Magnitude Wins Dubai World Cup Over Forever Young

Magnitude, a 4-year-old American colt trained by Steve Asmussen and ridden by jockey Jose Ortiz, captured the $12 million Dubai World Cup on Saturday night at Meydan Racecourse in Dubai, holding off a late charge from the heavily favored Japanese horse Forever Young to win by a length. The victory marked the first major Group 1 triumph for Magnitude and gave Asmussen his second win in the prestigious 1 1/4-mile dirt race, following Curlin's success in 2008.

From the inside post position, Magnitude broke sharply and seized the lead under Ortiz, setting a measured pace down the backstretch. Forever Young, a 6-year-old globetrotting star with victories in the Breeders' Cup Classic and two Saudi Cups, tracked closely with jockey Ryusei Sakai aboard. As the field turned for home, Magnitude maintained a slim advantage, fending off Forever Young's surge in the final stages to cross the line in 2:04.38 on a fast track. Meydaan, an Irish-bred horse trained by Simon and Ed Crisford, finished third, three lengths behind Forever Young, while Imperial Emperor took fourth. Hit Show, last year's winner, placed fifth and posed no serious threat.

Ortiz, who paid $4.50 for $2 win bets as the...