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 sort of identified front-running performance that has actually become his trademark.


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


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


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


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


"I said to Clifford do not be afraid to go hard, specifically out of Swinley Bottom, as he could nick a couple of lengths and get the others at it due to the fact that 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 most likely his true journey, anything above that he just lacks stamina.


Al Qareem won the Cumberland Lodge for a 3rd time (Steven Paston/PA)


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


Burke, who also won the Sun Chariot at Newmarket with Fallen Angel, continued his unbelievable recent run of big-race success when (9-4 favourite) 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 wonderful performance and he's always threatened to do what he's done in his last 2. I believe the visor has made the distinction and Jamie on the straight track at Ascot is a master.


"Everything has 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 remains in great kind at present."