 |
|
| Staff Writer |
 |
William Buick is eager to win the Bahrain International Trophy for the first time as he takes the reins of Nations Pride in the US$1million race, hoping to bring further success for Godolphin.
Last year, Sheikh Mohammed's racing operation led the field with Saeed bin Suroor's Dubai Future finishing first, while this year, Real World joins the final field as a stablemate. However, Charlie Appleby's Nations Pride has set the standard after winning big-races in Munich and Woodbine this season. As Godolphin's top jockey, Buick has chosen to ride the 4YO over fellow candidate Highland Avenue from Moulton Paddocks.
Buick said, “Nations Pride is a very good horse. He was a classy three-year-old and went into the 2021 Derby as a genuine contender, but on the day he probably didn’t stay.
“But he has always been held in high regard and he has performed really well since.
“When he won the Group One in Germany, he gave me a really good feel. He beat the German Derby winner in good style. Then, last time out in Canada, the soft ground was not to his liking, but he still won.
“He’s a very straightforward horse to ride. I have not had much luck in the race previously but this fella is different, he’s a mile and quarter specialist and I think he is a real good candidate.
“Nations Pride is the best chance I have had in the Bahrain International Trophy but it is a strong line-up, a really competitive field, and on good, fast ground, you are going to need to have the margins in your favour.”
The upcoming race has a truly global vibe, with entries from various countries. Andre Fabre’s Birr Castle and Andreas Schutz’s Marhaba Ya Sanafi will represent France, while Aidan O’Brien’s Point Lonsdale, Joseph O’Brien’s Above The Curve, and Noel Meade’s Layfayette will be the Irish challengers.
Additionally, Israr from John and Thady Gosden, Astro King from Daniel and Claire Kubler, and Spirit Dancer from Richard Fahey will also participate in the race at the Sakhir Racecourse. This year, the contest has been upgraded to a Group Two status.