Annaf could be on the brink of more financial gains in the Middle East following his impressive victory in the Saudi National Bank 1351 Turf Sprint.
The seasoned five-year-old had a bustling and lucrative season last year, consistently showcasing his prowess in top-tier sprints and holding his ground even when starting as the outsider. Despite finishing fourth in the Duke of York Stakes at odds of 50-1, Annaf bounced back and secured a commendable third place in the Group One King’s Stand at Royal Ascot, narrowly missing victory by the same margin.
Even in races where he landed lower positions such as the Hackwood, the Hopeful Stakes, and the Sprint Cup, Annaf never trailed by more than three and a half lengths when venturing into six-furlong territories. Notably, he triumphed in the Portland at Doncaster, claiming victory under top weight before replicating his success by seizing the Group Three Bengough Stakes at Ascot in October.
Kicking off his seasonal debut at Lingfield in February, Annaf clinched second place in the Listed Kachy Stakes, narrowly falling short to Clive Cox’s Diligent Harry, who later sealed victory at the Hever Sprint Stakes at Southwell.
Steering towards the Saudi Turf Sprint, Annaf faced formidable contenders, including the reigning champion Bathrat Leon from Japan, Kieran Cotter’s speedy filly Matilda Picotte, and Tim Easterby’s British Champions Sprint Stakes winner Art Power. With a strategic ride from Rossa Ryan and a favourable start from stall 12, Annaf tactically navigated the course, steadily gaining ground.
As his rivals waned, Annaf surged ahead, ultimately crossing the finish line three-quarters of a length in front of Japan’s La La Christine, securing an impressive prize pot of nearly £1 million. Trainer Appleby expressed satisfaction with Annaf’s performance, noting his consistency in high-quality races and his ability to contend with top competitors.
While a trip to Japan was initially considered after the Saudi victory, the team decided to redirect Annaf to the Al Quoz Sprint on Dubai World Cup night, deeming the Japanese race too soon after his recent triumph. Appleby outlined their future plans, hinting at appearances in Royal Ascot, Glorious Goodwood, and other premier events.
Appleby also shared updates on his other sprint sensation, Big Evs, who claimed victories in the Windsor Castle, Molecomb, Flying Childers, and the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint last season. As the colt returns to training after the winter break, Appleby affirmed that plans for the upcoming campaign are still under consideration, with expectations of an early-season debut.