Sydney or Dubai? — Rare opportunity
J A McGrath
27 February, 2018
Promising Godolphin stayer Rare Rhythm will signal whether he should be shipped to Australia for the G1 Sydney Cup or stay at home for the G2 Dubai Gold Cup when he resumes racing at Meydan on Thursday.
It is seven and a half months since he last raced, but trainer Charlie Appleby is expecting a big run from the six-year-old in the G3 Nad Al Sheba Trophy, over 2800m (one mile, six furlongs).
“He comes here after a long lay-off but he has been pleasing me in his work and I feel he will give a good account of himself,” Appleby said.
“He has a very progressive staying profile, and I believe he can live up to it this preparation. I am hopeful,” he added.
Rare Rhythm was earmarked as a G1 Melbourne Cup prospect when he landed the Duke Of Edinburgh Stakes at Royal Ascot last year, prior to winning the Listed John Smith’s Silver Cup at York.
He then suffered an injury setback shortly after, which scuppered his chances of making the trip to Melbourne.
He faces 10 rivals in the Nad Al Sheba Trophy.
Appleby sent out Polarisation to win the G1 Sydney Cup for Godolphin last year and he is currently drawing up a list of suitable horses likely to be on his short list this year.
