Al Suhail opens up new avenues with G1 Al Quoz Sprint third

Al Suhail produced a huge effort on his return to six furlongs with a close third in the G1 Al Quoz Sprint on Dubai World Cup Night, Saturday, 25 March.

The son of Dubawi, who had posted course-record wins over seven furlongs on both his previous starts of 2023, broke on terms from his low draw and was held up towards the rear as all 15 runners came up the centre of the course.

Al Suhail accelerated markedly approaching the final quarter-mile, a move that saw him cruise through the field to dispute the running on the bridle a furlong and a half out.

William Buick took up a narrow advantage on the Charlie Appleby-trained six-year-old with a furlong to race but was headed in the final half-furlong by Danyah and The Astrologist, with less than half a length separating the trio at the line.

Charlie Appleby said: “We are delighted with Al Suhail. It was just his second start sprinting and I think a race like the Platinum Jubilee at Ascot will suit him, with the stiff six there. He travels extremely well. I thought for a moment that we might just have a chance at pinching it, but full credit to Sheikha Hissa and the Shadwell team with Danyah."

William Buick added: "Al Suhail travelled well and I was probably the last one off the bridle. I don’t think being caught the far side of the field helped him but that’s where the finish ended up. Still, it was a very good run over six furlongs."