Alchahine stands out in Abu Dhabi

The return of smart HM Alchahine headlines the seven-race card at Abu Dhabi tomorrow.

- Ed Mamane

Trained by Helal Alalawi and owned by the National Stables, the French-bred HM Alchahine emerged an exciting talent in the Arabian division last season when enjoying a flawless campaign, winning all his four starts at Abu Dhabi. The highlight of a stellar season was his resounding victory in the Abu Dhabi Championship (Listed), over 1600m, in January. Rated 119, HM Alchahine steps up to 2200m on his first run since March and must concede weight to his seven rivals in the AED 66,ooo (R325,ooo) event in the hands of Adrie de Vries. It?s hard to see HM Alchahine getting beaten and he is expected to start his season on a winning note and take his career tally to five. In the finale, the 1600m conditions race, French recruit Bad Desire, rated 100, sets the standard on his UAE debut for champion trainer Bhupat Seemar. By the leading sire wootton Bassett, he was an expensive purchase by his new owner Omar Esmil Ghrgharat the Tattersalls July Sale and if primed and ready off his three-month break, he holds obvious claims of finally opening his account. Musabbeh Al Mheiri introduces Irish import Shepperton Lodge. The son of Lope de Vega, who began his career with Joseph 0,Brien, was also sourced at Tatters