Sierra Leone targets New Orleans Classic for 4-year-old debut

Sierra Leone, the Breeders’ Cup Classic winner and 3-year-old champion of 2024, will likely make his 4-year-old debut in the Grade 2, $500,000 New Orleans Classic at Fair Grounds on March 22, trainer Chad Brown said Sunday.

Brown, after having to scrap plans to run Sierra Leone in the $20 million Saudi Cup on Feb. 22 due to a foot abscess, had said he was pointing Sierra Leone to the Oaklawn Handicap on April 19. But the horse has come to hand quickly since resuming training following his foot issue.

“The horse is ready to run now and I’m not sure I want to wait until April 19,” Brown said Sunday. “I’m going to talk to the partners about it.”

Brown also noted that Sierra Leone has a win at Fair Grounds, having kicked off his championship campaign last year by winning the Risen Star.

Sierra Leone on Saturday worked a half-mile in 49.60 seconds at Payson Park, the third straight week he worked that time at that distance. Overall, Sierra Leone has eight works this year.

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