Bodog Beat

According to his trainer and rider, Curlin looks prepared for Paris. (AP Images)

Horse of the Year and racing’s current media favorite Curlin had his first workout over the turf recently in anticipation of a possible trip to Paris for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, one of the world’s most prestigious races.

With regular rider Robby Albarado aboard, the striking chestnut made a grand appearance on the Churchill Downs turf course Tuesday and impressed observers with his confident manner. Accompanied by a workmate, Curlin breezed seven furlongs well out from the inner rail and accomplished his move in the excellent time of 1:31.20 considering the wide trip. Starting off two lengths behind his stable mate, the allowance-winning Hawaii Calls, the champion collared that one near the finish and was a half-length clear when the workout was completed.

Curlin appeared to handle the turf much as he has handled his opposition – with ease, and his connections were giddy with the result of his first venture on to the new surface. Trainer Steve Asmussen toned down his optimism by underplaying the workout as just a training move and not near as significant as a race in determining the horse’s ability to carry his championship form to the turf.

North America’s leading rider Robby Albarado was beaming with confidence after the move and predicted his favorite mount would have no problem switching playing fields.

Depending on the weight assignments, the next step in the turf transformation will include a July 12 start in either the Gr. 3 Arlington Million Handicap at Chicago’s Arlington Park at 1 ¼ miles or the grassy Gr. 1 Man O’War Stakes at Belmont Park over 1 3/8 miles.

In either spot, the country’s most popular racehorse will certainly be “going green” in the near future.

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