Asmussen Works Quintet of Breeders' Cup Candidates

Trainer Steve Asmussen, who hopes to build on his record of eight victories in the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, had five candidates for this year’s event work over Keeneland’s fast main track early Sunday morning.

Grade 1-winning fillies Clairiere and Society worked together in :59.80 for the fastest 5-furlong work of the morning in preparation for the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Distaff (G1) on Nov. 5. Fractions on the work were :11.80, :23.80, :35.60, :47.60, :59.80 and out 6 furlongs in 1:13.20.

Epicenter, a leading contender for the $6 million Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) on Nov. 5, worked 5 furlongs in company in 1:00.20. Fractions on the work were :12.60, :24.60, :37.40, 1:00.20 and out 6 furlongs in 1:14.

Also working were champion Echo Zulu for the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint (G1) and Grand Love for the NetJets Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1). Both worked in company, going 5 furlongs with Echo Zulu timed in 1:02.80 while working with Marsalis and Grand Love in 1:00.60 while working with Bella Runner.

“They put in good, solid moves,” Asmussen said. “They came out of it good and cooled out nicely, and we’ve got Jackie’s Warrior (working) tomorrow. I am extremely pleased with how the preparation has gone. The weather has been excellent. The race track is in good shape and I love the shape they are in.”