An explosive performance from Godolphin's Manobo Feb. 18 saw his price for the June 16 Gold Cup (G1) at Royal Ascot slashed to 3-1 with his success at Meydan extending his unbeaten record to five.
The 4-year-old son of Sea The Stars, who capped a perfect 2021 season with a win in the Qatar Prix Chaudenay (G2), further enhanced his credentials as a serious talent in the staying division when bursting clear up the straight to break the mile and six furlong (1 3/4 miles) track record Saturday in the Nad Al Sheba Trophy (G3).
While Manobo challenges Trueshan for favoritism in the Royal meeting's signature staying race, connections believe he could also be a major force in top middle-distance contests this season.
Jockey William Buick said: "(Manobo is) a beautiful, big horse... He's obviously very good and the team had him in great shape for his stepping-stone run. I think he can go up in trip or down. That was a lovely performance."
The March 5 Dubai City of Gold Stakes (G2) could be next for Manobo—a contest trainer Charlie Appleby has won for the last four seasons. Godolphin has won the race a record 12 times.
Buick and Appleby also teamed up Saturday to land the Blue Point Sprint Presented By Jebel Ali Port (G2) with Lazuli and completed a treble with Valiant Prince in the mile handicap.
