Rebel’s Romance became the first horse to win the G1 Breeders’ Cup Turf in non-consecutive years as he saw off the late challenge of Rousham Park in the 12-furlong feature at Del Mar on Saturday.
Rebel’s Romance gave British trainer Charlie Appleby a third victory in the $5 million race.
The son of Dubawi had readily captured the race at Keeneland in 2022 and returned to the United States in superb form following top-level wins in the UAE, Hong Kong and Germany earlier in the season.
Sent forward from his wide draw by William Buick, Rebel’s Romance tacked over to race in fourth before taking closer order to dispute second on the outside of Far Bridge entering the home straight on the first circuit.
Rebel’s Romance moved to within a length of Cabo Spirit down the back and cruised up to take up the running from the long-time leader turning for home.
Having kicked four lengths clear a furlong out, the Appleby-trained six-year-old had to be kept up to his work as Rousham Park closed strongly, with a neck separating the duo at the line.
Hugh Anderson, Managing Director of Godolphin (UK and Dubai), said: “We have huge faith in Rebel’s Romance. He is one of the Godolphin greats now. He has won on numerous continents and is ultra reliable. It was a little close in the end, but it was a fabulous result.”
“Rebel’s Romance is a classic example of what we do so well at Godolphin. To win in Europe, Asia, Dubai and here at the highest level is what we are all about. It’s absolutely brilliant for all of us at Godolphin because he is a flagbearer for us.”
Appleby said: “I don’t need to tell William how to ride Rebel’s Romance. He knows him inside out as he is basically part of the furniture. Throughout the race I was pleased with his pitch, and I was pleased he made the move when he did because the horse keeps lengthening. Full credit to the second horse, who was closing, but we had the momentum our way.”
Agencies