Al Hudaiba (14:00 Newmarket, Race 2 — JCB British EBF Novice Stakes, 7f)
A Godolphin two-year-old trained by the formidable Charlie Appleby, Al Hudaiba opened his account on debut at Newmarket on 15 May, winning over 6f on good ground, with the runner-up Mrair subsequently winning next time to boost the form. Mrair had totally missed the break when a good second to the talented Al Hudaiba at Newmarket, underlining just how impressive that debut performance was.
Stepped up in class and distance at Yarmouth on 28 May, he was sent off 10/11 favourite but unseated his rider — a deeply unfortunate end to what looked a straightforward assignment. That result tells us nothing about his ability and everything about bad luck.
Back on home turf today at Newmarket over 7f on good to firm ground, all the key boxes are ticked. The Appleby yard has won this race in each of the last three years, he handles this going well, and stepping back up to 7f suits a horse by Dark Angel out of a dam who won at that trip. With a clear run, this lightly-raced grey should have far too much for his rivals.
Verdict: Back to win — looks nailed on for top connections.
