Raaheeb, a highly-regarded colt, enhanced his prospects for the Derby with a stylish victory in the bet365 Classic Trial at Sandown. As a full-brother to the exceptional Baaeed and top-class Hukum, Raaheeb had big shoes to fill, but he demonstrated that he has inherited a significant amount of his family's ability. After a successful debut over seven furlongs at Ascot, Raaheeb stepped up in distance and class for his three-year-old debut in this 10-furlong Group Three, and he rose to the challenge with ease. While the favourite, Action, was disappointing, Raaheeb travelled well throughout and responded enthusiastically to Rossa Ryan's urgings, pulling clear of the field by three and a quarter lengths.
His trainer, Owen Burrows, expressed his surprise and delight at the victory, praising Raaheeb's determination and stamina. Burrows noted that Raaheeb will definitely stay the distance and may have even quickened again at the finish. Although Raaheeb is entered in the Dante, his team will wait to see how he recovers from this run before making a decision about his next start.
Bookmakers have shortened Raaheeb's odds for the Derby to 8-1, but Burrows is cautious about committing to Epsom at this stage, citing the need to consider other options, such as Ascot and the Irish Derby. With Raaheeb's potential and pedigree, his team is eager to ensure that they make the right decisions to bring out the best in this talented young horse.