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| Staff Writer |
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Newgrange, the talented 5YO millionaire owned by Rockingham Ranch and David Bernsen, has secured his spot amongst the elite dozen in the US$3.015 million Gr.1 Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes at Gulfstream Park on January 25.
The Phil D'Amato-trained star, boasting seven victories and four thirds from 15 outings, has been absent since finishing fifth in the Gr.2 San Diego Handicap at Del Mar last July. His most notable achievements include triumphs in the Gr.2 San Antonio Stakes and Gr.2 San Pasqual Stakes at Santa Anita Park.
Now under the guidance of trainer Jose D'Angelo, the son of Violence demonstrated his readiness with a blazing four-furlong workout at Palm Meadows Training Center, clocking :47 to top 36 runners at the distance.
The restructured field sees Newgrange replacing Skinner, who is being redirected to the Gr.3 Louisiana Stakes at Fair Grounds. The main contingent remains robust with Crupi, Imagination, Locked, Mixto, Mystik Dan, Power Squeeze, Saudi Crown, Senor Buscador, Skippylongstocking, Stronghold and White Abarrio.
In the US$1.015 million Gr.1 Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational Stakes, Chasing the Crown, Running Bee and Spirit of St Louis have advanced to the main list, following the withdrawal of Get Smokin, Johannes, and Redistricting. Notably, Chasing the Crown's trainer Mike Maker brings impressive credentials, having previously secured victories with Zulu Alpha (2020) and Atone (2023).
The Chad Brown-trained duo of Running Bee and Spirit of St Louis bring formidable records. Running Bee has claimed three stakes victories, including the Gr.3 Monmouth Stakes, while Spirit of St Louis maintains an exceptional record of nine wins from 13 starts.
The US$515,000 Gr.2 Pegasus World Cup Filly and Mare Turf Invitational Stakes welcomes See You Around, fresh from victory in the Tropical Park Oaks, replacing Prerequisite who moves to the reserves.
The post-position draw for all three prestigious races will unfold at Gulfstream's Carousel Club on January 19, following races 2, 3, and 4 respectively.