'He could be the most valuable stallion to go to stud the world has ever seen'

With words like "brilliant", "gorgeous" and "effortless" flowing readily from his connections, the American rocket otherwise known as Flightline has completed preparations for his next take-off. All systems are go for launch, to use the language of the Apollo space programme.

This Saturday the Tapit colt rated the world’s best runner on dirt, and second only to fellow undefeated phenomenon Baaeed overall, will face his sternest test yet in the 1m2f Grade 1 Pacific Classic at Del Mar, with hopes of moving forward to the Breeders’ Cup Classic at the same distance.

What lies at the Del Mar finish line is far more than just another trophy or the $1 million purse. This is a challenge that could further prove what many already believe about Flightline - that he is an otherworldly creation, the sort rarely seen within terrestrial limits.