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 type of determined front-running efficiency that has actually 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 distribute.


While never enabled to completely do his own thing in front, Clifford Lee kicked for home early in the straight to make it a real endurance test, and although Hamish looked to be taking a trip strongly it quickly ended up being clear Al Qareem had plenty left.


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


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


"I said to Clifford do not be afraid to go hard, specifically out of Swinley Bottom, as he could nick a few 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 most likely his true trip, anything above that he just .


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


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


Burke, who also won the Sun Chariot at Newmarket with Fallen Angel, continued his amazing current 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 important reward over course and distance last month.


Burke stated: "It was a fantastic performance and he's constantly threatened to do what he's performed 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 actually 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 charge however is in excellent form at present."