McCarthy and the Uruguayan Challenge of Touch of Destiny at the Breeders’ Cup

The trainer oversees the Uruguayan star Touch of Destiny, who will make history in the GI Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile, while also sending out the outstanding Journalism as a major contender for the GI Breeders’ Cup Classic

Luis Cáceres and Touch of Destiny: A Truly Special Moment Awaits / BREEDERS' CUP

By Diego H. Mitagstein (Special Correspondent for Turf Diario at Del Mar, California, USA)

DEL MAR, California – Elegant, composed, and quietly confident, Michael McCarthy once again approaches the Breeders’ Cup with a world-class team. Among his runners, one name carries a particularly symbolic weight: Touch of Destiny, the first Uruguayan-bred horse ever to compete at the Championships. He’ll represent Haras Phillipson / Brownwood Farm in the GI Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile, marking a milestone for South American racing.

“It’s going to be interesting to see how the best from Uruguay measures up against the best from America,” McCarthy said with his trademark calm smile. “This year’s Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile might be one of the toughest we’ve seen in a long time. The horse has trained well, he’s settled in beautifully… so we’ll take it one step at a time and see where it takes us.”

Having arrived in the U.S. only a few months ago, Touch of Destiny’s transition has been remarkably smooth. “He hasn’t missed a beat since we got him back into training and into a steady work routine,” McCarthy explained. “He’s a lovely horse—great attitude, great mind. We’re obviously very thankful to have been entrusted with him.”

Patience and precision have long been McCarthy’s trademarks, and he sees plenty of upside for the Midshipman colt. “Any of these young horses need time and experience to develop. With a bit more racing under his belt, I have no doubt he’ll prove to be a top-class prospect,” he noted.

The trainer was equally enthusiastic about working with Luis Cáceres, the Uruguayan jockey who joined his barn in the lead-up to the event. “It’s been great having him here,” McCarthy said. “He’s ridden several works for us and has been a wonderful addition to the team. He’s a talented rider—very natural, with incredible hands.”

McCarthy’s Breeders’ Cup roster doesn’t end there. His formidable squad also includes Journalism, set for the GI Breeders’ Cup Classic, and the unbeaten turf specialist Formidable Man (City of Light). “Journalism has trained well and kept improving with every race,” he said. “I’m eager to see what he can do on Saturday. Changing riders is never easy—it was a tough call—but these things happen. You make the decision and move forward.” José Ortiz will replace Umberto Rispoli aboard Journalism.

As for Formidable Man, McCarthy’s admiration is clear. “I can’t say enough good things about him. He doesn’t need his home track to perform, but he’s very comfortable here at Del Mar. We’re hoping for more of the same this weekend.”

Measured and methodical as always, McCarthy embraces another Breeders’ Cup challenge—this one with a uniquely international flair. “We’re excited and grateful to be part of something like this,” he reflected. “My team has worked incredibly hard to reach this point in the year. Now it’s time to enjoy the moment.”