Breeders' Cup: Nahrain likely heading from Europe for Filly and Mare Turf

The undefeated Nahrain is expected to make her first start outside of Europe in the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Turf at Churchill Downs on Nov. 4, trainer Roger Varian said from England on Wednesday.

“At the time, we’re training her like she will go,” he said. “It’s on the agenda, without being concrete.”

Varian said that 3-year-old Nahrain will have a “fast work” in coming days, which could solidify her status for the Filly and Mare Turf, which is run over 1 3/8 miles.

Owned by Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum, Nahrain has won four starts this year, the most recent of which was the Group 1 Prix de l’Opera at Longchamp in Paris on Oct. 2. She overcame trouble in the stretch to win by a nose over Announce, another hopeful for the BC Filly and Mare Turf.

Previously, Nahrain won three races in England – a maiden race in May, a minor handicap in June, and the Coral Distaff Stakes at Sandown Park, near London, on July 2.

“The ability has always been there,” Varian said. “When they give 100 percent, it makes our job much easier.”

The Prix de l’Opera was run over about 1 1/4 miles and was the longest race of Nahrain’s career.

“She bounced out of it pretty well, actually,” Varian said. “She seems to take it in her stride. It didn’t seem to hit her much at all. We’ve been happy with her condition.”

Announce races for Juddmonte Farms. Teddy Grimthorpe, Juddmonte’s racing manager, said earlier this week that Midday, winner of the 2009 BC Filly and Mare Turf and the runner-up last year, remains under consideration for the race, too. Midday was fourth in the Group 1 Champion Stakes against males at Ascot last Saturday.