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| Sumita Pawar |
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The 6YO, owned by Shadwell, traveled to France in his prime after a spectacular victory in the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot during the summer. However, due to an unfavorable draw in stall 14 and the ground drying up, the son of Sea The Stars found himself at a disadvantage.
In spite of jockey Jim Crowley's attempts to position his mount advantageously, Hukum failed to respond when prompted in the abnormal weather conditions and ultimately dropped back in the final stretch of the race. Hukum only participated in the Arc for the third time this season, and as the ground conditions are not favorable for him overseas, it seems improbable that he will embark on an international campaign. Sheikha Hissa of Shadwell will ultimately make the decision regarding Hukum's next move.
"It will be for Sheikha Hissa to decide, I'm sure we will catch up over the next few days and see what's what," said trainer Owen Burrows.
"All the international races will probably be run on the faster side, so we shall see, but there's nothing jumping out at us.
"He's only had the three runs but to come back and win the Brigadier Gerard and then to win a King George, you can't be disappointed at all. He's been a wonderful servant for me and he's definitely justified being kept in training."
As for Hukum's stablemate, Alyanaabi, the forecast is dry and encouraging, which could increase his chances of participating in the Dewhurst Stakes later this month. With his stylish late rattle, the son of Too Darn Hot claimed the Tattersalls Stakes with ease. His running style ensured that he exerted minimal energy during his first run on the Rowley Mile. It seems likely that he may return to Newmarket for Group One action later this month.
Burrows said, "He didn't really have much of a race, he only really raced the last furlong and he ate up the next morning and didn't lose a kilo in weight, so he didn't have a hard time. The initial signs are he's come out of it well.
"I will have a chat with Sheikha Hissa. I think he likes the ground on the faster side of good and the forecast I've seen looks predominantly good so we'll see."