Kabirkhan pictured winning the Group One Al Maktoum (Photo by DRC)
From Kazakhstan to the Dubai World Cup at Meydan for rising star horse Kabirkhan
Kabirkhan is trained by Doug Watson and will be ridden by jockey Pat Dobbs in the Dubai World Cup on Saturday. The horse is a son of 2016 winner California Chrome
Melissa Jones (Irish Mirror)
A rags to riches horse raced in Kazakhstan and Russia is a leading contender for the Dubai World Cup.
Kabirkhan chases a £5,480,315 first prize with Irish jockey Pat Dobbs steering at Meydan. A son of the 2016 race winner California Chrome, Doug Watson’s trainee is unbeaten around the circuit.
From his lowly beginnings at Almaty Racecourse, the four-year-old colt then tackled higher quality racing in Russia. Defeated once in the local Derby, from 11 appearances, Kabirkhan’s fairytale story enters the next chapter on Saturday.
In opposition among 12 runners is defending Emirates Airline World Cup champion Ushba Tesoro, Saudi Cup hero Senor Buscador and Breeders’ Cup Classic second Derma Sotogake.
“He has got a high cruising speed when he gallops, moves well and is very tough,” said Group One-winning rider Dobbs. “I don’t think we have seen the best of him yet.”
Born in 2020 during the early stages of the pandemic, Kabirkhan was purchased for around £10,000. After outrunning local opposition for Turganzhan Yuldashev, he spent a year at Arslangirey Shavuev’s stable in Russia and is now with multiple UAE Champion trainer Doug Watson.
A cosy four and three quarter length success in the Group One Al Maktoum Challenge, carrying owner Tlek Mukanbetkaliyev’s colours, earned him a shot at his big weekend target.
“He’s got to step up his game and we think he can,” said Watson via The National.
“He has been impressive in his work and electric on the track. It’s very exciting for everyone.”
