Akmal will try to emulate staying greats Double Trigger and Persian Punch by landing back-to-back victories in the Henry II Stakes at Sandown on Thursday evening.
John Dunlop’s five-year-old may not have hit the heights of that illustrious duo but he put up a game performance when making all the running to take this Group Two contest 12 months ago.
“He’s tough and consistent and does his best every time,” Angus Gold, racing manager to owner Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum, said.
“He was beaten by a horse (Drunken Sailor, at Newbury) who quickened much better than him last time.
“Everybody knows what he’s like. He likes to bowl along. If he’s good enough he’ll win, if he isn’t he won’t.”
The owner is also represented by the John Gosden-trained Nehaam, who has been on the easy list since running Akmal to half-a-length in the Jockey Club Cup in October 2009.
“He had problems early last year in his joints which held him up so we had to give him plenty of time off,” Gold said.
“He went back to the stud where they did a good job and they’ve done the same at John Gosden’s.
“He’s bound to need the race after over a year off but at least we’re getting him back on the track.”
Holberg is returning to action since his journey to Australia where he was a creditable sixth to Americain in the Melbourne Cup in November.
“He ran a good race in Australia and has had a break,” said Frankie Dettori, who is the face of the QIPCO British Champions Series.
“He should be a stronger horse this year and could run in some of the good staying races. This is a good place for him to start.”
Aaim To Prosper made an encouraging reappearance when fifth to Askar Tau in the Sagaro Stakes at Ascot when Akmal was second.
His trainer Brian Meehan is hoping for better luck this time.
“Our very genuine Cesarewitch winner from last October was unlucky not to be nearer than fifth when moving into Pattern-race company for his Ascot comeback, getting a hefty bump at a crucial stage,” the Manton handler said on his website.
“His excellent stamina will be a big asset on this uphill run and Saturday’s Goodwood win of his regular workmate City Leader is extra encouragement.
“(He) can go close despite his disadvantage with most of these on current handicap ratings.”
PA AAP TURF
