In an unexpected twist ahead of the 51st running of the $2.5-million Philip Feanny Gold Cup, Desert of Malibu, a highly regarded American-bred chestnut mare, has been withdrawn from the race. The five-year-old star reportedly suffered a scorpion bite, rendering her unable to participate in today’s esteemed Graded Stakes/Open Allowance event, which is set to cover a distance of seven furlongs (1,400m).
Desert of Malibu’s withdrawal creates a significant shift in the dynamics of the race, leaving Funcaandun and Is That A Fact as the two primary contenders vying for the coveted title. With an impressive record of eight wins from ten starts, Desert of Malibu was on the brink of achieving her fourth consecutive victory and fifth win of the season. Racing enthusiasts had high hopes for her performance in this prestigious event, further raising the stakes for her rivals.
The Gold Cup is widely regarded as the pinnacle of local handicap races for three-year-olds and older, with today’s event scheduled as the ninth and final race, starting at 5:20 PM. The first race of the day kicks off at noon, setting the stage for an exciting day of competition.
Trainer Jason DaCosta’s formidable duo, Funcaandun and Is That A Fact, are now poised to seize the opportunity presented by Desert of Malibu’s absence. Funcaandun, known for his remarkable speed and competitive spirit, is ready to exploit any openings that may arise. The American-bred horse recently claimed victory in the Distinctly Irish Trophy, a challenging nine-furlong race, demonstrating both speed and endurance. With Robert Halledeen in the saddle, Funcaandun will be a strong contender in this Gold Cup showdown.
On the other hand, Is That A Fact, though often overlooked, possesses a powerful combination of strength and resilience. This DaCosta-trained runner shouldn’t be underestimated, especially with the front-runner gone. His recent workout, clocking in at an impressive 1:12.3 for six furlongs on September 29, indicates that he is well-prepared to challenge for the title. Jockey Tevin Foster will be riding Is That A Fact, further bolstering his chances.
As the 2024 jockeys’ championship reaches its peak, the competition has become intense, with Foster and rival jockey Roman locked in a tie at 99 wins. Their nine-month rivalry has created a palpable tension as both riders prepare to compete in today’s card, each securing eight rides out of nine.
With the milestone of 100 wins within reach, every race matters. The question remains: Will Foster’s sharp reflexes give him the edge, or will Roman’s strategic approach lead him to victory? The racing community is eagerly anticipating this thrilling clash between two elite jockeys as they vie for championship glory.
