The 20th running of the Emirates Airline sponsored G1 Dubai World Cup was won by Saeed Bin Suroor trained Prince Bishop in a stunning upset. The 8 year old gelding was given a tactful ride by British rider William Buick to be the first to bag the world’s richest race on Meydan’s new dirt track.

It was a last to first victory for Prince Bishop while beating America’s celebrated horse California Chrome. To avoid the dirt hitting his face, Prince Bishop was held back to drop out from the rails and detach himself from the rest while Japanese challenger Hokko Tarumae headed the pack early, ahead of African Story with California Chrome in third, four off the fence and Lea making its bid on the inside. Turning for home Buick got vigorous on Prince Bishop and the son of Dubawi rallied brilliantly from the wide outside to storm home a clear winner. California Chrome beat Lea for the runner-up berth.

“I don't go numb very often but I can't explain what I'm feeling right now,” said jockey William Buick. "I want to say thanks to the team at home and Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Mohammed for this opportunity”, and added, “he has a very unorthodox way of racing so I took him out of the kickback in the back and when I got onto California Chrome's tail, he picked up the bridle and ran on well in the end. He likes the surface now that he has the experience. He is better than he was. This is just nuts.”

Leading in his seventh World cup winner, trainer Saeed bin Suroor, said, “It’s a great result. I knew the horse had the class to win this race. Some horses improve with age, and it’s great to see him win. This is great for me and for everybody here.”

A joyous owner Sheikh Mohammed said, “We are very happy. This was a pleasant surprise.”

Photo Courtesy racingpost.com