Economic Model Adds Value
It was only a matter of time, really. Trainer Chad Brown, the two-time defending champion trainer in the United States, was bound to have more of an international presence and that may commence on March 31st. The former Bobby Frankel assistant, based in Florida in the winter and New York throughout most of the remainder of the year, is pointing Economic Model to the $1 million Godolphin Mile sponsored by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum City – District One (G2).
The presence of the son of Flatter, also the sire of West Coast, adds considerable depth to a race that appeared one-sided toward expected favourite –for the second consecutive year– Sharp Azteca. Jockey Joel Rosario is expected to ride the G1-placed two-time stakes winner who gamely defeated G1 winner Irish War Cry in the Hal’s Hope (G3) last out at Gulfstream Park over this same 1600m distance.
Meanwhile, locally, Kimbear proved one of the most resilient horses in recent memory when defeating heavy favourite Heavy Metal in the Burj Nahaar (G3). The win makes him one of two confirmed Godolphin Mile prospects for trainer Doug Watson, who has won the last two editions of the race. Last year’s winner, Second Summer, will now go for a defence, instead of pointing toward the Dubai World Cup.
Current Godolphin Mile Possibles (not necessarily invitees): Sharp Azteca, Economic Model, Heavy Metal, Kimbear, Second Summer, Boynton, Adirato, Akito Crescent, Ross, Secret Ambition, Musawaat
credit:DubaiRacingClub