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| Staff Writer |
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White Abarrio and Mystik Dan are set to clash in what promises to be a fascinating renewal of the Gr.1 Pegasus World Cup Invitational at Gulfstream Park on 25 January, with both receiving invitations amongst a stellar cast of 12 expected starters.
The Breeders' Cup Classic hero White Abarrio, trained by Saffie Joseph Jr, is bidding to add to his impressive record following a creditable second in the Gr.3 Mr. Prospector Stakes. His stablemate Skippylongstocking is also in the line-up, making his third appearance in this prestigious contest.
Kenny McPeek holds a strong hand with Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan, a son of Goldencents, looking to bounce back from a disappointing run in the Gr.1 Malibu Stakes. The trainer's other charge, Rattle N Roll, enters the fray following his victory in the Gr.2 Clark Stakes at Churchill Downs.
Previous winners of this nine-furlong contest include Arrogate (2017), who went on to land the Dubai World Cup, and City Of Light (2019), who retired to stud following his triumph.
The US$1m Pegasus World Cup Turf has attracted international superstar Nations Pride, a three-time Grade One winner in North America. The Teofilo offspring's most recent success came in the Arlington Million at Colonial Downs.
Leading the home defence is Johannes, who captured the Gr.1 Shoemaker Mile Stakes before finishing runner-up in the Breeders' Cup Mile.
The US$500,000 Filly & Mare Turf features South African Group One heroine Bless My Stars and Chilean champion Dona Clota, both aiming to make their mark on American soil. The domestic challenge is spearheaded by Grade One winners She Feels Pretty and Sacred Wish.
"Both Mystik Dan and Brian Hernandez Jr. expect a better effort while stretching out to 1 1/8 miles," McPeek commented regarding his Derby winner's chances.