Joseph O’Brien Seeks Rare Breeders’ Cup Accomplishment
Joseph O’Brien Trained Iridessa
Photo Credit- Scott Serio- Eclipse Sportswire / Breeders’ Cup Photos ©
Since the very first Breeders’ Cup at Hollywood Park only one person has ever been able to win a Breeders’ Cup race as a jockey and trainer. Freddy Head was able to guide Miesque to the winners circle while in the irons. As a trainer he saddled the great Goldikova who practically made a habit out of winning Breeders’ Cup races.
Joseph O’Brien is next up to have a chance at the rare feat. It is not only rare to accomplish it, but it is very difficult to even be in a position to do so.
The son of legendary trainer Aidan O’Brien won the Breeders’ Cup turf for his Dad on St. Nicholas Abby. On Friday he sent out Alligator Alley (GB) and Unforgetable (IRE) who did not thrust him into that elite and small bunch. Saturday he will try again with Iridessa (GB).
I caught up with Joseph at Santa Anita and asked him if he has put into perspective what it would be like to achieve this double.
“I of course would love if it happened, but I don’t really think about it at all. I just want to do right by my horses and have the types of horses that can compete in the Breeders’ Cup and hopefully win. I don’t really focus or think about anything other than that. Just having those kind of horses and trying to win those races as a trainer. Again if it happens great, but I’m focused on winning as a trainer.”
I told Joseph I thought it was a safe bet there would be many of those types of races with his name on them.
Check out more Breeders’ Cup news here.
