Jockey Walter Swinburn galloped back to the winner’s circle aboard Pilsudski with tears of joy falling down his face after winning the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Turf.
The 35-year-old had suffered near-fatal skull injuries in a fall at Sha Tin racecourse Feb. 11 in Hong Kong.
“It never crossed my mind that I would never ride again,” said Swinburn, who hadn’t won in 19 previous Breeders’ Cup races. “For this to finally happen, and in a year like this, I think there’s someone from above looking after us.”
Swinburn kept the Irish-bred 4-year-old, who is based in England, close to the pace during slow early fractions. He launched his winning attack after a mile, passing leader Singspiel in the last eighth-mile.
“I’m sad (deceased owner) Simon (Weinstock) isn’t here to witness this great day. He was always very keen on this horse,” said trainer Michael Stoute. “Pilsudski has an iron constitution.”
The Arc runner-up returned $29.40, $9.80 and $7.50 for and completed the course in 2:30 1/5. Three members of the four-horse European entry, Singspiel, Swain, and Shantou, finished second through fourth and paid $3 and $2.70.
