Furia Cruzada carries Charpy’s hopes

I’m fortunate, because some people spend a life time without a runner in the Dubai World Cup, trainer says

It will be an emotional evening for veteran trainer Erwan Charpy at the Meydan Racecourse tomorrow.

The Frenchman, who has spent over two decades in the UAE, will have his first runner in the US$10 million (Dh36.7 million) Dubai World Cup.

Furia Cruzada, a five-yearold bay mare by Newfoundland, owned by Avaz Ismoilov and ridden by Italian Antonio Fresu carries Charpy’s hopes in the headline event.

Charpy, understandably, is thrilled about the prospect of having a runner in the showpiece event.

At the same time, he is also realistic of her chances as she has to locks horns with some of the biggest names in the equine world, including Arrogate — the highest rated horse in the World (134).

“It been 22 years since I have been residing here but it still seems like yesterday. I’m fortunate, because some people spend a life time without a runner in the World Cup,” said the 55-year-old Green Stables trainer adding he was delighted to have broken the jinx and fulfilled a long lasting dream.

“I’m very pleased as I have been watching the race from the outside for a long time, and finally, I will be a part of it,” said Charpy, adding that he had some nice horses in the Dubai World Cup meetings every year barring one since the Dubai World Cup was first staged in 1996.

“I have had runners on the World Cup night and I have had some special moments too. You need to have a special horse to run at the Dubai World Cup as it is the race for the cream,” said Charpy, whose Furia Cruzada joins the likes of Larrocha, Hokuto Vega, Borgia, To The Victory, Aquareliste, Red Desire, Buena Vista and Royal Delta, who have competed against their male counterpart at the Dubai World Cup over the years.

Furia Cruzada’s performances speak for itself as she has victories in Chile and Argentina on the dirt. However, when flown to Europe for a campaign she couldn’t live up to that billing. She seems to have got her form back in Dubai though

Virendra Saklani/Gulf News Race enthusiasts watch horses gallop during their morning trackwork at Meydan yesterday.

Virendra Saklani/Gulf News Erwan Charpy watching Furia Cruzada going through the paces during morning trackwork at Meydan.