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| Staff Writer |
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Annaf, who has a penchant for sunny climates, is planning a return trip to the Middle East after his impressive win at the Gr.1 Saudi Cup meeting on 24th February. The 5YO gelding secured a lucrative victory in the 1351 Gr.1 Turf Sprint by just under US$11,93,312.92 . Jockey Rossa Ryan made a daring move by sneaking through a narrow gap on the rail, defeating a strong international field by three-quarters of a length.
This was Annaf's second start outside of Britain, after finishing seventh in the 2022 Korea Sprint at Seoul. Even before the rousing welcome back at the yard in the East Midlands, trainer Mick Appleby was already planning another lucrative international target for the talented gelding.
"He's come out of the race really well and we couldn't be happier with him," Appleby said. "He started off the year well in the Kachy Stakes when second and to win a race like this was brilliant, especially under the great ride Rossa gave him. It still looks like there's more improvement in him and hopefully, there are more big pots ahead this year."
After his triumph in Riyadh, Annaf received an invitation to participate in the Gr.1 Takamatsunomiya Kinen in Japan next month. However, the Fosnic Racing-owned runner has decided to skip the Japanese race and instead compete in the Gr.1 Al Quoz Sprint. The race is scheduled to take place on 30th March as a part of the Gr.1 Dubai World Cup night at Meydan Racecourse.
"We've decided he'll go next to Dubai, where he'll drop back to six furlongs," Appleby added. "The conditions are likely to be very similar and it worked out extremely well in Riyadh, so it makes a lot of sense."