World Cup Festival at Nad Al Sheba Sold Out

Do Steve Asmussen and Curlin look nervous? It's only $6 million. (AP Images)

For the first time in its 12 year history, tickets for the World Cup Festival at Nad Al Sheba are sold out in advance.

Never before has the prestigious day of racing commanded so much interest, and this year’s early arrival of the illustrious Curlin has increased racing fans’ anticipation around the globe. The media attention Curlin is attracting in Dubai brings back memories of the great gelding Cigar, winner of the inaugural running of the world’s richest race in 1996. The 2008 edition has developed into an awesome wagering card with 87 world class performers entered in six stakes, an average of 14.5 horses per race.

Curlin heads the North American contingent and will be a short-price in the $6 million Classic but horseplayers can expect a strong showing throughout the day from horses given less attention but offering good value. The Godolphin home team has consistently performed well in Dubai and has often produced some significant returns to their backers.

In the $5 million Sheema Classic, a 16-horse field at 12 furlongs, the North American contender to watch is recent Gr. 2 winner Spring House, from the barn of Julio Canani.

Another 16-horse field will travel nine furlongs over the desert lawn in the $5 million Duty Free. Gr. 1 Donn Handicap winner Notional, who has never won on the turf, carries American hopes in the race.

The $5 million Golden Shaheen has given the Americans their best chance to shine in previous years. The straight six-furlong sprint boasts a strong American lineup this year including Gr. 1 Sunshine Millions hero Benny The Bull and Gr. 1 Breeders’ Cup sprint runner-up Idiot Proof, who has been thriving in Dubai.

Florida-based Massive Drama, winner of the Gr. 3 Hollywood Juvenile, has been raising eyebrows while training exceptionally for the $2 million United Arab Emirates Derby. His stamina over the nine-furlong distance might be the only question mark.

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