The Unstoppable Baaeed: A Stellar Thoroughbred’s Incredible Streak
When Jim Crowley guided Baaeed to his ninth consecutive victory, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. Trainer William Haggas, after witnessing Baaeed’s triumph in the Group 1 Sussex Stakes by 1 3/4 lengths, breathed a sigh of relief. These are the emotions that perfection elicits in the world of horse racing, where navigating the tightrope of success is a constant challenge. Yet, Baaeed has mastered this challenge, solidifying his status not just as a stellar Thoroughbred, but as the best in the world.
A Flawless Record and Unmatched Brilliance
With his recent victory in the one-mile Sussex Stakes at Goodwood, Baaeed extended his unbeaten streak to a remarkable nine wins out of nine starts. The overwhelming favorite at 1/6 odds, Baaeed crossed the finish line in 1:37.28. This triumph marked his fifth consecutive Group 1 victory and his second Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series win. His earlier victory in the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot secured him an automatic berth in the Breeders’ Cup Mile.
“Baaeed just does what he has to. He is like his sire,” commented jockey Jim Crowley in admiration after the race. “Just before the winning line, he pricked his ears and shut down with me. Baaeed is never going to be exuberant and win by 10 lengths, but the feeling I got off him between the three- and two-furlong pole, no horse can give you that feel.
“I have never known a horse like him before. In the winner’s enclosure here, it’s like he was out having a pick of grass in the morning. He’s so relaxed. He has taken great strides and can do more than win the way he is doing it.”
This race showcased Baaeed’s unique style. Trainer William Haggas acknowledged the challenges they faced, as Baaeed conceded an early lead to Bathrat Leon, a Japanese horse. Chindit and Modern Games, last year’s Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf winner, applied pressure while Crowley patiently positioned Baaeed towards the rear of the pack.
But as the race approached the stretch, the time came for Crowley to make his move. Steering Baaeed to the outside, he unleashed the colt’s explosive acceleration. Baaeed surged past Modern Games, the 9/1 second choice, leaving no doubt about his dominance. Filly Alcohol Free (13/1), the defending Sussex Stakes champion, settled for a respectable third place.
“He was a little bouncy. He is a 4-year-old colt and he knows it,” Haggas noted. “Little things like being drawn next to Alcohol Free, the only filly in the race, does make you think. But actually once he gets going and once all the saddling is out of the way, he is a very professional horse.”
The Unmatched Brilliance of Baaeed
Baaeed now stands as the top-ranked horse in the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings. While the poll may lean towards European horses, there is simply no denying the magnitude of Baaeed’s achievements – five consecutive victories in Group 1 races.
Looking ahead, Haggas revealed Baaeed’s next challenge will be stretching beyond his mile comfort zone. He will compete in the prestigious 1 1/4-mile Juddmonte International Stakes at York on August 17. A win in this race would secure Baaeed an automatic berth in the flagship Breeders’ Cup Classic, granting Haggas and the owners a plethora of choices.
“I said to Jim in the paddock, we’ve got him for two more races after this, so let’s just enjoy him and make the most of him,” Haggas expressed. “Because he will most likely go to stud at the end of the year, and I’ll spend the rest of my training career trying to find the next one.”
Conclusion
Baaeed’s remarkable journey has captivated the world of horse racing. With each successive victory and every breathtaking stride, this outstanding Thoroughbred continues to etch his name in the annals of racing history. Baaeed represents the epitome of equine brilliance, combining exceptional talent with unfaltering composure. As the sport eagerly awaits his upcoming races, fans and experts alike can’t help but marvel at the extraordinary legacy being created by Baaeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Baaeed’s current winning streak?
Baaeed is enjoying an unbeaten streak of nine consecutive victories.
2. Which race secured Baaeed an automatic berth in the Breeders’ Cup Mile?
Baaeed earned an automatic berth in the Breeders’ Cup Mile by winning the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot.
3. Will Baaeed compete in the Juddmonte International Stakes?
Yes, Baaeed is set to challenge himself in the 1 1/4-mile Juddmonte International Stakes at York.
4. What is Baaeed’s ranking in the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings?
Baaeed currently holds the top position in the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings.
5. What are Baaeed’s future plans after his racing career?
Baaeed is expected to retire to stud at the end of this year.
