Annaf emerges as the winner in Bengough Stakes race
Bengough Stakes: Annaf Triumphs in Thrilling Finish
In a thrilling finish to the John Guest Racing Bengough Stakes at Ascot, Annaf continued his fine season by edging out Commanche Falls. The four-year-old sprinter, trained by Mick Appleby, has been consistently impressive this year.
After finishing third at Royal Ascot’s King’s Stand Stakes, Annaf gained a well-deserved success when dropped into handicap company for the Portland at Doncaster last month. He quickly added to his tally by triumphing in this Group Three assignment.
Ridden again by Rossa Ryan, the 5-2 favourite expertly maneuvered into position and stuck on resolutely in the closing stages to hunt down Michael Dods’ in-form Commanche Falls. In a nail-biting finish, Annaf prevailed by a short head.
“It was a great run and he just keeps improving,” said trainer Mick Appleby. “He’s been so consistent this year and I hope there’s more improvement to come.”
The partnership between jockey Rossa Ryan and horse Annaf has proven successful as they understand each other well. There are still decisions to be made about future races for Annaf with discussions planned among owners and trainers. Options include possibly competing once again in the Kachy Stakes at Lingfield or taking a break before deciding on next steps.
Cumberland Lodge Stakes: Al Qareem Shows Guts and Class
In an impressive victory during the Jim Barry Cumberland Lodge Stakes at Ascot, Al Qareem showcased both guts and class. Trained by Karl Burke, the four-year-old demonstrated his potential by winning two races this season.
After a successful campaign last year, Al Qareem returned to racing following a break since the Dubai Gold Cup in the spring. He denied Bluestocking in gutsy fashion on his comeback at Chester last month before securing another triumph at Ascot.
Ridden by Clifford Lee as the 100-30 second-favorite, Al Qareem showed similar determination to his previous victory by fighting back against Israr from John and Thady Gosden’s stable. The race seemed lost but Al Qareem’s stamina came into play as he regained control just before the finish line.
“We’re delighted to see him win again,” said Nick Bradley of owners Nick Bradley Racing. “I think we got it tactically spot on when Cliff sat second. When he’s led before, he has been a bit free so I believe Claymore going on has helped us and made it a true test of stamina.”
This strong-staying son of Awtaad won a Group Two race at ParisLongchamp in the Qatar Prix Chaudenay last autumn. His impressive form may earn him an opportunity to improve upon last year’s fifth-placed finish in the French St Leger.
“He has two options for his next start,” added Bradley. “One is the St Simon Stakes at Newbury or alternatively, entering him into the Group One Prix Royal-Oak which is nearly two miles long at Longchamp.”