The Spring Trials weekend at Newbury commences today, featuring the highly anticipated Darley EBF Novice Stakes. Charlie Appleby's Shabab Al Ahli, a Southwell winner, is set to compete against Sahara King in the day's main event.
Shabab Al Ahli, a Frankel colt, earned a 33-1 quote for the Derby after his impressive win in February under Conor Planas. He will be stepping down a furlong in trip and is expected to dominate the field, potentially paving the way for a future appearance at the Epsom Classic.
Appleby's yard has a strong record in this race, having won the inaugural running in 2023 with Military Order. Sahara King, on the other hand, appears to be a promising contender, having won on debut at Wolverhampton in November. His form is further bolstered by the subsequent success of Mohaaraj, who finished fourth in that race. Another notable entry is My Love Is King, trained by Gosden, who holds a Derby entry and is currently priced at 40-1 after a comfortable win at Newcastle in November.
The Henri Matisse Coolmore Prix Cleopatre will also take place today, with the classy Gilded Prize aiming to secure top honors en route to the Prix de Diane at Chantilly. This Frankel filly has made a remarkable impression in her early career, with two impressive wins under her belt. Her trainer, Francis-Henri Graffard, had an exceptional season last year and may have uncovered another gem.
Other highlights of the day include the Greenham Stakes at Newbury, where Zavateri and Albert Einstein will face off. Newbury's 2.32pm Bridget 'Confined' Maiden Fillies' Stakes will also feature some exciting pedigrees, with many top owners represented. Synchronicity, a full-sister to the outstanding Ombudsman, is likely to be a strong contender, while Sapphire Secret, a Kingman filly out of Whatami, will fly the flag for the Harry Charlton yard. Seet, trained by Gosden, is a half-sister to the reigning champion filly Kalpana and will be representing Shadwell.
The Dreweatts Maiden Fillies' Stakes at Newbury will see the debut of Take A View, Time Lock's full sister, who will face stiff competition from other promising fillies. At Bath, Hunky Dory will shoulder a 5lb penalty in the MJ Church Handicap after an impressive win at Wolverhampton.