Breeders’ Cup Classic Witnessed Jockey Irad Ortiz Celebrate Triumph at Santa Anita Park

While Irad Ortiz Jr. is an experienced campaigner with a number of victories, White Abarrio’s career has had more downs than ups. He was dropped to the allowance level in March after six straight six losses. However, the 4-year-old has revived himself with a big win at Breeders Cup Classic and Irad Ortiz Jr. played a crucial part in this huge victory for the White Abarrio.

Ortiz Jr., being such a great jockey, applied his skills exceptionally. The horse-jockey duo combined effectively to propel themselves to a $600,000 victory at Breeders’ Cup on Saturday at Santa Anita Park.

Ortiz Jr. propels White Abarrio to Breeders’ Cup Classic victory

Getting dropped to the allowance level seemed to be a major dent in White Abarrio’s career. It was not as the 4-year-old equine eventually went to prove his talent. After winning the Florida Derby last year, the colt struggled all throughout, that’s until Ortiz Jr. hops on his saddle.

The duo had a perfect Saturday, and what better than capping off the $6 million prize? Initially, the favorites Arabian Knight and Saudi Crown went fast upfront taking a good lead. Abarrio rode third place in the initial stage, letting the two front runners tire up in the 1.25-mile race. As soon as the speed in front of him slowed down, Ortiz Jr. sensed the opportunity to take the lead. The duo eventually finished first place, winning by a comfortable length.

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White Abarrio had paid $7.20 to win. Following him were Derma Sotogake, Proxy, and Arabian Knight finishing 2nd, 3rd and 4th respectively. Ortiz Jr. went on to secure another two victories, winning his fifth Bill Shoemaker Award. With this momentous victory, White Abarrio seems to be crafting a big career for himself. However, the road to $6 million hasn’t been easy for White Abarrio.

White Abarrio’s comeback

White Abarrio’s story starts with the Florida Derby victory last year. He set the standards high, however, the Saffie Joseph Jr.-trained couldn’t live up to the hype. The downfall started with a 16th-position finish at the Kentucky Derby, followed by a series of five consecutive losses. His trainer was suspended, and then transferred to another trainer, Rick Dutrow, coming off from a 10-year suspension. Joseph eventually dropped him to the allowance level in March this year at Gulfstream.

White Abarrio revived himself somewhat at Gulfstream with a win. Dutrow played a crucial part in Abarrio’s revival. White Abarrio went on to finish third in the Met Mile followed by a win at Whitney Handicap. Now, the Breeders Cup Classic victory marks a new beginning of victories for White Abarrio. Will he be able to continue his winning run? Let us know in the comments.

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