'Everything on the table' for Clark winner Tom's d'Etat
A number of options remain on the table for G M B Racing's Tom's d'Etat following his powerful 3 ¼-length victory in Friday’s 145th running of Churchill Downs' Clark Stakes (G1).
“It was an absolutely thrilling night,” trainer Al Stall Jr. said Saturday morning. “He came out of the race in really good shape and we’re still very excited.
“With this win he has a lot of next options open, but most importantly we’re going to let him tell us what to do next."
Stall said the Jan. 25 Pegasus World Cup (G1), Feb. 29 Saudi Cup and March 28 Dubai World Cup (G1) will all be considered. Those races are worth $9 million, $20 million and $12 million, respectively, making up a trio of lucrative early season events for older horses.
"Or, if there’s a stud deal that could be an option as well," Stall said. "We’ll keep everything on the table, but he’ll tell us how soon and where to go next.”
Tom’s d’Etat moved to millionaire status with his victory in the Clark with earnings of $1,236,572. The 6-year-old son of Smart Strike boasts a record of 9-2-1 in 16 starts.
Stall reported that Tom’s d’Etat will likely join his string of horses at Fair Grounds in the upcoming days.