Breeders Cup Classic and Preakness winner Curlin was the overwhelming choice as 2007 Horse of the Year and top 3-year-Old Male, it was announced Monday, January 21, during the Eclipse Award ceremonies in Beverly Hills, CA. Rags to Riches, the first filly in 102 years to win the Belmont Stakes, was named champion 3-Year-Old Filly.

Curlin, trained through his classic wins by Steve Asmussen, began his race career last February with a 12 3/4-length win. Third-placed in the Kentucky Derby and second to Rags to Riches in the Belmont, he finished the year with six wins from nine starts and $5,102,800.

Trainer Todd Pletcher, who conditioned three Eclipse winners in Rags to Riches, English Channel (Turf Male) and Lawyer Ron (Older Male) received the award as leading trainer for the fourth consecutive year. His 2007 earnings of $28,571,697 was won in 1,233 starts with a 289-181-180 record, including 17 stakes wins.

Steve Asmussen, ranked second to Pletcher in 2007 standings, earned $23,898,844 from 2,273 starts with 488-414-329.

Garrett Gomez, who rode Eclipse champions Rags to Riches, Midnight Lute and Indian Blessing, accepted the award as leading jockey. The California-based rider had 295 wins and earnings of $22,800,074. He also broke a record for most stakes wins with 76. Jerry Bailey had held the record with 70 since 2003.

Other 2007 Eclipse winners include: Indian Blessing (Juvenile Female); Ginger Punch (Older Female); Midnight Lute (Male Sprinter); Mayfield (Female Sprinter); Lahadood (Turf Female); Good Night Shirt (Steeplechaser); Adena Springs (Breeder); Shadwell Stable (Owner).