Curlin catches the eye

Curlin thrilled connections in his most important workout before the Dubai World Cup on March 29.

The American Horse of the Year enjoyed a profitable six-furlong spin at Nad Al Sheba on Monday morning and is reported to be in rude health ahead of the Emirates Airline-sponsored showpiece.

Scott Blasi, assistant trainer to Steve Asmussen, said: “Curlin is just in a really good rhythm right now.

“That was his major move for the Dubai World Cup, and I couldn’t be happier with how he went and the rhythm he is in.

“He’s a very intelligent horse. It’s almost as if he knows what we’re going to do with him every day.

“And as good as Curlin can feel at the barn or when he is walking, when he is on the racetrack with a rider on his back, he’s as professional a racehorse as I’ve ever seen.

“When he steps on the track, he goes to work.”