Trainer Chad Summers is meticulously charting a course for the accomplished racehorse Napoleon Solo, with the coveted Saudi Cup in February serving as the central focus for all future racing decisions. This strategic approach will dictate whether the dual Grade 1 victor competes in the Breeders' Cup Classic or the Dirt Mile later this year.
Summers confirmed his intention to select the more suitable Keeneland event at a later stage, underscoring that the February target in Riyadh is the primary driver behind the current racing schedule. He noted that Napoleon Solo recovered well from his recent race and that the team would assess future race setups to make the most sensible decision, reiterating that the long-term goal of reaching the Saudi Cup remains paramount. This comprehensive plan also involves a direct training regimen leading up to the Breeders' Cup, foregoing any intermediate preparatory races.
Napoleon Solo's recent performance includes a hard-fought second-place finish, by merely half a length, in Saturday's Grade 1, $1.25 million Travers Stakes for three-year-olds at Saratoga. Despite setting the pace and demonstrating resilience, the colt was ultimately overtaken by Leading Change. This marked Napoleon Solo's second consecutive Grade 1 loss by a narrow margin, following a similar defeat to Baby Vino in the Haskell (G1) at Monmouth Park. Summers expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging the horse's consistent performance while lamenting the missed Travers victory. He commended the efforts of Team Cox and the exceptional rides by the opposing jockeys, expressing confidence in Napoleon Solo's ability to avenge these recent close losses, much like they had previously against Baby Vino.
Napoleon Solo, owned by Espoir USA, has a distinguished record, including a victory in the Champagne (G1) at age two and the Preakness in the spring. The deliberate planning by Summers and his team highlights a forward-thinking strategy aimed at maximizing the horse's potential on the international stage. Their commitment to thoughtful preparation and strategic race selection exemplifies the dedication required to compete at the highest levels of equestrian sport.