The Dubai Racing Club reported today that Well Armed, winner of the 2008 San Antonio Handicap prior to a Dubai World Cup third, is likely to be pointed back to the big race. Racing for WinStar Farm, Well Armed also annexed the 2008 Goodwood at Santa Anita but was oddly placed in the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile where he had an atrocious ride and finished up the track as a well-backed choice.
Above, the WinStar gang and jockey Aaron Gryder watch the replay of Curlin’s victory.
I am not terribly surprised that these connections are going to give it another go. I spoke with WinStar racing manager Elliott Walden after Well Armed’s 2008 Dubai World Cup placing and he really seemed to bask in the atmosphere of the race and the trip itself. The picture itself tells the story as this was taken a good fifteen minutes after the race, with everyone still hanging around. Add to this the lack of a clear cut American contender, and Well Armed is as likely a choice as any.