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Hitchens gets up late under strong De Sousa

Report: Meydan, Friday

Al Shindagha Sprint Sponsored By Gulf News (Group 3) 6f, AW

HITCHENS came with a sustained challenge in the home straight to the outside of Krypton Factor and Captain Obvious, getting up late to win his second Group 3 under a strong ride from Silvestre de Sousa.

Having tracked the two early pacesetters through the early stages, De Sousa delivered his challenge close home, while long-time leader Captain Obvious faded out of the places in fourth.

Krypton Factor fared better rallying for pressure under Kieren Fallon and forcing Hitchens to battle hard for the victory. Alo Pura, under William Buick, was the only horse to get into the race from off the pace, finishing fast to claim third close home without ever looking a danger to the first two.

Hitchens, who chased home Dream Ahead and Bated Breath in the Group 1 July Cup, won his first Group 3 at the Curragh in May. This was his first victory since after he overturned form with Captain Obvious, who beat him in a conditions race over course and distance two weeks ago.

Kryton Factor, formerly with Sir Mark Prescott, stuck to his guns gamely against the rail to provide a thrilling finish, but his efforts were in vein as he failed to repel the David Barron-trained winner by a short head.

Barron said: "This horse has been brilliant for us and it is great to see him win on the international stage at this level. There is a similar race on Super Saturday which is probably where we will go next before, hopefully, Dubai World Cup night."

Also on Friday:

Twelve months ago Robert Cowell saddled subsequent Group 1 winner Prohibit to win the 5f turf handicap with a last gasp victory and this year it was Monsieur Joe who won the same race for the trainer.

William Buick was in the saddle and Cowell said: "The horse came to us when Walter Swinburn retired and I am delighted to have won with him to repay the owners."

Dettori and Al Zarooni were not the only ones in double form with De Sousa initiating a double for himself when Factory Time won the 3yo 7f turf conditions race for champion trainer Ali Rashid Al Raihe who had earlier saddled a 1-2 in the opening 1m Tapeta handicap with initial reserve Maraheb defeating stable companion Alazeyab.