Curlin confirmed for Classic

Reigning Horse of the Year CURLIN (Smart Strike) will be given a chance to

defend his title in this year's Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) at Santa Anita on

October  25, majority owner Jess Jackson announced during a national

teleconference Tuesday.

"As a native Californian, nothing gives me more pleasure than to announce

that Curlin will be entered for the 2008 Breeders' Cup Classic," Jackson

commented. "It's not about the money, it's about him and his legacy -- which I

think stamps him as one of the greatest horses of the century. He has the genes,

durability and stamina that few horses match, particularly in talent, heart and

determination. The showcasing of Curlin really is a passion for the sport and

I'm trying to revive and reform the sport of Thoroughbred racing. He's a hero to

thousands of fans, but especially to me."

Curlin has posted a pair of workouts on the Santa Anita Pro-Ride, including a

smart five-furlong move in :59 between races at Santa Anita Monday afternoon.

"Everything's a go," Jackson said of Curlin adapting to Santa Anita's

synthetic surface. "Curlin showed yesterday that he graces the field. It's a bit

faster than any surface we've run on and I worry a bit about that because that

shortens the distance in effect. It gives more horses with less durability a

chance to compete well against him. I worry about the field not having a lot of

early speed, unless Well Armed (Tiznow) steps up to it. We'll love to see the

competition and hope that everybody will come and we'll have a full field."

Jackson began Tuesday's teleconference by paying tribute dual classic winner

Big Brown, who was retired due to a foot injury on Monday.

"My family and I were saddened to learn of Big Brown's career ending injury,"

Jackson offered. "I have always said what a great horse Big Brown is and he

brought a lot of energy and excitement to the industry. I am disappointed that

Big Brown and Curlin will never compete against each other. It was a dream of

mine and thousands of fans. I wish Big Brown a speedy recovery. My condolences

and best wishes to his connections."