Saudi Derby aspirations for American trainer Kenny McPeek will be carried by local knowledge this year, with multiple Saudi champion jockey Adel Alfouraidi booked to partner Very Connected (USA) at King Abdulaziz Racecourse on Saturday, February 14.
The Kentucky Derby–winning handler has opted for familiarity with conditions over international travel, entrusting the Group 3 contest to one of the region’s most accomplished riders as his colt prepares for a pivotal test on the global stage.
McPeek revealed that circumstances led him toward a locally based solution, and the decision quickly became clear once Alfouraidi’s credentials were weighed up.
After exploring several overseas options, McPeek chose to prioritise experience of the Riyadh circuit and its unique demands. Alfouraidi, a former Saudi champion jockey, brings both tactical sharpness and an intimate understanding of the track’s layout, surface and rhythm — assets McPeek believes will be vital in the Saudi Derby.
The Lexington-based trainer has encouraged the rider to spend extensive time with Very Connected in the build-up to race day, allowing the partnership to develop naturally through morning work and routine gallops.
Very Connected, a son of Connect (USA), arrives in Saudi Arabia with limited but respectable form. His sole victory came in a maiden event at Churchill Downs, while his most recent appearance saw him finish fifth in the Listed Gun Runner Stakes at Fair Grounds in December. Though still lightly raced, McPeek feels the colt’s profile suggests untapped potential.
Saudi Derby presents test of pace and stamina
Assessing the Saudi Derby challenge, McPeek is realistic but quietly hopeful. He believes the expected tempo and long home straight could bring out the best in his runner, particularly if the early stages are genuinely run.
The colt is expected to settle before producing a sustained finish, a style that may suit the configuration of King Abdulaziz Racecourse. McPeek has described him as an outsider, but one capable of closing strongly if conditions fall his way.
Beyond the Saudi Derby, McPeek will again be represented on the feature card with Rattle N Roll (USA) in the Saudi Cup itself. The seasoned performer finished fifth in last year’s renewal and returns following a carefully managed preparation.
Rattle N Roll, also by Connect, comes into the race after a nine-week break following success in the Listed Tinsel Stakes at Oaklawn Park in December. McPeek believes the spacing between runs has been key to maintaining the horse’s freshness and consistency.
The trainer feels his veteran campaigner has progressed since last season and is holding his form particularly well, noting that the upcoming assignment appears more open should the market leader fail to reproduce peak performance.
McPeek’s participation this year may be limited to afar, however, as recent neck and back surgery has placed travel plans in doubt. Despite that, he remains deeply appreciative of his previous visit to Saudi Arabia, describing the experience as memorable and warmly welcoming.
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