Appleby's Opera Ballo shines in Al Rashidiya race

Opera Ballo has been an exciting horse throughout his short career.

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He landed win number five and a first Group success when beating stablemate and four-time Gl winner Nations Pride in the G2 Al Rashidiya — an early prep for the GI Dubai Turf.

Jockey William Buick sat confidently in third in the 1800metre turf contest and asked for an effort just before the 200 metre marker, when the response was immediate. Opera Ballo quickened clear and crossed the line three lengths ahead of Nations Pride.

"His biggest challenge is himself," said trainer Charlie Appleby. "William had to get him behind a horse and try and get him to settle."

"He was entitled to come forward for that [in fitness). The most logical place to go now is the Group I Jebel Hatta [23 January] and then we'll see if he’s a World Cup night horse."