Musir storms to Al Maktoum Challenge victory

Dubai: Godolphin’s Mendip was denied a slice of UAE racing history when he was beaten to fourth place by Musir in opening round of the Al Maktoum Challenge (Group 3) on day three of the Dubai World Cup Carnival at Meydan racecourse yesterday.
The son of Harlan’s Holiday was bidding to become the first horse in the history of the race to win it twice.
Musir, a former UAE 2000 Guineas and Derby winner, was a resounding three-length winner of the race under Belgian jockey Christophe Soumillon.

“He’s like a superstar, he’s just an amazing horse,” said Soumillon. “Two years ago he showed us how good he was by winning two Classic here. But I think he’s a much better horse this year.”
Mike De Kock, who trains Musir added: “I think his preparation has been better this year. He ran some big races in England and broke the course record at Turkey where he won a Group 2 race. I’d like to run him in the Dubai Duty Free (Group 1). I think he’ll be an even better horse on turf.” 

Read More

Saturday guide: Commonwealth is a Thanksgiving appetizer
Churchill Downs hosts the Grade 3 Commonwealth stakes at 1 1/16 miles on turf Saturday, a late-season test...
Steel Valley Sprint fair odds: For value, go outside to play
The Steel Valley Sprint has been a fount of big prices in its 10 runnings to date, and...
Del Mar: Nevada Beach looks tough returning in Native Diver
Grade 1 winner Nevada Beach looms large in Saturday’s Grade 3 Native Diver Stakes for 3-year-olds and up...
Ky. Derby works: $5 million Courting drills for Pletcher
Courting , who broke his maiden for trainer Todd Pletcher this month in his second try, breezed four...
Friday tab: Cox's Hit Show, First Mission lead 18 graded winners
Hit Show and First Mission worked at Churchill Downs on Friday, a week ahead of their starts in...