The Irish-bred Norther Spur’s affinity for soft footing worked to his advantage as he scored a driving victory in the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Turf at Belmont Park.

Northern Spur, who was owned by Oaklawn Park owner and President Charles Cella and trained by Hall of Famer Ron McAnally, began his career in France, where he always showed a preference for far less than firm footing so when the course was rain soaked on race day it played right into his hand. The 4-year-old colt stalked the pace, led in the stretch, and then had to contend with a challenge from Freedom Cry (GB) down the lane in what track announcer Tom Durkin described as “a test of stamina to the wire.”

Freedom Cry was the runner-up by a neck and the favored Carnegie (IRE) took third, two more lengths back in the 13-horse field, while running as an entry with Tamure (IRE), who was fourth.

Northern Spur’s final time for the 1 ½ miles was 2:42.07 and he paid $9.90. He was the 1995 Male Turf champion.