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| Staff Writer |
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Quddwah made a compelling case for the Queen Anne Stakes with a commanding performance in the Prix de Montretout at ParisLongchamp, giving trainers Simon and Ed Crisford renewed optimism for Royal Ascot.
The 4YO, making his seasonal debut, settled matters decisively under Callum Shepherd, dictating proceedings before pulling clear for a one-and-three-quarter-length victory over his rivals in the Listed contest.
Haatem could only manage fourth place despite carrying strong expectations following impressive form last season, whilst the winner enhanced his growing reputation with another polished display.
Quddwah had won his opening four races before suffering his maiden defeat when finishing fourth to Charyn in the Gr.1 Prix Jacques le Marois. A fifth-place finish behind the same rival on Champions Day at Ascot followed, but connections remained confident in their charge's ability.
Simon Crisford reflected,"We were delighted with him today, he wasn't quite ready to start back in the Lockinge so we opted to go to Paris with him, and he acquitted himself with great credit."
The victory has firmly placed the Queen Anne Stakes on the agenda, with the Crisford team viewing Ascot as an ideal target for their progressive performer.
"We'll consider the Queen Anne for his next race, he goes well at Ascot and we were delighted with his comeback run," Simon Crisford confirmed.
Ed Crisford added, "It was a deep Listed race, but a perfect starting point for him and he did it nicely. We'll see how he is, talk to his owner Sheikh Ahmed, but potentially he should fit into the Queen Anne nicely."
The trainer believes Quddwah retains untapped potential. "He's another year older and you'd hope there's still a bit more to come as he's lightly raced."he said.