California Chrome romps in Dubai World Cup, surpasses Curlin on earnings list

Mar 26, 2016 Kellie Reilly/Brisnet.com

California Chrome, the 2014 Kentucky Derby (G1) and Preakness (G1) champion who’s conquered the hearts of racing fans worldwide, has now added a very considerable laurel to his record. By romping in Saturday’s $10 million Dubai World Cup (G1) at Meydan, the flashy chestnut became North America’s all-time richest Thoroughbred.

Trained by Art Sherman and ridden by Victor Espinoza, California Chrome rolled to a 3 3/4-length decision in 2:01.83 – easily a new track record for about 1 1/4 miles on the Meydan dirt. He boosted his bankroll to $12,532,650, overtaking the previous North American record holder, Curlin ($10,501,800), by more than $2 million.

California Chrome also became the third Kentucky Derby winner to capture the Dubai World Cup, emulating Hall of Famer Silver Charm and Animal Kingdom.

Mubtaahij, who ran eighth behind American Pharoah in last year’s Kentucky Derby, finished second. Hoppertunity was third. Other Derby trail veterans in the World Cup were Frosted (fifth), Candy Boy (seventh), and Keen Ice (eighth).

The photo above shows how far back California Chrome’s saddle slipped during the race. Espinoza actually dismounted on the way back and fixed the saddle himself.

Photos courtesy Dubai Racing Club:

Top photo by Andrew Watkins, sidebar photo by Neville Hopwood.