New Kingdom not for passing at Meydan

New Kingdom excelled on his return to a mile as he made all to take the Lord Glitters Handicap at Meydan, UAE, on Friday, 17 February.

The Dubawi four-year-old, third behind Shining Blue over seven furlongs on his seasonal return in January, was smartly into his stride and soon established a three-quarter length advantage over Laser Show.

William Buick kicked for home entering the final quarter-mile and New Kingdom responded well, extending his lead to two lengths over a furlong out.

Aegean Finale flashed home after meeting trouble in running, with the line coming in time for the Charlie Appleby-trained New Kingdom, who held on for a neck verdict.

William Buick said: “New Kingdom likes to be ridden that way and Charlie was keen to do that if he broke well and nothing challenged him. That is what we did and it worked well.

“He needed the line and you could drop him back to seven furlongs no problem as he has the pace, but I thought he showed a lot of tenacity there. He dug deep and I am glad the line came when it did.

“I knew the pace had been even and he kept responding. In the last 100 yards you are always vulnerable to a closer, but he has a great attitude and hopefully he can build on this.”