New Zealand trotter Lyell Creek will clash again this month with Plesac after finishing second to his arch rival in the US$250,000 ($512,000) Trotting Classic in the United States yesterday.
Lyell Creek was beaten a length by Plesac, who posted a world-record time of 2min for the 1 1/16 mile (1710m) race at the Meadowlands track near New York.
Connections said the next assignment for both horses would be the Titan Cup, eliminations for which begin on June 21.
Lyell Creek's trainer, former Kiwi Brett Pelling, said he was delighted with his charge considering the first mile was cut out in 1min 53secs.
"He raced really well," Pelling said on the Meadowlands website.
"He was first up in the mile. He trotted really strong.
"I couldn't ask for anything more from him."
Lyell Creek did not receive cover during the running but Pelling was not blaming that on the horse's defeat.
"It wasn't bad luck in the race.
"I don't think he would have done better with a cover trip.
"I was just real happy with his race and the winner was great. He has the Titan Cup next."
Lyell Creek has raced 13 times this year for a record of six wins and four seconds.
Yesterday's second placing was worth US$62,500 ($128,000) and takes his earnings this year to more than US$150,000 ($307,500).
Lyell Creek and Plesac were sent out equal favourites for the race.
Plesac's win took his year's record to four wins, two seconds and three thirds from 10 starts. His career earnings are $US1.7 million.
Trainer John Butenschoen said he had been able to keep Plesac fit through regular swimming.
"We kept him in the swimming pool, we swam the living heck out of him," Butenschoen said.
"Hopefully we'll stay healthy and sound for the Titan Cup, Breeders' Crown and Nat Ray."
Owner Richard Balog said he wanted Plesac to race the world champion, Varenne, who is trained in Italy.
"We're waiting for Varenne to come back," Balog said. "We want to race him again."
- NZPA
Racing: Lyell Creek to face Plesac again after world record
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