Bishop’s Bay, representing the KAS stable, surged past early leader Mika during the final stretch to claim victory in the 37th running of the $500,000 Cigar Mile Handicap (G2) at Aqueduct Racecourse on Saturday. Trained by Brad Cox and ridden by Flavien Prat, the 5-year-old Uncle Moe Bay was recently acquired for $1.3 million at the Keeneland November Horse of Racing Age Sale and previously competed in the One Turn Mile for 3-year-olds and older.
Carrying the heaviest weight in the field at 125 pounds, Bishop’s Bay fought hard in the stretch to fend off the persistent sophomore Micah. The horse had previously secured a Grade 3 win over the same course and distance at Westchester in May and maintained an undefeated record at Aqueduct following the 49er Stakes on November 2. Cox praised Prat’s expert riding, noting the jockey’s perfect 6-for-6 record with Bishop’s Bay, including wins in the American Pharoah at Oaklawn Park, and the Salvator Mile, Westchester, and 49er at Monmouth Park.
Although Bishop’s Bay started cautiously from the outermost post, Mika quickly took the lead, setting a brisk pace with the first 400 meters completed in 23.10 seconds on the fast track. Bishop’s Bay stayed close in second place while challengers Pentathlon and Phileas Fogg pursued. As they entered the turn, Micah surged to the front, but Bishop’s Bay closed the gap strongly in the stretch and narrowly secured victory with a final time of 1:34.62, earning affectionate praise from his rider.
Prat commended Bishop’s Bay for his persistent and assertive finish, highlighting the horse’s competitive spirit and mental toughness. Meanwhile, Franco, riding Micah, expressed satisfaction with his mount’s performance in his graded stakes debut, acknowledging the challenge of leading the pace against seasoned competitors. Trainer Mike Maker echoed this sentiment, celebrating Micah’s strong effort despite the tough competition in a race pitting a young horse against older, more experienced ones.
Crazy Mason finished third, followed by Phileas Fogg, Pentathlon, and Brazenly. Owner’s representative Doc Sullivan hinted at an exciting upcoming contest with $125,000 stakes Alex M. Robb, showcasing the depth of New York-bred talent. Looking ahead, Cox revealed that Bishop’s Bay’s connections are aiming for the $20 million Group 1 Saudi Cup at King Abdulaziz Racecourse on February 14, signaling big ambitions for the horse’s future. Bishop’s Bay, initially purchased for $450,000 at the 2021 Keeneland September Yearling Sale, is a progeny of the Pioneerof the Nile mare Catch My Drift and is related to Cox-trained Grade 2 winner Millionaire Catching Freedom.
Fan Take: This thrilling victory by Bishop’s Bay highlights the emergence of a highly competitive and consistent talent in American horse racing, invigorating fans with the promise of more electrifying performances ahead. With ambitions pointing toward the prestigious Saudi Cup, Bishop’s Bay’s success could elevate the sport’s international profile and intensify global competition.
