THE DUBAI WORLD CUP TRIP

Morning all it did not copy well but basically if you fancy a Jolly Boys or girls outing to the Dubai World Cup

Contact PHIL GEORGIOU

0317640143

For more details......

Should be a cracker

Will keep this thread for Dubai racing

 

Nations Pride is the star turn on the seventh night of Dubai World Cup Carnival action at Meydan Racecourse, which features runners from 10 different countries.

Nations Pride (pictured) defends his perfect Meydan record in the G3 Dubai Millennium Stakes, race six, over 2000metres on turf. The winner of the inaugural Jumeirah Derby here in 2022, he went on to Grade I success in the Saratoga Derby in New York and followed that with success in the G3 Jockey Club Derby at Aqueduct.

“Nations Pride has been pleasing us at home and coming back to a mile and a quarter should suit, said trainer Charlie Appleby, who has won this race six times, including with Royal Fleet 12 months ago. “There will be some improvement to come for whatever he does on his seasonal return, as we hope that he has another international campaign ahead of him this year. Depending on how he goes here, we will consider potentially looking at the Jebel Hatta or the Dubai Turf.”

Appleby also runs Ottoman Fleet, third in the G2 Singspiel Stakes last time out. “Returning to this distance looks as though it might benefit Ottoman Fleet based on his two runs so far this year,” he continued. “He goes into the race a fit horse with solid form around him, so he should be a major player.”

Appleby also has a strong hand in the G3 Nad Al Sheba Trophy, over 2810metres on turf, race five. The $200,000 contest, a prep race for the G2 Dubai Gold Cup at the Dubai World Cup meeting, has been won nine times by Godolphin, with four wins for Appleby and four for Saeed Bin Suroor. They run two each on Friday; Bin Suroor sending out Global Heat and Brilliant Light, while Appleby fields Siskany and Kemari.

 “Siskany looks great and will be a player if he brings his best form to the table,” said the trainer. “He has won over the course and trip, so he looks the one they have to beat.

“Kemari will also be competitive if he can rekindle some of his old form. He ran some solid races last year but can be a little inconsistent these days.”

Bin Suroor said: “Global Heat won over this trip in the Al Khail Trophy and came out of his recent handicap run in good order. He stays well and I’m hoping for another good effort. Brilliant Light worked well last week and has some good form over this distance. He is ready to go again and will appreciate the step up in trip.”

Taking on the Godolphin quartet is the Ismail Mohammed-trained Away He Goes, who was fifth in this race in 2021 before running third in the Gold Cup. He bids to build on a good second to Global Heat here a month ago. The sole mare in the race is Bhupat Seemar’s Wickywickywheels, seventh over a 2410metres last time out. She will be ridden by former UAE Champion Jockey Richie Mullen, deputizing for the suspended Tadhg O’Shea.

“It’s nice to ride one for [owner] Jimmy Long,” said Mullen. “She won the Emirates Championship first up here at Abu Dhabi and was an improving sort all through the summer for Jim Goldie. Her second run here in a Listed race, behind Global Heat, was pretty good and she’s two kilos better off for being beaten two and a half lengths, so that would bring her into the mix. Her last start was a shade disappointing, maybe backing up quick didn’t suit her, but I think she has a live chance and the trip will certainly suit.”

The evening’s Classic is the Group 3 UAE Oaks, race three, over 1900metres on dirt. It was won in 2020 by Salem Bin Ghadayer’s Down On Da Bayou and the trainer has a leading chance this time with Mimi Kakushi, winner of her last two starts, including the Listed UAE 1000 Guineas.

“She will have the distance advantage so I believe if she runs the same race as the 1000 Guineas then she should be the winner,” said a confident Bin Ghadayer. “It’s almost the same field except for the American filly. We have a nice draw and we are hoping for a nice race from her.”

The American raider is Ami Please, the first filly to race in Dubai for American handler Doug O’Neill, while the other international runner is Solaire, who carries the hopes of France.

“It’s the first time on the dirt for Solaire,” said Marine Henry, wife and assistant to trainer Nicolas Caullery. She feels really well and looks really good, but we know it’s a big change as it’s a different way of racing, on the dirt. We’ve got a good jockey in Adrie De Vries.”

Local hopes include Priyanka, who takes her chance for Seemar and Mullen, both of whom are yet to win this race.

“Obviously it's her first time on dirt, but she has galloped on it and it seemed to suit her,” said Mullen. “I’m pretty sure she’s improved from her first start and she has a great draw, in one. Obviously there’s the filly of Doug O’Neill’s [Ami Please] and the two of Doug Watson’s who look the main dangers but hopefully I’ll be able to get a good position and she can give a good account of herself.”

