Godolphin ready to set up an American base

Godolphin yesterday announced that it is setting up a satellite two-year-old operation in the United States next year. The Dubai-based operation is to employ Eoin Harty, 37, who for the last seven years has assisted the leading American trainer Bob Baffert. Harty's father, Eddie, rode Highland Wedding to victory in the 1969 Grand National.

Godolphin yesterday announced that it is setting up a satellite two-year-old operation in the United States next year. The Dubai-based operation is to employ Eoin Harty, 37, who for the last seven years has assisted the leading American trainer Bob Baffert. Harty's father, Eddie, rode Highland Wedding to victory in the 1969 Grand National.

Currently 32 yearlings, many bought at the American sales, are based at Godolphin's stables at Nad Al Sheba racecourse in Dubai. Harty is expected to move to Dubai in January and take them to America in April at the same time as other Godolphin horses are moved to Europe.

Godolphin has yet to decide where it will locate the two-year-olds in America. It also has the Evry-based juvenile operation in France, with David Loder as trainer.

Simon Crisford, Godolphin's racing manager, said: "The establishment of a satellite two-year-old operation in the United States is a natural step forward for Godolphin with its international outlook."

At the end of their juvenile careers, the American-based horses will return to Dubai for the winter, slotting into the operation run by Saeed bin Suroor. Those of ability, or potential, will be trained to compete at the top level in North America as three-year-olds.