Dubai: Frankie Dettori takes on some of America's best sprinters as he bids to snap Godolphin's winless streak in the $2 million (Dh15 million) Dubai Golden Shaheen (Gr 1), and complete back-to-back wins in the 1,200-metres contest, sponsored by Gulf News.
Dettori, who won this race for the first time 12 months ago when partnering the US-trained Kelly's Landing, rides Diabolical, an exciting five-year-old course and distance winner.
The Italian says he is looking forward to the ride and believes Diabolical had a strong chance to give Godolphin their first success since Kassbaan stormed to victory in 1996.
"The Americans are strong but our horse has done nothing wrong and we are going there with a favourite's chance," said Dettori. "Diabolical stumbled badly out of the stalls first time here [the Al Shindagha Sprint] and wasn't 100 per cent ready and then put up a great performance in the Mahab Al Shimaal.
"He must have a good chance on Saturday."
Diabolical takes on American speedster Benny The Bull, Idiot Proof, Barbecue Eddie and Bushwacker, and local hopes New Freedom and Star Crowned.
Godolphin trainer Saeed Bin Surour was also talking up his horse's chances. "This is the first time for a long time we have had a decent sprinter for the Golden Shaheen and he has a great chance," he said. "I would like to see Diabolical in a nice position close to the pace. He would have every chance from there."
Formidable trio
Leading the American challenge is Sunshine Millions Sprint star Benny The Bull, who came close to rewriting the track record for 1,200 metres at Gulfstream Park in January and announced his progression as a high-class sprinter.
California-based American speedballs Barbecue Eddie, Grade 1 winner Idiot Proof and Bushwacker complete a formidable trio of horses who have the potential to turn the race into a demolition derby.
Idiot Proof will start from post 14 in the 15-horse field for the 1,200-metre dash. Jockey David Flores will be in the irons.
Trainer Brian Koriner reported on Friday morning that he "couldn't be more happy with" how Barbecue Eddie - who will break from post two under jockey Aaron Gryder - has fared since his arrival in Dubai.
Outstanding condition
The four-year-old gelding by Stormy Atlantic seems to be approaching the race in outstanding condition and all indications are he loves the Nad Al Sheba surface.
"He's hitting the ground great," Koriner said after Barbecue Eddie galloped on Friday. "He worked the other day in :35.60 (for three furlongs) and he loped out strong."
US trainer Bill Currin is also hopeful of a bold showing from his six-year-old Bushwacker. "I hope he'll jump from the gate, get a lead and relax in front - that way he has a chance. He has speed, he's the fastest horse I've ever trained, and he's been doing well in Dubai. He likes it over here," said Currin.
Former UAE champion trainer Satish Seemar lines up his only runner at this year's event, Cobalt Blue, and is hopeful the horse can make a bold show on Saturday despite facing setbacks.
"He just had a two furlong blow this morning. He's improved since he's been here, in the time we've had. I don't want to make excuses but I do wish we'd had another 10 days, just to get to know the horse better. His last work was pleasing, but ideally you want to see two good works," he said.
Leading the US challenge is Benny The Bull, who recently came close to rewriting the track record for 1,200 metres.
