It could be a significant afternoon for Hamad Al-Jehani as he prepares to saddle The Strikin Viking for the first time in the Markel Richmond Stakes at Goodwood.
A prominent trainer in Qatar, Al-Jehani has previously secured victories in both the Qatar Guineas and Derby before establishing a satellite operation in Newmarket to train for leading owners, Wathnan Racing. In a bid to bolster his UK operation, Wathnan has entrusted Al-Jehani with their latest acquisition, an exciting colt named after Manchester City star Erling Haaland.
The Strikin Viking made a promising debut at York and delivered a strong performance in the Group Two Railway Stakes at the Curragh, only to be narrowly beaten. Now wearing the peacock blue and old gold silks of Wathnan for the first time, the colt’s new connections are pleased with his progress.
Andrew Balding’s Tropical Storm, though still a maiden, could be a strong competitor for The Strikin Viking. He finished second to Shareholder in the Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot and is now stepping up to six furlongs on the advice of Oisin Murphy.
Billboard Star has shown significant improvement since a valiant third over course and distance on debut. After shedding his maiden status at Newmarket, he finished as runner-up to Whistlejacket in the July Stakes.
Paul and Oliver Cole, who won this race with Royal Scotsman two years ago, will saddle King Of Bears. The colt improved significantly on his debut to win stylishly at Newbury.
The Waco Kid, who finished fourth behind King Of Bears at Newbury, has since won at the Berkshire track and will be represented by Hugo Palmer and Ryan Moore.
Other contenders include Michael O’Callaghan’s Irish raider Black Forza and Clive Cox’s Windsor maiden scorer Aparajeo. Alice Haynes’ Listed-placed Big Cyril and Ed Bethell’s Intrusively complete the field.