The international short course specialist announced his arrival Down Under on Saturday with a sterling performance to add the G1 Ladbrokes Sir Rupert Clarke S., at Caulfield to his global record for Godolphin.
Trainer Charlie Appleby’s Newmarket yard celebrated wonderful results at the last Melbourne spring carnival, but this time around it was away to a poor start after Folkswood (GB) (Exceed And Excel) tailed the field home in the G3 Bendigo Bank MRC Foundation Cup.
Stable spirits boosted
But a race later there were smiles a mile wide as Jungle Cat saw off Dollar For Dollar (High Chaparral {IRE}), Land Of Plenty (Stratum) and the winner's fellow Godolphin representative Home Of The Brave (IRE) (Starspangledbanner).
“It’s been fantastic and it’s all down to the team, full credit to all the guys,” the affable Appleby said. “It was a fantastic ride by James (Doyle) and he levelled out.
“He’s not one for lying down, the Old Cat as we call him. It was always the plan after the Al Quoz to come down here.
“He’s not one for lying down, the Old Cat as we call him.” – Charlie Appleby.
“There’s not many 1400 metre races for him in Europe and the conditions were going to suit him here.”
Jungle Cat is a seriously good traveller and has won five races at Meydan in Dubai, including the G1 Al Quoz Sprint last time out in the autumn.
“I’m delighted for the horse, he’s been so consistent all the way through and it’s great for Sheikh Mohammed and Godolphin.”
Jockey James Doyle is an integral part of the operation and his previous knowledge of Australian racing and conditions played no small part in Jungle Cat’s success.
Well-timed finish
He had the entire within striking distance of the leading pack and, when presented in the straight, the 7-year-old played his part to perfection by rounding off strongly.
“It’s fantastic and well-documented about my experiences here and the best thing I’ve done was my stint in Sydney,” Doyle said. “It took my riding to a new level and the results show that.
“He’s a sweet horse and it’s my second Group 1 on him. He’s a star and just loves getting on a plane.
“Charlie is a great trainer, one of the best and the sweetest guy's you could ever meet. I’m lucky enough to ride for him and we’ve had a lot of success – he’s a super fellow.”
James Doyle and Charlie Appleby
