Fawkes hopeful Bahamian Squall draws into Breeders' Cup Sprint

Trainer David Fawkes continues to pace like an expectant father while awaiting news as to whether his Bahamian Squall might ultimately draw into the starting lineup for the Breeders’ Cup Sprint.

Bahamian Squall, who finished sixth while beaten less than three lengths by Secret Circle in the 2013 Sprint, was ranked 17th of the 21 horses pre-entered for the event by the Breeders’ Cup selection committee. Only 14 horses can start in the Sprint.

But Fawkes remains hopeful that Bahamian Squall can work his way into the top 14. Of the horses ahead of him on the list, Reneesgotzip is certain to defer to her first preference, which is the Turf Sprint, while the connections of Salutos Amigos are leaning toward bypassing the Breeders’ Cup in lieu of Saturday’s Bold Ruler Handicap at Belmont Park. That would leave only Capo Bastone in front of Bahamian Squall, and he is expected to compete in the Dirt Mile.

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“If we can get in, we’ll definitely be there,” Fawkes said from his home base at Gulfstream Park. “I think he deserves the opportunity to compete in the race again. I was surprised to see the European filly Wind Fire get ranked above a couple of hard-knocking, older horses like Capo Bastone and Bahamian Squall, but there’s nothing we can do about that now. We can only hope everything falls into place for us over the next couple of days.”

Fawkes said he does not plan to work Bahamian Squall again before the Sprint. Bahamian Squall breezed six furlongs in 1:12.40 last Friday at Gulfstream.

“He ran very well working two weeks out before his last start, so I see no need to work him again before this race,” said Fawkes.