The connections of Horse of the Year Invasor and challenger Discreet Cat remained confident Friday as the horses continued to prepare for Saturday’s $6 million Dubai World Cup (UAE-I) at Nad al Sheba in Dubai.

Trainer Kiaran McLaughlin, jockey Fernando Jara, and Shadwell Farm general manager Rick Nichols watched on the backside as Invasor went through light exercise on the track.
 
Nichols said winning the World Cup would be a major accomplishment for Sheikh Hamdan. “To win one of the world’s greatest races with the Horse of the Year—it would be awesome,” Nichols said.
 
Meanwhile, trainer Saeed bin Suroor said Godolphin Racing’s undefeated Discreet Cat is a different horse than he was in 2006.

“Discreet Cat has improved mentally and physically since last year when he was a bit keen in the mornings. It will be a new distance for him and I want to see him relax in the race. Frankie knows the horse very well. We are looking to see a big result from him - indeed I think he will win."
 
Another American challenger, Premium Tap, also jogged Friday under rider Jorge Munoz. Trainer John Kimmel also had the multiple grade I winner school in the gate, which went without incident.

Two non-U.S. horses competing in World Cup – Hong Kong’s Bullish Luck and Japan’s Vermilion - were also on the track Friday.