Al Qareem Not For Passing With Cumberland Lodge Hat-trick

Al Qareem made it 3 succeeding wins in the BetMGM Cumberland Lodge Stakes at Ascot with the type of identified front-running efficiency that has actually become his trademark.


Karl Burke's stalwart has now won 12 of his 34 races, claiming over ₤ 700,000 in cash prize for his owners, the Nick Bradley Racing syndicate.


While never ever permitted to entirely do his own thing in front, Clifford Lee kicked for home early in the straight to make it a real stamina test, and although Hamish seemed travelling highly it soon ended up being clear Al Qareem had plenty left.


The evergreen six-year-old (9-4), galloped on powerfully despite the headwind to win by 6 lengths from Tenability, a stablemate of Hamish, who remained on for 2nd.


Burke said: "He installed a fantastic, difficult efficiency. We understand he's a brave horse and he went hard.


"I said to Clifford don't hesitate to go hard, specifically out of Swinley Bottom, as he could nick a few lengths and get the others at it because all he does is keep galloping. You can do that over a mile and a half on soft ground and whereas one-mile-six is probably his true journey, anything above that he just lacks endurance.


Al Qareem won the for a third time (Steven Paston/PA)


"He's a fantastic warrior and it's a fantastic result."


Burke, who likewise won the Sun Chariot at Newmarket with Fallen Angel, continued his amazing recent run of big-race success when Native Warrior (9-4 preferred) took the ₤ 180,000 BetMGM Challenge Cup.


Jamie Spencer was on board, simply as he was when winning another important reward over course and range last month.


Burke stated: "It was a fantastic efficiency and he's always threatened to do what he's done in his last 2. I believe the visor has made the difference and Jamie on the straight track at Ascot is a master.


"Everything has actually fallen right for him the last twice and he will go back to Ascot now for the Balmoral on Champions Day.


"He'll have a 6lb charge but is in great form at present."