On Saturday, March 26, 2016, California Chrome became the highest-earning thoroughbred in North American history when he impressively and decisively won the $10-million Dubai Gold Cup at Meydan Racecourse in the United Arab Emirates.
California Chrome ridden by Victor Espinoza at Kentucky Derby
On Saturday, March 26, 2016, California Chrome became the highest-earning thoroughbred in North American history when he impressively and decisively won the $10-million Dubai Gold Cup.
© 2016 by Bill Brine
Although Chrome placed a disappointing second in last year's race at Meydan, he came back this year as a 5-year-old at a time when most thoroughbreds of his caliber are placed into stud, to win the race with almost a four length lead. At the end of the race, California Chrome's saddle slipped near his hind end, yet it did not deter him as jockey Espinoza "let him go."
Chrome won the race in a record setting 2:01.83 with Mubtaahi finishing second and California-based Hoppertunity coming in third.
Chrome's trainer Art Sherman was a little teary-eyed in the winner's circle and mentioned that seeing him run the way he did, "it's a dream of a lifetime."
If Chrome's racing career continues as planned Southern California will get at least two more chances to se this winner of the 2014 Kentucky Derby and Preakness. After time off, he's expected to race at Del Mar, possibly in the Pacific Classic, and concolude his career in the Breeders' Cup Classic at Santa Anita.