Al Shaqab Racing’s Ruler Of The World benefited from a well-executed front running ride from Frankie Dettori as he made a winning return to action in the Qatar Prix Foy at the Longchamp racecourse in Paris
yesterday.

Making his first appearance since disappointing in the Dubai World Cup at the end of March, the Aidan O’Brien-trained four-year-old was soon bowling along at the head of affairs under the champion Italian saddle artist. The pack started to close at the top of the home straight, but Dettori kicked again and left his rivals trailing in his wake.

Hot favourite Flintshire made late inroads for second place, but Ruler Of The World, a 3/1 chance with British bookmakers, was well on top at the line.

Dettori said: “Aidan gave me a lot of confidence, he said ‘He stays a mile and a half well so don’t turn it into a sprint’ and so I did my Longchamp race and when I kicked he went.

“If it was raining he would be knocking on the door (in the Arc). I don’t know what I will ride, I am waiting for the others.”

Al Shaqab Racing advisor Harry Herbert, added: “Frankie was very happy with him and he gave him a great ride. It was a good decision to run him here by Aidan rather than in Ireland, and we’ll see what co-owners Coolmore say before making any further plans.”

With Qatari owned horses dominating in the races on the Arc Trial day, it has kindled the hopes of its supporters who are expecting the same during the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend.

Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club general manager Sami Jassim al-Boenain was elated with the success of the Qatari owners. “It has been an exciting day for Qatari owners at Longchamp today. Ruler Of The World, Ectot and Dahor De Brugere did very well in the silks of HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani and I am sure they will be a force to reckon with on October 6. We are looking forward to a brilliant Arc weekend,” Sami said.

Speaking about the performance of Treve in the Qatar Prix Vermeille, Sami said. “Though she finished fourth, I am still confident that Treve will be up for the challenge on the big day. She is a champion filly and this run would definitely benefit her.”

“I must congratulate HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Thani for the victory of Charm Spirit in the Group I Qatar Prix du Moulin de Longchamp. It was a great race between two Qatari owned horses, where Al Shaqab Racing’s Toronado went down narrowly to the eventual winner. It makes us all proud to witness such a great show by our horses. This has all been possible due to the well planned strategies of the owners, who are looking to reach greater heights in the international arena,” Sami concluded.

 

 

 

Qatar Racing and Equesterian Club chairman HE Sheikh Mohammed bin-Faleh
al-Thani (extreme left) poses with connections of Ruler Of The World after the
presentation ceremony of the Qatar Prix Foy at the Longchamp racecourse in Paris yesterday.

 

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