Summary
Keeneland in Kentucky is buzzing as it prepares for the Breeders' Cup, following a $100 million redevelopment that has revitalized the venue. The atmosphere is vibrant, with European horses making their first appearances on the track. Among the notable contenders are Folsom Blues and Miss Your Chance, both of whom have promising prospects in their respective races.
Constitution Hill, a horse that has generated significant discussion regarding his future in racing, recently returned from a fifth-place finish in Italy. Owner Michael Buckley expresses confidence in the horse's well-being and competitive spirit, dismissing calls for retirement. He emphasizes the care and attention given to Constitution Hill, asserting that as long as the horse remains enthusiastic about racing, he will continue to compete.
As the Breeders' Cup approaches, excitement builds with record pre-entries and strong international representation. Drew Fleming, president of the Breeders' Cup, highlights the event's significance and the impressive facilities at Keeneland, which he compares to iconic venues like Augusta National. The week promises thrilling races and a celebration of the sport, with a focus on hospitality and the rich history of Kentucky racing.
Show Notes
Nick, coming to you this morning from Keeneland at the start of Breeders’ Cup week and joined by the Mirrors’ David Yates, from back in the UK. Following Constitution Hill’s fifth in Italy on Sunday, owner Michael Buckley is along to reflect on the performance and also hits back at those calling for the horse’s retirement. Al Shira’aa’s Kieran Lalor looks ahead to Folsom Blues in the Juvenile Turf whilst Alessandro Marconi talks about the journey they’ve been on with Group One winner Miss Yechance, who will be heading to the sale before appearing in the Turf Sprint. Breeders’ Cup President Drew Fleming looks ahead to the two day meeting and Tanya Gunther discusses a couple of mares she’s sending to the Fasig Tipton November sale and with bloodstock in mind Jason Singh previews the Tattersalls Mare Sale.
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Nick kicks off the show this Monday morning by catching up with John Gosden who confirms that Ombudsman will head to Keeneland for the Breeders’ Cup following his fabulous victory in the Champion Stakes at Ascot on Saturday. Racing TV’s Lydia Hislop is alongside Nick for today’s show and they reflect further on Saturday’s racing whilst TPD’s Adam Mills tells us just how Ombudsman got the better of Calandagan this time around. Dave Ord is at Cheltenham as he catches up with Chief Executive Guy Lavender and clerk of the course Jon Pullin on the busy summer sorting out the drainage and also having the track ready for racing this weekend. Further afield we hear from Everest winning trainer Ciaron Maher after his filly Tempted downed Hong Kong superstar Ka Ying Rising. Also from Australia ,Vicky Leonard joins us to discuss the impact of the incredibly unfortunate incident in Saturday’s Caulfield Cup, which resulted in a fatality.