Stable News
30.10.06 - Ouija Board aiming for American dream
OUIJA BOARD will bid to win a second Breeders’ Cup crown on Saturday November 4 when she tackles the Filly & Mare Turf at Churchill Downs.
The Cape Cross mare has made her mark before in the race, winning the 2004 renewal at Lone Star Park and then finishing second to Intercontinental at Belmont Park 12 months ago.
Her 2006 campaign can already be deemed a triumph following wins in the Prince Of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot and then the Nassau Stakes at Goodwood.
Now connections are hoping that she can cap a truly memorable career with a glittering autumn campaign that is scheduled to take in Grade 1s in America, Japan and then Hong Kong.
But it is first stop Churchill Downs where she arrived on Monday after a 15-hour door-to-door trip from Gainsborough Stables.
Trainer Ed Dunlop said: “She arrived safe and sound and everything seems fine.
“Jason Tate is out there with her and he has already walked the track – he tells me it is quick ground, which should be fine for her.
“The draw, which will be done on Wednesday, is very important. Obviously, you would not want to be drawn too far wide on the outer. So we will cross fingers for a low-ish draw.”
Ouija Board has maintained her form magnificently well through what has been a busier season than last. But she has been given a break since finishing a neck second to Dylan Thomas in the Irish Champion Stakes on September 9.
Also, her homework of late has been as good as ever and connections are hoping that she can once again produce her brilliant best.
Dunlop said: “She has been on the go a lot more this year but she is still showing great enthusiasm.
“She seems to be in as good a shape for this year’s Breeders’ Cup as she was for the past two. Frankie Dettori, who rides her on Saturday, came in and rode her work recently and he was very happy with her.
“I must just add that it is a great testament to the team here that we are taking a European horse back for a third Breeders’ Cup – it is fantastic.
“From a personal perspective, of course I am looking forward to it. It is very exciting and there is always a great atmosphere at the Breeders’ Cup.
“Let us hope that she can once again run well for us.”
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