Long Lashes eyeing Meydan classics

Long Lashes, bought by Godolphin last month, will spend the winter in Dubai with a view to competing in the UAE 1,000 Guineas and UAE Oaks at the new Meydan Racecourse. The filly won the Sweet Solera Stakes at Newmarket on Saturday, her debut in the royal blue of Godolphin. The Meydan classics were said to be the American-bred horse's long-term objectives at the time of her purchase by Sheikh Mohammed from Jessica Harrington, following the her debut success at the Curragh.

"She will be going to spend the winter in Dubai and could run in the 1,000 Guineas and the Oaks at Meydan" Godolphin's racing manager Simon Crisford said. "Obviously a European campaign is also very important and we will take a look at the Moyglare." After alarm when Long Lashes was thought to be going into season hours before her race on Saturday, she came through with a tough run under Ted Durcan, proving a length too strong for Blue Maiden and continuing Godolphin's good run.

Although trainer Rae Guest missed out on seeing the victory, Durcan was enthusiastic. "Rae was adamant she would run a nice race. I was aware it wasn't a very strongly-run race and just sat on the leaders." he said. "She loved the ground and quickened up well." sports@thenational.ae