Sir Alex Ferguson has expressed his pride in breeding a horse of sufficient calibre to compete in prestigious races like the Dubai Sheema Classic alongside Spirit Dancer, who is striving for an international trifecta.
Under the tutelage of Richard Fahey, the seven-year-old has demonstrated remarkable development later in his career, with a strategic plan formulated post-triumph in a Group Three event at York now bearing fruit.
Consecutive wins in the Bahrain Trophy and the Neom Turf Cup in Saudi Arabia have propelled the Frankel gelding into elite competition, where he now faces formidable rivals such as dual Derby and Breeders’ Cup victor Auguste Rodin and Japanese filly Liberty Island.
"He's looking splendid; I believe he's thoroughly enjoying his time here, who wouldn't, given the fantastic climate," Ferguson conveyed to the Dubai Racing Club.
"Our journey has been one of continual success; each race has seen improvement. We feel privileged to participate in such a prestigious event against formidable competitors."
This will mark Spirit Dancer's debut over a mile and a half, a challenge that Fahey has been eager to undertake for some time.
Ferguson elaborated, "We're cautiously optimistic. Richard has consistently expressed his belief that Spirit Dancer is suited for the mile and a half distance. Considering his Frankel pedigree, we anticipate he'll handle it well, but there's always an element of uncertainty."
"It's truly a privilege to have a horse you've bred yourself compete in such a prestigious race.
"When Richard mentioned Bahrain after his victory at York, I must admit, I was a bit puzzled - 'Bahrain! Why there?' - but he assured us there was a great opportunity for him, so he's the mastermind behind the plan, and we trust his judgment implicitly.
"We've thoroughly enjoyed the journey; from a few days in Bahrain to Saudi Arabia, and now a week here, it's been nothing short of fantastic."
For Ferguson, success seems to be the norm lately, not just with Spirit Dancer's triumphs abroad, but also with a recent double celebration at the Cheltenham Festival earlier this month.