All systems go for Arrogate despite recent flop

After a satisfactory workout on Tuesday the world's highest-rated racehorse Arrogate is back on course for the $1 million Pacific Classic on August 19 – despite his shock defeat last month at the southern Californian venue.

Relieved trainer Bob Baffert was pleased with what he saw from the biggest prize-money earner in the history of the sport as he posted his first work since his complete flop behind Accelerate in the Grade 2 San Diego Handicap on July 22.

On Tuesday morning, Arrogate breezed four furlongs alone at Del Mar, producing in a 'bullet' (fastest work at the distance) work in 47.20s under jockey Martin Garcia.

"We're running - he looked good today," Baffert said, speaking to the Daily Racing Form after Arrogate worked a half-mile in 47.20 seconds under jockey Martin Garcia. "He was floating over the track. He had to look like that."

"I can breathe easy," added the relieved trainer. "We’re right on schedule...just had to hit the reset button."

On his first start since his sensational victory in the Dubai World Cup, Arrogate was sent off 1-20 before a stunning defeat in which he was beaten more than 15 lengths behind Accelerate, who is set to reoppose in the Pacific Classic.

Baffert blamed himself for possibly not giving the horse hard enough work before what was meant as an easy prep race for the world champion.

"That sort of got me a bit, but we're good now," he commented. "I sort of changed my plan a little bit and it didn't work. You learn from your losses, you learn what not to do. You hate to get them beat, but we know what a great horse he is, and we're fine now."