Several top-tier racehorses, including Grade 1 winners and recent champions, showcased their prowess during workouts across various tracks on Saturday morning. Notably, Formidable Man, under the guidance of trainer Michael McCarthy, demonstrated exceptional speed by completing four furlongs in 47.6 seconds at Santa Anita, marking his third consecutive stakes victory. Meanwhile, Nobals, who recently returned from an overseas trip due to a fever, made a strong comeback by working four furlongs in 48.2 seconds at Turfway Park. These performances highlight the rigorous training regimens these horses undergo as they prepare for upcoming races.
Michael McCarthy’s charge, Formidable Man, continues to impress with his consistent performances. The son of City of Light has been on a remarkable winning streak, culminating in a Grade 1 triumph in the Hollywood Derby on November 30. On Saturday, he maintained his stellar form by clocking an impressive 47.6 seconds over four furlongs at Santa Anita. This time was the second fastest among 54 works at the distance, underscoring his readiness for future challenges.
The horse’s latest workout reflects the meticulous preparation led by McCarthy. Since his last appearance in the Hollywood Derby, Formidable Man has consistently shown improvement in both speed and stamina. His previous workout seven days ago also indicated solid progress. Trainers and fans alike are optimistic about his prospects in upcoming races, given his current form and the team’s dedication to maintaining peak performance. With each session, Formidable Man is proving that he is not only a formidable competitor but also a reliable contender for major titles.
Larry Rivelli’s Nobals, a Grade 1 winner of the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint, faced a setback when he had to withdraw from the Hong Kong Sprint due to a fever. However, the horse bounced back strongly with a notable workout on Saturday. He covered four furlongs in 48.2 seconds at Turfway Park, ranking ninth fastest out of 146 works at the distance. This performance marks a significant return to form after the overseas incident.
Nobals’ recovery and subsequent workout demonstrate the resilience and adaptability of this champion. Despite the fever that forced him to scratch from the Hong Kong Sprint, he has quickly regained his competitive edge. His last start, where he won the Kennedy Road (G2) at Woodbine on November 16, showcased his ability to perform under pressure. The horse’s recent workout suggests that he is fully prepared to challenge for more prestigious titles. Rivelli’s training regimen, which includes carefully monitored workouts and rest periods, appears to be paying off as Nobals prepares for the next phase of his racing career.