Defending Horse of the Year Curlin made his return to dirt racing in the $500,000 Woodward Stakes (gr. I) a successful one at Saratoga Aug. 30, but he had to work to get the job done.

Curlin, the 3-10 favorite against six rivals, looked like a big winner as he clicked into gear for jockey Robby Albarado rounding the final turn. He drew even with pacesetter Past the Point, a 40-1 shot, in upper stretch as second choice Divine Park retreated. But after getting a slight advantage, the champ labored in the final eighth of a mile before prevailing by 1 1/4 lengths.

“Curlin is meant for the big moment,” said trainer Steve Asmussen. “He takes it all in stride.”