Bago to Miss Classic, Readied for 2005 Campaign

Bago, the winner of the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (Fr-I) who was expected to be one of the top European representatives in this year's Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships, will miss the Oct. 30 races at Lone Star Park.

Although his success has been on grass in Europe, Bago was being considered for a main track start in the Breeders' Cup Classic – Powered by Dodge (gr. I).

Alan Cooper, racing manager for the Niarchos family that owns Bago, told the Racing Post that Bago will be rested and readied for a 2005 campaign. Cooper said the primary objective for Bago next year will be a defense of his Arc crown and then possibly the Breeders' Cup when it is held at Belmont Park.

"Bago is very well and I am looking forward to next year," trainer Jonathan Pease said. "I am naturally delighted that Bago stays in training in 2005. It is a very sporting decision, as things can go wrong and it is going to be a very great challenge."