Karl Burke's Cuban Tiger, one of the three-year-olds in the trainer's talented group, emerged victorious in the BetMGM Burradon Stakes at Newcastle, narrowly defeating Sayedaty Sadaty. The colt, sired by Havana Grey and owned by Sheikh Mohammed Obaid, had a modest official rating of 87, suggesting a challenging task. However, with only two previous races under his belt, including a debut win and a close second-place finish to Notable Speech trained by Charlie Appleby, Cuban Tiger had clearly shown improvement.
Silent Age, the unbeaten horse trained by Appleby, was anticipated to be a strong contender but hindered his chances by displaying agitation in the starting stalls. As a result, it was Sayedaty Sadaty ridden by jockey Oisin Murphy who attempted to set the pace. Despite initially appearing vulnerable, Sayedaty Sadaty tenaciously stuck to the task. Meanwhile, the favourite Orne and Silent Age faded away, allowing Clifford Lee and Cuban Tiger to make a final challenge and secure victory by a neck.
Burke already possesses a promising three-year-old in Night Raider, and there is significant optimism surrounding Fallen Angel's chances in the upcoming 1000 Guineas race. Reflecting on the Cuban Tiger's performance, Burke expressed his satisfaction, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the transition from two-year-old to three-year-old racing. While recognising the strength of other competitors, such as Orne from the John Gosden stable and Silent Age representing Godolphin, Burke had confidence in Cuban Tiger's ability, considering him superior to his official rating and unconcerned about handicaps. Burke highlighted Cuban Tiger's affinity for the racing surface and his athleticism, suggesting that softer ground might not suit him. The trainer intended to discuss plans with Sheikh Mohammed Obaid.
Describing the Cuban Tiger as a lovely but still inexperienced horse, Burke believed that, for the time being, a mile distance was sufficient. He expressed optimism about the potential of his substantial group of three-year-olds, expressing the hope that they would remain injury-free.
Regarding Night Raider, Burke emphasised the horse's impressive recovery from the Southwell race and described him as a delightful horse with more speed than the Cuban Tiger. While acknowledging the significant leap from novice races at Southwell to the 2000 Guineas, Burke believed that Night Raider deserved the opportunity and had a promising future beyond the Guineas. A racecourse gallop at the Craven meeting was the current plan, although Burke intended to discuss the matter with the owner, Steve Parkin. Parkin was inclined to skip a race and proceed directly to the gallop, but after jockey Danny Tudhope's ride at Southwell, Burke felt that another race would benefit Night Raider's development. As of now, the plan involved a racecourse gallop, potentially alongside an entry in a seven-furlong conditions race, with further decisions to be made based on the circumstances.