As expected. Icy Atlantic went to the lead right away and set a slow pace of 25.51, 51.37, 1:16.35, and 1:39.92 while being stalked by Dreadnaught and Frost Giant down the backstretch. Entering the stretch, Icy Atlantic faded from contention as stablemate English Channel, who had raced in midpack fourth early, swung wide on the turn and took over the lead at the 1/4 pole. English Channel drew away to win by 4 1/2 lengths over the late-closing Fredonia in a time of 2:28.69 over the firm course.
Results chart from DRF
2006 Jockey Club Gold Cup Day at Belmont Park
By Cindy Pierson Dulay, About.com Guide
English Channel wins the 2006 Joe Hirsch Turf Classic
English Channel wins the 2006 Joe Hirsch Turf Classic at Belmont Park
© Cindy Pierson Dulay
The $600,000 Joe Hirsch Turf Classic (G1) is a major prep for the Breeders' Cup Turf, with 7 hopefuls entered in this 1 1/2 mile trip over the Widener turf course. The Todd Pletcher-trained entry of Icy Atlantic and English Channel were sent off as the 3-5 favorite over 3-1 Fredonia, one of two fillies in the race both shipping in from Europe.
Prev
- Bernardini wins by over 6 lengths in the 2006 Jockey Club Gold Cup
- Bernardini makes his walk down Victory Lane
- Fleet Indian holds off Balletto in the 2006 Beldame
- Fleet Indian in the winner's circle
- Henny Hughes wins the 2006 Vosburgh
- Henny Hughes returns after the race
- English Channel wins the 2006 Joe Hirsch Turf Classic
- English Channel in the winner's circle
- Honey Ryder wins the 2006 Flower Bowl Invitational
- Honey Ryder takes her walk down Victory Lane
Elsewhere on the Web
Belmont ParkBreeders' Cup official siteMore photos from the Jockey Club Gold Cup
Explore Horse Racing
Must Reads
About.com Special Features
A Balanced Life
Bring your life into balance with tips on good nutrition, family fun, and healthy activities. More >
Introduction to Pilates
Learning Pilates fundamentals can help you get the most out of your exercise regime. More >
©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.
All rights reserved.