The dream of 14 delighted owners came true as IMPERIAL EMPEROR delivered a breathtaking performance in the G2 Al Maktoum Classic (sponsored by Emirates Airline), securing a coveted spot in the G1 Dubai World Cup.
Trained by Bhupat Seemar and ridden by Tadhg O’Shea, the gelding overcame a tough draw 15 in the 2000m contest, seizing an ideal position outside the leaders before unleashing a devastating turn of foot down the straight. He stormed home eight and a half lengths ahead of stablemate ARTORIUS, with Korean challenger GLOBAL HIT impressing in third.
“This horse didn’t owe us anything before tonight, we just wanted him to come home safe,” said an ecstatic Ryan Tongue, Director of British-based syndicate Deva Racing. “This is a dream come true. I can’t believe we’re in the Dubai World Cup!”
O’Shea, who has now ridden Imperial Emperor to three victories from three rides, was full of praise, “This horse is on the up. That was probably a career-best for him. It was a truly run race, and there was no hiding place out there. He’s very, very genuine.”
Meanwhile in another development, four-time Group 1 winner NATIONS PRIDE lived up to expectations in the G2 Singspiel Stakes (sponsored by Emirates Airline), putting previous defeats behind him with a commanding performance under William Buick.
Trainer Charlie Appleby attributed the six-year-old’s recent setbacks to unsuitable conditions in Bahrain and Gulfstream, but this time, the star miler proved unstoppable. Settled close to the pace, Nations Pride surged to the lead off the home turn and held off Holloway Boy and First Conquest by one and a quarter lengths and three lengths, respectively.
“We came here confident that he was where he needed to be to win this race,” Appleby said. “Hopefully, there’s a bit more improvement to come, and we’ll look toward World Cup night and the Dubai Turf. But if Romantic Warrior turns up, we’re all running for place money!”
Buick and Appleby enjoyed more success as SILVER KNOTT dominated the G2 Dubai City of Gold (sponsored by Emirates Airline). Leading from the start, the five-year-old secured a two-length victory over Passion And Glory, with See Hector claiming third.
Having campaigned in the United States at Group 1 level, Silver Knott is likely to return stateside later in the season. Buick was impressed with his ride and said, “He’s very professional and has a good level of ability. Hopefully, he can improve from this performance.”