Caullery and Henry run stable star Batwan in the Jebel Ali Free Zone Handicap, race two, over 1200metres on turf. A dual winner over this course and distance last season, the grey was eighth on his return to Meydan three weeks’ ago, when the going was soft.

 “Hopefully it’s not going to rain, “said Henry. “[Mickael] Barzalona is on his back again so we hope to do something interesting. He took a little time to recover from his last race as he absolutely hated the ground, but I’m hoping he’s back to where he was last year.”

Batwan’s opponents include Watson’s Boomshalaa, who is three from four over this distance, and Appleby’s Silent Speech, a winner of the Dubai Trophy over this track and trip a year ago.

The closing Jebel Ali Port Handicap is a competitive 1400metre dirt event in which Mullen rides Western Symphony, a winner over course and distance last time out.

“He’s an improving sort who has been in great form all year,” said Mullen. “Seven furlongs [1400metres] is ideal for him, but we haven’t got the luck with the draw. He’s in 13 which makes life a little bit harder, but he proved last time that he can come from off the pace and he takes the kickback well.”

Western Symphony’s 14 rivals include stablemate Royal Mews, likely favourite for the race after his battling mile victory last time out, and King Gold, third on his first dirt start for the Caullery team.

“King Gold is in a high-level race, but he did really well last time in bad weather and on a track which didn’t suit him,” said Henry. “He wasn’t 100 per cent last time and he’s still not 100 per cent and doesn’t have a good draw [15] but Adrie [De Vries, jockey] knows his job and he knows the horse now.

“Of our three runners on Friday, I have a little preference for King Gold as he’s done so well since coming to Dubai.”

Bin Ghadayer runs top weight Ever Given, a good fourth on local debut in the Group 3 Firebreak Stakes last time out.

“Ever Given has natural speed and a nice draw,” said the trainer. “He ran well in the rain and we’d like to keep him on the dirt for the moment, just to see what we have. He’s a nice horse and he should go very close.”

The card also stages the inaugural Lord Glitters Handicap, named after the popular three-time course winner. It has attracted a cosmopolitan field of 13, with Aegean Finale running for Turkey, Fastnet Crown for Ireland, King David for Norway and Ouzo for the UK.

Racing gets underway at 6pm with the Group 2 Mazrat Al Ruwayyah, in which 13 Purebred Arabians clash over a mile on dirt. Tickets, starting at AED2 for General Admission, are available .....

 

 

Sari Dubai goes for hattrick on loaded Sunday card

 

It took him a while to finally get a win but now Sari Dubai (pictured) stands on the brink of the Dubai World Cup Carnival as he goes for a third straight win on Sunday’s eight-race card.

The Doug Watson-trained colt lines up in the competitive Dubai Creek Harbour by Emaar Handicap, race five, over 2000metres on turf. His current rating of 87 leaves him on the cusp of achieving the 90 required to run at the Carnival.

“Sari Dubai looks to have a nice chance,” said Watson, who trains the grey for owner Saeed Sultan Al Rahoomi. “He’s been very solid since moving to turf.”

Sari Dubai’s 13 rivals include three trained by Ahmad Bin Harmash. First Winter, a winner here two weeks ago over 1600metres, takes on his stablemate Franz Kafka, second over 1800metres last week, while Gareth, a winner here last month, makes up the trio.

Another capacity field of 14 lines up in race six, the Rashid Yachts and Marina Cup, over 1400metres on turf. They include Sense Of Power, who is likely to start favourite for Charlie Appleby. The winner of one of his four starts in the UK, the four-year-old was second on his most recent start at Newmarket in September and makes his local debut here.

Sense Of Power faces three trained by Watson; Cairn Island, Turjomaan and Bawaasil; the latter the pick of stable jockey Pat Dobbs.

“Bawaasil is probably our best chance in that race,” said the trainer of the eight-year-old, who won over this course and distance back in April 2021.

Trainer Michael Costa saddled the first two winners here last Sunday and he runs two in the Downtown Dubai By Emaar Handicap, race seven, over 2200metres on dirt. They are Alhzeem, a nine-length maiden winner here last week, and Waathig, successful at Jebel Ali two starts ago.

“They’re both backing up quickly,” said the trainer. “Waathig back on dirt is a plus and Alhzeem seems to have recovered pretty well from that win. He didn’t beat much but he couldn’t have done it any better. He’s up to handicap level now so we’ll just have to see how they level up, but the extra distance will suit him.”

Watson runs three, including Qareeb, twice a winner over 1900metres here this season. “Qareeb has been very consistent and if he gets the 2200metres he should be tough,” said the handler, who also sends out American Dancer and Karnavaal, both of whom are yet to strike in the UAE.

