Alparslan has emerged as a strong contender for the 2000 Guineas after a remarkable victory in the Watership Down Stud Too Darn Hot Greenham Stakes at Newbury. The race was dominated by Aidan O'Brien's Albert Einstein and Eve Johnson Houghton's Group One winner Zavateri, but Alparslan, trained by Karl Burke, took the lead under Clifford Lee and maintained a length's advantage at the finish. Zavateri finished second, overcoming some trouble during the race. Burke expressed his delight, stating that Alparslan has answered 90 percent of the question regarding his ability to handle the mile distance.
The trainer believes there is another gear in the horse and is hopeful for his chances in the upcoming Guineas. Meanwhile, Johnson Houghton was pleased with Zavateri's performance, considering he was a bit fresh and had nowhere to go due to the slow pace. The decision on which Guineas to target will be made next week, with France being the least likely option.
In contrast, Albert Einstein's performance has raised questions about his distance capabilities, with Coolmore representative Kevin Buckley stating that they will discuss the next steps with Aidan O'Brien and the owners. In other news, Sukanya, trained by Jack Channon, produced a stunning comeback to win the Dubai Duty Free Stakes, denting the Classic aspirations of Touleen. Channon praised Sukanya's high level of class and her devilish turn of foot, indicating that she will be campaigned in big races. The Irish 1,000 Guineas is a potential target, although supplementing for the 1000 Guineas is also a possibility.
Convergent, trained by Karl Burke, won the Dubai Duty Free Finest Surprise Stakes, defying congestion to emerge victorious. Burke believes Convergent has earned the right to compete in elite company, with the Coronation Cup and King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes being potential targets.