Vortex can go all the way in Godolphin Mile

Dubai: Gay Kelleway is hoping that not even a bad draw will keep her ward Vortex away from clinching top honours in the Godolphin Mile on Saturday.

"The draw has not been kind to us. If there were 10, then he would have been drawn No 10 and if there were 15 then he would start from 15. It's more like a conspiracy and it looks a bit too funny," Vortex's trainer told Gulf News.

With Johnny Murtagh on board, the Coriolis Partnership-owned Vortex is ranked as one of the contenders for the $1million race.

In particular, Kelleway is wary of the threat from the American invaders and the Japanese runners.

"The Americans always have very good horses and their horses also like the dirt," Kelleway said. "The Japanese too always come with quality runners."

Given this scenario, the Vortex trainer does not take any of the local horses in the 16 as real threats. "I am not paying too much attention to any of the local horses. But the overseas horses, I fear them," she said with a smile.

Going into the Group 2 race, Kelleway is confident of her horse. "His strongest point is that he is very well bred. He takes everything so well... he travels well, he eats everything, he doesn't worry, he loves his racing and he comes alive with the crowd... that's why I like him... he's a real champion."

Top-notch performer

Vortex has built up a reputation as a top-notch all-weather performer, giving Kelleway 15 wins so far.

He has proved equally adept on turf as on dirt after landing the Group Three Criterion Stakes at Newmarket in June last year.

"His preparations have been superb and he's done well to win at the Carnival. He's been in Dubai since January 28 and I think he's got better with the sunshine," Kelleway said.

The trainer is pleased with her debut on the big night.

"It is a great honour, privilege to participate in the Dubai World Cup. I have been all over the world, but there is nothing like being part of such a great event," she said.