City Of Light shines brightest in emphatic Pegasus World Cup victory

Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes (Grade 1) | 1m1f | 3yo+ | Dirt |

Todd Pletcher's former assistant Michael McCarthy toasted a career-defining moment as City Of Light slammed his rivals to claim the $9 million Grade 1 Pegasus World Cup under an excellent ride from Javier Castellano.

Accelerate, the reigning Breeders' Cup Classic champion, emerged as the main challenger to City Of Light rounding the home straight but had no answer and was ultimately just pipped for second by Seeking The Soul.

City Of Light, who landed the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile in November, eventually ran out a convincing five-and-three-quarter-length winner in the soaking conditions in Florida to claim North America's richest race.

McCarthy told NBC: "It is just fantastic. This horse is a gift, he is amazing. I couldn't be happier with the way he has been for the last ten days. Without this horse I am not sure where I would be."

City Of Light and Javier Castellano return to the winner's enclosure at GulfstreamCredit: Michael Reaves

City Of Light added his name to an illustrious roll of honour of Pegasus winners which includes Gun Runner and Arrogate and will now embark on his second career at stud.

The trainer added: "I can't believe the fashion he did it in, that is why I am so emotional. It just seemed like he was effortless. I am not sure I have the words to say how much I will miss this horse, he will be missed for sure."

Accelerate is also set to retire to the breeding sheds and trainer John Sadler reflected on a stellar career. Speaking to NBC, he said: "I will always remember his honesty, he would always run a good race.

"We enjoyed him for a good three years and he is just a really good, solid racehorse. He ran well in tough conditions and we are going to walk out of here with our heads high."

Frankie Dettori rode Mexican Triple Crown hero Kukulkan and the pair finished 11th.

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