UAE Derby results: Lani and Yutake Take set their sights on Kentucky Derby after beating Polar River

Yutaka Take, right, rides Lani to victory in the UAE Derby Sponsored By The Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group as part of the Dubai World Cup at Meydan Racecourse on March 26, 2016 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Francois Nel/Getty ImagesShow less

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Lani and jockey Yutake Take sent the the travelling Japanese fans and the media into wild celebrations by winning the UAE Derby from local favourite Polar River.

“He’s a very strong horse so I really thought I had a good chance in the race,” Take said. “Even though he tripped at the start he travelled really well throughout.

“Right now he’s still rather immature so he’s got a lot of growing up to do. He’s getting better and better and I’d like to go to Kentucky (for the Derby).”

Polar River attempting to complete the ‘UAE Fillies’ Triple Crown having won both the UAE 1000 Guineas and the UAE Oaks could only finish second and to her first defeat in five starts.

Patrick Dobbs had Polar River well-placed in fourth along the rail but had to move her out to get a clear run from the outside of the trio in front.

She was closing in in the last 25m but Yani stayed the stronger after moving into the lead.

“She was tight for room at a critical point after the turn-in,” Polar River trainer Doug Watson said. “She stayed on very well again at the end. If anything she’s still a bit green.

“But going forward she’s going to be a superb filly as she matures. It was still a good run.”

Check back shortly for full results.

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