Gio Ponti to run in Breeders' Cup Mile

Gio Ponti will run in the Breeders’ Cup Mile, rather than the Classic.

Although he was listed in Wednesday’s pre-entries as having the latter as first preference, connections will instead chance their arm against Goldikova and Strong Suit at Churchill Downs on November 5.

Shane Ryan, president of owners Castleton Lyons, said in a statement: “Having discussed the options with Christophe Clement, we both feel that we should aim Gio Ponti for the Mile as eight furlongs looks to be his perfect distance given his impressive repeat victory in the Shadwell Mile at Keeneland.”

Gio Ponti is a seven-times Grade One winner and chased home Goldikova in last year’ Breeders’ Cup Mile.

The six-year-old entire was last seen claiming the Shadwell Turf Mile Stakes at Keeneland earlier in the month.