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| Sumita Pawar |
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When examining the most exceptional athletes in history, there is a common thread among them all. They possess the ability to effortlessly perform what others may find challenging, making their sport appear effortless. Whether it be Lionel Messi, Roger Federer, Allyson Felix, Serena Williams, or countless others, they each possess a unique grace and seemingly endless time to execute their moves.
Like exceptional athletes, horses such as Frankel and Constitution Hill possess a natural grace and ease in their movements that set them apart from average horses, as evidenced by the effortless way in which Constitution Hill navigates hurdles.
The Graceful Contender: Al Asifah
Al Asifah is a top contender in the Ribblesdale Stakes Gr.2 due to her exceptional qualities. She possesses that special X factor and moves with a grace that is rarely seen.
This effortless quality is reminiscent of the greatest athletes in history. Her stride is particularly noteworthy, as she covered the last three furlongs with only 75 strides, resulting in an average stride length of 26.2 feet. This length is considered impressive and is known to be linked to ability, with 25 feet being regarded as long on a flat, straight run.
Although stride analysis, especially when done manually, is not flawless due to various factors such as course topography, race pace, and ground conditions, it can still provide valuable insights.
The track at Goodwood from the three-furlong pole to the finish line has a slight U shape, with a six-foot drop in the first half and a gradual climb back up to the finish. Despite these undulations, it is reasonable to suggest that Al Asifah could stride at 26 feet on a flat surface.
Al Asifah: The Rising Star
Al Asifah, a supplementary entry, has quickly risen to become a top contender in the Ribblesdale Stakes (G2) despite only making her first start at Haydock on May 25.
Her effortless stride and ability to cover a lot of ground make her stand out, similar to the greatest athletes in history.
Aidan O'Brien, who has had three winners and four places from 16 runners in the race, runs Warm Heart and Red Riding Hood.
Frankie Dettori, who has ridden eight winners in this race, is favored to reverse the places with Bluestocking. The track at Goodwood has a slight U shape, but it is reasonable to suggest that Al Asifah could stride at 26 feet on a flat surface. It is also worth noting that John and Thady Gosden, who have provided four of the past six winners of the Group two contest, are her trainers.
Richard Hills, assistant racing manager to Shadwell, said, "Al Asifah won very well at Goodwood and, although this comes a bit soon, she's come out of the race in great shape.
"It's a different shape of a race with 19 runners and she's only run twice in her life when both were small fields. A big field around Ascot will be a test for her but that's the jockey's (Jim Crowley) job."