Saeed bin Suroor is all out to win the Listed contest that is named after one of Godolphin’s favourite sons at Meydan Racecourse tonight.
The Emirates Racing Authority have upgraded the Dubai Millennium Stakes, named after the horse that Emirati Bin Suroor trained to win the 2000 Dubai World Cup, one year before dying from colic.
Bin Suroor relies on Tasaday, who was ninth in the Group 2 Al Rashidiya three weeks ago on her Dubai debut, and Quick Wit.
“It was a bit disappointing with Tasaday the first time but she was hampered at a crucial stage and would certainly have finished closer with some luck in running,” Bin Suroor said.
“She has improved from that run and her last piece of work was very good. I really like her and the 2,000 metres should really suit and I expect a good run.”
As with most big races at Meydan, the main rival to Godolphin is Mike de Kock, and the South African trainer saddles the impressive Al Rashidiya winner Mujaarib, who will be ridden by Paul Hanagan.
Mujaarib just held on from stablemate Mushreq in the Al Rashidiya and, like many of De Kock’s horses, will come on for the run.
“It was a bit of a nice surprise, really, as we really thought he was going to need the outing. He has improved, fitness-wise, since and this looked a good target for him,” De Kock said.
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