Tuesday, Jun 16, 2009
Gulf News
Dubai: UAE jockey Ahmad Ajtebi, who wowed the racing world when capturing two Group 1 wins on Dubai World Cup night in March, has been thrust into the international spotlight once again with his new stage being the 2009 Royal Ascot meeting.
Ajtebi is reunited with Dubai Duty Free sensation Gladiatorus as he bids to win the Queen Anne Stakes, one of three mouth-watering Group 1 races that embellish today's opening day's card at the scenic Berkshire racecourse.
Godolphin, in whose colours Ajtebi will ride today, have a tremendous record in the race, having won it seven times since Charnwood Forest in 1996.
However, that statistic does not it in any way ease Ajetbi's task as the straight mile at Ascot represents a tactical and daunting challenge.
Today's opening day at Royal Ascot also features the Group 1 King's Stand Stakes, where 15 horse have been declared to run including Equiano, winner of this event last year. An interesting runner is Scenic Blast, the top Australian sprinter.
The third Group 1 contest of the day is the St James's Palace Stakes, the top summer mile contest for three-year-olds.
Ajtebi will have to ride a perfectly judged race if he hopes to preserve Gladiatorus' reputation as the best racehorse on the planet.
The jockey is well aware of the challenge that lies ahead but remains quietly optimistic of his chances in the race.
"When you get chances like this, it makes you happy," Ajtebi said. "He is such a great horse he gives you a lot of confidence when you ride him.
"He is dropping back in distance from the Dubai Duty Free (1,777 metres), but he broke the track record at Nad Al Sheba over a mile and he has the speed to win again at Group 1 level. My only concern is how well he handles the track as it is a straight mile. He hasn't done that before, as he raced round a bend during his three wins in Dubai.
"I know it won't be easy, but if he handles the track I then he has more than a big chance."
Godolphin trainer Saeed Bin Surour, who also saddles Alexandros, the mount of top jockey Frankie Dettori, is looking forward to the race: "Gladiatrous is an exciting horse to have, being the highest rated in the world," the handler said. "He is working well and seems in good form. He has shown his class this year and we are expecting a big run from him in the Queen Anne."
Bin Surour was also bullish about the chances of Alexandros. "He came back very well from the Lockinge and we hope he can continue to improve," the trainer said. "Alexandros is a horse who always tries his best and we are looking for another good run from him.
The Godolphin pair face seven rivals including Paco Boy, Main Ain Cesare and Aqlaam.
By Leslie Wilson Jr, Sports Editor
Gulf News 2009. All rights reserved.
