Darley Stable, et al's Cairo Prince (Pioneerof the Nile) breezed an easy four furlongs in :49 3/5 yesterday at Palm Meadows as he continues to prepare for the GI Besilu Stables Florida Derby at Gulfstream Park Mar. 29. The Kiaran McLaughlin-trained colt galloped out five panels in 1:03 4/5.
“It was just what we ordered and wanted to see,” McLaughlin said. “He looked great doing it, and we're on course for the race.” It was Cairo Prince's fourth work since romping in the GII Miller Lite Holy Bull S. at Gulfstream Jan. 25. He last breezed five furlongs in :59 4/5 Mar. 1, and McLaughlin had originally planned another five-eighths for yesterday.
“The reason we backed up and went slower is because we can't go :59 4/5 every week, or there will be not much left of him,” said McLaughlin. “We were real happy with the work. He's doing great.”
Darley Stable purchased a majority interest in Cairo Prince from owners Terry Murray, Paul Braverman, Harvey Clarke and Craig Robertson following the Holy Bull. The Florida Derby will be Cairo Prince's final race before the GI Kentucky Derby May 3.
“We're excited, and he's doing great,” McLaughlin said. “We're happy we passed on the Fountain of Youth and hope all goes well the next couple of weeks and we draw a good post in the Florida Derby.”
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