Arabian Crown Leads International Field at Woodbine
This upcoming Saturday, an elite international assembly of turf thoroughbreds will converge at Woodbine for the prestigious 86th running of the Canadian International. Among the prominent contenders is Godolphin’s Arabian Crown, under the guidance of trainer Charlie Appleby, who seeks to add a coveted Grade 1 title to his impressive record. The race, a demanding 1 1/2-mile event on Woodbine's expansive outer turf course, is expected to draw significant attention from racing enthusiasts worldwide.
Godolphin and trainer Charlie Appleby have a storied history of success at Woodbine, having recently celebrated a consecutive victory in the Woodbine Mile (G1) with Notable Speech on September 12. This win secured a direct entry into the Breeders' Cup, highlighting their consistent performance at the track. Their previous triumphs in the Canadian International include Walton Street's dominant win in 2021 and Nations Pride's victory in 2023. Notably, Godolphin also claimed this race in 2000 with Mutafaweq and in 2004 with Sulamani, showcasing a long-standing legacy of excellence.
Arabian Crown, a five-year-old gelding by Dubawi, enters this contest with a strong race record of six wins, one second, and two thirds from thirteen starts. Despite multiple graded-stakes victories, a Grade 1 win has eluded him, making this event particularly significant. Trainer Appleby speaks highly of his charge, noting his continuous improvement with age and robust physique, a testament to his sire's lineage. His most recent triumph was a decisive Group 3 win in the Kilternan Stakes at Leopardstown on September 12, where he showcased an impressive turn of foot over the final two furlongs to secure a 2 1/4-length victory.
Appleby believes the Woodbine turf will be ideal for Arabian Crown, praising the track's high standards and galloping nature, which he feels will complement the horse's running style. His versatility on varying ground conditions, from soft to good-to-firm, further bolsters his chances.
Joining Arabian Crown in the lineup is Tawny Port, who narrowly missed victory in last year's Canadian International, finishing a nose behind Silawi. Trained by Miguel Clement, the seven-year-old son of Pioneerof the Nile arrives in excellent form, having recently secured a win in the Bowling Green (2 1/16 miles over turf at Kentucky Downs on September 9). Clement expresses great confidence in Tawny Port, highlighting his consistent improvement with age, describing him as a pleasure to observe and likening his aging process to that of a fine wine. The trainer anticipates a strong showing from Tawny Port, particularly if the turf remains firm, as he thrives under such conditions and is currently training enthusiastically.
The Canadian International promises a thrilling spectacle with these seasoned campaigners and other international contenders battling for supremacy on the Woodbine turf. All eyes will be on Arabian Crown as he seeks his elusive Grade 1 victory, while Tawny Port aims to go one better than his previous performance. The race, set for Saturday, is poised to deliver an unforgettable display of talent and strategy in the world of horse racing.