Cigar Matches Citation’s Consecutive Win Record; Set To Surpass It Aug. 10
Cigar. Citation. They’re now neck and neck in the race for thoroughbred immortality. And there’s not too much Citation can do to stop Cigar from passing him.
Cigar matched Citation’s modern North American record of 16 consecutive wins, pulling away to take the $1.05 million Arlington Citation Challenge by 3-1/2 lengths Saturday.
“Naturally, every time, we get a little bigger load on our shoulders to try to keep it going,” said Bill Mott, Cigar’s trainer. “But we know that if we get Cigar there in good shape, he’s going to take care of the rest.”
Cigar, who last lost on Oct. 7, 1994, is next scheduled to compete in the Pacific Classic at Del Mar on Aug. 10. With a win, he’ll surpass the mark Citation set from 1948-50.
“I’m not an emotional guy, but it makes me want to cry every time I ride this horse. If a guy couldn’t get attached to Cigar, he’s made of stone,” said jockey Jerry Bailey, who pumped his right hand in celebration after crossing the finish line. The victory earned Cigar $750,000, bringing the 6-year-old champion’s career earnings to $8,819,815 - another North American record.
Racing from the outside post in the 1-1/8-mile, 10-horse race, Cigar was pushed very wide early.
Bailey asked Cigar for a little push down the backstretch and the horse surged at the top of the turn and pulled away for the win in 1:48 1-5.
The 1-5 favorite, Cigar paid $2.60 to win. There was no place or show betting.
Dramatic Gold held off Eltish to finish second. Unbridled’s Song, the beaten Kentucky Derby favorite who was supposed to be Cigar’s main challenger, finished next-to-last in the 10-horse field.