Despite Double Disqualification Drama Horse Racing’s Beloved Steed Lands in the Winner’s Circle

Oct 2, 2023 | 11:57 AM EDT

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Horse Racing enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the approaching Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies at Santa Anita. This equestrian event will specifically feature two-year-old female horses covering a distance of 1 1/16 miles, slightly more than the racetrack’s circumference. It serves as a thrilling assessment of strength and endurance for the finest 2-year-old fillies worldwide. The competition attracts top-tier horses. Along similar lines, this year Caramel Swirl is set to join the race, adding excitement to the prestigious event.

Caramel Swirl, the Kentucky-bred from Godolphin has recently claimed the third spot in the beginning but secured an unexpected victory after a dual disqualification in the (G1) at Belmont’s 6 1/2-furlong race. However, this isn’t the only highlight of the race. But, the words of the jockey and the performance stole the show.

Showdown in the equestrian racing world

According to the Paulick Report News, under the guidance of trainer Bill Mott and jockey Junior Alvarado, Caramel Swirl, is a 4-5 favorite. This made a strategic move from the rear, attempting to navigate the outside. Sterling Silver, ridden by Javier Castellano, surged from an outer position but got entangled in a clash, leading to disqualification. In a dramatic turn, Caramel Swirl emerged as the ultimate winner, overtaking the initially second-placed Headland by 4 lengths.

This unexpected twist in the filly and mare sprint added intrigue to the thrilling race day at the Big A in Belmont. After the race, an inquiry by stewards was initiated, prompted by Alvarado’s accusations against Castellano [Sterling Silver] and Lezcano [Headland], along with Davis’ claim against both Alvarado and Castellano.

Surprisingly, both of Alvarado’s claims were upheld, while Davis’ claims were dismissed. This unusual turn of events led to a double disqualification. Nonetheless, it led to Caramel Swirl being declared the winner, and Sterling Silver and Headland being announced as 2nd and 3rd position respectively. With this, here is what the jockey of the equine added to the celebration.

Castellano’s kind words for his horse and how much did the equine pocket this time?

Castellano firmly asserted, “I had much the best horse. I didn’t bother the one horse [Caramel Swirl]”. He emphasizes the superiority of his horse and the lack of interference with Swirl. Further pointing out that Headland, ridden by Jose Lezcano, created jeopardy for the equine. Castellano maintained his horse’s straight path and highlighted Dylan Davis’ anticipatory actions.

Caramel Swirl’s victory marked her third graded score, adding to her achievements in the 2021 Raven Run (G2) at Keeneland and the Vagrancy (G3) in May at Belmont Park. Despite a recent fourth-place finish in the Ballerina Handicap (G1) at Saratoga Race Course, trainer Bill Mott expressed confidence in her performance, acknowledging tough competition.

Godolphin’s director of bloodstock, Michael Banahan, mentioned considering the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint (G1) on November 4 at Santa Anita for Caramel Swirl. The potential participation of another Godolphin filly, Matareya, adds strategic depth to their plans.

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