Monday, October 19, 2009

Champs Elysees


It was certainly a nice story this weekend that Champs Elysees scored a Grade 1 in the Canadian International at Woodbine in the final start of his career. It had been announced by Juddmonte Farms that the horse would be returning to Europe to begin what should be a very profitable stud career. They had bred this fine animal and it certainly shows some class and dignity that they allowed the horse to go out on top after such an exemplary performance, rather that hedge their earlier announcement and try to go on to the Breeders' Cup.

Jockey Garrett Gomez timed his move to the finish with Champs Elysees perfectly and ended up with an impressive victory over Jukebox Jury in the deep stretch over the E.P. Taylor Turf Course in Canada. That victory, in conjunction with several earlier strong performances in Canada, has him in line to win garner some year-end Canadian Thoroughbred honors. Don't forget he also hit the board and nearly upset Einstein in the Grade 1 Santa Anita Handicap back in the spring.

Champs Elysees ran 28 times with eight victories, eight seconds, and seven thirds. His purse earnings total $2,864,444. Best of all, he got to go out a winner. Hopefully, he will enjoy a long and prosperous stud career.

Tune in tomorrow for more from They Are Off. For right now, I am Gone... GOODBYE!
Photo courtesy of horseracing.about.com

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