This winter, Burdett Lord is set to compete in the Middle East as James Owen shifts focus from pursuit races to returning to a more level competition. The Royal Ascot winner and Champion Hurdle runner-up will soon head to Dubai, aiming to prepare for the prestigious Red Sea Turf Handicap on the Saudi Cup card in Riyadh on February 14.
Owen commented, “Burdett Road is doing well, and our plans for him are evolving. He’ll be heading to Dubai just before Christmas to compete in some long-distance races, followed by a run in the Red Sea Turf Handicap in Saudi Arabia, which offers significant prize money. He’s scheduled to run twice in Dubai before competing in Saudi Arabia.”
Although Burdett Road secured a solid third place in the Cheltenham Pursuit, with promising new horse Sheen shining over fences and strong competition at the top level, the connections believe this winter overseas presents an ideal chance for the dual-purpose star to develop further.
Owen added, “Tim (Gledley, owner) and I enjoy competing abroad and have had success with horses like Wimbledon Hawkeye and Aspect Island. For Burdett Road, this seems like a smart move.” He also noted, “We placed third at the Arkle Trials but didn’t aim to win there because we believe better opportunities await. We don’t want him to run four times over fences in the handicap chase or alter his mark by winning the county hurdle. He might try the Champion Hurdle again, but it will be challenging. This plan gives him a better shot at earning substantial prize money.”
Owen concluded, “I had thought about races like the Fighting Fifth, where he was entered, but this strategy looks more promising.”
Fan Take: This shift to Middle Eastern races signals a growing trend of British horses seeking valuable international prize money, highlighting the global nature of the sport. For horse racing fans, it’s exciting to see top athletes like Burdett Road broaden their horizons, which could lead to more thrilling and diverse competitions worldwide.
