In a thrilling display of dominance on Newmarket’s Rowley Mile, Mutasaabeq, son of Invincible Spirit, owned and bred by Shadwell Estates and trained by Charlie Hills, clinched a remarkable back-to-back victory in the Gr.2 Dubai Joel Stakes. This impressive win marks his fifth triumph in six visits to Newmarkets Rowley Mile.
Known for his prowess on the front end, Mutasaabeq, a homebred son of Ghanaati (Giant’s Causeway), seized control of the race from the start and held on to secure the victory. Mutasaabeq clinched the victory by a hard-fought head and half-length margins, further solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
Jockey Jim Crowley, who piloted Mutasaabeq to victory, commented , “This was right up there with his best. He loves it here, he likes to get rolling between the three and the two, and when he has been challenged in the past, he keeps fighting and toughs it out well.”
Trainer Charlie Hills echoed Crowley’s sentiments, emphasizing Mutasaabeq’s affinity for the Rowley Mile. He noted, “It is a case of horses for courses, and he has a tremendous record at the Rowley Mile. I think when he wins, he puts a lot into it, so he can’t put too many races together. However, he is a little bit older now and a bit stronger.”
Hills hinted at potential future plans for the talented Mutasaabeq, saying, “What do you do with a horse that has won three Group 2s? He is a good miler and he likes fast ground. I’m sure he will handle the journey, and he only needs to improve a couple of lengths with the travel and the conditions, and you never quite know. A track like this tests his stamina, but a two-turn mile at Santa Anita will suit him ideally.”
The possibility of an international venture, such as the Breeders’ Cup Mile in America, is on the horizon for Mutasaabeq, showcasing the horse’s versatility and potential for success on a global stage.
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