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 become his hallmark.


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


While never allowed to totally 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 looked to be travelling strongly it quickly ended up being clear Al Qareem had plenty left.


The evergreen six-year-old (9-4), galloped on powerfully in spite of the headwind to win by 6 lengths from Tenability, a stablemate of Hamish, who stayed on for 2nd.


Burke said: "He installed a wonderful, tough performance. We understand he's a brave horse and he went hard.


"I said to Clifford don't be afraid 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 most likely his true trip, anything above that he just lacks stamina.


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


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


Burke, who likewise 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, just as he was when winning another important reward over course and distance last month.


Burke stated: "It was a wonderful performance and he's always threatened to do what he's done in his last 2. I believe the visor has actually made the difference 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 penalty but is in excellent kind at present."