William Haggas launches two-horse raid on Queen Elizabeth Stakes
Newmarket trainer William Haggas brings British firepower, readying Dubai Honour and Caviar Heights for a crack at the $5 million Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes on Royal Randwick's big day.
The pair will contest Saturday's highlight, top billing at The Championships, as Haggas seeks to enhance his fine down under record.
Dubai Honour arrives from a bold second to Aeliana in the Tancred Stakes (2400m), dictating terms for ages before wilting late.
Returning to 2000m in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes, he's a prime threat with Tom Marquand retaining the mount from post five among eight runners.
Marquand pushed forward in the Tancred, but James McDonald piloting Aeliana nailed the timing, powering home to win on the peg.
Now blinkers are on the cards to focus Dubai Honour for the encore.
“Hopefully they’ll sharpen him up,’’ said travelling assistant trainer Issy Paul.
“He’s an older horse now and was bounced out of his run, but I’m happy where he’s at so we’ll give it a good crack.”
“He’s a phenomenal horse, he rarely runs a bad race ever and we’ve got him in a really good place.”
Issy Paul noted the surface and field strength as hurdles.
“Sometimes the ground might not suit them, and it’s looking like a quick track on Saturday, but you can’t duck and dive. We’ve flown halfway across the world and it’s important we run.”
Aiming for Group 1 win number six, Dubai Honour boasts 36 starts: 10 victories, 12 seconds, two thirds, with stakes nearing $10 million.
The trainer's backup, $125 shot Caviar Heights, carries good Euro lines including a stake in the Neville Sellwood Stakes locally first-up.
Zac Lloyd takes the ride on the five-year-old Sea The Stars son from barrier four, next to his fellow Haggas runner.
International interest spices things up, yet the focus stays on flawless star Autumn Glow.
Chris Waller's $1.45 top pick, ridden by James McDonald, gate two, eyes 12 in a row.
Australian Turf Club acting CEO Steve McMahon nailed the vibe.
“History isn’t something you watch later. It’s something you show up for,” McMahon said.
“This week at Royal Randwick, Autumn Glow chases her place in racing folklore. Be there. Feel it. Be part of it.”
“Racegoers are starting to embrace Autumn Glow like none other since Winx, and she can create her own history on Saturday if she remains unbeaten.”
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