Soul Rush denies Romantic Warrior in memorable Dubai Turf
$5,000,000 Group 1 Dubai Turf Sponsored By DP World
Scott Burton
Soul Rush and Cristian Demuro broke the hearts of the global legion of Romantic Warrior fans as the Japanese challenger swooped late, leading in the very final stride of a pulsating Dubai Turf.
Three years after the judge was unable to split Lord North and Panthalassa, a dead-heat looked an increasingly likely outcome as the judge studied fractions and pixels.
Eventually the number nine was called and Demuro punched the air as victory was confirmed.
Soul Rush is the epitome of the late-bloomer, having won his first Grade 1 in last season’s Mile Championship at the age of six.
Now trainer Yasutoshi Ikee has him in the form of his life, with this victory backing up an excellent second to Voyage Bubble in the Hong Kong Mile.
Romantic Warrior broke smartly and James McDonald then enjoyed the perfect draft in second behind Japanese pacesetter Meisho Tabaru.
The world’s richest racehorse was sent to win his race turning in but never secured a decisive break on his pursuers, while all the time the eye was drawn to Soul Rush as he worked his way through rivals before engaging top gear in the final 200 metres.
Romantic Warrior appeared to lift again as he felt the presence of his rival and diving at the line both horses were at full stretch.