There are two maiden races on the card, and Costa has strong chances in both. He runs Keffaaf, second on debut at Jebel Ali, in the Arabian Ranches by Emaar Maiden, race two, over 1600metres on turf.

“Keffaaf is really designed to get over a bit of ground,” said Costa of the four-year-old. “He surprised me a little bit over six furlongs [1200metres] at Jebel Ali because I thought he’d be run off his feet. He was early but then he came home OK; better than I thought he would.

“Stepping up to a mile is a plus, it’s just whether that’s still a little bit too short for him, we’ll see, but there’s not much depth to this so he should run a race.”

Rivals to Keffaaf include Salem Bin Ghadayer’s Made In Dubai, placed on five of his ten starts to date, while Maputo and Mischief Moon represent Bhupat Seemar.

Race three, the Emaar Beachfront Maiden over 1400metres on turf, also has 14 runners. Among them is Costa’s Kal Barg, who has been placed on two of his three starts and was beaten a short-head at Jebel Ali last time out.

“Kal Barg, I couldn’t have him any better, the ducks have just lined up for him,” said the trainer. “If he gets any luck from the gate [12] then he’ll be extremely hard to beat. He’s just jumping out of his skin.”

The eight-race card gets underway at 2:30pm with the Valley By Emaar contest, a Conditions event for Purebred Arabians. Tickets, including the new Sunday brunch deal, are available

 Grade 1 star Nations Pride back with a bang

 

Grade 1 winner Nations Pride (pictured) was the headline act on day seven of the Dubai World Cup Carnival and he didn’t let his supporters down, posting a smooth success in the G3 Dubai Millennium Stakes (presented by DP World.)

The winner of the inaugural Jumeirah Derby at Meydan Racecourse last season, he was dropping in distance here to 2000metres but the result never really looked in doubt. Ridden by William Buick for Charlie Appleby, the four-year-old was positioned just off the leaders and was able to pounce on stablemate Ottoman Fleet and then hold off the fast-finishing Zagrey, winning by a length and a quarter.

Appleby, winning this race for the sixth time in a row, now has big plans for the Teofilo colt, with the Group 1 Jebel Hatta and Dubai Turf under consideration.

‘Immediately, you’d say have a crack at the Dubai Turf, as they’ll go a good gallop over the 1800metres there,” he said. “But we’ll see how the cards fall.”

Appleby’s celebrated a treble which started in race four, the Lord Glitters Handicap, over 1600metres on turf. His New Kingdom had placed on all three previous starts at Meydan but gained his first local win here.

Buick did it the hard way from the front and had to endure a tense final 100metres when the unlucky in running Aegean Finale, carrying the hopes of Turkey, flew home for second, missing by a neck.

“He likes to be ridden that way and that’s what Charlie was keen to do,” said the rider. “You could drop him back to seven furlongs, no problem, as he needed the line tonight. He showed great attitude and hopefully he can build on that.”

Appleby and Buick also continued the Godolphin stranglehold on the G3 Nad Al Sheba Trophy (presented by DP World), a prep race for the G2 Dubai Gold Cup on World Cup day.

Siskany won over course and distance in the Listed Al Khail Trophy a year ago and was impressive again here, being unleashed for a run at the 400metre marker and easily passing stablemate and pacesetter Kemari. That rival finished fourth, behind Ardakan and Al Nayyir.

“He hadn’t raced for a while so he was a bit fresh and over racing at stages,” said Buick after Godolphin’s tenth success in the 2810metre turf event. “It was impressive in the end and, like any good stayer, he has that turn of foot. He’s been rock solid from day one and hopefully he can make into a Dubai Gold Cup horse.”

Kentucky trip possible for Oaks winner

Salem Bin Ghadayer is enjoying an excellent season and he celebrated his second G3 UAE Oaks (Presented by DP World) win when Mimi Kakushi took her winning spree to three in a row.

Facing fresh opposition in the form of the Doug O’Neill-trained Ami Please, the daughter of City Of Light sat just on the heels of that rival and was well-placed to challenge her at the top of the straight. A brief battle ensued, but Mickael Barzalona had a bit to spare on Mimi Kakushi, who won by a length and a quarter.

“She’s a very classy filly and she does everything we ask her to,” said Barzalona. “The longer trip was in her favour. [Ami Please] was much faster away than us and my filly was happy to sit behind. At the end I felt like I had plenty in hand.”

Bin Ghadayer added: “She was my favourite filly and she improved again tonight,” he said. “To be honest, I thought this race would be even easier than the Guineas as she wouldn’t be under pressure the whole way.

“She was a professional filly from the beginning, especially in her mind, and she’s very easy to train. She knows she must give everything in a race.”

