Arabian Crown scores another Canadian International victory for Godolphin
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ETOBICOKE, Ontario - The favored Godolphin runner Arabian Crown got the job done impressively in Saturday’s Grade 1, $751,500 Canadian International at Woodbine under a shrewd ride from Jamie Spencer in the 1 1/2-mile turf event.
Arabian Crown was expected to make the early lead, but ended up tracking pacesetter Tomasello under Emma-Jayne Wilson until the far turn, where he joined Tomasello up front.
Arabian Crown assumed command entering the stretch, during which Spencer moved him outside to the middle of the course to where he said was the best footing on the course. They prevailed by 3 3/4 lengths over Tawny Port, who finished another 3 3/4 lengths ahead of a troubled Purview.
Ancient Egypt finished fourth and was followed by Il Siciliano, Dancin in Da’nile, and Tomasello.
Over a course labeled as good, the final time was 2:30.67.
“It was a little bit frustrating because I wanted the lead at an even pace,” Spencer said. “But I knew [Wilson] was going to kick on so I accepted [sitting] in behind. The minute I started back, she geared right down in front. We went in 50 for the half so it was pretty steady. I did get going at the half-mile and he had his ears pricked in front, so he was getting a good breather.”
Arabian Crown ($4.90) was adding Lasix off a front-running score in the Group 3 Kilternan in Ireland. The son of Dubawi was previously second to his accomplished stablemate Rebel’s Romance in a Group 2 fixture in England July 9.
“James Doyle [rode him] at Leopardstown, which has a very stiff finish,” Spencer said. “He accelerated leaving the last furlong again. He’s a fit horse coming in here, high on confidence. At the end of the day, he only got beat by Rebel’s Romance at Newmarket, so that’s serious form. It looks like he’s improved a lot as a 5-year-old.”
Godolphin won the International for the fifth time and it was the third victory in the historic race for trainer Charlie Appleby.
Assistant trainer Nikki Jones was elated with Arabian Crown’s effort after the England-based gelding spent about a week at Woodbine.
“It was an amazing performance,” Jones said. “He’s been so easy to deal with since he’s been here. He’s trained really well. He’s such an easy character.”
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