Dubai: Doug Watson must fancy his chances of becoming champion trainer at the end of the UAE season, but for the moment he will be focused on pulling off a rare big-race double at Jebel Ali Racecourse on Friday, when he saddles Shamaal Nibras in the Group 3 Jebel Ali Mile sponsored by Shadwell.
Watson won the Listed Jebel Ali Stakes last month with Jutland, and Shamaal Nibras appears to have genuine claims in what looks to be an ultra-competitive renewal of the prestigious contest — the centrepiece of three ‘black type’ races run at the venue.
The six-year-old son of First Samurai has been well rested since posting an impressive victory at the track six weeks ago and Watson explained: “That was always the plan. He needs time between his races so we have been patient — just as we were with Jutland.
“It worked with him and we are hoping for a big run from Shamaal Nibras in a competitive renewal.”
Stable jockey Pat Dobbs takes the ride and said: “Obviously he will have to improve from his last run, but he’s a nice, genuine performer who likes the track at Jebel Ali.
“There are some nice horses in the race but my horse is on the up and should run well.”
Resident Jebel Ali handler Dhruba Selvaratnam is also plotting to win the Jebel Ali Mile for the second successive year with stable star Forjatt, the mount of stable jockey Oisin Murphy.
The feat has only been achieved twice before, with Treble Jig being the most recent horse to score back-to-back wins in 2012 and 2013.
“He is in great form and we could not be happier with him,” said Selvaratnam. “His first run was very pleasing and he won well last time.
“This is a tougher race though and Silver Galaxy and Shamaal Nibras look two of the main dangers.
“Obviously he is a year older than when he won 12 months ago and it looks a strong renewal, but he should run well.”
Musabah Al Muhairi, a handlers who has enjoyed much success at Jebel Ali in recent years, runs the highly regarded Silver Galaxy, a dual course winner this season who was also third in the Listed Jebel Ali Stakes a fortnight ago.
“He has done really well this season considering his inexperience,” said stable jockey Silvestre de Sousa. “He ran really well in the Jebel Ali Stakes and the drop in trip should not inconvenience him. We are hoping for a big effort.”
Al Muhairi added: “He is a very nice horse and should produce a big run in a good, wide open race.”
Richard Mullen rides the Satish Seemar-trained Mawhub, who is seeking a third Jebel Ali victory of the season having already won twice here over 1,800 metres.
“He has been running well all season,” said Mullen. “It is a good race but he seems in good form and should run a big race.”
Friday’s meeting also features the 1,000-metres Jebel Ali Sprint Prep.
