Horse of Year Curlin wins Stephen Foster

LOUISVILLE, Ky., June 14 (UPI) -- Horse of the Year Curlin, in his first U.S. start since winning the 2007 Breeders Cup Classic, won the $1 million Stephen Foster Handicap Saturday.

Curlin covered the 1 1/8 miles in 1:49:68 in a 4 1/4-length victory over nine opponents.

The 4-year-old colt broke from the rail, overtook pacesetter Barcola at the top of the stretch, and opened up down the lane. Einstein rallied late to finish second and Barcola was third.

Grasshopper, Brass Hat, Jonesboro, Delightful Kiss, Sam P., High Blues and Red Rock Creek completed the order of finish.

Curlin, who had not started since winning the Dubai World Cup March 29, was sent off as the 2-5 favorite.

It was Curlin's first start at Churchill Downs since his third-place finish behind Street Sense and Hard Spun in the 2007 Kentucky Derby.