3 minute read

There was a huge shock in the UAE Derby at Meydan as Polar River was beaten by the Japanese raider Lani.

Polar River had gone through the Carnival unbeaten, winning the Guineas and Oaks, but it looked hard work for her all the way.

The other Japanese runner, Yu Change, made a bold bid for home and was still in front entering the final furlong, However, Yutaka Take conjured up a final effort from Lani, who will now be aimed at the Kentucky Derby.

Polar River's electrifying turn of foot was missing on this occasion and having met trouble in running, all she did when switched was stay on one-paced for second.

Pat Dobbs said of the beaten favourite: "It's a shame, that's the first time she's been amongst horses and she was very green."

Take said of the winner: "He's still very immature and growing in stature with every race.

"The owners have been very keen on the idea of going for the Kentucky Derby for some time, and I think that is still the plan."