Prince reigns on belated return
A two-and-a-half-length defeat of Jet Away, one of a small field of older horses comfortable at the level of the Dubai Duty Free Conditions Stakes, is not a firm guide of whether the colt could justify his entry in the Qipco Champion Stakes, even if little more could be demanded from his first start for almost a year.
Dubai Prince was spoken of as either a 2000 Guineas or Derby horse in the spring, having won both his starts at two for Dermot Weld, until a hairline fracture to an area in his pelvis intervened.
He was nonetheless made the 4-6 favourite and with Frankie Dettori unable to manage 8st 6lb, he was ridden compassionately by Kieren Fallon and allowed to stride clear two furlongs from home.
Neither Mahmood Al Zarooni nor Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford were at the course but team representative Diana Cooper said: “He’s obviously in great shape and you couldn’t really ask for a better reintroduction.
“He did everything asked of him last year, beating Seville in a maiden at Gowran and winning a Group Three easily, so it all speaks of good things to come.
“He’s well entered up and the races are in the programme book.
“He’s handled nine furlongs and there’s no reason not to step him up.
“We’ll have to see what Sheikh Mohammed says and I’d imagine a decision on his next race would be made in the next week or so, but not by me.”
Fallon added: “He felt electric – he’s a proper horse.
“The way he moves and everything about him would excite you.
“He picked up and quickened away. I don’t know what the plans are, but he’ll be all right.
“I think that’s the last time I’ll see him!”
Victor Chandler cut Dubai Prince to 12-1 from 33-1 for the Champion Stakes at Ascot on October 15.
