A strong Carnival for the internationals could get even better when Group 3 winner Starlust lines up in Friday’s Al Wasl Stakes [Presented by Nakheel], over 1200metres on turf.
Trained by Ralph Beckett for owners Jim and Fitri Hay, the son of Zoustar won three times last season and wound up with a second in the G1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint at Santa Anita.
“It’s very much his first run of the year but he has done plenty at home,” said Alex Cole, Racing Manager to the Hays. “The draw [13] isn’t great but he is the class horse and should run well.”
Another bringing in solid Group race form is Thunder Blue, who will be a second Dubai runner – but a first since 2017 – for UK-based Dominic Ffrench Davis. The Blue Point colt was fourth in the G2 July Stakes at Newmarket and warmed up for this with a second on the All Weather in November.
“Thunder Blue has thrived since arriving in Dubai. He’s settled in quickly and done everything we asked of him,” said Ffrench Davis. “I think it’s a tough race but he’ll run a big one and we think he’s better than his rating.”
The strong UK raiding party is further bolstered by Zoulu Chief for trainer Heather Main, who is hopeful of a big run.
“Zoulu Chief has settled in well and we think the track will suit him,” said Main, who has engaged Pat Dobbs to ride the three-time UK winner.
