Animal Kingdom wins $10 million Dubai World Cup

March 30, 2013 at 5:36p.m.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Animal Kingdom pulled away down the straight to win the $10 million Dubai World Cup and give Americans their first victory in the world’s richest horse race since 2009.

Animal Kingdom, the 2011 Kentucky Derby winner, is co-owned by Arrowfield Stud and the consortium Team Valor, which includes Youngstown businessman Bruce Zoldan.

Royal Delta, ridden by U.S. Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith, moved out early, trailed by Side Glance and the favorite Hunter’s Light.

But Animal Kingdom, trained by Graham Motion and ridden by Joel Rosario, moved into second and took the lead with 500 meters left. Animal Kingdom, the 2011 Kentucky Derby winner, opened up a three-lengths lead and held off a fast-charging Red Cadeaux. Planteur was third.

The win is a good send off for the horse that’s been sold for breeding purposes to the Australian company Arrowfield and may have run its final race.