Far Bridge, a versatile and consistent 5-year-old English Channel gelding trained by Miguel Clement, is preparing to defend his title in the $750,000 Sword Dancer Stakes (G1T) at Saratoga on August 9. Known as a “jockey’s dream” for his ability to win from various positions and on different turf conditions, Far Bridge has earned $2.3 million with nine wins in 18 starts. His recent form includes a three-length victory in the Bowling Green Stakes (G2T) and a close third in the Manhattan Stakes (G1T), showcasing his tactical speed and adaptability.

The Sword Dancer field may include up to eight rivals, notably two from Charlie Appleby’s Godolphin stable: Nations Pride, a multiple Grade 1 winner returning from a layoff, and El Cordobes, a Frankel gelding new to U.S. racing with strong European credentials. Other contenders include Utah Beach, a graded stakes winner with recent mixed form. The winner of the Sword Dancer earns an automatic berth in the Breeders’ Cup Turf at Del Mar, making this race a key event in the turf racing calendar.