“The UAE Derby and the Kentucky Oaks for sure will be on her agenda but we need to discuss it with [owner] Sheikh Hamdan [bin Mohammed Al Maktoum.]”

Saeed Bin Suroor suffered a rare blank on last week’s Carnival card but the nine-time Dubai World Cup winner doesn’t often miss at his home track and he saddled the first two home in the Jebel Ali Free Zone Handicap, over 1200metres on turf.

City Walk had failed to win in three previous tries at Meydan but, aided by a good draw in 10 and a positive ride by Danny Tudhope, he was able to change that. The six-year-old led early on and found more when headed by stablemate Open Mind, grinding out a neck success.

“They’ve been coming over this side [towards the stands] the whole time so I edged over,” said Tudhope of his tactics. “He broke well and relaxed in front tonight. When I saw Open Mind come upsides I thought he might outstay me but my fellow stuck his neck out.”

There was a pleasing finale to the evening when the popular Golden Goal bounced back to winning ways in the Jebel Ali Port Handicap, over 1400metres on dirt.

The Doug Watson-trained grey hadn’t won since the 2022 G2 Maktoum Challenge R1 but was dropping in class here. Ridden by Pat Dobbs, he was able to sit off a fast early pace and came with a sustained run to deny Royal Mews, who had set sail for home under James Doyle. That rival finished second, ahead of French raider King Gold.

“He jumped well today and they went quick, so I let him find his own rhythm,” said Dobbs. “He travelled so much better than when I last rode him, so I knew going around the turn that I had a chance and at the furlong pole I thought I might get there. This horse stays a mile so this was actually a little bit sharp for him.”

Earlier on, Iraqi trainer Qaiss Aboud enjoyed the biggest success of his training career when AF Almomayaz won the opening G2 Mazrat Al Ruwayah for Purebred Arabians.

Ridden by Adrie de Vries, the eight-year-old took advantage of the rail and was tenacious in holding off the closing Heros De Lagarde by a neck.

“He’s a brave little horse. He’s not over big but he has a big heart,” said De Vries, riding his third winner of the Carnival. “I liked his race here the last time when he was second after being wide all the way.

“He’s definitely straightforward and didn’t hesitate in going through that gap, which isn’t something every Arabian will do for you.”

The Carnival continues next Friday, February 24th, when the G2 Balanchine is the feature

 

 

With The Moonlight out to shine in Balanchine

 

The Group 2 Balanchine Stakes (Presented by Land Rover) has produced Group 1 performers in the past and eight smart fillies will aim to continue that tradition in Friday’s race, the feature of the Carnival’s eighth meeting.

Godolphin have won the last five runnings of this and look the team to beat again, with Charlie Appleby sending out With The Moonlight, who beat five of these rivals in the Group 2 Cape Verdi last time out. Her main opposition looks to be stablemate Tranquil Lady, who is a new acquisition for the stable, having won a French Group 3 for trainer Joseph O’Brien when last seen in October.

“With The Moonlight has come forward since the Cape Verdi and the step back up in distance is going to suit,” said Appleby, who has won this race four times. “She has a penalty to carry but is clear on ratings and has already won at the track this season. She looks the one they all have to beat.

Of Tranquil Lady, who sold to Godolphin for 2.7million Guineas at Tattersalls in December, he added: “This will be her first start for us, so we are on a slight learning curve, but we are confident that she will run a nice race. We will potentially see her at her best over further and this will be our first opportunity to get a handle on her ahead of the forthcoming season.”

Godolphin also hold a strong hand in the Jumeirah Fillies’ Guineas, a new race which is being run over 1600metres on turf. Saeed Bin Suroor’s Mawj has valuable track experience, having just held on over 1400metres in the Jumeirah Fillies’ Classic a month ago.

“Racing over a mile will be a new experience for her – she has plenty of speed - but we wanted to give her the chance to see if she can stay this trip,” said Bin Suroor, who is already thinking ahead to Mawj’s European campaign. “She worked nicely on Monday and looks ready to go again. It would be very good if she can get the mile, especially with future targets in mind.”

Rated just 5lbs below Mawj is Appleby’s Fairy Cross, who signed off for 2022 with a win in the Group 3 Prestige Stakes at Goodwood in August.

“Fairy Cross has physically done well out in Dubai,” said Appleby. “This was an opportunity to get a run into her out here and she will definitely come on for the outing. We are hoping that she will have a busy campaign after this, so it’s a day out before heading back to Europe.”

There are four internationals in the field, including Rise And Shine, trained in France by Hiroo Shimizu and ridden by Adrie de Vries who is realistic about her chances.

“Rise And Shine needs to find a lot to be in the prizemoney,” he said. “She didn’t like the dirt last time but I’ve ridden her in a little bit of work the other day and she’s a nice filly. She’ll be better on the turf but it’s a tough race.”

