Close third for Al Hudaiba in G2 Vintage Stakes

Al Hudaiba again displayed signs of inexperience before rallying close home to go down by just over half a length in third in the G2 Vintage Stakes at Goodwood, UK, on Tuesday, 28 July.

The Charlie Appleby-trained colt had unshipped Tom Marquand when poised for victory in a Yarmouth novice and wandered under pressure before getting up on the line in the G2 Superlative Stakes – one of three Newmarket wins for the Dark Angel homebred.

Carrying a 3lb penalty for his July Festival success, Al Hudaiba broke on terms and found cover in fourth as Pickachu led the six-strong field.

Al Hudaiba went third when the cutaway appeared two furlongs out but hung towards the far rail soon after, costing him momentum. The Godolphin juvenile hit the line well after straightening up, missing out on second by a short-head.

Charlie Appleby said: “There are a couple of things really that I think are positive going forward. Will said at Newmarket that he felt the ground was quick enough and he said coming down the hill he could feel it again here.

"You are always a bit wary when you start getting into the battle and deciding which way you want to go, but in fairness Al Hudaiba rallied really well. He had the 3lb penalty against a couple of unexposed horses who had broken their maidens and were stepping up to Stakes level.

“I don't think he lost too much in defeat and we were pleased with his attitude. He is the sort of horse we might go travelling with."