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| Staff Writer |
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In a display of resilience and class, Al Hakeem stormed to victory in the Gr.3 Prix Gontaut-Biron Hong Kong Jockey Club at Deauville, marking a triumphant return to form for the Jean-Claude Rouget-trained five-year-old. The win not only showcased Al Hakeem's recovery from a serious leg injury suffered in April 2023 but also strengthened Al Shaqab Racing's hand for the upcoming Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
Sheikh Joaan Al Thani, fresh from his duties as president of Qatar's Olympic committee in Paris, was on hand to witness Al Hakeem's performance. The victory adds to Sheikh Joaan's impressive list of global racing successes, which includes Treve's back-to-back Arc victories in 2013 and 2014, and Toronado's Group One triumphs in the Queen Anne Stakes and Sussex Stakes.
Jean-Bernard Roth, assistant to Rouget, was effusive in his praise for Al Hakeem's comeback. "He ran a good comeback at Longchamp after a very long absence," Roth commented. "I must say the level of care he was given in England by Al Shaqab was remarkable and he has come back to us in fantastic condition."
The assistant trainer went on to highlight Al Hakeem's exceptional qualities: "He has excellent physical qualities, a great mind and an extraordinary amount of potential. Behind him, there has been great teamwork and a lot of work over many hours."
Looking ahead to Al Hakeem's autumn campaign, Roth outlined an ambitious plan that could culminate in an Arc bid. "All that allows us to continue on our way into the autumn with a horse in great shape and progressing all the time. He's a gladiator," Roth enthused.
The immediate target for Al Hakeem will be the Coupe de Maisons-Laffitte, staying at the 2,000-metre distance. Roth explained, "He'll stay at 2,000 metres for the Coupe de Maisons-Laffitte before going on to run in the Arc if all goes well. He's equally effective over both distances."
This flexibility in distance could prove crucial as connections plot their path to the Arc. Al Hakeem's ability to perform at the highest level over 2,000 metres and 2,400 metres gives Rouget and the Al Shaqab team valuable options as they fine-tune their preparation for Europe's most prestigious race.
Al Hakeem's return to form comes at an opportune time for Al Shaqab Racing, complementing their recent part-acquisition of Look De Vega. This two-pronged attack for the Arc underscores Sheikh Joaan's commitment to excellence in global racing.
Sheikh Joaan's success extends beyond European borders, with significant victories in the Middle East. His colours have been carried to victory in prestigious races such as the Qatar Emiri Sword and the HH The Amir Trophy at Doha's Al Rayyan Racecourse. The potential of having two high-class contenders for the Arc further cements Al Shaqab's position as a major force in international racing.
As the autumn racing season approaches, all eyes will be on Al Shaqab's formidable team. With Al Hakeem's impressive comeback and Look De Vega's potential, Sheikh Joaan's quest for another Arc victory looks stronger than ever, potentially adding another chapter to his illustrious racing legacy that spans continents.
While Al Hakeem was the star of the show, the day's racing at Deauville also saw an impressive performance from Godolphin's Ombudsman in the Listed Prix Nureyev. The three-year-old, trained by the father-son duo of John and Thady Gosden, delivered a commanding performance under the expert guidance of Ryan Moore.
Ombudsman picked up his rivals off the home turn before surging to an eased-down three-and-a-half-length victory over Sons And Lovers. The manner of his win suggested there could be more to come from this promising colt.
John Gosden, speaking after the race, commented on the unusually fast pace: "That was an Irish-English race. I've never seen them go that fast around here in a three-year-old race." Despite the swift tempo, Ombudsman handled the challenge with aplomb, further underlining his potential.
However, Gosden was quick to temper expectations for the immediate future, hinting at a patient approach with Ombudsman. "He did it well and he's a lovely horse but not one to overrace this year. It will be all about next year," the trainer explained, suggesting that the best is yet to come from this Godolphin runner.
As the European racing season progresses towards its autumn climax, both Al Hakeem and Ombudsman have staked their claims as horses to watch. While Al Hakeem eyes Arc glory for Al Shaqab, Ombudsman's connections are playing a longer game, with expectations of an exciting four-year-old campaign in 2025.