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Simon and Ed Crisford trained-Algiers' is set to compete in the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile at Santa Anita in November where they hope to see the 6YOs pace to take the lead.
Earlier this year, the Shamardal gelding demonstrated his talent on dirt at Meydan and delivered an impressive performance, finishing second in the prestigious Dubai World Cup over a mile and a quarter.
Although connections had not ruled out a tilt at the Breeders' Cup Classic over that distance, they have always favoured a drop back to a mile for their visit to America. This decision was influenced by Algiers' impressive performances over similar distances in the Middle East.
“He just looked very effective over a mile and a mile-and-one at Meydan and he has a lot of speed,” explained Ed Crisford.
“I’m not saying he doesn’t stay the 10 furlongs, it’s just that we felt at Santa Anita a mile may play to his strengths more.”
After showing his skills in Dubai, Algiers enjoyed a lengthy summer break before preparing for the Breeders' Cup at Woodbine. He placed second in the Durham Cup, proving his ability to handle North American dirt. With big-race jockey James Doyle on board, Algiers is ready for one last training session before returning across the Atlantic.
“It was like a racecourse gallop to be honest, but he has come out of it super well,” reflected Crisford.
“He’s had that run now and has come out of it fresh and well and looks great. He is going to have a good gallop under James Doyle before he leaves and hopefully that will be him set for the race next weekend.
“James knows him and what he can do and what is under the bonnet. He rides the American tracks really well and it should be perfect.”
Carla’s Way, the impressive winner of the Rockfel Stakes, will be joining Algiers for their trip to the States. She is considered a top contender for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf. The Fillies’ Mile, where the second and third place finishers of Carla’s Way’s race fought it out, gave a significant boost to the form of the Rockfel Stakes. Carla’s training team is confident that she has what it takes to compete in her first attempt at a mile and be a strong contender in the race.
“She is in good form and won well at Newmarket,” added Crisford.
“She can quicken off a quick pace which is what you need in America and that track should suit her well, a two-turn mile on quick ground.
“We opted not to go for the Fillies’ Mile because that mile at Newmarket on soft ground wouldn’t really be for her, but she’s got a lot of ability and is progressing with each run and looks like a filly who could be a lot of fun for the future.
“I’m sure she will run really well at Santa Anita.”