The Factor works for Dubai Golden Shaheen

The Factor, one of the leading sprinters in the United States, tuned up for the $2 million Dubai Golden Shaheen by working a swift six furlongs in 1:11.20 on Monday morning at Hollywood Park. The time was the best of eight at the distance on Monday, and a full second faster than the next-best time. The six-furlong Golden Shaheen will be run at Meydan March 31.

“He goes into quarantine this afternoon and leaves tomorrow,” said his trainer, Bob Baffert, on Monday. “He looked great. He worked nice, galloped out strong. He’s ready to ship.”

Martin Garcia worked The Factor, but Rafael Bejarano will have the mount in Dubai. Garcia will remain at Santa Anita March 31 to ride Eden’s Moon in the Santa Anita Oaks.

The Factor comes off stakes victories at Santa Anita in the San Carlos and Malibu, both at seven furlongs. He is one of two horses from the United States heading to the Golden Shaheen, along with Giant Ryan.

Baffert is traveling to Dubai on Saturday to oversee the final week’s preparation for both The Factor and Game On Dude, who runs in the $10 million Dubai World Cup.