Declaration of War shines in defeat in the Breeders’ Cup Classic

A blanket finish to the Breeders’ Cup Classic with Mucho Macho Man on the inside just prevailing from Will Take Charge (nearside) and Declaration of War in the centre. Image courtesy of racingfotos.com.

Declaration of War, encountering a new surface for the first time after a break from the track of over two months, ran a fine race to be narrowly denied in third place in the 1m 2f Breeders’ Cup Classic at Santa Anita yesterday.

The winner of the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot in June and the Juddmonte International at York in August ran up to his very best for trainer Aidan O’Brien and his son, Joseph, in the saddle, almost getting on terms with the winner, Mucho Macho Man, well inside the final furlong.

The winner, under veteran Gary Stevens, went clear in the straight, but Declaration of War and Will Take Charge bore down on him.

Mucho Macho Man just held on, with Will Take Charge just getting past Declaration of War near the line. The three were locked together, well clear of the rest of the field.

An elated O’Brien, who had already tasted glory thanks to Magician in the Breeders’ Cup Turf, said: "Did you see the way he travelled?

"He was in a great position and fought all the way. It was an incredible run for his first time on dirt.

"I don’t think Joseph could have given him a better ride."