Horse Racing
Season
Saudi Derby - Form Comments

24/02/2023 14:14

G3 – 1600m – Dirt

1

Es-Unico

Has won a G2 on dirt in Uruguay. Performed with credit when second over 1400m on his Meydan debut, though the form of that race has not been enhanced since.

2

Loreley

Won all three starts – including a G1 – in Uruguay after being switched to dirt. Fancied to translate that South American form to Meydan last month but his challenge quickly fizzled out.

3

Almulhem

This US bred has shown promise in Saudi with a victory over this trip here in last December, following up with another – over 2000m – in January. Much hotter opposition now.

4

Almurtajiz

A runaway winner on his debut, over 1400m here last November. Disappointed on his latest start and though there may have been excuses, this still looks a tough assignment.

5

Atta Alghali

Has some good course form here, including solid placed efforts here in January. Decent but likely to prove vulnerable to some overseas raiders.

6

Baalb

Won consecutive races here in last November but recent form suggests that he has plenty on his plate in this strong contest.

7

Commissioner King

This local contender has won two of his three starts, including at this trip. Both those wins were so comfortable that his rider never had to get too busy.

8

Continuar

Has won two of his three starts in Japan, most recently making up a lot of ground on the home turn to win a good prize over this trip. That form looks strong. Chance.

9

Derma Sotogake

Has won his last three starts, different tactics working with power-packed finishes in his last two wins in Japan. A formidable contender with this trip looking ideal.

10

Ecoro Ares

Part of a strong Japanese contingent. His four runs have all come at different tracks but he’s won two of them, those victories having come when he has raced prominently.

11

From Dusk

Doesn’t look to have as strong credentials as some of the other Japanese contenders in this. But he showed courage to win on his debut and was not beaten far in a Listed event last time.

12

Havnameltdown

A cheap yearling purchase but likely favourite to give US trainer Bob Baffert another win in this after some impressive graded race victories in California. Good chance if suited by the rise in distance.

13

My Map

Probably the biggest chance of the local runners, having won all four starts – often looking very impressive – and proving himself at this trip on his most recent win.