Aidan O’Brien has just landed in California only to receive some disappointing news as two of his top horses have been assigned unfavorable starting positions at the upcoming Breeders’ Cup event.
O’Brien, known for his exceptional season, is on the verge of making racing history by aiming for three more Group 1 victories to match his own record of 28 top-level wins in a year. Additionally, he is one win away from becoming the most successful trainer in Breeders’ Cup history.
With eight opportunities to enhance his current tally of 20 Cup wins this Friday and Saturday, O’Brien’s leading contenders include Minnie Hauk, the runner-up at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, set to compete in the Breeders’ Cup Turf. His other hopefuls are Precise, winner of the Fillies’ Mile, entered in the Juvenile Fillies’ Turf, and Gstaad, the second-place finisher in the Dewhurst Stakes, taking on the Juvenile Turf.
The challenge lies in the fact that both Precise and Gstaad have drawn unfavorable starting positions on the tight Del Mar turf track, with Precise starting from stall 13 and Gstaad from stall 14. Consequently, bookmakers have adjusted the odds, with Precise now at 11-10 from Evens and Gstaad at 11-10 from 4-5.
William Hill spokesperson Lee Phelps commented on the situation, stating that the European contenders, Precise and Gstaad, are facing tough starting spots, affecting their chances on the compact Del Mar course.
Despite the setback, O’Brien can draw encouragement from Henri Matisse, who overcame a challenging draw last year to win the Juvenile Turf at the same venue.
Reflecting on his horses’ performance during their first track outing, O’Brien mentioned that they appeared content and relaxed. The horses will continue their preparations with visits to the start, paddocks, and further track sessions leading up to the Breeders’ Cup races.
When asked about the draw outcomes, O’Brien acknowledged the randomness of the process, indicating that the jockeys’ opinions will also be considered.