Aidan O’Brien has just touched down in California only to receive disappointing news as two of his top horses were assigned unfavorable starting positions at the upcoming Breeders’ Cup event.
O’Brien’s remarkable season has positioned him on the verge of making racing history once again, as he is just three Group 1 victories away from matching his own world record of 28 top-level wins in a single year. Additionally, a single triumph would secure his status as the most successful Breeders’ Cup trainer ever.
The renowned Ballydoyle trainer boasts eight opportunities to enhance his current tally of 20 Cup victories over the weekend. Leading the charge is Minnie Hauk, the runner-up at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, set to compete in the Breeders’ Cup Turf.
Among his other notable contenders are the two-year-olds Precise, winner of the Fillies’ Mile, entered in the Juvenile Fillies’ Turf, and Gstaad, runner-up at the Dewhurst Stakes, taking on the Juvenile Turf.
In the challenging terrain of Del Mar’s tight turf track, trainers typically prefer inside draws, but both of O’Brien’s horses were dealt challenging starting positions, with Precise in post 13 out of 13 and Henri Matisse in post 14.
The unfavorable draws led bookmakers like William Hill to adjust their odds, with Precise now at 11-10 from Evens and Gstaad at 11-10 from 4-5.
William Hill spokesperson Lee Phelps remarked on the situation, expressing concerns over the European hopefuls, Precise and Gstaad, drawing the outside posts and how this might affect their chances on the narrow Del Mar track.
Despite the setbacks, O’Brien can find solace in Henri Matisse’s previous success overcoming a wide draw to claim victory in the Juvenile Turf at the same venue a year ago.
Reflecting on his horses’ first training session on the track, O’Brien mentioned their positive demeanor and relaxed attitude. He outlined the upcoming schedule for his runners, including preparations leading up to the races.
When questioned about the unfavorable draws, O’Brien maintained a pragmatic outlook, acknowledging that such circumstances are part of the sport and would rely on his jockeys’ expertise to navigate the challenges effectively.
