Hurricane Run Storms to King George Victory

Hurricane Run put in a gutsy performance to land the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (Eng-I) at Ascot on Saturday.

Ridden by Christophe Soumillon in the absence of Kieren Fallon, the son of Montjeu appeared to be in trouble as the field turned into the home straight. Soumillon put Hurricane Run under a fierce drive along the rail, and the colt responded to win by a determined ½-length over Dubai World Cup (UAE-I) winner Electrocutionist. Japanese champion Heart's Cry was another ½-length back in third.

As expected, Godolphin's Cherry Mix set the early pace, with Hurricane Run settled just off that colt in second. Heart's Cry and Electrocutionist tracked the leader in third and fourth, respectively.

Frankie Dettori got the jump on Soumillon, as Electrocutionist moved effortlessly to the lead with a ½-mile left to run. Heart's Cry quickly joined the fray, and appeared to be the winner as he put his head in front with one furlong left. Hurricane Run was putting in his charge along the rail, however, and was able to secure the victory. Electrocutionist fought back to gain the place spot over Heart's Cry.

The victory marked Andre Fabre's first win in the Ascot showpiece, and the trainer was understandably thrilled. Fabre told reporters, "It was a little difficult in the middle of the race as it seemed as if he was going to be blocked in. But I wasn't worried too much, and I told Christophe before the race to wait until the final two furlongs before he made his challenge, so he was just waiting for a gap."

He continued, "Everyone knows my opinion about Christophe; he is one of the best jockeys in the world and for me he is just part of the team. I must give credit to Kieren who had to miss the race; he has taught the horse how to race."

When asked about future plans for his colt, Fabre stated, "He probably will go for the Prix Foy (Fr-II), but he can go straight to there (the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe [Fr-I]). We will see how he takes this race. He will probably go for the Breeders' Cup as well, all being well."