Warrsan Claims German Group I for Brittain

The Clive Brittain-trained Warrsan survived an inquiry in a rough finish to earn his third group I victory for owner and breeder Saeed Manana in the Grosser Preis von Baden (Ger-I) at Baden-Baden Sunday.

Ridden by Kerrin McEvoy at odds of 7-1, the 6-year-old Caerleon horse gained the lead inside the final furlong from German Derby (Ger-I) winner Shirocco, but hung left in the final 100 yards while under pressure. He crossed in front of Shirocco, who finished third, three-quarters of a length behind. The runner-up was Egerton, who was not seriously bothered by the mishap in the three-horse finish.

Favored Mubtaker led for most of the 1 1/2-mile event, but came up empty in the final furlong and finished seventh.

Shirocco, who was beaten a neck fro second, appeared to be tiring in the closing stages.

"He's still improving," Brittain told Racing Post. "We've trained him differently this time after over-racing him a little last year."

Brittain said he is targeting the Arc next month for Warrsan and also considering the Japan Cup and Hong Kong later this year.

"We'll have to see how he gets on. This is likely to be his final season," he said.

Warrsan, who was midpack before beginning his assault with an outside move a half-mile out, completed the 12 furlongs in 2:32.79 on good going.

The maiden Egerton was a longshot in the 11-horse field and gave a great effort.

Gamut finished fifth and rider Kieren Fallon said he was hard at work to get that much. "That was very disappointing but I don't know why."