Presvis win was most impressive

 Dubai: With the 2010 Dubai International Racing Carnival behind us it is a good time to reflect on the nine-meeting extravaganza, dominated by Godolphin trainer Saeed Bin Surour, while South Africa's Mike De Kock was second and best of the internationals with Doug Watson leading the way for the domestic handlers.

Frankie Dettori was the leading jockey with Christophe Soumillon second.

There have been many memorable performances and achievements since the first meeting on January 28 but surely none so impressive as the victory of Presvis in last week's Jebel Hatta. And such is racing that it came hours after his trainer Luca Cumani was forced to withdraw stable companion Purple Moon from his intended comeback due to an abscess.

Reunited with Ryan Moore, Presvis was settled in last before making smooth progress in the straight to lead close home. It was not just the fact that he was carrying a Group 1 penalty so much as the manner of his win. The problem is, will Moore be available to ride him in the Dubai Duty Free, the race in which they were runner-up last year or will Sir Michael Stoute require his services?

Of the rest, De Kock's Musir looked a quality colt winning the UAE 2000 Guineas but will face a serious rival in the UAE Derby in the shape of Godolphin's Mendip.

The World Cup itself looks very hard to predict with Red Desire, from Japan and winner of Maktoum Challenge III, perhaps to run in the Sheema Classic instead. Two who will not be there are her compatriot Vodka and, for a third year, De Kock's Eagle Mountain who have been ruled out and retired.

However, the star of the Carnival, for me, operated at a lower level but managed one win and two seconds in five outings. His name is Star Crowned and one of those seconds was in a thrilling finish, behind Judd Street, in the first ever race on the Meydan straight turf course.He has been a great servant to owner/trainer Rashed Bouresly.