Few Europeans in BC Turf

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas, Oct. 27 (UPI) -- The $2 million John Deere Turf -- one of eight races in Saturday's Breeder's Cup World Thoroughbred Championship at Lone Star Park -- drew only eight starters.

The Turf is headed by even-money morning-line favorite Kitten's Joy. The 3-year-old colt has won eight of his last nine races, including two straight Grade I events.

Saturday's eight Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championship races feature an unusually light representation of European-based horses, due in part to owners' and trainers' unfamiliarity with the first-time location of the event.

Although the Turf usually attracts some of Europe's top horses, this year's field includes only two with European connections. Magistretti, who raced in England until mid-summer, has finished second in the Arlington Million, first in the Man o' War and second to Kitten's Joy in the Turf Classic since shipping to the United States. Powerscourt finished first in the Arlington Million but was disqualified to fourth for interference. Since that August race, he got home third, beaten only 3/4 length, in the Irish Champions Stakes at Leopardstown.

With Balto Star injured and out of the field, California-based Star Over the Bay appears to be the only early speed in the race. He drew post position No. 7 but trainer Mike Mitchell said that makes no difference. "We're going to let him go and if they want to go after him, they can," Mitchell said. "They're going to hope I'm cheap and I'll stop." Star Over the Bay has won three straight graded stakes in California, all running on the lead.