American Dubai likely to await Sunland meet

American Dubai, a multiple stakes winner, was expected for the Zia Park Championship but instead is getting some time off, trainer Rodney Richards said. American Dubai last raced Sept. 24, finishing third to probable Championship favorite Iron Fist in the $175,000 Governor’s Cup at Remington.

“We’re wrapped up for the year,” Richards said. “I think you’ll probably see him back at Sunland.”

American Dubai won four consecutive races last meet at Sunland, including the $150,000 Sunland Park Handicap. He races for Richard Keith.

Date set for Sunland Derby

The Grade 3, $800,000 Sunland Derby will be run March 25, 2018, Sunland Park announced. The winner will again earn 50 eligibility points toward the Kentucky Derby as part of a system administered by Churchill Downs.

The Sunland Derby, at 1 1/8 miles, is part of a $1.5 million card of stakes that includes the $200,000 Sunland Oaks. The local preps for the Sunland Derby are the $100,000 Riley Allison Derby on Jan. 28 and the $100,000 Mine That Bird Derby on Feb. 25. Another major race at the meet is the $150,000 Sunland Park Handicap on April 15.

Sunland opens on Dec. 15.