The Nafzger Model and the Breeder's Cup Classic

[Whirlaway]

I call it the Nafzger Model after Carl Nafzger and how he trained Street Sense up to winning the Kentucky Derby in 2007.

Nafzger used Churchill Downs as a base, as home for Street Sense . . . he jogged him there, worked him there and stabled him there. Street Sense was familiar with the track, its conditions, the rail and most importantly he had the jockey who also made Churchill Downs his home - The Rail Borel. Both horse and jockey knew and felt Churchill Downs was home. Prior to the 07' Derby, Nafzger sent Street Sense to run in the sand down at Tampa Bay in the Sam Davis. He then sent Street Sense to run on the synthetic surface at Keeneland in the Bluegrass Stakes. Both races on "yielding" surfaces with the dual intent of safety and developing the "deep fitness" needed to win the Kentucky Derby. When it came time for the Derby, it was nothing new to either of them, it was just a matter of doing what they did every day. They had the home field advantage and won the Derby.

I noticed the trainer for Paddy O' Prado and First Dude has made Churchill Downs "home" for both horses. No doubt the connections have thought this one out to give their horse the "home field" advantage come the Breeder's Cup Classic. Fine work by the trainer here . . . He has a front runner and a come from behind horse - I think he is sittin' pretty sweet and I like his chances in this race. Will either horse benefit from the Nafzger Model?