Bodog Beat

Curlin is looking to beat Cigar's record. (AP Images)

This Saturday, Curlin will defend his title in the Grade I, $750,000 Jockey Club Gold Cup at Belmont Park. Should Curlin win, he will earn $400,000 and register a major milestone by beating Cigar’s record, the Maryland-bred horse trained by Bill Mott who retired in 1996 as the North American earnings leader with $9,999,815.

Curlin, has so far won his last five starts and amassed $9,796,800 in wins. owner Jess Jackson spoke about the upcoming race.

"Cigar left an indelible memory and was always a great competitor,” said Jackson in the NTRA conference call Tuesday. “To win the Jockey Gold Cup this Saturday is not about the money. Curlin has proven himself as a champion and established himself as one of the best racehorses in the last century."

He continued, "We are taking this one race at a time. He’s fit and ready and we will consider all options, including the Breeders’ Cup.”

Will Curlin surpass Cigar's earnings? Bet on Curlin in the Bodog Racebook today.