Rebel’s Romance ‘pitch perfect’ with Breeders’ Cup history in sight

Charlie Appleby is thrilled with Rebel’s Romance, as his date with history approaches at Del Mar.

The hugely-popular gelding is a nine-time Group One and Grade One winner and should he triumph in the Breeders’ Cup Turf at the weekend against the likes of Aidan O’Brien’s Minnie Hauk, he will become the first horse to win three runnings of the race.

Success has come the way of Rebel’s Romance all around the world, and he holds a special place in Appleby’s affections.

“Rebel’s Romance is in great form. He’s been out on the track and his rider said he felt great. He’s pitch perfect. The old boy is up against younger opponents again, but he’s got the experience and that’s something you can’t beat round here,” he said.

“I will leave it up to Will (Buick) how he wants to play it. He could make the running or sit in the box seat.

“The racing public love him and he will put it up to the others, who will know they’ve been in a race.”

Appleby can look forward to a clash of stablemates in the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf, with Buick aboard Cinderella’s Dream and Billy Loughnane partnering Dancing Rain.

The Moulton Paddocks handler said: “Dancing Rain and Cinderella’s Dream are like a David and Goliath scenario.

“I really think Cinderella’s Dream has never been better. Newmarket (third in Sun Chariot Stakes last time out) was slow ground and it was over a mile. She’s so valuable to us in the barns and has so much experience to take into this race.

“Dancing Rain is a big old girl who blew the turn at Woodbine (second in E P Taylor Stakes). The one thing she has done is sharpened up mentally. She needs to hit the lids, and if getting into a nice rhythm should hit the line strong.

“I think Rebel’s winning would be the best result, not only for me but also for the Breeders’ Cup and Godolphin.

“Winner-wise I feel our best chance is Cinderella’s Dream. I’m a big fan of her.”