Al Qareem Not For Passing With Cumberland Lodge Hat-trick
Al Qareem made it three succeeding wins in the BetMGM Cumberland Lodge Stakes at Ascot with the kind of identified front-running efficiency that has become his hallmark.
Karl Burke's stalwart has actually now won 12 of his 34 races, claiming over ₤ 700,000 in prize money for his owners, the Nick Bradley Racing syndicate.
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 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 stayed on for second.
Burke stated: "He installed a wonderful, tough performance. We understand he's a brave horse and he went hard.
"I stated to Clifford don't be afraid to go hard, specifically out of Swinley Bottom, as he might nick a couple of 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 most likely his true trip, anything above that he simply runs out of stamina.
Al Qareem won the Cumberland Lodge for a third time (Steven Paston/PA)
"He's a terrific warrior and it's a great result."
Burke, who also won the Sun Chariot at Newmarket with Fallen Angel, continued his unbelievable recent run of big-race success when Native Warrior (9-4 favourite) took the ₤ 180,000 BetMGM Challenge Cup.
Jamie Spencer was on board, just as he was when winning another valuable prize over course and distance last month.
Burke said: "It was a wonderful performance and he's always threatened to do what he's carried out 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 go back to Ascot now for the on Champions Day.
"He'll have a 6lb penalty however remains in terrific kind at present."