Gary Stevens, after a 15-year pursuit, empathizes with Aidan O'Brien's quest for his first Breeders' Cup Classic victory. Stevens believes City Of Troy, O'Brien's promising contender, is ready to clinch success at Del Mar.
Stevens Supports O'Brien for Breeders' Cup Classic Winonce believed the Classic would always evade him after retiring for the second time in 2005. His memories remain vivid, especially the heartbreak in 1993 when Bertrando was defeated by the French horse Arcangues, a race that highlighted his struggles in the 10-furlong event. 'I thought it just wasn't meant to be when Arcangues beat me at huge odds,' Stevens recalled. 'I was coming through the stretch and suddenly saw a shadow. I didn't know what horse it was until it passed me, and I realized it was the French horse ridden by Jerry Bailey. I was just thinking, 'Oh my god.''
Before his memorable victory with Mucho Macho Man, Stevens earned praise for his role as jockey George Woolf in the 2003 film Seabiscuit. He now predicts that the City Of Troy will captivate audiences in California. The 61-year-old is convinced that this Irish contender is truly exceptional and ready to assist O'Brien in ending his long-standing losing streak in the race.
"I'm eagerly anticipating this year's Classic, and I believe Aidan O'Brien will finally secure his first Classic victory," stated Stevens. He mentioned O'Brien's previous close calls, especially with Giant's Causeway, who encountered difficulties in a tough competition against Tiznow.
Stevens is confident that the City Of Troy will adjust well to the dirt track, emphasizing the horse's ability to start quickly and hold a strong position. 'We'll have a good sense of the outcome within the first half mile. If he starts well, he should be in a good position. All the major preparations are complete; now it's just about everything going smoothly for him,' he added.
"This is the race I'm most excited about this year, as it should be. It's named the Classic for a reason," Stevens concluded, as the excitement grew for the upcoming thrilling competition.
