Rich Strike Likely Breeders' Cup Classic Bound

RED TR-Racing’s Kentucky Derby (G1) Presented by Woodford Reserve winner Rich Strike apparently will be headed to the $6 million Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) to be run here Nov. 5, according to trainer Eric Reed.

“Rich Strike is doing as good as he ever has, and Rick (owner Rick Dawson) feels that he deserves the chance to take on the best in the world,” Reed said.

The deadline for pre-entries for the Breeders’ Cup World Championships is Monday at noon ET.

The other option for Rich Strike following a runner-up effort in the Lukas Classic (G2) to Hot Rod Charlie was the $750,000 Clark (G1) Presented by Norton Healthcare (G1) at Churchill Downs on Nov. 25.

Reed plans to bring Rich Strike to Keeneland from his base at the Mercury Equine Center this afternoon with the colt scheduled to gallop Monday morning before moving Monday afternoon to the barns on Rice Road that will serve as the home to all Breeders’ Cup runners. Rich Strike is expected to work Tuesday morning.