The NTRA has announced that it will bring you the Jockey Gold Cup on ESPN News this Saturday. It will be race #10, and Curlin will attempt to etch his name in the history books by edging Cigar as the leading money winner in racing.

Cigar retired in 1996, and earned $9,999,815 lifetime. Curlin has $9.796,800 to his credit. The purse is $450,000, and he would roll by Cigar, and into the books, if he can get the job done.

The race is for 3-year-olds going 1 1/4, and is a “Win and You’re In” qualifying race. So, not only does he go into the history books, he will get his dance card stamped for Santa Anita.  But don’t make any reservations yet, as he needs to take one race at a time.

There is a $500,000 guaranteed all stakes Pick-4, and one of the best cards assembled for this historic day.

In a year when so many factors are facing racing, it could use a new poster child. We thought Big Brown was going to blow away the fog, but that was not to be.  If there ever was a time, it is now. With medication issues, Eight Belles’ death in the Derby, declining handles nationally, a fading fan base, and a game that is need of a face lift, Curlin could bring racing back into focus as we head into the Breeders’ Cup.  Hopefully we can bring racing back in the minds of the fans.  So much rides on this race.  Not only for the connections of Curlin, but for the sport of racing.