In a surprising development, fan-favorite Desert of Malibu, the American-bred chestnut mare, has been officially withdrawn from this afternoon’s highly anticipated 51st running of the $2.5-million Philip Feanny Gold Cup. The five-year-old mare, who was on track to secure her fourth straight victory, suffered a scorpion bite, making her unable to compete in the Graded Stakes/Open Allowance contest over seven furlongs (1,400m).
Desert of Malibu, who had dominated the local racing scene with eight wins in her last 10 starts, was considered a heavy favorite for the Gold Cup, leaving racing fans disappointed and shaking up the betting odds. Her absence now throws the spotlight onto her key competitors, Funcaandun and Is That A Fact, who are primed to take advantage of the unexpected turn of events.
Trainer Jason DaCosta’s entries, Funcaandun and Is That A Fact, now emerge as the leading contenders for the prestigious title. Funcaandun, a powerhouse in his own right, has already proven his mettle with a win in the Distinctly Irish Trophy over nine furlongs just last month. His combination of speed and stamina makes him a formidable competitor in today’s race. Jockey Robert Halledeen, who will be aboard Funcaandun, is expected to execute a tactical race, making use of the horse’s proven ability to perform under pressure.
Is That A Fact, the second of DaCosta’s charges, may be flying under the radar, but his recent training sessions suggest he’s a serious threat in this contest. With a swift workout of 1:12.3 over six furlongs just days before the race, he is well-prepared for the middle-distance challenge and could capitalize on the opportunity Desert of Malibu’s absence provides. Tevin Foster, one of the most accomplished jockeys in the field, will be in the saddle for Is That A Fact.
This unexpected shake-up not only redefines the race but also adds extra weight to the ongoing battle for jockey supremacy between Foster and rival jockey Dane Dawkins. Both are locked at 99 wins for the season, making today’s Gold Cup a pivotal moment in their quest for the jockeys’ championship. The rivalry between these two has been building over the past several months, and with both riders booked for eight races on today’s card, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
As racing fans gear up for an exciting day at the track, the question remains: Will Funcaandun or Is That A Fact rise to the occasion in the absence of the favorite, or will an underdog emerge victorious in one of the most unpredictable Gold Cups in recent memory? With Foster and Dawkins fighting neck-and-neck for the 2024 jockeys’ title, today’s results could set the stage for a dramatic close to the racing season.
The Philip Feanny Gold Cup, traditionally the crown jewel of local handicap races for three-year-olds and up, now promises an even more thrilling finish. With the race scheduled as the ninth and final event at 5:20 pm, the crowd waits with anticipation to see which horse and rider will seize the moment in this unexpected turn of events.
