In a strategic move within the competitive world of thoroughbred racing, the formidable sprinter Englishman is set to advance directly to the Breeders' Cup Sprint. This decision, confirmed by his trainer Cherie DeVaux, comes on the heels of the horse's impressive performance in the Grade 1 H. Allen Jerkens Memorial. Accompanying him on this journey to Keeneland is the esteemed Golden Tempo, winner of both the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes, though Golden Tempo's interim race schedule remains under consideration. This report delves into the details of Englishman's preparation and the exciting prospects for both horses.
Englishman and Golden Tempo Set Sights on Breeders' Cup
On Sunday, August 30, 2026, trainer Cherie DeVaux confirmed that the celebrated racehorse, Englishman, would bypass any further competitions, opting instead for a direct training regimen leading up to the prestigious Breeders' Cup Sprint. This strategic decision was made in the wake of Englishman's electrifying victory the previous day in the Grade 1 H. Allen Jerkens Memorial, a seven-furlong sprint for three-year-olds. The horse's dominant performance, clocking 1:20.71, echoed his earlier Grade 1 triumph in the Woody Stephens on June 6, where he recorded a near track-record time of 1:20.4. Englishman's remarkable consistency and explosive speed have cemented his reputation as a top contender, earning high praise from DeVaux, who described him as an "ultra consistent" and "exciting horse" for C R K Stable. The entire team is now focused on his preparation as he departs Saratoga for Keeneland, the host site for the Breeders' Cup championship on October 31.
Joining Englishman on the journey to Keeneland is the distinguished Golden Tempo, victor of both the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes. While Golden Tempo will also be targeting the Breeders' Cup Classic, trainer DeVaux and the colt's owners are still deliberating whether he will participate in any interim races between the Travers Stakes and the Breeders' Cup. Golden Tempo's recent third-place finish in the Travers Stakes, where he rallied impressively from a challenging position to finish just 2 1/4 lengths behind the winner, Leading Change, left his connections satisfied. DeVaux, who trains Golden Tempo for Phipps Stable and St. Elias Stable, expressed pride in his performance, noting that despite not having everything in his favor, he still delivered a "great race." The anticipation for both the Breeders' Cup Sprint and Classic, to be held concurrently on October 31 at Keeneland, is building. Additionally, Supercharger, another promising colt from DeVaux's barn and winner of the Secretariat (G2), recently completed a four-furlong breeze in 49.05 seconds and is slated to compete in the Old Dominion Derby (G3) on September 7 at Colonial Downs, adding to the stable's impressive roster of talent.
The focused approach for Englishman, alongside the continued journey of Golden Tempo, highlights a sophisticated strategy in modern horse racing. It underscores the importance of tailored training plans that prioritize a horse's well-being and peak performance for major events. This decision to bypass interim races for Englishman not only demonstrates confidence in his current form but also serves as a testament to the meticulous planning required to navigate the high-stakes world of championship racing. The upcoming Breeders' Cup at Keeneland promises to be an exhilarating showcase of equine talent, with both Englishman and Golden Tempo poised to leave their indelible marks on the sport's most prestigious stage.