Roger Varian hoping Postponed and Intilaaq can deliver the goods in Dubai
Postponed, who won on his first start for the yard — since leaving Luca Cumai — in the Dubai City Of Gold earlier this month heads, for the Sheema Classic.
Intilaaq was originally being targeted at the World Cup on dirt, but he has now been switched to the Dubai Turf, and his task has been made easier with Solow missing the race.
Postponed has been out in Dubai since his victory earlier this month and Varian’s assistant Will Johnson has overseen his preparation.
“He has had an easy once-around the all-weather training track this morning and all of his base work is done,” said Johnson.
“He won his lead-up race well and it is just a case of keeping him ticking over now. We will look to give him a blow out on the main turf track on Wednesday morning.”
Intilaaq only arrived last week but is reported to have taken his travels well,” said Johnson. “He arrived here on Thursday after a good journey and he has thrived in the warm weather.”
“He has had an easy once-around the all-weather training track today and may have a blow on the grass on Wednesday.
“It is disappointing Solow isn’t running but, as people say, one man’s loss is another man’s gain.”
One of the stars of the carnival has been Doug Watson’s filly Polar River, who takes on the colts in Saturday’s UAE Derby.
“She is in very good form and has been a star for us. She has had a smooth preparation since the UAE Oaks and we have to be very hopeful,” said Watson.
California Chrome is back for another shot at the World Cup having finished second 12 months ago.
“He came out of the work great,” said assistant trainer Alan Sherman. “He is very happy this morning. He’s gotten bigger and stronger. He looks fantastic.”
California Chrome figures among a provisional field of 12 for the World Cup which also includes Frosted and Keen Ice from America.
Frankie Dettori is jocked up on the Todd Pletcher-trained Mshawish with Hokko Tarumae, trained by Katsuichi Nishiura, set to represent Japan.
