Al Qareem Not For Passing With Cumberland Lodge Hat-trick

Al Qareem made it 3 successive wins in the BetMGM Cumberland Lodge Stakes at Ascot with the type of determined 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 cash prize for his owners, the Nick Bradley Racing syndicate.


While never ever enabled 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 taking a trip strongly it soon ended up being clear Al Qareem had plenty left.


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


Burke said: "He set up a fantastic, tough efficiency. We understand he's a brave horse and he went hard.


"I said to Clifford don't be scared to go hard, specifically out of Swinley Bottom, as he might nick a few lengths and get the others at it due to the fact that 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 lacks stamina.


Al Qareem won the Cumberland Lodge for a 3rd time (Steven Paston/PA)


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


Burke, who likewise 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, simply as he was when another important reward over course and range last month.


Burke said: "It was a wonderful performance and he's always threatened to do what he's performed in his last 2. I believe the visor has 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 return to Ascot now for the Balmoral on Champions Day.


"He'll have a 6lb charge but remains in terrific type at present."