Ground concerns for Dunlop

Ed Dunlop is concerned by the prospect of softening conditions for Ouija Board in Saturday’s Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf after Churchill Downs soaked up several hours of rain on Wednesday.

The trainer is mindful of the fact his five-year-old has produced much of her best form on fast conditions, although the turf course appears to be taking the abnormally wet Louisville autumn well.

Dunlop equipped Ouija Board with a striking grey hood for her work over seven furlongs and afterwards said: “I didn’t want the rain and mud splashing in her face. The main track is sloppy and I hope the ground isn’t like this on Saturday.”

Dunlop was granted his wish of a low draw for Lord Derby’s mare with stall two which prompted Stan James to cut her to 13-8 favourite from 15-8.

He added: “She doesn’t have to have a barrier trial because she’s been here before and she’s very good at the gate. They have a lot of handlers here and they do a fantastic job.”

Commenting on the work, he observed: “She cantered, going about seven furlongs and quickening-up nicely at the end. Everything went according to plan.”