Watson hopes Colour Up defies odds at Dubai Golden Shaheen

Connections of two of Japan's leading chances in the race had contrasting opinions about how they had fared 24 hours earlier in Wednesday's barrier draw

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Eight-time UAE champion trainer Doug Watson is hoping the ever-reliable Colour Up can upset his odds in a red-hot running of the Dubai Golden Shaheen.

The seven-year-old's sole below-par run came in the contest last year but he has been remarkably consistent otherwise, with a wind operation proving the catalyst to three consecutive runner-up efforts to Tuz this season.

He finished fourth to that rival in the Mahab AI Shimaal last time and while Watson admits it will be tough to reverse the form, he is confident he can run up to his best from draw two.

"That's a very tough race with Tuz and Straight No Chaser in there," Watson said.

"He's performed well for us, he's never missed a check except for World Cup night last year.

He had a little breathing issue so they did some surgery and it seems to have worked well. I can imagine him being in the placings." As well as Colour Up, Watson will be represented by Rafid in the UAE Derby, Oasis Boy in the Godolphin Mile and First Classs in the Kahayla Classic.