The form of last year’s Jumeirah Derby (Presented by Al Tayer Motors) worked out extremely well, with winner Nations Pride going on to Grade 1 glory in the States. A field of nine will try to emulate him in this year’s race, with his stablemates One Nation and Highbank joined by Bin Suroor’s Al Khazneh.

“One Nation should enjoy the extra furlong and looks a leading contender,” said Appleby. “He ran a very solid race last time and came out of it in great order. Highbank has produced two sound efforts so far this year and will be interesting over this distance, which should suit based on his pedigree. We feel he can be very competitive as well.”

Fawzi Nass runs two, with stable jockey De Vries opting to ride recent maiden winner Sharar over Legend Of Cannes.

“This was a hard pick for me,” said the jockey. “I think Sharar is a horse who is improving still and Legend Of Cannes has been quite busy lately so that’s why I picked Sharar – he might have a bit more left in the tank.”

The opening race is the Al Karama Stakes (Presented by Defender 130), a 1400metre dirt three-year-old contest. Bhupat Seemar’s Morning, dropping in grade and distance from the UAE 2000 Guineas, looks interesting, while Ah Jeez, a son of UAE Derby winner Mendelssohn, makes his local debut for California-based trainer Doug O’Neill.

35 minutes later, a field of nine lines up for the Defender 90 Handicap, over 1200metres on dirt. De Vries rides King Gold, third on both of his local starts so far for French trainer Nicolas Caullery.

“King Gold ran a cracking race last time,” said the jockey. “I committed a little bit too early and he didn’t quite stay the seven furlongs. He had a bad draw that day [15] and I think the six furlongs will suit him down to the ground. He’ll be a good ride.”

The opposition includes the lightly raced Colour Up, another who was undone by a wide draw last time when finishing second to Rawy over this course and distance.

“Colour Up has been given a good break and is in good form,” said owner Sayed Hashish, who bought the son of Mehmas as two-year-old. “The draw [9] is not good but we’re hoping for a big run.”

Race three, the Defender 110 Handicap, over 1400metres on turf, is fiendishly competitive and has a full field of 16, including five for Godolphin. Appleby runs Silent Film, the pick of William Buick, and Bay Of Honour, while Bin Suroor sends out Major Partnership, Light And Dark and White Lion.

De Vries rides Ali Albadwawi’s course and distance winner Al Salt, who returns to Meydan having won last time out at Abu Dhabi.

“Al Salt won with a little bit in hand last time,” he said. “He got out late and he still finished well, winning quite comfortably. He will be another good ride.”

The Hashish silks will be carried here by course and distance winner Spirit Of Light, who has earned a cheque on all three Carnival starts so far this season.

“Spirit Of Light will need to defy top weight and bad draw,” said the owner. “It won’t be an easy task but there should be strong pace in the race which should help him.”

The closing race, the Defender 75th Limited Edition Handicap, over 1600metres on dirt, has a field of 12, including dual course and distance winner Street Mood and raiders from Spain, in Legionario, and the Czech Republic in Josephino.

Racing begins at 6pm and tickets, starting at AED2 for General Admission, are available

 

 

‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
Global stars converge for Super Saturday

Runners from 13 countries clash at Meydan Racecourse

It’s the second-biggest day of the year at Meydan Racecourse and ‘Super Saturday’ has certainly lived up to billing, with bumper field sizes across the nine races and runners from 13 different countries.

The official highlight of what is a well-established Dubai World Cup trials day is G1 Maktoum Challenge R3, sponsored by Emirates Airline, a prep race for the $12million Dubai World Cup itself.

The field of 14 includes four Group 1 winners, one of which is the Fawzi Nass-trained Salute The Soldier, successful in this race in 2021. If he wins again, he will be the first dual winner of the contest, which dates back to 1994.

“He’s in good form,” said jockey Adrie de Vries. “Last time he stumbled coming out of the gate, overreached and pulled a shoe. That cost him his position early on and he was at the back of the field and got a lot of dirt, which he doesn’t really like. You can forget about that run.

“He doesn’t have the best of draws [10] on Saturday, but if we can overcome that and get a good position out of the kickback then I’m hopeful he’s going to run another big race.”

Taking him on is four trained by Bhupat Seemar. Bendoog will be ridden by James Doyle, Kafoo by Dane O’Neill, Law Of Peace by Tadhg O’Shea and Sanad Libya by Richie Mullen.

“Bendoog is drawn in four and he’s done really well this year,” said Seemar. “He’s kept on improving with every run and he was quite impressive when he was behind a very talented horse in Algiers last time. He’s a forward-going horse with a good draw, so hopefully he’ll get a good break.”

