Annaf (IRE) brought another international triumph for his British-based trainer Mick Appleby with a stunning win in the US$2m Saudi National Bank 1351 Turf Sprint at King Abdulaziz Racecourse.
Just a few months ago, the well-respected trainer had a breakthrough on the world stage with Big Evs in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint at Santa Anita.
Annaf, the 5-year-old son of Muhaarar, jumped evenly but jockey Rossa Ryan kept him to the back of the field and right on the rail.
They gradually made ground up on the inside and just found a way through to grab the trophy, winning by three-quarters of a length in a time of 1:17.88.
Japanese mare La La Christine (JPN) ran well and finished in second on her swansong guided by Cristian Demuro.
Another son of Muhaarar, Byline (GB), followed in third with Gerald Mosse in the saddle.
The defending champion from Japan, Bathrat Leon was a disappointment, finishing in 10th as he missed the jump and met trouble in running early on.
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