Hansen won the Grade 1 $2,000,000 Breeders' Cup Juvenile by inches over the favorite, Union Rags. The undefeated Hansen led the field around the track and held off a late charge from Union Rags by a head. Creative Cause was a length back in third, five lengths in front of Dullahan.
"He’s a natural," said trainer Mike Maker. "Obviously his performance speaks for itself. That’s the way he wants to run and we weren’t going to change a thing. It’s just that natural ability. Obviously he’s got a lot of speed and he’s always shown it. He’s also got a lot of fight; a bunch of good characteristics. We pointed to the Breeders’ Cup before he ever ran. I only told that to the owners, and they’re as crazy as I am."
Although Hansen broke on top and never relinquished the lead, Union Rags' trip actually forced him to travel 9 lengths further than the winner.
"One jump after the wire, I was in front," said jockey Javier Castellano. "But that’s horse racing. I’m disappointed in the result, but I’m not disappointed in my horse. He ran a wonderful race; tried hard all the way. I give the winner a lot of credit. He ran fast early, and he held on. You have to give him credit."
Hansen returned $16.20, $6.60, and $4.60 to win. Union Rags paid $3.20 and $2.20 for second. Creative Cause paid $3.60 to show. The $2 exacta returned $46.20 and the $0.50 triple paid $55.90.
Photo: Courtesy Breeders' Cup