Jack Hobbs steps up Sheema preparation at Chelmsford

Jack Hobbs took his latest strides towards the Group 1 Dubai Sheema Classic at Meydan on March 26 with a workout at Chelmsford on Friday.

The five-year-old, who was cut to 9-2 (from 6) by Ladbrokes following the gallop, will bid to give trainer John Gosden and jockey William Buick a second win in the race following Dar Re Mi in 2010.

Owned by Godolphin and partners, Jack Hobbs missed most of last season through injury but ran right up to his best on his return when third in the Group 1 Champion Stakes at Ascot last October.

Gosden said: "We wanted to give Jack Hobbs a change of scene and he went what the Americans would call wire to wire, a full circuit. He worked nicely and we are very much looking forward to the race.

"We very much respect Postponed, who we know all about, and it will be interesting to see what the Japanese bring over as Dar Re Mi beat Buena Vista, who was one of their best at the time."

Also heading for the $6 Million Sheema Classic is the Sir Michael Stoute-trained Across The Stars, a winner at Royal Ascot last year.

Bruce Raymond, racing manager to owner Saaed Suhail, said of the 14-1 chance: "It's a tough race and if he can finish in the first four we'll be happy. Frankie Dettori will take the ride."

Elsewhere on World Cup night Dettori has also picked up the ride on Michael Bell's Big Orange, who will bid to go one better than a year ago in the Group 2 Dubai Gold Cup.