An appearance on Qipco British Champions Day and a potential return to Saudi Arabia are among the options being considered for Annaf following his strong performance at Newbury on Saturday.
Mick Appleby’s sprinter concluded last season on a high note, winning the Portland at Doncaster and the Bengough Stakes at Ascot. After a preparatory run at Lingfield, he achieved a remarkable victory in the Saudi National Bank 1351 Turf Sprint in Riyadh in February, securing nearly £1 million.
After over six months away from the track, the five-year-old faced a challenging return in the Sprint Cup at Haydock, but his third-place finish in the Dubai International Airport World Trophy marked a significant improvement.
"He ran very well, and we were pleased with his performance," Appleby said. "He was probably drawn on the wrong side, and the heavy ground didn’t help, but he put in a solid effort. He’s entered in the Bengough at Ascot again, so we’ll decide whether to go there or not. Champions Day is also on the table, and I think we’ll likely make another trip to Saudi Arabia with him."
"He had a tough time at Haydock, so it was great to see him run well on Saturday."
Appleby also provided a positive update on his Breeders’ Cup-bound duo, Big Evs and Big Mojo. After winning the Juvenile Turf Sprint last season, Big Evs aims to defend his title, while Big Mojo is this year’s candidate for the Juvenile Turf Sprint.
"They’re both in good shape and heading straight there now," Appleby added. "They’re both in great order."