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| Staff Writer |
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Connections of the promising colt Royal Dubai are setting their sights on a return to the Dubai Racing Carnival for the two-time Meydan winner.
The son of Seahenge could line up for the Gr.2 Summer Mile at Ascot on Saturday, provided the weather conditions are favourable.
He may face off against William Haggas’ Maljoom, Simon and Ed Crisford’s Quddwah, and Roger Varian’s Embesto, all owned by Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Trained by Lucie Botti to two Carnival handicap victories over the winter, the 4YO was last seen finishing second to Royal Scotsman in the Diomed Stakes at Epsom under Marco Botti.
Saturday’s race will be a step up in class for Royal Dubai, but it is the unpredictable British weather that remains the primary concern for his trainer.
“The plan is to run on Saturday in the Summer Mile as long as the ground isn’t soft, because he does need good ground,” said Botti. “We’ve been waiting for this race, but the weather forecast keeps changing, with rain predicted one minute and clear skies the next.”
“The stiff finish at Ascot should really suit him. A mile is his ideal distance—he’s not short of speed but is also a strong stayer at this trip. We believe a mile or a mile and one furlong is his best distance, while a mile and a quarter is a bit too far for him.”
“Looking ahead, the plan is to go back to Dubai, so he’ll have one or two more races here before then. His next target could be the Strensall Stakes at York, and then we’ll freshen him up in preparation for the Carnival.”