From Nad to Ascot via Hong Kong

The victory of Mike de Kock’s Archipenko in Hong Kong on Sunday was a magnificent advertisement for the Dubai International Racing Carnival was. A further demonstration of the top-class thoroughbreds who line up at Nad Al Sheba before going on to bigger and better things, if indeed that is possible after the multi-million dollar racing festival here.

Despite a good weekend for Aidan O’Brien with two big wins in Europe, I’m sure the gloss was taken off slightly bearing in mind the master trainer had previously handled the four year old last season, and with arguably mediocre success.

It’s perhaps ironic that it was Ballydoyle number one, Johnny Murtagh who suggested to current connections that blinkers could bring out improvement and help him to relax. Murtagh’s advice came after partnering the colt, by Kingmambo, on his de Kock debut in a handicap last February, when beating only two rivals. Royal Ascot now looks on the cards at a meeting which looks set to be represented by the biggest global contingent yet.

Ajtebi in UK Action

Emirati jockey Ahmad Ajtebi, who had his most successful season to date in the Emirates last season, was in action at one of Britain’s premier race tracks over the weekend.

Ali Rashid Al Raihe’s stable apprentice partnered Bahar Shumaal for Saeed Manana at Sandown and lost nothing in defeat when finishing third in a mile handicap.

It’s great that he has been given the chance to show of his skills among the elite of the game, and considering he finished ahead of the likes of Richard Hughes, Kerrin McEvoy and Jimmy Fortune, a big-race win should not be far away.

Back in the saddle

If I was a horse, I would be one of those lazy, stuffy ones who take plenty of work to get fit and ultimately need lots of exercise to keep the weight down. So, considering I hadn’t ridden out for a week or so, I made the journey to Slad to partake in a morning’s workout on the back of a few "summer jumpers".

Tom George has a stable of around 60 during the winter, but still keeps a few in training during the warmer months (as I type this, warmer could not be farther from the truth!) and was only too happy to help out with my fitness regime. I have to admit while it is a stark contrast to the weather and training conditions in Dubai, it was nice to enjoy the British countryside again – however, the 10 layers of clothing are something I am keen to avoid next time!

DRC insurance boost

Dubai Racing Club announced earlier in the month that all employees will now be covered by full-time medical insurance. In a change among office management, this is obviously good news for all concerned and is a welcome introduction for the health of all workers, which has so often been pointed out, is paramount.