For Godolphin's Ottoman Fleet, the upcoming Fourstardave Handicap (G1T) on August 10 at Saratoga Race Course could reveal a new aspect of this accomplished graded stakes winner.

Originally set to race alongside stablemate and 2023 Breeders' Cup Mile (G1T) winner Master of The Seas, Ottoman Fleet now stands as Godolphin's sole contender after the latter was scratched. The $500,000 turf mile will challenge the son of Sea The Stars, especially if rain alters the course conditions.

Despite being considered a backup, Ottoman Fleet's achievements speak volumes. The gelding, out of the Motivator mare Innevera, has claimed two Grade 2 wins and has placed in Grade/Group 1 stakes in both the U.S. and Dubai. The primary question is how he'll handle the mile distance, as he's never raced shorter than 1 1/16 miles in his five U.S. starts.

"He's always been a favorite within the team and has shown great consistency in Dubai and Europe," said assistant trainer Chris Connett. "This year, he's put together a couple of strong wins while gradually shortening up. After his last race, jockey Flavien Prat noted that the horse seemed to be getting faster, which is promising as we approach this major race. We've got one horse with proven Group 1 credentials and another who's in excellent form and ready for this opportunity."

The Fourstardave, a key Breeders' Cup Mile prep, is also part of the Breeders' Cup Challenge Series. The winner secures a "Win and You're In" spot in the $2 million Breeders' Cup Mile on November 2.

Ottoman Fleet returns to New York after victories in the Wise Dan Stakes (G2T) and Arlington Stakes (G3T) at Churchill Downs, following a runner-up finish in the Fort Marcy Stakes (G2T) on May 4 at Aqueduct Racetrack.

On the American front, e Five Racing Thoroughbreds' Carl Spackler will make his Grade 1 debut in the Fourstardave. The 4-year-old colt, sired by Lope de Vega and trained by Chad Brown, has been touted as a top turf prospect since his maiden win by 8 3/4 lengths last year. Carl Spackler won the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame Stakes (G2T) last year and recently secured a half-length victory in the July 13 Kelso Stakes (G3T) at Saratoga.

"A Grade 1 win would be great for him," Brown said. "When he's at his best, he's a top-tier horse, and he seems to be getting back to that form. He's a very solid horse, and I believe he has another level to reach. Hopefully, it happens in this race."

Victory Racing Partners' More Than Looks will also return in the Fourstardave after finishing sixth, just two lengths behind in the Breeders' Cup Mile. The 4-year-old son of More Than Ready, trained by Cherie DeVaux, was third behind Carl Spackler in last year's Hall of Fame Stakes. 

IMAGE DRC