After a disappointing performance in the Breeders' Cup Classic, the versatile and accomplished racehorse Next is set to return to his true calling as one of racing's premier long-distance specialists. Trainer Doug Cowans has outlined plans to refocus the 6-year-old gelding on the marathon circuit, where he has thrived in recent years, leaving the ill-fated Classic experiment firmly in the rearview mirror.

Unlocking Next's True Potential on the Marathon Circuit

Refocusing on the Marathon Path

Trainer Doug Cowans has made it clear that Next's future lies in the marathon events, where the gelding has consistently excelled. "As soon as I see what the marathon schedule looks like, he'll be right back on that path," Cowans stated. The trainer emphasized that the team will not dwell on the Breeders' Cup Classic disappointment, but instead will chart a course focused on the long-distance races that have been Next's forte.

A Proven Track Record in Marathons

Next's impressive resume in marathon races speaks for itself. Prior to the Breeders' Cup Classic, the gelding had reeled off a seven-race winning streak, including victories in prestigious events such as the Brooklyn Stakes, the Birdstone Stakes, and the Greenwood Cup. His most recent triumph came in the Isaac Murphy Marathon Overnight Stakes at Churchill Downs, further cementing his status as a dominant force in the marathon division.

Embracing the Marathon Mindset

Cowans believes that Next's natural inclination and adaptability make him ideally suited for the marathon circuit. "He handled everything just fine," the trainer said, reflecting on the gelding's ability to travel and settle in without issue. This versatility will be crucial as Next returns to the marathon path, where his endurance and pacing skills can truly shine.

Lessons Learned from the Breeders' Cup Classic

The Breeders' Cup Classic experiment, while ultimately unsuccessful, provided valuable insights for the team. Cowans acknowledged that the distance and pace of the race proved too much for Next, as the blistering fractions set by Derma Sotogake left the gelding struggling to find his rhythm. "It was the distance, but it was more the tempo. That tempo was awfully fast. They went a half in 44. That's just too fast for his liking and for him to keep up," the trainer explained.

Avoiding Unnecessary Detours

Cowans also made the decision to bypass the Breeders' Cup Turf, despite Next's previous experience on the grass. The trainer recognized that the temptation to shorten the horse down could have led to similar challenges in the future, and he opted to stay true to Next's strengths on the main track.

Embracing Next's Unique Talents

As Next's fans eagerly await his return to the marathon circuit, Cowans emphasized the importance of appreciating the gelding for what he is, rather than trying to mold him into something he is not. With 13 victories in 24 starts and over $1.3 million in career earnings, Next has proven himself to be a classy and accomplished racehorse, even if the Classic distance may not be his optimal fit.