Drafted back in U.S. for Fall Highweight

OZONE PARK, N.Y. – Drafted, who began his career in the U.S. but who developed into a multiple group stakes winner in Dubai, is back in the U.S. and will return to the races in Sunday’s Grade 3, $100,000 Fall Highweight Handicap at Aqueduct.

The traditional Thanksgiving Day feature, the Fall Highweight was moved this year to accommodate a NYRA schedule that no longer includes live racing on Thanksgiving Day.

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Drafted, a gelding by Field Commission, has been in the barn of trainer David Duggan since the summer and shows seven works for his return. He has not raced since finishing sixth in the Saudi Cup Sprint on Feb. 20 when trained by Doug Watson.

Drafted began his career in the barn of Eoin Harty, who was also part-owner. The horse won first out at Keeneland in April 2016.

Godolphin bought into Drafted, and after two starts he was sold at auction. He was purchased by John and Kathy Hyde, who race under Misty Hollow Farm.

“They were just looking for something to have a bit of fun with,” Duggan said. “You saw what he did afterwards.”

In 2019, Drafted won a pair of Group 3 sprints and was fifth to X Y Jet in the Group 1 Dubai Golden Shaheen. This year, he’s run three times with his best run being a third in the Group 3 Dubawi at Meydan.

“He takes some management mentally,” Duggan said. “If he shows up, he’ll be right there. He’s been working well so we’ll take a shot.”

Drafted drew post 2 and will carry 131 pounds under Dylan Davis in the Fall Highweight.

Inside of him is Arch Cat (130 pounds). Outside of Drafted, in post order, is Majestic Dunhill (133), Absentee (128), Share the Ride (133), Stan the Man (132), and Tribecca (130).