Mahmood Al Zarooni optimistic about Opinion Poll’s chances in the Betfair Henry II Stakes
Opinion Poll will have to raise the bar and outshine his own performance at Meydan, since he has to live up to high expectations in the Betfair Henry II Stakes - which will be hosted at Sandown on 31st May, 2012.
Mahmood Al Zarooni seems ecstatic about his runner as he stated to the press that:
“I love this horse. He does everything you ask of him and he does everything right. He's in very good form at the moment and I think you'll see a very good run from him. People must remember he is an old man now but he has lots of experience and that
helps in these long distance races, it helps them relax."
The six-year-old bay horse prevailed in the Group 3 Dubai Gold Cup Sponsored By Al Tayer Motors on 31st March, 2012, at Meydan, where he used his brisk pace to defeat the Marco Botti trained, Joshua Tree, by ¾ of a length.
Last year winner of this race, Blue Bajan, will also compete in this race and currently at age ten, the trainer hopes that he can bring the same fervour to the track that many of the younger runners will demonstrate.
David O’Meara, who trains the bay gelding stated to the press that:
"He won the race last year but he's a year older now and hasn't quite run to the same level yet. He seems fit and well at home and still has an appetite for racing, so he'll go and do his best."
The Dr. John Hollowood owned runner seems to have faced a major setback after his victory, since he failed to produce a similar performance of that scale again. But the old flame might be rekindled, and he might deliver an incredible race.
Out of the three starts this season, he has failed to claim a placed position in any of them.
Brian Meehan’s charge, Aaim To Prosper, will also compete in this race with the hope of crushing the competition over the 2 mile and 78 yard track.
The brown gelding will have to bring his best to the track, as he is returning to the track after a lay-off of ten months.
Tags: