Measured Time doubles up in G2 Al Rashidiya with sensational display

Measured Time enjoyed a perfect start to his winter at Meydan, UAE, with a scintillating defence of his G2 Al Rashidiya title on Friday, 20 December.

The Charlie Appleby-trained four-year-old easily won the nine-furlong feature 12 months ago before capturing the G1 Jebel Hatta and finishing a close fourth in the G1 Dubai Turf.

Quickly into his stride, Measured Time led from the off and established an early length and a half advantage over Cairo and Natural World.

Measured Time increased his lead leaving the back and appeared to have all seven of his rivals under pressure at the top of the straight.

Asked to extend by William Buick a furlong and a half out, the half-brother to Rebel’s Romance surged further clear before being eased close home to cross the line seven lengths in front.

His winning time of 1m 45.11s shaved just over four-tenths of a second off the previous course record set by Just A Way in the 2014 Dubai Turf.

Charlie Appleby said: “Measured Time produced what we hoped he would and will head to the Jebel Hatta with a run under his belt. He has his confidence back, although he will have to be at the top of his game if he takes on Romantic Warrior next time. It will be an exciting race to see at Meydan.”

William Buick said: “That was a top-class performance. Measured Time is super competitive and I was happy to lead on him.

“We knew he did not need to put in a performance like that, but that is what you get from him – he gives his all every time he runs. He is proven at G1 level both here and in America.

“He is a high-energy horse and likes to express it. He was entitled to be a bit fresh today following a lay-off. Fingers crossed there will be some improvement to come from tonight.”