Al Qareem Not For Passing With Cumberland Lodge Hat-trick
Al Qareem made it three successive wins in the BetMGM Cumberland Lodge Stakes at Ascot with the kind of determined front-running performance that has actually become his trademark.
Karl Burke's stalwart has actually now won 12 of his 34 races, claiming over ₤ 700,000 in cash prize for his owners, the Nick Bradley Racing distribute.
While never allowed to totally 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 seemed travelling strongly it quickly became clear Al Qareem had plenty left.
The evergreen six-year-old (9-4), galloped on strongly in spite of the headwind to win by six lengths from Tenability, a stablemate of Hamish, who stayed on for second.
Burke said: "He set up a great, tough efficiency. We understand he's a brave horse and he went hard.
"I stated to Clifford do not be afraid to go hard, particularly out of Swinley Bottom, as he could nick a couple of lengths and get the others at it because 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 true journey, anything above that he just runs out of endurance.
Al Qareem won the Cumberland Lodge for a third time (Steven Paston/PA)
"He's an excellent warrior and it's a great result."
Burke, who likewise won the Sun Chariot at Newmarket with Fallen Angel, continued his extraordinary recent run of big-race success when Native Warrior (9-4 preferred) took the ₤ 180,000 Cup.
Jamie Spencer was on board, just as he was when winning another important prize over course and distance last month.
Burke said: "It was a great performance and he's constantly threatened to do what he's done in his last two. I believe the visor has actually made the distinction and Jamie on the straight track at Ascot is a master.
"Everything has actually 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 charge but remains in terrific form at present."