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| Staff Writer |
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Roman Dragon roared back to his brilliant best when landing the US$80,000 Al Sakhir Cup at Rashid Equestrian & Horseracing Club, providing significant milestones for both Hugo Palmer and Harry Davies.
The 6YO gelding, already a six-time winner around Chester's tight turns, demonstrated his adaptability by mastering the straight track in Bahrain for the second time, having previously succeeded in the series last term.
Davies, securing his first winner of the season in Bahrain, delivered a tactically astute ride to overhaul Desert Cop in the closing stages of the 1000m contest, with the latter's pilot Callum Shepherd unable to maintain the advantage for trainer George Baker.
"It panned out perfectly for me. I got the lead I wanted, which took me to the furlong pole. And then he was very game. Here they go very fast in the sprints, so being able to stay that bit further will always help you out," reflected Davies.
"He's a legend, this horse. Hugo and the team have had so much fun with him and for him to win out here again is just fantastic. I am also delighted for Nick Hughes, the owner (with Michael Owen). They love their racing and I am sure they will be celebrating back at home."
In the newly promoted Listed His Highness Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cup, Zagato turned the tables on recent Crown Prince's Cup victor Phantom Flight, providing Al Mohamediya Racing and trainer Fawzi Nass with a memorable triumph under Neill Callan.
The 2022 Kings Cup winner, who had recently finished behind both Phantom Flight and Saudi Arabia-bound Sovereign Spirit, relished the step up to 2200m.
Callan said: "He's actually been running well this season, he's just been running over distances too short for him. We knew Phantom Flight was going to be a tough nut to crack, but if there's a nut to be cracked, this is the horse to do it. I am so pleased to be associated with His Highness Shaikh Sultan and his family and this win means a lot."
Al Mohamediya Racing doubled up when Knight Of Honour claimed the US$80,000 Bahrain Vision Cup, maintaining his winning form from seven days prior. The progressive performer repelled international challenger Killybegs Warrior, with Bleak taking third ahead of Snellen and Mr Alan in a seventeen-runner field over 1800m.
Zagato now heads to The King's Cup on Friday March 7, where connections will be hoping for further success.