Modern Games munches his rivals in Al Shaqab Lockinge

Globetrotting star Modern Games showed his Group One class to land the Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes; even overcoming an attempted bite from runner-up Chindit in the closing stages.

bet365 mile winner Mutasaabeq led the field for much of the race, until the chasing pack started to bunch up behind him as the race really began to develop.

Richard Hannon’s Chindit then hit the front with a strong challenge at the two furlong marker, but two-time Breeders Cup champion Modern Games swept through on the stand-side rail to collar him as the race unfolded.

Speaking to ITV racing immediately post-race, William Buick commented, “He (Chindit) got my hand – I definitely felt it. They had a real tussle but this horse is a real superstar.”

Speaking to the Racing Post, winning trainer Charlie Appleby reacted; “It’s an important day for him as he’s done it in America and is a Classic winner in France, but to do it here on home soil is a big feather in his cap. I’m delighted for the horse.”

In terms of future targets the trainer stated the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot would be the next logical race for the son of Dubawi. All being well a trip to Goodwood to contest the Sussex Stakes could be a Summer highlight, where he may lock horns with QIPCO 2000 Guineas Champion Chaldean.

The miler’s penchant for good ground will likely see his ultimate target be a third Breeders Cup victory at Santa Anita Park in November.