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 identified front-running performance that has actually become his hallmark.


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


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


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


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


"I stated to do not be scared to go hard, particularly out of Swinley Bottom, as he could nick a few lengths and get the others at it since 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 probably his real journey, anything above that he simply lacks stamina.


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


"He's a fantastic warrior and it's a great result."


Burke, who also won the Sun Chariot at Newmarket with Fallen Angel, continued his amazing recent run of big-race success when Native Warrior (9-4 preferred) took the ₤ 180,000 BetMGM Challenge Cup.


Jamie Spencer was on board, simply as he was when winning another important prize over course and distance last month.


Burke said: "It was a wonderful performance and he's constantly threatened to do what he's performed in his last 2. I think the visor has actually 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 return to Ascot now for the Balmoral on Champions Day.


"He'll have a 6lb penalty but remains in great type at present."