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| Staff Writer |
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Ottoman Fleet and Noble Dynasty spearhead a strong Charlie Appleby assault on Friday's Gr.2 Zabeel Mile at Meydan, with the former seeking to break his duck at the Dubai track after multiple placed efforts.
The 6YO Ottoman Fleet, a consistent performer for the Godolphin operation, brings high-class American form to the table, having secured back-to-back victories at Churchill Downs last June in the Gr.3 Arlington Stakes and Gr.2 Wise Dan Stakes.
His most recent outing saw him finish third behind Carl Spackler and Breeders' Cup Mile victor More Than Looks in the Gr.1 Fourstardave Handicap at Saratoga, while his Meydan form includes a strong second to Measured Time in last season's Gr.1 Jebel Hatta.
Stablemate Noble Dynasty, a half-brother to 2020 Jebel Hatta winner Barney Roy, enters the contest following a fruitful 2023 campaign over seven furlongs, highlighted by victories at Newmarket in a valuable handicap and the Gr.3 Criterion Stakes.
Charlie Appleby said: "Both Ottoman Fleet and Noble Dynasty head into the Zabeel Mile in good order. If you look at the pick of Ottoman Fleet's form in the United States, he looks the one to beat. He put up a very solid performance over this distance in the Fourstardave and we have been happy with his preparation."
The meeting features several intriguing contests, including the Jumeirah Stakes where Godolphin fields three promising contenders. Hallasan and Age Of Gold represent Appleby, while Desert Shadow debuts for Saeed bin Suroor.
In the UAE 2,000 Guineas Trial, Bin Suroor saddles impressive Goodwood winner Castle Gates and newcomer Arabian Story. The trainer also runs First View in a dirt handicap.
The card's staying event sees triple Listed winner King Of Conquest stepping up in trip, joining Group Three victor Castle Way and St Leger runner-up New London in a strong Appleby contingent.