Nysos, the champion thoroughbred, has once again proven his mettle in the prestigious Metropolitan Handicap, also known as the Met Mile. This race, a Breeders' Cup Challenge Series event, serves as a qualifier for the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile, a race Nysos won last year at Del Mar. But trainer Bob Baffert has his sights set on an even grander stage: the $7 million Breeders' Cup Classic, a 1 1/4-mile test. To get there, Nysos might have to navigate the Pacific Classic Stakes, also at 1 1/4 miles, in between. This journey is not just about the races; it's about the legacy and the potential of a horse that Baffert calls "one of the smartest I've ever trained."
The Met Mile victory was a testament to Nysos' versatility and talent. Under the skilled guidance of jockey Flavien Prat, Nysos cruised to victory, completing the 1-mile race in a final time of 1:34.85, just off the track record. This performance showcased Nysos' ability to adapt to different race conditions and maintain his speed throughout. The fractions of the race, set by Nysos, Antiquarian, and Knightsbridge, further emphasized Nysos' prowess, as he set the pace at :23.52, :45.61, and 1:09.49.
Despite a brief setback during the backstretch, where Nysos fell back from first to fourth, Baffert's faith in Prat's strategy was justified. Prat's decision to take Nysos back and swing him out to the outside paid off, as Nysos finished with authority, devastating the opposition. This display of tactical brilliance and Nysos' unwavering determination highlighted the horse's intelligence and the trainer's keen eye for strategy.
The Met Mile victory has significant implications for Nysos' future. As a Breeders' Cup Challenge Series event, it granted Nysos an automatic, fees-paid spot in the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile. However, Baffert's long-term vision for Nysos is the $7 million Breeders' Cup Classic, a race that tests the horse's endurance and speed over a longer distance. The Pacific Classic Stakes, also at 1 1/4 miles, could be a crucial stepping stone in this journey.
The ownership and breeding history of Nysos add to the horse's allure. Susan and Charlie Chu of Baoma purchased Nysos for $550,000 at the 2023 Ocala Breeders' Sales Spring Sale of 2-Year-Olds in Training. Nysos is by champion Nyquist, who stands for $175,000 at Darley in Kentucky. The breeding of Nysos by Susie Atkins in Kentucky from the Bernardini mare Zetta Z further enhances his pedigree. Zetta Z has also produced stakes-placed Attabe, showcasing the potential for continued success.
The Met Mile victory was a celebration not only for Nysos but also for his owners and breeders. Susan Chubrought a group of family members to cheer for Nysos, hoping for victory. This was her second time being on-site for a grade 1 victory at Saratoga, having previously witnessed the Baffert-trained Drefong win the 2016 King's Bishop Stakes. The presence of Coolmore, a renowned breeding and racing operation, further underscores the significance of Nysos' victory.
Nysos' performance in the Met Mile has solidified his status as a champion. With an impressive 8-2-0 record in 10 starts and earnings of $5,288,500, Nysos is a force to be reckoned with in the thoroughbred racing world. The future looks bright for Nysos, as he is set to join the stallion barn at Ashford Stud, a prestigious breeding facility. This move will further enhance his legacy and ensure his influence on the sport for generations to come.
