Staff Writer |
Bhupat Seemar is carefully mapping out a route to the US$20 million Saudi Cup with globe-trotting superstar Laurel River, who has enjoyed a refreshing summer break following his devastating Dubai World Cup triumph.
The 6YO entire, carrying the famous Juddmonte silks, turned the US$12 million Dubai World Cup into a procession on his first attempt at 10 furlongs in March. The race, previously won by thundering hooves like Thunder Snow (2018, 2019) and Country Grammer (2022), who both went on to achieve further Group One glory, marked Laurel River as a truly exceptional talent.
"The fact he is the highest-rated horse on the planet indicates he is somewhat of a freak," Seemar told www.sportsboom.com. "He has had a super summer and it was great of the owners to keep the faith in us and leave the horse here with us in Dubai. They could have taken him for the Breeders' Cup, but the fact he remained with us just reinforces what a brilliant operation Juddmonte is."
The Dubai-based handler is being rewarded for his expert handling with two more exciting prospects from the powerhouse operation.
Castlewarden, a full brother to Laurel River, brings untapped potential from limited starts, while Artorius, by Dubai World Cup victor Arrogate, already boasts a notable victory in the 2022 Curlin Stakes.
Speaking of his stable star's immediate plans, Seemar added: "He's had some paddock time; he's used the spa and been in the pool, so he's enjoyed some proper 'R and R' and now he's back into training. Laurel River is a no-nonsense horse – he just knows he's very good!"
The trainer is eyeing a preparatory run before the Saudi Cup on February 22, with defending his Dubai World Cup crown remaining the ultimate target. "I'm not entirely sure where he will start off this season, but he needs to have a prep run before the Saudi Cup. We will wait until he reaches a certain level of fitness and then look for a prep race. Defending his crown in the Dubai World Cup is obviously the target afterwards."