Trainer Steve Asmussen announced that he will give the Smart Strike colt, Curlin, a chance to prove his prowess on the turf. There can be no doubt in anyone's mind that the great horse is the top horse in the world with his impressive wins in Dubai and the Breeders Cup Classic, but though he has had twelve races and won nine of them including the last four completed with his 4 1/4 length victory in the Stephen Foster Handicap, Curlin has never raced on grass.



With the middle distance Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (Fr.-Grade 1) in mind, Steve Asmussen may condition and test Curlin first in a stateside event like the Man O' War Stakes at Belmont or the Arlington Handicap, both graded events held in July.









This is a gutsy decision by the owners headed by Jess Jackson and trainer Asmussen. A win on the grass would increase their star's prestige even more, but a loss would prove that even the great Curlin has limits of not running well on grass. But the wise trainer has an ace up his sleeve in brother Cash Asmussen who won the 1991 Arc aboard Suave Dancer. Cash is retired from his career as a jockey and will be assisting his brother in the decision making process.



Having followed Curlin's career with great pleasure and interest many people would love to see him compete in France in that great race. With the combined experience and wisdom of the Asmussen's and Curlin's great ability, the international racing star may indeed add one more feather to his cap with a win in the Arc. But to get there, he'll have to get the nod from two very good horsemen.

By: Bill Peterson

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Learn how an insider handicaps horse races by visiting Bill Peterson's website williewins.homestead.com. To see the systems Bill uses, go to williewins.homestead.com/handicappingstore2.html or williewins.homestead.com/truecb.html. 50 yrs. Experience!