Bodog Beat

Curlin worked a half-mile at Churchill Downs today. (AP Images)

Curlin worked a half-mile at Churchill Downs to prepare for his expected first outing on turf on Saturday, July 12 in either the $500,000 Man O’ War (gr. IT) at Belmont Park or the $200,000 Arlington Park Handicap (gr. IIIT).

The decision on which race Curlin will run relies upon licensing issues in racing jurisdictions.

"He’s an awesome horse – I’m excited," trainer Steve Asmussen said. "It looks like we ought to know something on the licensing today, I understand. We’re obviously very anxious about that."

Asmussen would prefer for Curlin to run the Man O' War, as the 1 3/8 mile race will pit Curlin against two other Breeders’ Cup champions, Red Rocks and Better Talk Now.

"That race is coming up fabulous," said Asmussen. "If you’re going to venture overseas, you don’t want to be kidding yourself about how good or bad you are on the turf."

Asmussen hopes that if the licensing issue is resolved, Curlin would fly to New York on Thursday for Saturday’s race at Belmont Park for the Man O' War. If all goes well in New York, then Curlin will travel to France for the Arc de Triomphe. With just two 2008 wins from as many starts, Curlin continues to lead all active earners with a total of $4,189,000.

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