Gio Ponti nipped second in Dubai World Cup prep

Making his first start since a second in the 2009 Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1), dual Eclipse Award winner Gio Ponti engaged front-running pacesetter Karelian in a stretch-long drive but failed to win the photograph in Saturday’s Tampa Bay Breeders’ Cup. Under Ramon Dominguez, Gio Ponti stalked a soft pace but was game in defeat.  Dominguez lodged a claim of foul after Karelian drifted in during the run for home but no change was made.  Trainer Christophe Clement indicated he was pleased with the effort, and provided Gio Ponti remains healthy, a trip for the 2010 Dubai World Cup (G1) is expected.  “It was really just what he needed, a good strong race.  This should set him up just right” Clement told the Daily Racing Form.  Watch the race below.