TDN Writers' Room

Saffie Joseph Jr. has had some big days since he came to the U.S. from his native Barbados in 2011, but perhaps none bigger than last Saturday at Gulfstream Park. He had three stakes wins, including a score with Be Your Best (Ire) (Muhahaarar ({GB}) in the GII Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational S. and a win with Mystic Lake (Mo Town) in the GII Inside Information S. But the one that really mattered was the victory by White Abarrio (Race Day) in the GI Pegasus World Cup Invitational S. Not only did he win a $3 million race, he did so with a horse who had been taken away from him during one of the darkest periods in his career.

With plenty to talk about, Joseph Jr. was this week's Gainesway Guest of the Week on the TDN Writers' Room podcast presented by Keeneland.

White Abarrio was taken away from Joseph around the time of the 2023 GI Kentucky Derby, when there was a rash of fatalities that once again caught the attention of the animal rights community. Joseph had two horses die, but they did not suffer from musculoskeletal injuries. Still, that put Joseph in limbo and the owners moved on to Rick Dutrow.

Joseph admits that was one of the toughest things he has ever had to endure as a trainer. But, after a dull performance in the 2024 GI Metropolitan Handicap for Dutrow, the story changed again. White Abarrio was sent back to Joseph.

“Everything in life happens for a reason,” Joseph said. “After that happened, did I ever envision that we were going to get the horse back? No. I mean, how could you envision a horse that wins a Whitney and a Breeders' Cup Classic for someone else and he's going to come back to you?