Fly Down, who has earned more than $1 million while placing in some of America’s most prestigious races, including the Belmont Stakes (gr. I) and the Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I), may not return to the United States following his start in the $10 million Dubai World Cup (UAE-I) March 26.
Purchased last year by the family of Saudi Arabian King Abdullah, Fly Down may remain in the Middle East to continue his racing career and, ultimately, go to stud at the king’s Janadria Farm near Riyadh. Frank McGovern, general manager of the king’s stables, said March 23 the royal family acquired the son of Mineshaft with a firm plan in mind.
“He was bought specifically to race in the Dubai World Cup and then to progress on to race in Saudi Arabia before going to stud," said McGovern. "We were looking for someone who fit the bill and the budget. Ultimately, we’re trying to improve the breed here.”
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