Bodog Beat

It was his debut at Saratoga but that was no problem for Curlin, shown here earlier this season. (AP Image)

Curlin made his triumphant return to dirt yesterday at Saratoga by winning the Woodward Stakes. Curlin was the 3-10 favorite but he had to work to get the win.

With jockey Robby Albarado aboard, he turned on the jets and drew even with the pacesetter Devine Park in the final stretch and finally won by 1 and 1/4 lengths.

“Curlin is meant for the big moment,” said trainer Steve Asmussen. “He takes it all in stride.”

Added Albarado: “He spoils us with his brilliance.”

Curlin appeared to be tired even though this was his first start in seven weeks and needed encouragement from Albarado to run the final furlong in 14 seconds. This was his debut at Saratoga but he has been a steady presence at the park in the mornings for most of this year.

This marks 10 victories in 14 starts for Curlin and this raised his total winnings to $9,796,800 moving him to second place in all time winnings for thoroughbreds, placing him just behind Cigar.

Curlin paid $2.70, $2.40 and $2.10.

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