Siskany highlights staying potential with emphatic Listed win

Siskany gained a breakthrough Listed success as he routed the opposition in the Al Khail Trophy, the first staying prize of this year’s Dubai World Cup Carnival at Meydan, UAE, on Friday, 28 January.

The Charlie Appleby-trained four-year-old, stepping up to a mile and three-quarters for the first time, broke smartly and soon tracked Mondain and Suspicious Mind in third of the 12 runners.

Kemari quickened to briefly hit the front as Suspicious Mind faded approaching the final quarter-mile but Siskany easily covered the move under James Doyle and took up the running from his stable-mate shortly after.

Siskany lengthened clear over a furlong from home and the son of Dubawi was eased near the line to prevail by five and a half lengths over Alignak, with another half-length back to Volcanic Sky in third.

James Doyle said: “We had a nice draw in stall one, which is quite important over this distance, and we could ride the race accordingly. I didn’t think we went overly quick, so I sat quite close to the pace, and my only slight concern was when the horse in front of me stopped further out than ideal.

“Once we found a bit of room, Siskany really excelled in the straight. He picked up well, galloped through the line strongly and showed a good kick. That turn of foot should stand him in good stead over this distance and he has actually stayed better than I thought he would. I think it opens up a few doors for him.”