Super Saturday at Meydan: A Preview of Dubai’s Racing Future
Emirates Super Saturday at Meydan showcased a thrilling preview of potential stars, with seasoned veterans and promising newcomers vying for position ahead of the Dubai World Cup meeting. The event highlighted the continued importance of Meydan as a crucial stepping stone for horses targeting major international races, particularly the 2000 Guineas and Sheema Classic.
Rebel’s Romance Aims for Another Dubai Triumph
Globetrotting superstar Rebel’s Romance is back in Dubai, looking to add another chapter to his impressive career. Trainer Charlie Appleby expressed confidence in the eight-year-old’s condition, noting his enthusiasm remains high despite his age. Rebel’s Romance will compete in the Group Two Dubai City Of Gold, a race he used as a springboard to victory in the Sheema Classic two years ago. He was previously only defeated by Ethical Diamond in a Breeders’ Cup Turf attempt.
Facing competition from Fort George and Burdett Road, Rebel’s Romance is expected to be a strong favorite. James Owen, trainer of Burdett Road, acknowledged the challenge, stating they are aiming for prize money despite Rebel’s Romance’s formidable presence. Burdett Road is rebounding after a disappointing performance in the Red Sea Turf Handicap.
Sprint and Stakes Action: Cover Up and Quddwah in the Spotlight
The Nad Al Sheba Turf Sprint featured Cover Up, testing his ability over six furlongs after a successful winter campaign over five. Trainer Ed Crisford believes the extra furlong could suit the horse, given his strong finish in recent races. The Crisford team as well entered Quddwah in the Group Two Singspiel Stakes, stepping up to nine furlongs for the first time.
Crisford noted Quddwah’s dam’s success over a similar distance in Dubai, suggesting the longer trip shouldn’t pose a problem. He also pointed to a less-than-ideal run in Abu Dhabi as a factor in the horse’s previous performance.
Talk Of Recent York: A Rising Star for the 2000 Guineas
All eyes were on Talk Of New York in the Jumeirah 2000 Guineas, a horse already generating significant buzz as a contender for the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket. Trainer Charlie Appleby described him as a “nice horse in the making,” emphasizing the race as a valuable learning experience. Appleby also runs Pacific Avenue, who will sport cheekpieces in an attempt to recapture better form.
Ed Crisford’s Title Role also impressed, having won the Jumeirah Guineas Trial. Crisford acknowledged the presence of unexposed talents like Talk Of New York but expressed confidence in his horse’s consistent improvement.
The Growing Importance of Meydan as a Global Racing Hub
The Emirates Super Saturday event underscores Meydan’s increasing significance in the global racing calendar. The track provides a crucial acclimatization period for horses traveling from different racing jurisdictions, and the races themselves serve as important trials for the Dubai World Cup meeting. This attracts top trainers and horses, elevating the profile of Dubai racing internationally.
Future Trends in International Racing
The focus on horses like Talk Of New York, with potential for success in both Dubai and Europe, highlights a growing trend of trainers strategically utilizing international races to develop and assess their horses. This approach allows them to gain valuable experience and potentially maximize earnings.
FAQ
Q: What is the Dubai City Of Gold?
A: It’s a Group Two race at Meydan, often used as a trial for the Sheema Classic.
Q: Who is Rebel’s Romance?
A: A globetrotting superstar with a previous Sheema Classic win, aiming for another Dubai triumph.
Q: What is the significance of the Jumeirah 2000 Guineas?
A: It’s a key race for three-year-olds, with the winner potentially heading to the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket.
Q: Is Meydan important for international racing?
A: Yes, it’s a crucial hub attracting top horses and trainers from around the world.
Did you understand? Rebel’s Romance previously won the Sheema Classic at Meydan two years ago, demonstrating the track’s suitability for his racing style.
Pro Tip: Maintain an eye on horses performing well at Meydan in the lead-up to the Dubai World Cup – they often continue to excel on the international stage.
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