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| Staff Writer |
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Annaf is primed to defend his Saudi Cup night crown, with trainer Mick Appleby reporting his stable star in top form following a recent preparatory outing.
Last year's 1351 Turf Sprint hero is following an identical path to the US$2 million Gr.2 event at King Abdulaziz Racecourse, having warmed up in the Kachy Stakes at Lingfield.
"He would have finished a bit closer had he not missed the break," said Appleby. "He was beaten in this race last year before he went to Saudi though, so hopefully we head there with a good chance again.
"He's come out of the race well and is in good form and we now just need everything to go well in the next few weeks. The track there seems very fair and hopefully he gets a good draw for the race. Rossa [Ryan] will ride him once again."
Ryan's masterful waiting tactics proved decisive 12 months ago, seizing a gap along the rail in the home straight to repel La La Christine and Byline.
The 6YO’s Riyadh triumph marked a milestone for Appleby's operation, which later celebrated Big Evs's Breeders' Cup success.
Japanese hopes rest with Ten Happy Rose, victor in the Gr.1 Victoria Mile, Ascoli Piceno, who landed the Gr.1 Hanshin Juvenile Fillies, and Win Marvel.
Howard Wolowitz, successful in the Gr.1 Franklin-Simpson Stakes, represents American trainer Jose D'Angelo, while French handler Christopher Head saddles Topgear, impressive winner of Newmarket's Gr.2 Challenge Stakes.
Bahrain-based Allan Smith fields both Byline and Ava Go Joe, while Dark Trooper carries Wathnan Racing's colours for Qatar-based Alban de Mieulle.
British challengers include Listed winners Task Force, Witness Stand and Goemon, while Saudi trainer Thamer Aldaihan sends out Uncle and Malyan.
"There's great prize money on offer so it's always going to be a strong race. We're looking forward to the challenge once again," added Appleby. "Last year everyone was very welcoming and it was a great occasion. We had great celebrations when he got back home too."