Kentucky Derby Blog

Curlin is unbeatable! Curlin won easily Saturday in the Stephen Foster Handicap at Churchill Downs in his first North American start this year. With Robby Albarado aboard, Curlin took the lead after the second turn and cruised from there. Einstein was second, with Barcola third. The Steve Asmussen-trained 4-year-old earned his fifth straight win, including the US$6-million Dubai World Cup in his last start in March. Curlin ranks top in the thoroughbred rankings by earnings so far.
Watch the race replay!

Stephen Foster Handicap Results and Payout

Pgm Horse      Jockey               Win   Place  Show
1   Curlin     Robby Albarado       2.80  2.20   2.10
4   Einstein   Julien R. Leparoux         3.80   3.20
9   Barcola    Jesus Lopez Castanon              6.00

Horse of the year Curlin most likely will run in Churchill Downs‘ June14 Stephen Foster Handicap, a $750,000, Grade I stakes. The son of Smart Strike, who is trained by Steve Asmussen and ridden by Robby Albarado of Louisville, finished last season by winning the $5million Breeders’ Cup Classic. He started his 4-year-old season with two wins in Dubai, including the $6million Dubai World Cup.
Owner Jess Jackson said the 11/8-mile Stephen Foster is the probable next start if the horse is fit.