Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint

The Europeans made their presence felt in the first 2023 Breeders’ Cup race of the two-day extravaganza Nov. 3-4 as Big Evs led a 1-2-3 international finish in the $1 million Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint.

Tracking a hot pace set by Royal Ascot winner Crimson Advocate, Big Evs took over down the lane and held off the furious late rush off Valiant Force to win by a half-length. Starlust got up for third in a blanket finish for the show.

Big Evs, owned by RP Racing and trained by Michael Appleby, was timed in :55.31 for the five furlongs on a firm turf course.

“I can’t believe it. He’s been an absolute superstar all year and to come here and put in a performance like that is unreal,” Appleby said. “Going into the race I thought he had an outstanding chance, and when (jockey) Tom (Marquand) rode him in a breeze earlier in the week he couldn’t have been more bullish.

“We’ll enjoy it as it’s a dream to be here never mind go and win. Hopefully he comes out the race in good order then we’ll make a plan for next season. He really is a horse of a lifetime for us. I can’t thank the team at home enough for all their hard work.”

The 2-year-old son of Blue Point returned $8.40 for a $2 win ticket as the 3.20-1 second betting choice.