Thu Feb 28 12:56:00 2008

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Curlin posts prep victory for Dubai World Cup

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Dubai, United Arab Emirates (Sports Network) - Curlin, the 2007 Horse of the Year, kicked off his 2008 campaign with a win at the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse. The four-year-old captured the $175,000 Jaguar Trophy Handicap over five challengers.

The winner of last year's Breeders' Cup Classic was shipped to Dubai to prepare for the $6 million Dubai World Cup on Saturday, March 29. Trainer Steve Asmussen used Thursday's race as a tightener leading to the world's richest race.

Ridden by Robby Albarado, Curlin covered the 1 1/4 miles at Nad Al Sheba in 2:00.60 on a fast track. Finishing behind Curlin by two lengths was Familiar Territory followed by Jet Express, Arqaam, Imperialista and Engrupido.

Thursday's win was worth $105,000 to bring Curlin's bankroll to more than $5.2 million. Last year's Preakness champ has now won seven of 10 career starts, including his last three races.