Thursday 27th March 2008
Ibn Khaldun gearing up for Guineas
Ibn Khaldun wins The Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster. Picture by Steve Cargill
Ibn Khladun is emerging as Godolphin’s leading contender for the 200th running of the StanJamesUK 2000 Guineas.
Simon Crisford, racing manager for the renowned Dubai racing operation, this week outlined how well the Racing Post Trophy winner has wintered.
Crisford indicated that the first Classic of the year, to be staged at Newmarket on Saturday May 3, is very much the target for Ibn Khaldun, a 7/1 shot with the sponsors.
The showdown on The NatWest Rowley Mile could see Ibn Khaldun joined by at least one stable-mate with Rio De La Plata and Fast Company also under consideration for the Group 1.
Crisford said: “We think we have some really nice three-year-olds and Ibn Khaldun has done fantastically well during the winter and has been putting in some excellent work even though he is only 60 per cent fit at the moment.
“There is a strong chance he could go for the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket on his return. He could be joined by Fast Company with Rio De La Plata possibly going to France.”
Godolphin have recorded two previous 2000 Guineas wins with Mark Of Esteem (1996) and Island Sands (1999) triumphant.
Sunday May 4’s StanJamesUK 1000 Guineas is likely to see Godolphin represented by Laureldean Gale.
She was second in Group 3 company after winning a maiden before failing to find top form in the Prix Marcel Boussac.
Crisford said: “She got very excited before the race at Longchamp but has had a very good winter and we hope to see her return to her best.”
Cape Verdi (1998) and Kazzia (2002) have previously won the 1000 Guineas for Godolphin.
To be at this year’s StanJamesUK Guineas Festival - featuring the 200th running of the 2000 Guineas - book your tickets online and save 20%. Tickets can also be booked by calling 01638 675 500 (20% discount only applies to online bookings)
