The reigning GI Breeders' Cup Classic winner and 'TDN Rising Star, presented by Hagyard' Sierra Leone (Gun Runner) breezed a half-mile in :49.08 (10/44) on Saturday over the Oklahoma training track at Saratoga in preparation for his title defense in the $7-million centerpiece on Nov. 1 at Del Mar.
Trained by Chad Brown, the dark bay worked to the inside of the maiden Duration (Mitole) after the first renovation break on the track rated fast.
“He worked super,” said Brown. “He has been very consistent with the way he's been working. He's been galloping out a strong three-quarters every week and I love the way he is moving.”
Sierra Leone put his neck in front of his workmate at the wire and galloped out several lengths in front down the backside.
“He's been doing that every week actually: big, strong gallop-outs starting at the half-mile,” Brown said. “That is what I like for him and he is doing it as good as a horse could do it.”
The Brown-trained 'Rising Star' Chancer McPatrick (McKinzie) also worked over the Oklahoma dirt training track, covering a solo half-mile in :49.34 (14/44) following the second renovation break as he prepares for the GI Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile at Del Mar.
Chancer McPatrick with rider Kriss Bon | Sarah Andrew
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