Proxy flashes late for G1 Breeders’ Cup Classic third

Proxy emulated Thunder Snow and Essential Quality by finishing third in the G1 Breeders’ Cup Classic following a storming stretch run at Santa Anita, USA, on Saturday, 4 November.

The Tapit entire, who had quickened from the rear to win the G2 Oaklawn Handicap and take second in the G1 Santa Anita Handicap earlier in the season, broke on terms from his wide draw and plotted a wide course initially in sixth.

Missed The Cut moved up to join Proxy down the back and the Michael Stidham-trained five-year-old forfeited several places after hitting a flat spot turning for home.

Ninth at the top of the straight, Proxy found a second wind for Joel Rosario down the centre of the course and powered through the field, edging out Arabian Knight for third on the line.

Michael Stidham said: “That’s Proxy. He had a perfect position down the back and but dropped the bit and didn’t want any part of it, then all of a sudden here he comes flying at the end. It’s the same thing, every time. He was the only one really closing, just like in the Santa Anita Handicap.

“He’s just a super horse who has been so nice from day one and a pleasure to be around. Just a really nice horse and I was so lucky to get the opportunity to train him.”