A selection of thoroughbreds produced eye-catching performances during the morning training session on Wednesday, August 26. Among those catching the eye on the inner sand track were Fynbos, Chagall, Zucarro and Azaadi, all of whom displayed promising form ahead of upcoming engagements.
The training session featured a variety of gallops, with horses tested over distances ranging from 600 metres to 1400 metres. The track conditions allowed for steady work, with several riders opting for controlled efforts while others were encouraged to stretch out in their final preparations.
Strong gallops over longer distances
In the 1400-metre gallops, Chagall, ridden by Vivek, delivered an impressive display, clocking 1:36 for the full distance and finishing the final 600 metres in 39 seconds. Zucarro, also partnered with Vivek, matched this effort alongside Red Bishop, with the pair finishing level after a well-controlled run. Meanwhile, Bishop moved freely over the same distance, recording a time of 1:39.
The 1200-metre sessions saw Fynbos finish two lengths ahead of Duke Of Tuscany, with the former clocking 1:22 for the distance. Azaadi also looked superior in her work, finishing two lengths clear of Sixty Four Squares, while Rainbow Connection held a four-length advantage over Frenzy at the conclusion of their 1200-metre gallop.
Consistent work across shorter sprints
The 1000-metre gallops provided further insight into the fitness of the string. Beast Mode moved nicely to record 1:06, while Bravion, Irish Gold and Invictor all worked with purpose, each clocking 1:07 or 1:08. Liban required a slight urge from the rider to complete the distance in 1:08.
Shorter work over 800 metres saw Fourth Wing produce a solid effort, finishing the final 600 metres in 38 seconds. Pure Soul also moved well, clocking 52 seconds for the 800-metre stretch. On the 600-metre inner sand track, Ashwa Gypsy impressed with a time of 37 seconds, while Mansa Musa also moved well to clock 38 seconds. Other runners, including Zephyr, Vrihati, Winter Sun, Destroyer, Crimson Pirate, Fantastica, Leo The Lion, Bezalel and Eastern Monarch, completed their respective exercises with steady, controlled work.
