CUP TO KONG

The globe's richest horse race takes place today as the Dubai World Cup takes place in Meydan. This is just one of many high class races, some of which I will look at now.


The Dubai World Cup itself, in my opinion, is not a true international Group 1. If it was ran in Britain, it would be a Group 2, given the quality of the runners. Epsom Derby winnerRuler Of The World, who recently had a share in him purchased by Al Shaqab Racing, was the long time favourite, but I'm not sure if he's good enough to win given its his first time on a synthetic surface and he has an absence to overcome. He won an average Derby under a brilliant ride by Ryan Moore; this makes me think he is not up to winning today. First time on a surface of this sort for Mukhadram and Hillstar is a negative, Ron The Greek's draw isn't ideal and Prince Bishop may be a little too old for this. All of these factors mean that I think the cup will be going to Hong Kong, courtesy of either MILITARY ATTACK or AKEED MOFEED. Both have okay draws and both have had recent runs. They've both won some decent races back in their homeland and both should go close.

Military Attack

Akeed Mofeed

Other Dubai Races

Golden Shaheen- Quite simply, REYNALDOTHEWIZARD won for me last year, the field today look no better than what he beat 12 months ago. Only worry was that he was in better form last year, hopefully he is peaking at the right time.

Duty Free- the best race of the night for me, many have a chance. The Fugue is a high class mare but has never won outside of Great Britain and Ireland, which makes me think that she may find one too once again. The Japanese runner Just A Way beat his own sort very easily last time out although this is very different. Dank has only really faced her own sex and has never faced any horse as good as she does today. Mshawish is a nice sort but may not be quite good enough. I am a stickler for an unbeaten record so VERCINGETORIX is the one for me. By far his toughest race, but he is rather unexposed and could have plenty more to offer. Could be anything.

Sheema Classic- I'm astounded that CIRRUS DES AIGLES is the price he is. There is no denying that he is getting older and his draw is rather poor but he has had an amazing career and won the race two years ago when beating the late St Nicholas Abbey. The unusual Arabic rain they had in the week will favour him too and should definitely outrun his odds. Magician was brillaint at the Breeders Cup last year although this will all be new to him and it will be tough. The two Japanese females have a chance, although on collateral form, Gentildonna has a little to find with St Nicholas Abbey considering Cirrus Des Aigles beat St Nicholas Abbey in this race in 2012 with the Ballydoyle legend beating Gentildonna twelve months ago. Denim and Ruby is not a horse I know a lot about, might not be good enough.

Happy Dubai Punting!