British raiders The Fingal Raven and Hawksbill face draw tests; Chantal Sutherland makes emotional comeback aboard Laasudood
DUBAI – The world’s richest race, the $20 million Saudi Cup, commands global attention in Riyadh on Saturday. But first, Friday night at Meydan delivers its own compelling drama—one built on Dubai Racing Carnival ambitions, transcontinental rivalries, and a jockey’s remarkable return from career-threatening injury.
With several Saudi contenders expected to reroute to Dubai for the 30th anniversary of the $12 million Dubai World Cup on March 28, the Carnival rolls on with an eight-race Longines-sponsored card. Racing fever is tangible, and Meydan is right in the thick of it.
Feature Race: Wide-Open Test Over 1400m
A full field of 14 lines up for the official feature, the Dh 250,000 Longines Spirit Pilot Flyback Handicap over 1400 metres on turf.
Charlie Appleby’s Beccali—progressive and race-ready—emerges as the one to beat. Hamad Al Jehani’s English Oak brings proven consistency at this level. But the narrative weight falls on two British raiders carrying the flag for the ‘Sport of Kings’.
The Fingal Raven, trained by Jamie Osborne, arrives fresh from victory. The four-year-old son of Mehmas faces his sternest test from stall 13.
“He seems to have bounced out of his win a fortnight ago,” Osborne said. “This will probably require a lifetime best, but he has the ability to step up again. The draw could have been kinder.”
Hawksbill, from Richard Spencer’s Newmarket yard, seeks redemption after a troubled start last time out.
“His iron kicked out leaving the stalls, which lit him up, and he was far too keen,” Spencer said. “We’re dropping back to seven furlongs. Hopefully he can settle, and we’ll see a better performance.”
Seven furlongs on Meydan turf rewards tactical speed. A strong early tempo could set it up for a closer. Osborne already has five Carnival winners—momentum counts.
Sutherland’s Comeback Steals Headlines
Race four, the Longines Spirit Pilot Handicap (1600m, Dirt), carries the evening’s most emotional subplot.
Canadian superstar jockey Chantal Sutherland partners Bhupat Seemar’s Laasudood in pursuit of her first win since a devastating fall at Gulfstream Park on May 6, 2023. Sutherland suffered a complete break of her left humerus and additional injuries. Her return to the saddle in Dubai marks a significant milestone in a decorated career.
Gun Carriage, trained by Dylan Cunha, finally draws the coveted rail (stall 1) after a series of eye-catching efforts in defeat.
“Gun Carriage finally has a good draw,” Cunha said. “He’s run really well without winning. I hope to see him get it right on Friday.”
Silver Sword Seeks Second Carnival Victory
In the Longines Primaluna Handicap (2000m, Turf), Cunha’s Silver Sword bids for another Carnival win.
“Silver Sword loves Dubai,” Cunha said. “This is a good spot for him. He’s in great form, and I expect the usual solid performance back up in trip.”
British trainers have enjoyed a strong Carnival campaign. Osborne’s five winners lead the overseas charge.
KT Selections
Race 1: Af Yatwa’ad
Race 2: La Yetal
Race 3: War Hawk
Race 4: Laasudood
Race 5: Beccali
Race 6: Elusive Trevor
Race 7: Saarim
Race 8: No Escape
Day’s Best: Beccali
