Horse Racing News Update: Alflaila Underperforms at Juddmonte International, Trainer Burrows Considers Options Abroad
In a surprising turn of events, the Shadwell-owned five-year-old racehorse Alflaila failed to impress at last week’s Juddmonte International at York. Having successfully defended his crown in the York Stakes over the same course and distance, Alflaila was expected to be a contender for the highly anticipated race.
However, a slow start set the tone for a disappointing display, as Alflaila trailed home 12th of 13 runners, beaten by a substantial 24 lengths by the brilliant winner City Of Troy. Trainer Owen Burrows acknowledged the colt’s uncharacteristic performance, stating, “Alflaila just had one of his days. He’s done it before in the past, he can be slow away, and you can’t be giving them a head-start in races like that.“
With the Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown next month now ruled out, Burrows revealed that he may consider options abroad for Alflaila. “We’ll see where we go from here, there’s a few options about, possibly not in this country,” the trainer said.
Alyanaabi Underperforms at Ebor Festival
Another horse in the Shadwell-Burrows stable that underperformed at the Ebor Festival was Alyanaabi, who finished last in the Strensall Stakes. Burrows explained that the three-year-old will undergo a full examination and be given a break, with the aim of a stronger comeback next year.
As the racing season progresses, all eyes will be on Burrows and his team as they navigate the way forward for Alflaila and Alyanaabi, hoping to capitalize on their previous successes and regain their form on the track.
๐ Source