Rare indeed is the Godolphin gelding Rare Rhythm. The son of champion Dubawiout of the Singspiel mare Demisemiquaver, trained by Charlie Applebyhas won five of his eight starts. Most recently won the Gold Cup prep, with a resounding performance beating the classy Vazirabad at Meydan.

 

Both raced well off the pace until, turning for home, jockey William Buick steered Rare Rhythm around the field while Christophe Soumillon took Vazirabad between horses on the inside. Rare Rhythm held a narrow lead until the final strides, eventually winning by 1 3/4 lengths. Vazirabad was 7 3/4 lengths clear of the third-place horse, Sheikhzayedroad, winner of the 2015 Dubai Gold Cup.

 

"He was in a lovely rhythm there," Buick said, judging the added distance of this year's Dubai Gold Cup will be "a natural progression for him."

 

Charlie Appleby has also said in an interview with Godolphin.com: “We were very happy with the way Rare Rhythm had been training and I thought that he looked a picture in the paddock. He has a lovely nature as well.”

 

“I have spoken to Sheikh Mohammed and we have decided to stay here and go for the Dubai Gold Cup (G2, 2m, turf)  on Dubai World Cup Night (March 31).” Appleby concluded.

 

Rare Rhythm was gelded after his only start in 2016, and then won both his races in 2017. The Nad Al Sheba Trophy was his eighth career start.

 

Charlie Appleby was appointed as a Godolphin trainer in July, 2013, after 15 years working for Godolphin as a travelling head lad, stable head lad and assistant trainer. Charlie was a keen jockey growing up, participating in a number of point-to-points and race riding on the flat as an amateur.

 

Appleby landed his first Group One victory in November 2013 with Outstrip winning the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf at Santa Anita, USA. While his most recent winner at the highest level is Wuheida who won the G1 Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf in scintillating fashion at Del Mar.

 

Appleby has several strong horses aimed at the Dubai World Cup card, which notably include Hawkbill, Frontiersman ,D'bai, Baccarat, Comicas, Boynton, Emotionless and Bay Of Poets.