THE 2001 BREEDERS’ CUP

The 18th Breeders’ Cup was held in New York just six weeks after the Tragedy of the September 11 attacks on the United States. Following a moving tribute in pre-race ceremonies to those who had fallen, an outstanding day of international competition commenced. European horses Banks Hill (Filly & Mare Turf), Johannesburg (Juvenile) and Fantastic Light (Turf) won consecutive races before the Classic. It was in the day’s final race that history was made, as defending champion Tiznow, ridden by Chris McCarron, became the first horse to win the Classic in consecutive years, outdueling Sahkee and Frankie Dettori in the stretch to win by a nose. It was McCarron’s record fifth win in the Classic.