2011 Dubai World Cup Runner by Runner Preview: Cape Blanco

This contender gets a lot of respect on the board with bookmakers listing him as the second favourite to win the 2011 Dubai World Cup. However, there is a very visible school of punter who is staying off the respected Irish-bred runner. Cape Blanco (Galileo) scored some very solid victories during the 2010 campaign but, aside from a score in the Group 2 Dante Stakes, all of his victories have come on Irish soil. He’s debuting in Dubai off a lay-off since October 3, so you can understand the trepidation.

There’s no disputing the fact that this was one of the better contenders in the European three year-old division and an impressive victory over Rip Van Winkle (Galileo) proved his ability to win against older colts. A second-place run to Harbinger (Dansili), currently the highest-rated European horse, is a credible reference as well.

The fact that Cape Blanco has just shipped in to Meydan and is unraced on the surface counts as a stroke against him and so does the lack of a credible prep. The fact that Ballydoyle has recently sold an interest in the colt has also raised a few eyebrows.

He gets a solid draw with the #4 post and he’ll be buoyed by a clean break. Look for him to try to get on the lead early and attempt to dictate things. There is a fair amount of speed in the race and he will probably ease off if things get especially hot up front.

There is no doubting Cape Blanco’s talent and potential upside for this race but, at a 4/1 price tag, he might just be too big of a dice roll. Look for a strong amount of support on the day as the Irish punting public pile on.