Dubai World Cup night gives flat season super lift off

Dubai World Cup night has attracted a high quality entry and looks set to give the new flat season a sensational lift off. The action begins at 1.10 with the Group 2 Godolphin Mile and a chance for Soft Falling Rain to return to winning ways.

His rivals include the in-form Shuruq and French 1000 Guineas winner Flotilla. The stayers take centre stage at 1.45 with last year’s winner Cavalryman clashing with Ascot Gold Cup runner-up Simenon.

All eyes will be on Godolphin’s Long John in the UAE Derby at 2.25 after his sensational victory in the UAE 2000 Guineas. He faces a tough rival in Breeders’ Cup Juvenile runner-up Giovanni Boldini.

Shea Shea aims to repeat his 2013 victory in the Al Quoz Sprint at 3.03 and faces a familiar rival in Ireland’s Sole Power. Ed Lynam’s seven-year-old has only beaten Shea Shea once in five previous meetings.

The Golden Shaheen at 3.41 also sees last year’s winner in action with Reynaldothewizard. He must improve on his recent second to Rich Tapestry if he is to win for the second consecutive season.

The Dubai Duty Free at 4.39 is a contender for race of the night with The Fugue clashing with Dank. Both mares have a big following after their successful campaigns in 2013.

The Dubai Sheema Classic at 5.17 is equally competitive with Breeders’ Cup winner Magician returning to action for Aidan O’Brien. The Irish 2000 Guineas winner is an exciting prospect this season but is opposed by Cirrus Des Aigles and Gentildonna.

Ryan Moore rode a perfect race on Magician at Santa Anita but is on board two-time Japan Cup winner Gentildonna here. Cirrus Des Aigles was second in the Champion Stakes but may have lost a little speed at the age of eight.

The Dubai World Cup takes place at 6.05 and Ruler Of The World would be a very appropriate winner. The Epsom Derby winner has not won since and may have most to fear from Military Attack and Mukhadram.

Selections: 1.10 Flotilla, 1.45 Cavalryman, 2.25 Long John, 3.03 Shea Shea, 3.41 Reynaldothewizard, 4.39 The Fugue, 5.17 Magician, 6.05 Military Attack