Alflaila is set to make a return to his preferred venue for the Juddmonte International at York.
Trained by Owen Burrows and owned and bred by Shadwell, the five-year-old has raced at the Knavesmire four times, winning the last three of those starts. His victories include a Strensall Stakes win and two triumphs in the Group Two York Stakes, the most recent of which was his last outing, where he secured a half-length victory in a slowly-run race.
That win marked the seventh of his career, which has been hampered by previous injuries. However, Alflaila is now poised to reach new heights in what promises to be a highly competitive Group One event.
Burrows confirmed that Alflaila is on track for the Juddmonte International at York, is in excellent condition, and is a very attractive horse. He noted that the horse hadn’t raced for a long period at the beginning of the season, and Jim Crowley had suggested that Alflaila might improve for that run at York. Burrows was pleased with Alflaila's performance in the tactical race, adding that the Juddmonte is expected to be run at a good pace, which should suit the horse.
He also mentioned that York is particularly suitable for Alflaila, as the long straight allows him to find his stride. The horse does not quicken instantly and takes some time to build up, but he is very honest and always finishes strongly.