Arrogate draws rail for Pegasus World Cup (G1)
Juddmonte Farm’s recently crowned 2016 Eclipse Champion 3-year-old Male drew post 1 for Saturday’s $12 million Pegasus World Cup Inv. (G1) at Gulfstream Park, adding to the anticipation his trainer Bob Baffert is feeling for the world’s richest horse race.
“I’m really looking forward to it. I really think it will be a great race,” said Baffert. “It’s going to be the last of the heavyweight title rematch (with California Chrome), so hopefully we’re ready for it, and we’re excited.
“One you’ve drawn your post position for this, we don’t worry about it anymore. It’s up to (Arrogate’s jockey) Mike Smith and he knows what to do. The horse is doing well and that’s more important than the post draw. Once we ship there and keep him happy and healthy that’s all that matters.”
California Chrome drew the opposite end of the spectrum for Saturday; the 2016 Horse of the Year will break from the outside of the 12-horse field.
Arrogate has been off since he bested California Chrome by a half-length in the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) in early November. That victory, and his record-breaking performance in the Travers’ S. (G1) sewed up 3-year-old honors for Arrogate.
The gray son of Unbridled’s Song has won five straight since finishing third in his debut last April, which co-incidentally was his only start at a sprint distance. His earnings stand at $4,084,600, but could balloon exponentially should he be fortunate enough to take home the $7 million winner’s share on Saturday.
This is the first running of the Pegasus, the brain-child of Gulfstream Park owner Frank Stronach. It is the 12th race on a stakes-filled card, and will be televised live on NBC from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. ET.