Gun Runner confirmed for Dubai World Cup start

Gun Runner, one of North America’s best older horses, will make his next start in the $10 million Dubai World Cup on March 25 at Meydan Racecourse.

Trainer Steve Asmussen on Sunday confirmed the trip to Dubai is on following a Saturday workout at Fair Grounds from Gun Runner.

Breezing for the first time since a brilliant win Feb. 20 in the Razorback Handicap at Oaklawn Park, Gun Runner was timed in 1:01.20 for five furlongs with a good gallop-out. But more important than work times is the fact that Gun Runner has continued to thrive since the first start of his 4-year-old season.

“The horse is doing wonderful. We’re very pleased with how Gun Runner came out of the Razorback, and all systems are go for the Dubai World Cup,” Asmussen said.

Gun Runner will work again Saturday at Fair Grounds and begin his trip to Dubai the next day, March 12. Asmussen said Gun Runner will be his only runner on the World Cup card, and that Florent Geroux, Gun Runner’s regular jockey, was booked to ride.

Gun Runner is owned by Three Chimneys Farm and Winchell Thoroughbreds. He won the Clark Handicap in his final start at age 3.

Asmussen will be in search of his second World Cup victory, having won the 2008 edition with Curlin.

Gun Runner figures to be second choice in World Cup wagering behind Arrogate, who is rated the world’s best dirt horse.