June 14, 2008
The $1 million Stephen Foster Handicap (G1) is the second richest race at Churchill Downs after the Kentucky Derby. The 1 1/8 mile main track event features the best older horses in the country, and this year 2007 Horse of the Year Curlin made his first U.S. start of 2008 after winning the Dubai World Cup. Woodford Reserve Turf Classic winner Einstein switched to the main track as the 6-1 second choice over 7-1 Grasshopper who was fifth in the Pimlico Special. Curlin was assigned the top weight of 128 pounds, giving between 10 to 15 pounds to his competition.
Barcola was loose on the lead for the first 7 furlongs through fractions of 25.01, 49.28, and 1:13.41 over the fast track while being stalked by Sam P, with Curlin stuck down on the rail in fourth most of the way. Turning for home, Curlin moved off the rail and moved up to challenge for the lead, with Einstein starting his rally from sixth. Curlin ran right by pacesetter Barcola at the 3/16 pole and drew off to win by 4 1/4 lengths over Einstein in 1:49.68. Barcola hung on to finish third
Results chart from DRF
