'One of the best I've trained' - Mick Appleby pays tribute after Edraak fatality

Trainer Mick Appleby has described Edraak as "one of the best horses I've trained" following the death of the seven-year-old at Meydan on Friday.

Edraak, a five-time winner, was travelling into contention in the 7f handicap under Cieren Fallon on his first international start when he suffered a fatal injury three furlongs from home.

"He was one of the best horses I've trained – he would definitely be in my top five – and it's a blow for the whole yard," said Appleby.

"He broke his shoulder three furlongs out and there was nothing they could do for him. He was a really nice horse and it's a shame to lose him."

Edraak was bought out of Shadwell by Appleby for £13,000 at the Goffs January Sale in 2020, nearly four months after he finished second on his debut at Chepstow for Owen Burrows.

The son of Elzaam won on his first start for Appleby in 2020 at Newcastle on June 1 at racing's first meeting back following the coronavirus shutdown. Edraak went on to win a further four races for the trainer and finished fifth in the 2021 Ayr Gold Cup, which was won by Biesla.

"He'd done very well for us and it will be hard to replace him," said Appleby. "I think he still had plenty in him and he was travelling really well and Cieren said he was going really easy at the time and was just about to make a move on him."

Edraak's five victories came in 20 runs and he earned nearly £100,000 in career prize-money.

Appleby is hoping Annaf, another former Shadwell recruit, can help fill the void left by Edraak. The four-year-old colt, a winner at Lingfield and Kempton this month, has the potential to go to the very top, according to his trainer.

"He could be a Group 1 horse and end up better than Raasel [Group 3 winner]," Appleby said. "We'll go for a Listed race next month and give him a break and get him ready for the All-Weather Sprint Final. Then we'll go on the grass and see what he can do.

"He's got a great attitude. I thought he was a good horse last year but he's definitely improved as he's strengthened up a lot more."