Outlook looks bright for Dubai Future following Meydan success

Progressive four-year-old Dubai Future gained a third straight win when comfortably taking a 12-furlong turf handicap on week four of the Dubai World Cup Carnival at Meydan, UAE, on Thursday, 23 January.

The Saeed bin Suroor-trained colt, victorious in a turf maiden and an All-Weather handicap in the UK last year, raced in second for much of the contest as Zaman (Charlie Appleby/James Doyle) cut out the running for the 16-strong field.

Dubai Future took the lead at the top of the straight and kicked strongly under Harry Bentley to open up a two-length advantage entering the final furlong. The son of Dubawi had plenty in reserve to see off the late challenge of Massif Central and score by three-quarters of a length.

Saeed bin Suroor said: “Dubai Future showed a good level of form in the UK, winning twice and finishing second on his other start, and won nicely tonight.

“I am sure that he will improve for this race and we will look at keeping him over this trip for another turf handicap next month (Thursday, 13 February). It depends on how much weight the handicapper gives him.”

Harry Bentley said: “I was very keen on getting a good position and, although Dubai Future sat down a little bit in the stalls and half missed the break, he was quickly into stride after that.

“I was able to get a very good position, just off the leader, which was probably key. He was carrying a light weight today and we know he gets this trip well, so it made sense to be up there.

“I thought James Doyle in front went a good gallop and I was always very happy to sit just off him. I didn’t feel I needed to challenge him and force the pace on at all, as I was comfortable where I was.

“Turning for home, I did not want to press the button too early, but at the same time I wanted to use the fact he was carrying 53kgs to our advantage.

“He travelled incredibly well and I was impressed by the way he picked up. He stays well and would get further than this. The fact he had a turn of foot over this trip shows he clearly deserves to be racing against some better competition.

“It is hard to pinpoint exactly how good he is. This is his fourth run and he has very low mileage. He is progressing with each start and you would think he will definitely end up being rated a 100-plus horse.”