Click here for a replay of the race and the post-race interview with winning connections.

Wesley Ward (trainer of winner Nakatomi and third-place finisher Whatchatalkinabout)

“This is his (Nakatomi’s) home court. That’s what I’ve been saying about him. By the end of this week, he knew he was running. You could just tell the change in his demeanor. He was kind of on his toes, bouncing around — he’s 6 but he was acting like he’s 3. It was good to have him come through on the big stage here at Keeneland on a big day. (Jockey) Irad (Ortiz Jr.) rode a great race. I think the key to keeping these (older horses), having a little longevity, is they go over to Fergus Galvin’s farm, and actually his daughter rides him before he comes in, so that makes this even more special.”

On whether Nakatomi will go to the Cygames Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1) 

“Absolutely.”

Irad Ortiz Jr. (winning rider)

“It was perfect. He broke good, much better than last time I rode him at Saratoga (when third in the Alfred G. Vanderbilt-G2 July 19), so I was happy with that. I didn’t want to use him early. I think he’s the kind of horse that likes to have a target. I just bided my time from there. (Trainer) Wesley (Ward) told me to do whatever I think, so I went with the flow. There was a good pace in front of me, and I didn’t want to chase anybody. I rode my horse and he was there for me in the end.”

Fergus Galvin (representing winning co-owner Qatar Racing)

“It’s incredible, really. (Trainer) Wesley (Ward) and his team have done an amazing job. I mean, he’s a 6-year-old, and you have in the back of your mind if he’s maybe losing a step or two, but Wesley had him at concert pitch today. (Jockey) Irad (Ortiz Jr.)  gave him a fantastic ride, unbelievable. On behalf of Sheikh Fahad (Al Thani of Qatar Racing) and Jim and (co-owner Mrs.) Fitri Hay, just a big thanks to Wesley and his crew. They’re over the moon, they really are.”

David Jacobson (owner-trainer of runner-up Durante)

“I’m very happy. He’s like 20-1 and nobody had any confidence, but I did.”

“(The Breeders’ Cup) is always a thought.”

Tyler Gaffalione (rider of Durante)

“He ran so good it’s a shame we weren’t able to get the job done. No fault of his own. He broke alertly, put himself in the game, traveled great throughout, and he really fired home for us. Hats off to the winner.”