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| Rowan Anderson |
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For the second year in a row the Longines Red Sea Turf has been captured by the winners in the silks of Shadai Race Horse Co Ltd.
This year it was Japanese stayer Silver Sonic with Australian hoop Damian Lane piloting home earning a comfortable victory.
Getting out from the gates the eye-catching grey homebred son of Orfevre settled in the perfect position behind a lead set by returning star Subjectivist (GB) and tracked by 2022 Ebor Handicap winner Trawlerman (IRE).
Lane was comfortable on the Group Two winner who showed once again his class turning for home as the pace weakened the race was put to bed.
The race was a great contest with the margin of victory being two-and-a-half lengths back to the Ian Williams trained Enemy three lengths ahead of the David O’Meara trained Get Shirty in third.
Trainer Yasutoshi Ikee was happy with what was the first win for his training career in Riyadh.
"This might be the second win for Japan, but it is a first win for me. This is a great achievement for me and I am very happy.
"I didn't talk tactics with Damien today. He made his own plans and we didn't discuss anything before the race. I bought Orfevre to the Arc twice but he ran second on both occasions, so winning a big race abroad with Orfevre’s son, it is a great pleasure. My father trained Stay Gold, his dam’s sire, so the feeling with this victory is so special.
"I’m very grateful to the people of the JCSA who received us so well. Silver Sonic travelled over really well and kept his condition; he has been the same as he is at home. We have two options, the Tenno Sho and the other is the Dubai Gold Cup."
Damian Lane was thankful for the trust he had from the trainer as well as his supporter base in Japan.
"I have had great support in Japan, especially the Shadai Race Horse Club. I'm glad to be a part of it and will be glad to keep it going.
"He began well, which is always important from barrier one. I was happy to track Subjectivist, who was always going to set a nice tempo and be a good horse to follow. I needed a bit of luck to get through but once it opened up he finished really well.
"We knew the distance wouldn't be a problem. I would never advise a trainer, but the Tenno Sho looks a good option. It's a great privilege to be riding here and to be part of the meeting, let alone ride a winner. I'm just grateful to be a part of it all, it’s a big thrill as a part of my career and I'm really enjoying it."