.
Animal Kingdom (World Cup, Duty Free, Sheema Classic): The 2011 Kentucky Derby winner is looking to finally get a full season to show his true talent. After injury robbed him of the majority of 2011 and 2012, he made his second return to racing on the toughest of stages. There was much criticism of Graham Motion to enter Animal Kingdom in the Breeders’ Cup Mile with no prep, but the horse showed us what true champions are made of. A late charging second place finish after a trip that rivaled LA rush hour traffic showed his doubters that he is ready to tackle the world’s best. He will get one prep in the USA before beginning a worldwide tour that will start in Dubai and likely end in England.
Point of Entry (Sheema Classic): Despite being the dominate force at 12 furlongs on turf in the USA last year, Point of Entry did not get a lot of mention at the end of the year. He finished a fast closing second to Little Mike in the Breeders’ Cup Turf and showed 12 furlongs is not a problem with three wins at the distance in 2012. He will go up against many of the world’s best and get a rematch against Little Mike in the Sheema Classic.
Mizdirection (Golden Shaheen, Al Quoz Sprint): The Mike Puype trained mare looks like she is really coming into her own. Being nominated to both sprint races indicates there may be a chance she will make the trip, although Puype has not hinted if she will. Her dazzling win over the boys in the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint shows she can compete at top-level competition, and if she can carry her form through March, she may come home with some hardware.
Richard’s Kid (World Cup, Godolphin Mile): New silks, new trainer, same ol’ racehorse. Since his change of ownership last summer Richard’s Kid has not been at his best. He is 8 years old and still competitive but it looks like he may have lost a step from his jubilant youth. The UAE is familiar territory for this seasoned warrior, although he never showed his best there. Lets hope a trip in 2013 brings better luck.
Apriority (Golden Shaheen, Godolphin Mile)
Atigun (World Cup)
Capitol Account (Golden Shaheen)
Drill (World Cup, Golden Shaheen, Godophin Mile)
Fed Biz (Godolphin Mile)
Fortify (UAE Derby)
Frac Daddy (UAE Derby)
Game on Dude (World Cup)
Golden Ticket (World Cup)
He’s Had Enough (UAE Derby)
Jeranimo (World Cup, Duty Free, Godolphin Mile)
Jimmy Creed (Golden Shaheen)
Optimizer (World Cup, Duty Free)
Private Zone (Golden Shaheen, Godolphin Mile)
Soldat (World Cup, Godolphin Mile)
Slim Shady (Duty Free)
Super Ninety Nine (UAE Derby)
Take Charge Indy (World Cup, Godolphin Mile)
Trinniberg (Golden Shaheen)
Ultimate Eagle (World Cup, Duty Free, Sheema Classic, Godolphin Mile)
A full list of the nominations can be seen here.
Remember, nominations are not commitments. Just because a name appears above, does not mean they are making the trip. But for those that make do I say this: “Run fast and safe! Wave the American Flag with pride and know we will all be cheering for you here at home! Best of luck to you all!”