One thing already appears to be certain for the turf races on Dubai World Cup night: Japan will likely hold a hot hand.
With the successes of such luminaries as Admire Moon, Gentildonna and Just A Way in the past, it is no surprise that the Japanese are not afraid to throw some of their best stock this way in order to take home a chunk of the combined $12 million in purses between the Dubai Turf sponsored by DP World (G1) and Longines Dubai Sheema Classic (G1).
Suave Richard – interesting contender
Suave Richard may not be a known name outside of Japan, like his friendly rival Rey de Oro, but he is likely to join said champion in the gate for the $6 million Longines Dubai Sheema Classic on Mar. 30.
Trainer Yasushi Shono confirmed with Japanese media representatives that the 2410m turf race was the target for the Nicks Co. Ltd.-owned son of 2006 winner Heart’s Cry.
Rated a lofty 121, Suave Richard was a rousing winner of the Osaka Hai (G1) over 2000m in April and has proven to be one of the more versatile runners in Japan, including third-place finishes in the 1600m Yasuda Kinen (G1) and 2400m Japan Cup (G1).
His other victories include wins in the 2000m Kinko Sho (G2) and 2500m Copa Republica Argentina (G2) within a 5-for-13 career that has earned him roughly $4.8 million.
