LOUISVILLE, Ky., Nov. 6 (UPI) -- Chamberlain Bridge won Saturday's $1 million Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint with a dramatic rush down the stretch.
At the end, the 6-year-old War Chant gelding was moving clear of the field, with Central City second, 1 1/2 lengths back, and California-based Unzip Me third. Chamberlain Bridge, under Jamie Theriot, ran the 5 furlongs on firm turf in 56.53 seconds.
Chamberlain Bridge had been treated for an abscess in his foot earlier in the week, but trainer Bret Calhoun said shortly before the race that was no longer a problem. Instead, he said he was worried about drawing the No. 1 post position.
That also proved no problem as Theriot was able to work out a perfect trip. After dropping well back early, he moved Chamberlain Bridge up between horses on the turn, then swung way wide at the top of the stretch. At that point, the colt kicked in and ran by the leaders.
We had a lot of luck and Jamie had a very brave ride," Calhoun said. Theriot added he was "in a very tight spot" on the turn before finding running room.
Chamberlain Bridge had won three straight turf sprints at three different tracks before finishing an unlucky fourth at Keeneland in his last outing. He now has 16 wins from 31 lifetime starts and four wins and a second from five starts on the Churchill Downs turf.
