California Chrome has final workout for World Cup prep

California Chrome had his final workout in advance of his planned start in Dubai next week with a half-mile workout in 47.20 seconds at Meydan Racecourse on Friday.

The 2014 Horse of the Year, California Chrome is scheduled to start in a $150,000 handicap at about 1 1/4 miles on dirt at Meydan next Thursday as a prep race for the $10 million Dubai World Cup on March 26. California Chrome was second in the 2015 Dubai World Cup.

Friday’s workout was California Chrome’s fourth workout since arriving in Dubai in late January.

According to trainer Art Sherman, California Chrome worked the opening quarter-mile in 25 seconds and the final quarter-mile in a brisk 22.20. Sherman spoke with his son and assistant trainer, Alan, after the workout.

“He told me, ‘Dad, I’ve never seen a horse close like that,’ ” Art Sherman said. “He’s been training outstanding.”

Since arriving in Dubai, California Chrome worked a half-mile in 48 seconds on Jan. 31, six furlongs in 1:12.40 on Feb. 5, and seven furlongs in 1:24.40 on Feb. 12, according to Sherman. Exercise rider Dihigi Gladney, a former jockey in California, is California Chrome’s regular exercise rider and was aboard for those workouts.

Jockey Victor Espinoza is scheduled to ride California Chrome in the handicap.

Last year, California Chrome made one start in Dubai, but this year a two-race campaign was chosen to give the 5-year-old more time to acclimate. The field for Thursday’s race will be determined Monday.

“It will be an important race,” Sherman said.

California Chrome won the Grade 2 San Pasqual Stakes at Santa Anita on Jan. 9 in his only start this year. Owned by Perry Martin and Taylor Made Farms, California Chrome has won 10 of 19 starts and earned $6,442,650.