New Trails takes 'different approach' to Dubai World Cup bid
Dubai World Cup (G1) alumnus New Trails is on the comeback trail, says trainer Ahmad bin Harmash. Unraced since finishing 10th last March in the $12 million feature, the sizable son of Medaglia d’Oro is pointing toward a return in Meydan's The Entisar on Dec. 5.
“Last year we started with him on the lower side and worked our way through handicaps and Listed races because we knew he was very talented, but still improving." Bin Harmash said. "He was a handicap horse last year and he raced and trained a lot until the big day.
“This year, we are taking a totally different approach, as he is already rated 109 and we can get started in the Listed race and not rush him."
Bin Harmash says he'll "stay long" after the The Entisar, run at about 1 1/4 miles. Goals include the Feb. 6 Al Maktoum Challenge Round 2 (G2) and March 7 Round 3 (G1).
“I think he is a very good horse," the trainer added. "We’re going to see how much he has improved this year.”
A winner on opening night of the Meydan season last year, the half-brother to Group 1 winner Tizaqueena went on to win a DWC Carnival handicap. He also placed in The Entisar behind Cosmo Charlie and Round 2 behind North America before finishing fourth in Round 3 behind Capezzano.
Owned by Hamdan Sultan Ali Alsabousi, the bay 5-year-old gelding has a record of 3-3-0 from just nine starts. While he started six times last season, he had three prior races in France with Andre Fabre under the Godolphin banner.
Always a well-intended type, New Trails won on debut over soft going at Saint-Cloud in November of 2016 before earning a pair of stakes placings for his former connections.