Kafoo was fourth in this race 12 months ago and arrives here after finishing fourth in the G3 Jebel Ali Mile last time out.

“Kafoo has also done well and this is his true distance,” said Seemar. “He’s drawn well in eight as he doesn’t want to be too far in or too far out.

“The other two horses come from the back, so if the pace is fast it will suit Law Of Peace and Sanad Libya.”

There is strong South American representation with Brazilian born, Uruguay-based Antonio Cintra sending out Atletico El Culano and course and distance winner Ajuste Fiscal.

“Both of the horses are in good condition and have had strong seasons here, against practically the same horses they face here,” said the multiple Uruguay Champion Trainer. “We are confident both will run good races and give themselves a chance of qualifying for World Cup night.

“The final workouts for both left us very happy and they look fantastic.”

The Group 1 Jebel Hatta, prep for the G1 Dubai Turf, is the third top level race on the card. Run over 1800metres on turf, it has attracted a field of 15, including defending champion Alfareeq who will make history if able to win this for a second time.

There is an exciting challenger from overseas in Russian Emperor, who will be the first runner in Dubai for 13-time Hong Kong Champion Jockey Douglas Whyte, who has been riding the Group 1 winner in trackwork during the week.

The son of Galileo arrived in Dubai fresh from Amir’s Trophy success in Doha and Whyte is viewing this race as a prep for the G1 Longines Dubai Sheema Classic.

“Saturday is going to be a stepping stone for my horse and myself," said the South African, who rode as a jockey several times in Dubai. “He’s got barrier three so I can see him settling, probably, worse than midfield. Hopefully, he can work home and run a creditable race for Hong Kong, and then its on to the Sheema Classic.”

Four go for Godolphin; two trained by Charlie Appleby and two by Saeed bin Suroor, who has won this six times.

Bin Suroor fields Land Of Legends and Real World (pictured), who returns to action for the first time since being gelded and since chasing home the great Baaeed in the G1 Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot in June.

“This will be Real World’s first start since June and I expect him to be 80 to 85 per cent ready for the race,” said the trainer of the 2022 Zabeel Mile winner. “He has had issues in the past but has been working nicely recently. We are treating this very much as a prep-race for the Dubai Turf and he will certainly come on for the run.”

William Buick, stable jockey to Appleby, has elected to ride Master Of The Seas, who made a smooth return to action when winning the G2 Zabeel Mile last time out.

“It was always the plan to head here with Master Of The Seas following the Zabeel Mile and he has a decent draw in stall two,” commented Appleby, who has won this race three times, latterly with Barney Roy in 2020. “While Real World is the class act, we are confident that our horse can be a big player with that run under his belt.”

James Doyle, who won this race in 2015 with Hunter’s Light and again in 2018 with Blair House, partners track record holder Valiant Prince, who is four from four at Meydan.

“Valiant Prince is drawn wide in 14, which will make it quite a challenge for him,” added Appleby. “He has done nothing wrong in his two starts this year and can prove a big player if he can get a clear run round.”

With Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Turf winner Rebel’s Romance sadly missing the race due to a leg inflammation, Appleby relies on Global Storm and Kemari in the G2 Dubai City Of Gold [sponsored by Emirates SkyCargo], which is the prep for the G1 Longines Dubai Sheema Classic. He comes up against two trained by Bin Suroor in Global Heat and the well-regarded White Wolf.

“Global Heat will be suited by the return to a mile and a half. He came out of the Nad Al Sheba Trophy in good order and I am hoping for a good performance,” said the trainer. “White Wolf ran well on his first start of year but didn’t handle dirt in the Curlin Handicap. I am looking forward to seeing how he gets on, as he is a horse I like.”

Wide open mile and sprint contests

There are two Group 3s on the card, the first of which is the Burj Nahaar [sponsored by Emirates Skywards]. 2022 winner Desert Wisdom, trained by Ahmad Al Shemaili, defends his title against a capacity field of 15 rivals.

He will be ridden by Adrie De Vries, who believes that the five-year-old has a tough task. “Desert Wisdom hasn’t been the same horse as last year,” he said. “Last time he was ridden quite positively after a bad start and when I rode him first time out he didn’t get a good run as well.

“Back at a mile, I wouldn’t count him out. I haven’t galloped him but I see him in the mornings and he looks really good in his coat. I was very lucky with him last year, with draws, and a nice run along the inside, so that is what I’m going to look for again.”

Desert Wisdom’s rivals include 2021 G2 Godolphin Mile winner Secret Ambition, the mount of Tadhg O’Shea, while Doug Watson sends out three; Everfast, Canvassed and Fanaar, who beat Secret Ambition in the G3 Jebel Ali Mile last time out.

