Neolithics excellent effort in Dubai World Cup

Sheikh Fahad's decision to buy a half share in Neolithic earlier this week for Qatar Racing gained a rapid return when the colt finished third behind Arrogate in today's $10m Gr.1 Dubai World Cup.

Breaking from stall 11 under jockey John Valazquez, the Todd Pletcher-trained Neolithic soon gained a prominent early position, and swept into the first bend in third place, at which point Arrogate trailed the 14-strong field. Down the back straight Valazquez kept his mount near the pace, and he moved into second on the final bend where Gun Runner held a narrow lead.

Gun Runner shrugged off Neolithic's bid, but was himself swamped for toe in the final furlong as Arrogate (pictured right) came out of the pack to win his seventh race in succession and his fourth at the top level. It was a stunning success given his tardy start, and a credit to winning jockey Mike Smith who kept his cool.

Gun Runner finished second, two and a quarter lengths adrift of the Bob Baffert-trained Arrogate, while Neolithic's excellent effort saw him finish third, another five lengths in arrears, but a length and three-quarters ahead of Mubtaahij, who was runner-up in last year's race. Neolithic has now finished third in the world's two most valuable races, for he also took that spot in the $12m Gr.1 Pegasus World Cup, which was also won by Arrogate.

Picture of Arrogate winning: Dubai Racing Club