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| Staff Writer |
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Following a string of close calls in Riyadh, Helal Alalawi is launching another assault on the Gr.1 Al Mneefah Cup, this time with the progressive RB Kingmaker.
The Al Ain conditioner, who saddled Joe Star to finish fifth in last year's US$1.5 million contest, has assembled an impressive record in the 2100m turf feature, having previously landed runner-up honours with Soko whilst Fettah du Loup claimed sixth in 2022.
Reflecting on his Saudi experience, Alalawi said: "Last year was positive and not our first in the race. We were second and sixth with Soko and Fettah du Loup and also had RB Frynchh Dude [fourth in the 2021 Gr.1 Obaiyah Arabian Classic]. All provided us with valuable experiences at the track."
Fresh from victory in the Listed Abu Dhabi Gold Cup Prep, RB Kingmaker enters Friday's contest with compelling credentials, despite a below-par showing when ninth in the Group One HH The President Cup.
The grey's autumn campaign yielded high-class form in France, chasing home world-leading Purebred Arabian Al Ghadeer in ParisLongchamp's Group One Qatar Arabian World Cup, having previously secured bronze in Deauville's Doha Cup.
Cristian Demuro, who steered Joe Star twelve months ago, maintains his partnership with RB Kingmaker, having guided the entire in both French assignments.
Alalawi expressed confidence in the combination, stating: "Kingmaker has delivered high-level performances in his recent races and has shown significant improvement in post-race training sessions, indicating his readiness for this challenge.
"Cristian knows the horse well, having finished second with him in the World Cup in France and the horse's style should suit the track, making a late surge from behind in the final metres."
The National Stables representative is scheduled to touch down with fellow UAE challengers on Tuesday afternoon.