King Curlin ready to roll at Dubai

Connections of Breeders’ Cup Classic and Preakness Stakes winner Curlin are expecting a bold show from their superstar at Nad Al Sheba on Thursday.

Trained by Steve Asmussen, the four-year-old son of Smart Strike has pleased connections since his arrival in Dubai.

Although Curlin’s major objective remains the Dubai World Cup next month, Scott Blasi, assistant to Asmussen, believes he is ready to roll in the 10-furlong Jaguar Trophy.

Blasi said: “We completed the majority of his preparation at home and just worked four furlongs last week under Carlos (Carmen Rosas).

“He has settled in well and we took him to the gates on Tuesday. Everything has gone to plan so far.

“Obviously the big race is four weeks away and that is the real target. This is a prep race but looks an ideal opportunity and he is ready to do himself justice.”

Among Curlin’s opposition is the Mike de Kock-trained Engrupido and Godolphin’s pair of Familiar Territory and Imperialista.

All eyes are sure to be fixed on Curlin, but the Listed UAE Oaks will see 11 smart fillies take each other on in the official feature.

Godolphin will be triple-handed with Fiesta Lady, Cocoa Beach and Love Dancing.

Trainer Saeed bin Suroor is expecting a bold show from his trio.

He said: “Cocoa Beach won the UAE 1,000 Guineas on her last start and she has come out of the race really well. She’s ready to go for the Oaks and the distance should suit her well.

“Fiesta Lady has also come out of the 1,000 Guineas in fine form and she is also ready to race,” he told www.godolphin.com.

“She’s in good condition and I think she might finish closer to Cocoa Beach this time.

“Love Dancing is a nice filly. We think this distance will suit her much better and this is her big chance to run well in the Oaks.”

John Gosden’s Racer Forever, John Balding’s Turn On The Style and the Alan Jarvis-trained Wise Dennis have all struck at the Carnival this year and will be looking to secure further honours in their respective races.