Dubai: Sport is at its very best when the action sets the pulses racing and today's 13th running of the Dubai World Cup (Gr 1), looks capable of delivering two minutes of sheer passion and drama as 13 of the world's best horses chase a record $6 million (Dh22.5 million) in prize money.
Leading the pack is Curlin, a sensational winner of last year's Breeders' Cup Classic (Gr 1), who is today pitched against top-class opposition led by Dubai challenger Jalil, former UAE Triple Crown winner Asiatic Boy and Japan's best dirt horse Vermilion.
The American Horse of the Year takes a faultless set of credentials into the 2,000-metre race on dirt, but must produce something special if he is to become the first horse to win the Dubai World Cup from stall 12.
However, Scott Blasi, assistant trainer to Steve Asmussen, is not losing any sleep over 'a piece of history.'
Complete package
"He's done everything right since he's been here. He's been training well. I think the draw is ok, because of the configuration of the race track, and he will put himself in a good position," he said.
"It suits us fine, I don't think it's a big deal. In fact, I prefer him to be on the outside as it gives Robbie Albarado a chance to settle the horse and get into a nice position when they enter the straight. He's the complete package; he's got the mind and the body."
Curlin's main challenger is Godolphin's Jalil, who was an emphatic winner of the final round of the Maktoum Challenge (Gr 2), a race that is traditionally used as a prep for the World Cup.
Godolphin trainer Saeed Bin Surour acknowledged Curlin's star status but refused to be overawed by his reputation.
"I have a lot of respect for him, but Jalil is an improving horse," he said. "He has improved with every race this season which has given us more confidence."
Bin Surour is also hoping that the Frankie Dettori factor can swing it for Godolphin.
"Frankie knows the Nad Al Sheba track very well. He's a jockey for the big occasion. He's also won this race three times and we're hoping he can do it again on Saturday."
The Godolphin ace was also in no doubt that Jalil was a serious contender for the $3.6 million (Dh13.5 million) winner's cheque. He said: "I have been impressed by Curlin — very much so. But he is beatable — every horse is beatable."
Vermilion was fourth in the race last year and his connections say he's a much better horse now, while South Africa's Mike de Kock is hoping his UAE Triple Crown winner Asiatic Boy can deliver.
Saudi Arabia are represented by last year's runner-up Premium Tap and Sway Yed.
