RACING: Record-breaking miler Rock Of Gibraltar is a finalist in two categories for America's prestigious Eclipse Awards for 2002.
Aidan O'Brien's champion, who carried the colours of Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson, won 10 of his 13 starts including seven successive Group One races, beating Mill Reef's record which had stood for 30 years.
Rock Of Gibraltar's winning run came to an end when he was a strong-finishing second - just failing to get up after being in last place turning for home - in the Breeders' Cup Mile at Arlington in October.
'The Rock', as he became known, amassed a total of £1,269,800 in win and place money, of which £1,100,230 was from his victories.
The son of Danehill, who has been retired to Coolmore Stud, was revealed to be in line for the top honour of Horse of the Year as well as Leading Male Turf Horse when the finalists for the Eclipse Awards were announced on Friday by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, National Turf Writers Association and Daily Racing Form.
Rock Of Gibraltar faces stiff opposition for the title of Horse of the Year from Azeri, impressive when landing the Breeders' Cup Distaff.
In the Male Turf Horse category his rivals are O'Brien's dual Derby winner and Breeders' Cup Turf hero High Chaparral.
The 32nd Eclipse Awards, voted on and presented by the three organisations, will be announced at a ceremony in Beverly Hills on January 27.
