Soumillon Praises Top Class Minnie Hauk on Her Quest for Arc Redemption

Christophe Soumillon is set to ride Minnie Hauk in the upcoming Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf at Del Mar. This event marks an important moment for Minnie Hauk, a three-time Group One winner, who narrowly missed victory in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Soumillon remains confident about her credentials as they aim for redemption in California.

Minnie Hauk’s Arc Experience

Reflecting on the Arc, Soumillon noted, “Minnie Hauk ran an amazing race despite her challenging draw.” He emphasized the pressure she faced starting from stall one, which affected their strategy. “We were caught at the finish, but I’m focused on ensuring she returns to winning form this Saturday,” he stated. “She’s top class.”

Defending Champion Rebel’s Romance

Also competing is Rebel’s Romance, ridden by William Buick, who is poised to make history by becoming the first horse to win the Breeders’ Cup Turf three times. “I always look forward to riding him, especially after his superb performance last year,” Buick remarked. The seven-year-old has excelled globally, with victories in Hong Kong, Qatar, and Dubai.

Challenges and Opportunities

Buick pointed out, “Rebel’s Romance is drawn inside, but I don’t see it as a disadvantage. His ability to lead from a low draw could work to our benefit.” He added that the horse thrives on fast ground, a crucial element for success.

Goliath’s Return to Competition

Francis-Henri Graffard’s Goliath, fresh from a Group One win at the Grosser Preis Von Baden, aims to become the first French-trained winner since Talismanic in 2017. Majority owner John Stewart expressed enthusiasm for Goliath’s performance, stating he has been training exceptionally well.

• Goliath’s entry into the race cost $200,000.
• He is optimally drawn in stall two.
• Stewart mentioned Goliath’s ability to build speed effectively.

European Contenders

Other European entries include Ralph Beckett’s Amiloc, who has had a stellar season, and James Owen’s Wimbledon Hawkeye, the Nashville Derby champion. This race also features Frankie Dettori’s final mount at the Breeders’ Cup, Rashabar, trained by Brian Meehan, who noted Dettori’s impressive track record with five victories.

Willie Mullins Looks for Breeders’ Cup Victory

Trainer Willie Mullins, always on the hunt for new accomplishments, brings Ethical Diamond, who performed well in the Ebor. Mullins is optimistic about his horse’s condition leading up to the event and believes the Breeders’ Cup Turf could suit him well.

The star-studded line-up continues with El Cordobes and Silawi, the latter being Wathnan Racing’s first-ever Breeders’ Cup entrant. With such a talented array of participants, expectations run high for an exciting competition at Del Mar.