Kentucky Derby Specialist Calvin Borel to Represent America in Dubai

The winners’ circle ragin’ rail-ridin’ Cajun Calvin Borel is set to take his exploits to Meydan Racecourse in Dubai as the multiple Kentucky Derby winner has been selected to represent the United States in the Meydan Masters jocke competition. The action is set to feature top pilots from across the globe and will be run next week on February 17-18.

Currently based at Oaklawn Park, Borel was extremely flattered by the honor and he clearly looks forward to his widely-anticipated Dubai debut.

Speaking to the Daily Racing Form, Borel declared “this is unbelievable, a very big honor… I’m very fortunate to be in this position.” The four race contest features jockeys who have scored a particularly notable victory in their respective countries or while competing abroad. Borel was selected for his incredible run through the mud aboard Super Saver (Maria’s Mon) despite actually winning the Derby in three of its’ last four iterations.

The other contenders in the mix include Olivier Peslier who piloted world #1-ranked Harbinger (Dansili) to victories in the King George VI and the Queen Elizabeth Stakes. Gerald Mosse is confirmed based on his surprise Melbourne Cup victory aboard French stayer Americain (Dynaformer). Maxime Guyon, winner of the French Derby, completes the Francophone contingent. Ryan Moore, William Buick and Richard Hughes will be representing Britain.

It wouldn’t be a big race in Dubai without Frankie Dettori and the Godolphin stable jock earns his entry thanks to a win with Mastery (Sulamani) in the Hong Kong Vase. Johnny Murtagh and Japan’s Hiroyuki Uchida are also confirmed.