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| Staff Writer |
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KHK Racing, a major player on the European circuit, has ambitious plans for the stable over the summer. Chris Wall, racing manager for the Bahraini royal family-owned stable, has outlined a targeted campaign to build on recent successes focusing on the highest competition level.
Although the stable has enjoyed success in the Middle East, it plans to focus primarily on European racing. With support from owner Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Wall indicated that while there are currently no plans to expand into other international jurisdictions, with the exception of Intricacy, who will be once again sent back to Dubai this winter, the stable remains open to global opportunities.
Sheikh Khalid plays an active role in the operation's decision-making process, particularly when it comes to purchases at the sales. This hands-on approach has led to some shrewd acquisitions, including Group One winner Eldar Eldarov.
Vandeek, the stable's star sprinter, is set to spearhead KHK's assault on Group One races this summer. Despite a setback that saw him miss the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot, the colt bounced back with a creditable third in the July Cup at Newmarket.
"Vandeek's performance in the July Cup was very satisfactory," Wall said. "He settled well and came to throw down a challenge before flattening out in the last 100 yards."
Wall praised trainers Simon and Ed Crisford for their work in getting Vandeek ready for Newmarket after his earlier health issues. The sprinter's next target is the Gr.1 Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville on August 4, followed by potential tilts at the Sprint Cup at Haydock and the Champions Sprint at Ascot.
While Vandeek is the current flagbearer, KHK Racing has a strong team of younger horses waiting in the wings. Wall highlighted Adrestia, a promising 2YO filly who recently broke her maiden and is being aimed at a valuable race at Goodwood.
Another exciting prospect is Victorious King, a 2YO colt by Sea The Stars purchased at the Arqana Breeze Up Sale. Trained by Roger Varian, Wall describes him as "a nice athletic type with size and scope" and suggests he could develop into a "classy three-year-old."
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Looking ahead, Wall acknowledged the challenge of maintaining KHK's reputation for success both on the track and in the sales ring. He also hinted at long-term plans to stand a successful stallion, which could significantly boost the operation's finances.
"Hopefully, a successful stallion can be produced to fund the operation and take it to a higher level," Wall said.
With a strong team of established performers and promising youngsters, KHK Racing looks well-positioned to make its mark in the coming months and years. Racing fans will keep a close eye on Vandeek's Group One campaign this summer, while the development of two-year-olds like Victorious King could provide clues to the stable's future Classic prospects.
As the European flat season enters its crucial middle phase, KHK Racing has laid out a clear statement of intent. With top-level targets in their sights and a deep pool of talent to draw from, this operation looks set to feature prominently in the winner's enclosure at some of racing's most prestigious events.