Metaboss to audition for BC Turf in John Henry Turf Championship
The $200,000 John Henry Turf Championship at Santa Anita at 1 1/4 miles is not part of the Breeders’ Cup Win and You’re In program, which offers fees-paid berths to the winners of selected major stakes to the BC Turf at Santa Anita on Nov. 5.
But for the partnership that owns Metaboss, the Grade 2 John Henry Turf Championship on Oct. 2 will have similar implications. If Metaboss scores a convincing win, they will plow race earnings into entry and starting fees for the BC Turf.
“If he wins well, we’ll use the money to go to the Breeders’ Cup,” trainer Phil D’Amato said. “He’s got to win.”
Metaboss is owned by a large partnership that includes Blue Skies Stable and MRS Stables. The 4-year-old colt has won 3 of 11 starts and has earned $288,420. He had two starts at the Del Mar summer meeting, winning an optional claimer June 23 and finishing second by a nose in the Grade 2 Del Mar Handicap at 1 3/8 miles on turf Aug. 20.
“He seems to be blossoming right now,” D’Amato said. “The two races at Del Mar picked his head up. He’s shown more enthusiasm than he had before.”
The Del Mar Handicap was won by Ashleyluvssugar, who is a candidate for the John Henry Turf Championship. Ashleyluvssugar earned a berth in the BC Turf with his win in the Del Mar Handicap.