Race three, the G3 Nad Al Sheba Turf Sprint [sponsored by Emirates Holidays], will give some pointers towards the G1 Al Quoz Sprint. City Walk, Miqyaas and Coachello were all winners last time out, as was George Boughey’s Al Dasim who is two from two over course and distance in three-year-old contests.

Another UK raider is the Ian Williams-trained Spirit Of Light, who drops to this trip for the first time, having run over 1400metres last week.

 “I’ve always wanted to see him over six furlongs,” said owner Sayed Hashish. “He prefers to have a breather and finish strong, so we will learn if the straight course will suit his style.”

The card’s other sprint is the concluding G3 Mahab Al Shimaal [sponsored by Emirates SkyCargo], prep for the G1 Dubai Golden Shaheen. 10 run, including two trained by Bhupat Seemar. Tuz beat the reopposing Isolate in the G3 Al Shindagha Sprint last time out, but this time must break from stall 10.  

“Tuz was very impressive in his last run, but he was drawn very favourably, in one. He’s drawn 10 this time, but he has plenty of early speed, which is his asset. He might have to go fast and furious from ten but this would be the plan.”

Seemar also runs new recruit Sound Money, who has moved from the barn of Chad Brown in the States.

“Sound Money is a lovely horse,” said the trainer of the five-year-old. “He stays a bit further but he has plenty of class and speed so he should not be far off in a six furlong (1200metre) race. It is his first run for us, but he’s training really well so he should give a good show.”

Hashish sees his silks carried by the progressive Colour Up, a winner over course and distance just last week. “It took a lot of thought between me and Doug [Watson, trainer, to decide whether to back up so quickly],” he said. “It was dependent on his first work to assess how is he and the gate draw. Both went well, so I hope I’m making the right decision.”

The Listed Al Bastakiya [sponsored by Arabian Adventures] sees 12 three-year-olds compete for a spot in the G2 UAE Derby. California-based trainer Doug O’Neill sits this out with his UAE 2000 Guineas winner Tall Boy but fields Ami Please, second in the G3 UAE Oaks last time out.

“Ami Please ran a nice race last time,” said Leandro Mora, in charge of the O’Neill team in Dubai. “We’re very happy with how she’s come on from that.”

The field includes two last time out winners, Lahresh and Go Soldier Go, the latter having been successful over this course and distance for trainer Fawzi Nass.

A capacity field lines up in the opening G1 Maktoum Challenge Round 3 [sponsored by Arabian Adventures) for Purebred Arabians, in which Kahayla Classic runner-up Kerless Del Roc looks the one to beat. His rivals include G2 Mazrat Al Ruwayah winner AF Almomayaz, ridden by Adrie de Vries for trainer Qaiss Aboud.

“It was a weak Group 2 which he won last time, over a mile, and I think the 2000metres will stretch him,” said de Vries. “He has an impossible draw as well [16] but I think connections are keen to try and see if they can go for the big one.”

Racing gets underway at 3:30pm and tickets have held their Carnival prices.

 

 

Remember it's SUPER SATURDAY

Some top class horses plus Ali commentary

AL DASIM

BENDOOG

AL SUHALL

MASTER OF THE SEAS

Very competitive

Good Punting 👍

Hi Dave. Up and at em already. Seriously busy day for me with a 5 hour before race 1 call time to do production meetings, links and previews...

Races 1 and 2 are hard to read
Race 3 I have a fancy for 4 Discovery Island to beat last year's winner, (3) Desert Wisdom and 13 Royal Mews

Race 4 is interesting. Al Dasim is from a top yard. Think George Boughey is the 2nd best trainer in the world after Candice Dawson. Not often a 3yo runs in this race but he gets weight. But drawn on the wrong side. Can settle and has a great turn of foot. Dangers are 1,2,3,6,8,14

Race 5 not much inspires. Don't think the world of 5 Mr Raj but he has been entered in the 2000 Guineas.

They all ran away in race 6 to avoid a penalty for World Cup night. By default Bendoog (3) who has forgotten how to win

Race 7 no 2 Al Suhail. Should win

Race 8. Much better renewal than last year. No 12 Real World top choice. Highest rated. Best performed. Douglas Whyte sends No 13 Russian Emperor from Hong Kong. No 15 Valiant Prince and No 10 Master Of The Seas have been well prepped and last years winner No 3 Alfareeq is also a player

Race 9 no 3 Isolate. Given a shot ride on local debut. Should step up and win

Ali

Secret Ambition
White Wolf
Al Dasim
Bendoog

Lucky 15

Outsider @ 50/1 Ajwad

Global stars honoured at HH Sheikh Mohammed

Six-time Group 1 winner Baaeed, jockeys Irad Ortiz Jnr and Bernardo Pinheiro and trainer Todd Pletcher are among those honoured at the sixth edition of HH Sheikh Mohammed Horse Racing Excellence Awards.

