Breeders’ Cup Barn Tour with Jason Cook

Jason Cook brings his first Breeders’ Cup starter in John A. Nerud S. (G2) winner Three Technique to Santa Anita for a shot at the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1). The former claimer comes into Saturday with two wins and two thirds in 2023, including a last-out third-place finish in the Ack Ack at Churchill Downs.

Three Technique faces a field of eight others in the Sprint, the final race on Saturday’s card, including 2022 victor Elite Power. Owned by Eric Grindley, David E. Miller, Howard F. Preuss, and John Werner, the six-year-old will break from post 5 with jockey Rafael Bejarano in the saddle.  

Let’s hear from Cook about Three Technique and more as we count down to Saturday’s big race.

When did you guys get here?

We got here Sunday, and the horse got here Monday.

How has he been so far?

Oh, he's done great. Much better than I actually anticipated. He came off the flight really good. Usually, he doesn't, like to travel that well, but he was on his toes the whole time.

How are you feeling about the track ahead of Saturday?

Traditionally, speed horses have a little bit of advantage here, but he's never hit the board going two turns. That's why I put him in the Sprint. In the sprint, they're allowed to go too fast, and that's kind of what I'm wanting, them to go fast enough for him to come running at the end.

This is your first time at Santa Anita. How do you like it so far?

It's very pretty. I haven't got to see much since I've been here. The horse doesn't fly until Tuesday, so I'm actually going to stay until Tuesday.

Is there any horse other than your own, obviously, that's caught your attention this week?

Really and honestly, I watch them go by, but I don't really pay attention. It's enough for me just to focus on him, you know what I'm saying?

Any race Friday or Saturday that you guys are excited about? 

The Sprint, obviously. I like the Classic now. It seems to be wide open for sure, and that changes things.