Devon Island dazzles again at Meydan

Promising two-year-old Devon Island continued an impressive start to his UAE season with a decisive victory in a dirt conditions race at Meydan on Friday, 12 December.

The Charlie Appleby-trained colt, an easy winner a maiden over the same mile trip three weeks earlier, showed good speed from the gates and disputed third on the inside of Kaido as Rashwan and Tailgunner Joe set the early running.

Having loomed up on the outside of the leading duo at the top of the straight, Devon Island swept into the lead a furlong and a half out and readily powered clear under James Doyle, crossing the line three and a quarter lengths in front.

James Doyle said: “Devon Island had a more economical trip today as he was drawn out wide last time but was drawn nice and low today in three. I was able to slide up behind the two leaders and we were able to teach him a bit more – he got enough kickback to suggest he handles it well enough.

“He feels like a galloper and 10 furlongs around here wouldn’t be a problem. He has a few stepping stones between now and the UAE Derby, but I would imagine that would be the logical target if the next few races go according to plan.”