CONNECTIONS of Curlin said on Tuesday that the Breeders' Cup Classic winner is unlikely to head to Longchamp for the Arc and will make his next appearance in the Group 1 Woodward Stakes at Saratoga on August 30.
Owner Jess Jackson ended speculation as to where Curlin may head after his narrow defeat by Red Rocks in the Man o'War Stakes last time, stating that the Arc is "probably out for this year."
“We considered many options but we decided this is the best place toshowcase his talent, racing him in America and racing him on a surface where he's already a champion” Jackson said. “This is a historic venue where he can add to his body of work. He's very fit, he's very happy here right now and we wanted to take advantage of that and do what's best for the horse.”
With the targeted race just two weeks before the Arc trial on September 14, and back on dirt, a trip to France is no longer likely this year but Jackson added that a return to turf had not been dismissed.
“The Arc is probably out for this year,” Jackson said. “We think he can be a turf champion but I'm not sure he has enough time this year to make the adjustment,” Jackson admitted. “The flexibility of his racing style and the tactics he'd have to use (on the turf) vary so you'd have to train him for that.”
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