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| Staff Writer |
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Classic-winning jockey David Egan jets into Bahrain on Friday for a power-packed book of rides at Rashid Equestrian & Horseracing Club, including two prime contenders for Amo Racing in the latest round of the Bahrain Turf Series.
Fresh from riding in Florida, Egan partners the George Boughey-trained pair Mr Alan and Walbank, both seeking their first victories in Bahrain. Mr Alan, placed third in his last two outings, currently sits fifth in the middle-distance division standings. Victory in the US$80,000 Bahrain Vision Cup would vault him to the summit with one round remaining and the US$40,000 bonus in sight.
The opposition includes former Series victor Snellen from Gavin Cromwell's yard, dropping back to handicap company after contesting the Crown Prince's Cup, while last term's middle-distance runner-up Box To Box, trained by Hugo Palmer with Harry Davies in the saddle, adds further depth.
George Scott's purple patch continues with seven winners from just 14 runners this winter. His standard-bearer Phantom Flight heads the US$135,000 His Highness Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cup, now upgraded to Listed status. Unbeaten in Bahrain, following the path of stablemate Isle Of Jura, he tackles 2200m for the first time in the colours of his owner His Highness Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
The international challenge comes from Intricacy, representing Simon and Ed Crisford, and George Baker's Lucander. Local hopes rest with Al Mohamediya Racing's trio, spearheaded by Zagato and recent Series winner Merlin's Beard.
In the sprint division, Walbank, runner-up to the progressive City House last time in an 18-runner field, contests the US$80,000 Al Sakhir Cup. With his conqueror stepping up in trip, Walbank has a prime opportunity to build on his 12-point Series tally, with victory worth 15 points potentially securing divisional leadership.
The Listed feature and both Series contests will be broadcast on Racing TV across Britain and Ireland, with all races available via live stream on the Bahrain Turf Club website.