Taking place at a sparkling ceremony during racing on ‘Super Saturday,’ March 4th, at Meydan Racecourse, the awards commemorate some of the leading connections to have participated at the Dubai World Cup meeting, as well as two awards decided by public vote.

Commenting on the awards, Major General Dr Mohammed Essa Al Adhab, General Manager of Dubai Racing Club, said: “The HH Sheikh Mohammed Horse Racing Excellence Awards were founded in 2017 as an expression of His Highness’ love for racing and passion for horses.

“They recognize the best in the industry, with a nod towards those who have supported our Dubai World Cup meeting, as well as giving racing fans a chance to vote on their favourites through the People’s Choice and Best Local Jockey awards.”

Full list of awards and bios of winners:

HH Sheikh Mohammed Horse Racing Excellence Awards

Best Horse – LIFE IS GOOD (USA)

Life Is Good is one of the best horses to have emerged from the USA in recent years. Bred by Gary and May West, the son of Into Mischief sold for $525,000 dollars to China Horse Club at the 2019 Keeneland September Yearling Sale.

It proved to be money well spent, as Life Is Good went on to earn more than $4.5million throughout his career, which saw him win eight of his 11 starts, including four Grade 1s. He came up a little short in the Dubai World Cup, however, finishing an honourable fourth behind Country Grammer.

Trained by Todd Pletcher for most of his career, Life Is Good excelled when he returned to the USA, his performance in the Grade 1 Whitney at Saratoga earned him an international rating of 125. That made him the highest-rated horse to come out of the 2022 Dubai World Cup meeting and therefore the winner of this award.

Best Owner – WINSTAR FARM and CHINA HORSE CLUB

When one of the newest and biggest owners in world racing joins with one of Kentucky’s most successful Stud Farms the result is bound to be a good one. Winstar Farm and China Horse Club combined for joint-ownership of Life Is Good and we’ve already heard what a star he was. This team are our Best Owners.

Best Jockey – IRAD ORTIZ JNR

The rider of Life Is Good as well as host of other equine stars, Irad Ortiz Jnr has been one of the most successful riders in North America over the past decade. His record in Grade I events since riding at the 2022 Dubai World Cup meeting came out top of all the jockeys to compete on the day, so he is our 2023 Best Jockey winner.

Best Trainer – TODD PLETCHER

One of the most recognizable faces in world racing, multiple Eclipse Award winner Todd Pletcher enjoyed an excellent 2022, winning 15 Grade 1 races, making him the most successful at the top level of all the trainers to have competed at the 2022 Dubai World Cup meeting.

Lifetime Achievement – ANDRE FABRE

French trainer Andre Fabre is one of the most successful ever to grace the sport. He has won 30 French Championships, eight Prix de l’Arc de Triomphes and all the British Classics. Locally, the highlight was the Dubai Sheema Classic win with Polish Summer in 2004, while he has also been a constant supporter of the Dubai World Cup meeting across a number of seasons.

People’s Choice (By Public Vote)

BAAEED (winner)

Baaeed’s story was closely followed by Dubai racing fans thanks to his popular owner, Shadwell driving force HH Sheikha Hissa Bint Hamdan Al Maktoum. Trained expertly by William Haggas and ridden by Jim Crowley, the son of Sea The Stars won 10 of his 11 starts, including six Group 1s, and treated UK racing fans to a summer of brilliance. His final race proved a bridge too far, when he could only finish fourth in the Champion Stakes at Ascot, but he retired to Shadwell Stud as one of the best horses to grace the turf in recent years.

Best Local Jockey (By Public Vote)

BERNARDO PINHEIRO (winner)

A native of Brazil, Bernardo Pinheiro finished fourth in the Championship in the 2021-22 season, riding 24 winners from 262 rides. Based with former UAE Champion Trainer Musabbeh Al Mheiri, Pinheiro also has the number one jockey role for Abu Dhabi-based trainer Majed Al Jahoori. Bernardo celebrated his marriage in 2022, tying the knot with partner Gabriela Couto.

-          ENDS -

 

 

 

 

 

For further information please contact:
Media Department, Dubai Racing Club
E-mail: media@dubairacingclub.com
Tel: +971 4 316 8653    Fax: +971 4 327 0048


 

 

I have tried to drum up support and coverage for Dubai racing and have no idea of the pool sizes .
Also aware the focus was on local racing but the coverage was an absolute shocker. ...
The timing, split screen, priorities, out of sync with replays etc.....🤧😡