It’s been two years since the grandstand at Woodbine thundered with applause for Nations Pride, and as autumn light filters across Toronto’s famed turf, the reigning champion is back — older, wiser, and ready to defend his crown in the Grade 1 Canadian International this Saturday.
For trainer Charlie Appleby and owner Godolphin, it’s familiar territory — and yet, the sense of occasion never fades. The $750,000 contest, a 1½-mile turf classic, has always been a magnet for excellence, and this 85th edition promises another chapter of international quality and intrigue.
“He’s travelled the world and always shows up,” Appleby said of his seasoned charge. “He’s got a great constitution, very relaxed, and that’s why he can perform anywhere.”
Nations Pride Seeks Repeat Triumph
The 6-year-old son of Teofilo (IRE) returns to Woodbine off a commendable third in Saratoga’s Sword Dancer Stakes (G1T). His 2025 campaign has been defined by versatility — from Meydan’s sunshine to Munich’s soft turf — where he captured the Grosser Dallmayr-Preis (G1T) in July.
With Billy Loughnane taking the reins, Nations Pride (IRE) aims to become a rare two-time winner of the Canadian International, joining names like Desert Encounter and George Royal.
His stable’s Woodbine record inspires confidence: in 2021, Appleby guided Walton Street to a dominant 5¾-length win, and just weeks ago, his colt Notable Speech conquered the Woodbine Mile (G1T) to secure a Breeders’ Cup berth.
Haunted Dream and Silawi Lead Wathnan Assault
While all eyes fall naturally on Nations Pride, the Wathnan Racing duo of Haunted Dream (IRE) and Silawi (IRE) offer compelling subplots.
Haunted Dream made his North American debut in style, storming home to win the HPIbet Singspiel Stakes (G3T) last month. Trainer Hamad Al-Jehani initially planned a break, but the gelding’s verve persuaded him otherwise.
“It’s a big step up, but he earned it,” Al-Jehani said. “He’s genuine — he’ll give everything again.”
Stablemate Silawi enters off a Group 3 victory in the Winter Hill Stakes at Windsor, where he fended off multiple challengers with gritty resolve. Al-Jehani admits both horses are evenly matched and hopes for “clean, uncomplicated trips” for his pair.
Tawny Port Adds American Firepower
Adding North American grit to the global mix is Tawny Port, trained by Miguel Clement. The Kentucky-bred 6-year-old has banked over $2 million and arrives off two strong seconds at Kentucky Downs, including the Turf Cup Invitational (G2T).
“He’s amazingly consistent,” Clement remarked. “He may not be up front early, but you’ll see him flying late.”
A Field Steeped in History and Class
Saturday’s Canadian International features ten turf specialists aged three and up, all vying for the coveted trophy and a share of the rich purse. Past winners include legendary names like Secretariat, Chief Bearhart, Singspiel, and Joshua Tree (IRE) — the race’s only three-time victor.
The day’s undercard promises additional fireworks with the $250,000 Nearctic Stakes (G2T) and $200,000 bet365 Dance Smartly Stakes (G2T), making for one of Woodbine’s most anticipated cards of the year.
Read more race previews and international turf features on RaceBuzz.
