Flatten the Curve Wins $1 Million Bowling Green Gold Cup

Bowling Green, Kentucky, September 2, 2025

News Summary

In a stunning display of talent, Flatten the Curve, a 6-year-old gelding, secured his first U.S. victory at the Bowling Green Gold Cup Invitational Stakes. Trained by Henk Grewe and owned by Eckhard Sauren, the gelding’s triumph marked a significant milestone in his career. After a strong performance in Germany, Flatten the Curve showcased impressive stamina and racing strategy, overcoming several competitors to win by 5½ lengths. With total earnings now at $586,388, his sights are set on the upcoming Melbourne Cup.

Bowling Green, Kentucky – Flatten the Curve, a 6-year-old gelding, achieved a remarkable victory in the $1 million Bowling Green Gold Cup Invitational Stakes at Kentucky Downs on August 30, 2025. This win marks a significant milestone as it is his first victory in the United States, enhancing his overall career record to eight wins from 41 starts and total earnings reaching $586,388.

Trained by Henk Grewe and owned by Eckhard Sauren, Flatten the Curve traveled more than 4,700 miles to compete at the renowned racetrack, marking his third transatlantic journey in just three months. His previous races included a competition at the Saratoga Race Course and a notable victory in the Langer Hamburger Stakes back in Germany last month.

Flatten the Curve displayed impressive racing tactics, particularly during the 2 1/16 miles event where he surpassed five competitors to secure a commanding 5½-length win. His race time was recorded at 3:29.58. Jockey Thore Hammer Hansen expertly guided the gelding through the race, allowing Flatten the Curve to track the favorite horse, Limited Liability, before taking the lead in the stretch and ultimately securing the victory.

In the wagering market, Flatten the Curve was the second choice with odds of 2-1, rewarding his backers with a payout of $6.20 to win. His performance comes right after he finished fourth in the off-the-turf Belmont Gold Cup on June 6, where he fell short but returned to his prominence after regaining form in Germany.

The turnout and European-style layout of Kentucky Downs were well-suited for Flatten the Curve, allowing him to feel comfortable and capitalize on a slower race pace. Closing the field, Tawny Port finished in second place, while Limited Liability, the defending winner of the race, settled for third.

Having showcased remarkable stamina and racing strategy, Flatten the Curve’s victory has positioned him for serious consideration in the upcoming Melbourne Cup, which is scheduled for November 4, 2025. As one of the major horse racing events globally, this opportunity reveals the potential for further success in his career.

Background and Recent Races

Since launching his racing career in 2022, Flatten the Curve has gained a reputation in both U.S. and European circuits. Following a period of underwhelming performances in his earlier U.S. outings, his recent victories in Germany paved the way for a more successful return to American soil. This adaptability illustrates both the horse’s stamina and the strategic expertise of his trainer, Henk Grewe.

Competitive Landscape

Flatten the Curve competed among a field of five other horses that featured strong competitors, which included notable past winners. The Bowling Green Gold Cup is one of several stakes races featured at Kentucky Downs, showcasing the talent and competitive spirit of horses at this stage of their careers. This specific event is recognized for its challenging distance and historical prestige in the horse racing community.

Conclusion

Flatten the Curve’s performance at Kentucky Downs is a testament to his development as an elite competitor. The victory not only heightens his profile but also adds excitement for future events, notably the imminent Melbourne Cup. As the racing world watches, his journey exemplifies the dedication and resilience required in thoroughbred racing.

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Additional Resources

• Paulick Report: Melbourne Cup Next for Flatten the Curve
• Daily Racing Form: Flatten the Curve Romps in Gold Cup
• The Press Box: Kentucky Downs Barn Notes
• Brisnet: Wimbledon Hawkeye Prevails
• Horse Racing Nation: Kentucky Downs Wrap
• Wikipedia: Horse Racing
• Google Search: Flatten the Curve horse
• Google Scholar: Flatten the Curve horse racing
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Horse Racing
• Google News: Flatten the Curve Kentucky Downs

Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER

The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.