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 determined front-running performance that has actually become his trademark.


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


While never ever allowed 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 looked to be travelling strongly it quickly became clear Al Qareem had plenty left.


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


Burke stated: "He put up a fantastic, difficult performance. We understand he's a brave horse and he went hard.


"I said to Clifford do not be afraid to go hard, particularly out of Swinley Bottom, as he could nick a few 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 real journey, anything above that he simply runs out of endurance.


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


"He's a terrific warrior and it's an excellent outcome."


Burke, who likewise won the Sun Chariot at Newmarket with Fallen Angel, continued his extraordinary current run of big-race success when Native (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 great efficiency and he's constantly threatened to do what he's carried out in his last two. I think 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 excellent form at present."