Discreet Cat romps to sixth career victory

Dubai: Godolphin's Discreet Cat is likely to be targeted at the Dubai World Cup after coasting to victory in the Grade 1 Cigar Mile at Aqueduct on Saturday.

Winner of the UAE Derby in March Discreet Cat came up trumps in a bruising speed battle with Silver Train and Sharp Humor to win by 3 1/4 length.

He drew clear with a powerful stretch run and prevailed in a stakes-record time of 1:32.46. The time also equalled the track record for one-mile, set on April 8, 1989, by Easy Goer.

Godolphin trainer Saeed Bin Surour was delighted with the performance and said: "This was his first Grade One run and victory so it is very special - he beat good horses.

"It was the best race he has ever run and gives confidence for the future to see if he is good enough to run in the Dubai World Cup. We'll keep our options for next year."

Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford said: "We are delighted with this top-notch effort against talented horses when giving weight away. He will now go back to Dubai after 30 days quarantine and target the Dubai World Cup or the Godolphin Mile."

Jockey Garrett Gomez, who has ridden Discreet Cat to his last three victories, said: "I had plenty of horse in the stretch. I showed him the stick a couple of times and he went about his business. He's never been hit with it."

The three-year-old colt is now unbeaten in six starts all of which he has won without being seriously tested. He has increased his career earnings to $1,554,180.