Midnight Bisou, sure to be older-female dirt champion of 2019, continued her preparation for the $20 million Saudi Cup on Feb. 29 when she worked five furlongs in 1:01.40 Wednesday at Fair Grounds.

Working during the short window reserved for breezing horses just after the morning renovation break, Midnight Bisou was put to no pressure while sailing solo through her drill over a good, sealed racing surface.

“It was what she needed for where she is right now,” said trainer Steve Asmussen just after watching the work from the track apron.

Midnight Bisou departs Fair Grounds on Feb. 16 and flies Feb. 17 from Florida for the Saudi Cup, a dirt race over about 1 1/8-miles. If she runs well there, she could ship to Dubai for the $10 million World Cup on March 28.

Asmussen said he also plans to send Engage, most recently fourth in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint, to the $1.5 million Riyadh Dirt Sprint, a dirt race over about six furlongs.  

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