Mendip Set For Dubai Run This Week
- By A.J. Ryder on January 11, 2012 17:17 GMT
A cadre of talented runners are set for the first round of the 2012 Al Maktoum Challenge at fantastic Meydan Racecourse in Dubai. The contest, registered as a Group 3 event, has drawn a very talented group of contenders and there is every chance that we could see a long-odds winner if the pairing of Musir or Mendip happens to come up short on a seasonal debut.
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The fact that neither boasts a prep race certainly opens this one up a bit – especially for talented colt Derbaas. He captured last year's Group 2 Al Fahidi Fort and has already been out once this season at Meydan – finishing behind Mahbooba last week.
An interesting variable here is the 4/1 price listed on Fanualter, who might not be as recognizable a name as some on the list here. He was at last year's Carnival and put in a few good shift but didn't manage a win despite two placings.
Punters seem to expect that he'll be able to perform in this one against talented Group winners.
The outright favourite is Mendip who is priced at a slim 7/4 that may turn off a number of punters. Obviously a talented contender who still has a lot to prove, Mendip may take a race before he really unveils everything he's got.
Anybody thinking it won't be Mendip's day will likely take a look at Musir, who is priced as the 7/2 second choice. The son of Redoute's Choice had a few solid efforts in Dubai last year as well and is expected to have progressed nicely.
Xin Xu Lin lines up for Godolphin and gets Mikael Barzalona for the ride – expect a big race from the blue team in this one. You'll find him priced at 10/1 with most major bookmakers. Former Kentucky Derby contender Master of Hounds is a 12/1 shot while Snaafy trades at 20/1.
