American Horse Racing Icon Secures First Victory Stateside, Paving the Way for Global Conquest

The horse racing world mostly relies upon high-end jockeys flying their beloved equines to glory. Besides equestrianism being the primary source of entertainment to them, it also speaks a lot about the contenders. The animals don’t compete on the track all by themselves. Behind their illustrious career is a village working day and night. The trainer and the rider toil enough for the horse’s big achievements, and Santa Anita Park had witnessed many such. A 4-year-old horse has clinched glory in a recent horse racing event held there.

On October 1, at the Tokyo Cup City Stakes, the 4-year-old Quality Road colt, finally emerged victorious after three tries. In his first North American $100,000 Tokyo City Cup Stakes (G3), the equine spread nothing but joy.

Equestrian world celebrates Missed the Cut

The 4-year-old’s North American debut was as interesting as his name. After winning at the most well-known racecourse Royal Ascot in 2022, the hoofed mammal romped by 5 1/2 lengths. Since joining trainer John Sadler’s stable earlier this year, this is his first win. Bee Zed, Lanes End Racing, St. Elias Stables, Edward Babington, Edward and Lynne Hudson jointly own this talented equine.

As a 3-year-old, he won the 2022 Churchill stakes in Lingfield, a big milestone of his thoroughbred career. John Sadler was content with his performance. Further, he said, “(Missed the Cut is) a horse that can run long distance. He had a good race here in the spring before we went to Del Mar. He showed he liked the main track. This is his fourth start (stateside), so his whole story isn’t written yet, but it was a good race for him today.”

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In a field of four, Missed the Cut was declared the favorite in the $98,000 Tokyo City Cup. Moreover, ridden by Umberto Rispoli, he followed the pace for the opening 1 1/4 miles before taking the lead in the first stretch. Further, he quickly moved away to win by a comfortable 5 1/2 lengths with little assistance.

Missed the Cut’s fine horse racing career

Placing second in his first race here, a one-mile allowance contest in June, the 4-year-old graced the track this time. In the Grade 2 San Diego Handicap on dirt held at Del Mar on July 29 and the Grade 2 Del Mar Handicap on grass held there on September 2, he finished eighth and fourth, respectively. Moreover, trained by George Boughey, it won the Golden Gates Stakes over 1 1/4 miles on turf at Royal Ascot in England. Though this is Sadler’s trainee’s first win.

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The historic race placed Kiss Today Goodbye on the second, and Azul Coast on the third. With more such phenomenal performances up his sleeves, Missed the Cut’s global plans are afoot.