California Chrome to carry American hopes on Dubai World Cup night

Peter Ward 03:47 25/03/2015
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  • American hope: California Chrome.

    With the international media arriving at Meydan in their droves there is, understandably, plenty of heated debate as to the likely destination of Saturday’s $10million (Dh36.7m) Dubai World Cup. 

    The Japanese contingent seem hopeful their duo of Epiphaneia and Hokko Tarumae will be good enough to provide the country with a second victory in the world’s richest horse race. We local hacks are perhaps hoping Candy Boy can bring Doug Watson’s excellent season to a sweet conclusion. 

    According to the bookmakers though, America hold all the aces as they seek a 10th win on World Cup night. 

    Heading the market is California Chrome, winner of last year’s Kentucky Derby. His trainer, Art Sherman, is not yet in town but his son and assistant Alan is. 

    Having watched his charge breeze 800m yesterday morning, he said: “We have to be pleased with that; there is no need to gallop him – if California Chrome is not fit by now we have missed the boat. He has grown and strengthened and really takes the eye now.” 

    The American press were also taken with their second challenger, Lea, who did a circuit on the dirt track. Strongly fancied for the race last year, before being ruled out by a virus, he delighted Riley Mott, assistant to his father, Bill.

    Meanwhile, away from prying eyes just up the road at Al Quoz, Godolphin trainer Saeed bin Suroor is putting the finishing touches to the preparations of last year’s winner African Story and stable companion Prince Bishop.

    Seeking a seventh win in the race, we can only take his word when he reports: “Both worked well on Saturday, are in great condition and we are very happy with them.” On balance, maybe the race could be billed as Godolphin vs USA…

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