Ahtoug Gets Up Late

Ahtoug is set for a return to Group company following a last-gasp victory in the Emirates Global Aluminium Excellence Trophy Handicap over five furlongs on turf at Meydan, UAE, on Thursday, January 29.

The seven-year-old horse, trained by Charlie Appleby, broke smartly under James Doyle and had no cover early as the field moved right into the centre of the course.

Ahtoug was switched behind another horse and raced in fifth before being asked to move up at halfway and ran on to go second passing the furlong pole.

The Godolphin runner pressed Lancelot Du Lac in the closing stages and snatched the advantage in the shadow of the post to prevail by a head in 57.48s on good ground.

Ahtoug is now being aimed at the Group Three Meydan Sprint over the same course and distance on Super Saturday, March 7 - a race in which he was beaten a head by Shea Shea in 2014.

Charlie Appleby said: "We were pleased with Ahtoug's first run three weeks ago but we were confident that he would come on for it, which was very noticeable at home.

"We brought him out to Dubai a little later compared to last season, so it has taken a little bit more time for him to come to hand. It was a pleasing effort and a great ride by James Doyle.

"We will head on to the Meydan Sprint on Super Saturday and then hopefully on to World Cup night for the Al Quoz Sprint.

"He thrives in Dubai and the quick, flat five furlongs suits him down to the ground. He is in good nick and enjoying himself over here again."