Ghaiyyath dominates in G1 Grosser Preis von Baden

Ghaiyyath gained a breakthrough first G1 success as he routed the opposition in the 12-furlong Grosser Preis von Baden at Baden-Baden, Germany, on Sunday, 1 September.

The Charlie Appleby-trained four-year-old, third on his only previous G1 appearance in the Prix Ganay at Longchamp, France, in April, raced in a close fourth of the nine-strong field initially before striding on into a clear lead after the first three furlongs.

Ghaiyyath continued to travel strongly in front under William Buick and had all of his rivals under pressure turning for home. The Dubawi colt powered further clear in the straight and was eased in the closing stages to come home a full 14 lengths clear of Donjah in 2m 30.08s on good ground.

Charlie Appleby said: “I am very lucky to be in this position with Ghaiyyath and we have always felt that a mile and a half was going to be his trip.

“It was a very impressive performance and I am delighted that the horse has shown us today what we have always felt he could potentially do.

“This race is a very good preparation for the G1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (12f, Longchamp, France, Sunday, 6 October) and it is a nice discussion that we can have over the next 10 days or two weeks.

“All of my decisions are made with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and we look forward to talking about Ghaiyyath and deciding whether we head towards Longchamp or look elsewhere.”

William Buick said: “Ghaiyyath is an amazing horse. He was very impressive in the G2 Prix d'Harcourt at Longchamp in the spring – you very rarely see a horse do what he did that day.

“For one reason or another, he disappointed in the Prix Ganay but Charlie has always been adamant that Ghaiyyath will stay a mile and a half and he showed that today.

“He is a monster, an absolute monster. Let’s hope that he will be around for a while.”