Thoughts on Al Rufaa

Al Rufaa is back on the turf today as he lines up at the prestigious Chester May Meeting on Thursday 9th May in the 4.10pm. Jim Crowley takes the ride in the 1 mile 2 furlongs and 70 yards Handicap.

Al Rufaa has a lot of ability, however he also has a tendency to over race. The turning track at Chester should help his jockey to keep him more settled. Hopefully that will allow Al Rufaa to show all his ability. The wide draw in stall nine is not ideal. This is Al Rufaa’s first start on turf since joining us. He has won a few times for previous connections on the grass on a variety of going descriptions.

Inspiritus won well at Lingfield on Good Friday and that is the stand out recent performance on offer here. The lightly raced Crystal Mariner has the pedigree of a high class horse. He has the plumb draw, has been gelded and given a wind operation since he last ran. It would be no surprise to see him take a step forwards today.

Al Rufaa runs for Carter, Lofthouse and Capture the Moment. He will be led up by Jan Kasecky who cares for him at home. He will be overseen by his regular rider, travelling manager Shaun Johnson. Al Rufaa was purchased a horse in training for just £24,000 by Daniel & Claire and has already won and been placed twice and looks like he will be appearing at a few more of these good meetings this summer.