Big Ass Fans Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile

In an emotional first of nine races on the Championship Saturday program, defending Big Ass Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile titleholder Cody’s Wish ran down Preakness Stakes winner National Treasure to score a repeat victory in the $1 million race.

Cody’s Wish, who rallied stoutly through the turn and split horses under Junior Alvarado, prevailed by a nose. The Godolphin homebred survived an inquiry to be declared the official winner in his career finale. The winner and runner-up made contact during the final furlong of the race.

Trained by Hall of Famer Bill Mott, the 5-year-old son of Curlin completed the two-turn mile in a final time of 1:35.97 as the 4-5 favorite.

“He broke OK again, better than the last couple of races,” Alvarado said. “I had to save every inch of ground with him. I didn’t have the luxury of swinging him outside because I knew this was a tough race. He always is there for me. He is just a big fighter for me.”

Skippylongstocking finished 3 ¾ lengths behind the top pair in third.

Cody’s Wish provided fans with one of the most emotionally charged stories in recent years. Named after Cody Dorman, a young man from Kentucky with a rare genetic disease, Cody’s Wish emerged as one of the best racehorses in training during 2023 and built a large fan base as the Dorman family attended most of his races, including both of his Breeders’ Cup wins. He retired to stud at Godolphin’s breeding operation in Kentucky with a record of 11 wins in 16 starts and earnings of $1,773,900.

“A great story, it’s a great story, an inspiration for a lot of people,” Mott said. “To see what it has done for Cody Dorman and his family and a lot of people around him. Look, I have a wrist band (he shows it) and it says ‘Cody’s Wish.’ Sometimes wishes do come true.”