Laurel River made history in the Dubai World Cup by winning the $12 million race with a record-setting 8 1/2 lengths margin. The horse, ridden by Tadhg O’Shea, broke from the far outside post and took the lead halfway through the 1 1/4-mile race. Trainer Bhupat Seemar, who took over training from Bob Baffert last summer, was thrilled with Laurel River’s performance.
Following Laurel River in the Dubai World Cup was defending champion Ushba Tesoro in second place, earning $2.4 million, and Saudi Cup winner Senor Buscador from the U.S. in third place, earning $1.2 million. Breeders’ Cup Classic runner-up Derma Sotogake finished in sixth place, while Defunded was seventh. Newgate, trained by Baffert and ridden by Frankie Dettori, came in ninth place. Dettori expressed disappointment in his horse’s performance but Seemar couldn’t have been happier with his first victory as a trainer on international soil.
The transfer of ownership of Laurel River to Dubai-based trainer Seemar proved to be a successful move as it showcased the horse’s talent and potential on the international stage. With a winning time of 2:21.31 and a payout of $20.70 for all involved, Laurel River made history and cemented its place as one of the greatest horses in racing history.
Seemar was still coming to terms with the outcome when he spoke about his team’s achievement after the race.
“This is an incredible moment for me and my team,” said Seemar.”We knew that we had a great horse but we didn’t know how well it would handle this kind of pressure and competition.”
Laurel River proved that it could handle anything thrown at it as it dominated the race from start to finish.
“Laurel River is an amazing animal,” said O’Shea after crossing the finish line.”It has so much speed and power that it can outrun any horse out there.”
The victory by Laurel River will go down as one of the greatest moments in racing history and will be remembered for years to come as a testament to Seemar’s ability to train horses on an international stage.