Formerly trained in South America, he arrived in Meydan with a big reputation. He has run respectably each time but was beaten 5l into second on the first occasion and 11 lengths most recently when third in a G3 in February. His trainer thinks that Ajwad is now getting acclimatized and he can't be ruled out in what might be a tactical affair.
2
Sir Fever
A real champion in Uruguay (who have sometimes exported horses that proved top class in the USA) and the winner of all three legs of the country's Triple Crown by a cumulative distance of more than 19 lengths. His experience is all on a similar surface than this, and this big-money purchase could be anything as he moves into international company at Meydan.
3
Mubtaahij
Kicked off his Meydan career with a maiden win, a minor event though the time was good. He then thrashed stablemate Ajwad before enhancing his reputation further when only just beaten by classy Maftool in a G3 over 1600m last month. The trainer says that the further he goes the better he will be so this extra distance looks a big plus.
4
Tashbeeh
This David Hayes-trained Australian raider kicked off the year with a nice victory in a 1400m handicap at Flemington. He didn't have the best of trips on his Meydan debut over 1400m on the turf last month, but facts and figures suggest he'd need to improve very substantially to win this.
5
Intenser
Twice a winner of handicaps when trained in Ireland. He hasn't shown much in two starts at Meydan this season and looks completely outclassed by today's strong opposition.
6
Quarterback
Considering that there appeared to be little confidence behind his chance, this German-trained colt has performed quite well on both his starts at Meydan this year - both over 1400m on the turf. Both times he has looked as though a rise in distance will suit and he gets that here. He tries a dirt surface for the first time.
