Watson triggers $12m Dubai World Cup dream for Russian connections

Watson triggers $12m Dubai World Cup dream for Russian connections

Kabirkhan wins the Dubai Islands handicap Presented by Nakhell at Meydan under jockey Pat Dobbs. - Photo Dubai Racing Club

Published: Sat 13 Jan 2024, 12:35 AM

Eight-time UAE champion handler Doug Watson has made a reputation for himself as a go-to trainer for East European-raced horses and he demonstrated just why when he sent out two exciting Russian-owned gallopers to finish one-two in the Dubai Islands handicap Presented by Nakheel at Meydan on Friday.

Kabirkhan, a Kentucky-bred son of former Dubai World Cup (G1) scorer California Chrome, eclipsed a quality field to win the 2,000 metres dirt contest in telling fashion under Watson’s long-time stable jockey Pat Dobbs.

What was particularly impressive about the performance of the four-year-old who was making his Meydan debut, and first start after a gap of 132 days, was how he coped with a less-than-favourable run.

Forced to race wide after a poor start, Kabirkhan made good progress at the top of the home straight and once asked for his effort he produced a set of gears that saw him dominate what was left of the contest to cross the line four lengths clear of stable companion and fellow Russian raider, Hero Mo, under Sam Hitchcott.

Kabirkhan in the winner's