Cox Classic Contenders Breeze at Churchill

Brad Cox-trained divisional leaders and GI Breeders' Cup Classic-bound runners Knicks Go (Paynter) and 'TDN Rising Star' Essential Quality (Tapit) each breezed Saturday morning at Churchill Downs. The former, last seen running away with the

GI Whitney S. at Saratoga last month, was clocked in 1:00.80 (17/61) for five panels. The Korea Racing Authority colorbearer is expected to go postward a heavy favorite in next Saturday's GIII Lukas Classic at Churchill Downs.

Last year's champion juvenile and leading sophomore Essential Quality, meanwhile, went a half-mile in :50.60 (87/102). Most recently victorious in the GI Runhappy Travers S. Aug. 28, the Godolphin homebred is expected to train up to the Breeders' Cup.

“These are two extremely talented horses that we have in our barn,” Cox said. “They've both accomplished a lot this year and we're looking forward to the Breeders' Cup.”