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 kind of identified front-running performance that has actually become his hallmark.


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


While never ever allowed to totally do his own thing in front, Clifford Lee kicked for home early in the straight to make it a real stamina test, and although Hamish looked to be taking a trip highly it soon became clear Al Qareem had plenty left.


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


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


"I stated to Clifford don't be afraid to go hard, especially out of Swinley Bottom, as he could nick a couple of 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 journey, anything above that he simply lacks endurance.


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


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


Burke, who likewise won the Sun Chariot at Newmarket with Fallen Angel, continued his extraordinary current 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 another important prize over course and range last month.


Burke said: "It was a wonderful efficiency and he's constantly threatened to do what he's done in his last 2. I think the visor has made the distinction 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 fantastic kind at present."