ESPN will present the second of its three summertime racing programs Sat., Aug. 8 with its live coverage of the Arlington Million and Beverly D. Stakes (both gr. IT) from Arlington Park outside Chicago.
The Emirates Airline Summer Racing Presented by the NTRA series showcases the finest turf horses in North America on this show, which airs from 4:30-6:00 p.m. ET. The Arlington Million is one of the premier grass events on the continent each year, traditionally attracting a compelling cast of international runners. This year, however, the standouts are Gio Ponti , who will be looking for his fourth consecutive grade I score after victories in the Man o’ War Stakes, Manhattan Handicap, and Frank E. Kilroe Mile; and Einstein, who already has the Santa Anita Handicap (gr. I) and the Turf Classic (gr. IT) in his win column this season. In addition, the front-running Presious Passion, who opened up about a furlong lead on his rivals and then held on to win the United Nations Stakes (gr. IT), will be contesting the Million.
In the Beverly D., fillies and mares will be tested over 1 3/16 miles, and again North American runners will try to justify their headline status. Pure Clan won the Modesty Handicap (gr. III), which serves as the local prep for the Beverly D., last month. She will be challenged by Black Mamba, a multiple graded stakes winner based in California.
ESPN will have Joe Tessitore manning the anchor desk, joined by analysts Jerry Bailey and Randy Moss.
The Aug. 29 Shadwell Travers Stakes (gr. I) from Saratoga will mark the final ESPN summertime presentation.