Crisfords double-handed for Breeders’ Cup challenge

Training duo Simon and Ed Crisford have two live contenders in Algiers and Carla’s Way for the Breeders’ Cup meeting at Santa Anita.

Trainer : Simon Crisford, (right) and Ed Crisford.
Trainer : Simon Crisford, (right) and Ed Crisford. Picture: PA Images

Although Algiers has run well over ten furlongs in the past, connections are keen to have a crack at the Grade 1 Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile based on the gelding's dual Group 2 victories in Meydan at the start of the season.

"He just looked very effective over a mile and a mile-and-one at Meydan and he has a lot of speed," explained Ed Crisford.

"I'm not saying he doesn't stay the 10 furlongs, it's just that we felt at Santa Anita a mile may play to his strengths more."

Algiers had the ideal preparation for the Breeders' Cup in the Grade 3 Durham Cup Stakes at Woodbine, where he finished well under Rab Havlin to claim second.

"It was like a racecourse gallop to be honest, but he has come out of it super well," reflected Crisford.

"He's had that run now and has come out of it fresh and well and looks great. He is going to have a good gallop under James Doyle before he leaves and hopefully that will be him set for the race next weekend.

"James knows him and what he can do and what is under the bonnet. He rides the American tracks really well and it should be perfect."

Impressive debut winner Carla's Way has progressed throughout the season and the form of her Group 2 RockfelStakes victory has been given a boost with the second and third-placed Shuwari and Ylang Ylang finishing one-two in the Group 1 Fillies Mile. Although she is yet to be tested over the mile, the pedigree of Carla's Way suggests the step up in distance should not be beyond her capabilities.

"She is in good form and won well at Newmarket," added Crisford.

"She can quicken off a quick pace which is what you need in America and that track should suit her well, a two-turn mile on quick ground.

"We opted not to go for the Fillies' Mile because that mile at Newmarket on soft ground wouldn't really be for her, but she's got a lot of ability and is progressing with each run and looks like a filly who could be a lot of fun for the future.

"I'm sure she will run really well at Santa Anita."


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