Can Mawj Defy the Odds and Clinch Breeders’ Cup Mile Victory?

In a bid to emulate the success of Uni in 2019, filly sensation Mawj is ready to make history at this year’s Breeders’ Cup Mile. Trained by the legendary Saeed bin Suroor, she made an astounding comeback at Keeneland on Saturday after defeating subsequent three-time Group One champion Tahiyra.

The Godolphin trainer faced a tough decision regarding her participation. Should he keep her against her own sex in the Filly & Mare Turf over an uncharted ten-furlong distance? Or should he unleash her talents against the formidable boys over a mile instead? Well, it seems that Bin Suroor has opted for the latter option as his preferred choice.

“She’s a gritty filly with an indomitable spirit. To achieve such glory in her first race after five months and secure victory in a Grade One event is truly remarkable,” said Bin Suroor when reflecting on Mawj’s recent triumph.

Mawj demonstrated excellent form leading up to Keeneland and jockey Oisin Murphy had been training with her extensively. The team was confident about their chances, and it proved fruitful as she returned from the race in great shape too.

Her next challenge lies at Santa Anita for the highly anticipated Breeders’ Cup Mile. Opting out of facing fillies alone would mean tackling a grueling mile-and-a-quarter distance; however, sticking to what suits Mawj best – one mile – appears to be the strategy.

Bin Suroor emphasized, “As a tough filly, she managed nine furlongs over the weekend. But the Mile is where she truly shines; after all, she’s an exceptional filly of top-class caliber. Despite her small stature, navigating two turns over a mile will be advantageous for her.”

The trainer then drew comparisons to past triumphs of fillies against colts in this prestigious race: “We’ve witnessed outstanding fillies defeating male counterparts before – just look at Goldikova who clinched consecutive Mile victories from 2008 to 2010. It proves that it can be done!”