True Self touched down in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Tuesday morning, ahead of her tilt at The Neom Turf Cup. The race, worth $1 million (USD), takes place as part of The Saudi Cup meeting this weekend.
It will be the mare’s first race since her thrilling win in the Group 3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Flemington last year, a race she also won in 2019.
True Self was back in a big way today. She loves the 2600m at Flemington.🥰 pic.twitter.com/hIYl29boCk
— Racing.com (@Racing) November 7, 2020
OTI’s General Manager Shayne Driscoll said the Irish mare is in excellent shape going into Saturday’s valuable race.
“It’s great to see her make the trip back to Riyadh to race for such significant prizemoney. This year we opted for the 2100m race, rather than the 3000m event feeling that she’s ready to run a top race at the shorter distance,” Driscoll said.
“Willie Mullins is exceptionally pleased with her and can’t fault her work. We’re hoping for an ideal barrier but with star jockey Hollie Doyle booked to ride, we think she should have every chance to run a super race.”
True Self enjoyed a short break after returning to Ireland from Melbourne late last year. Since returning to work, trainer Willie Mullins has reported that he is delighted with the mare’s bright and happy demeanour.
The race will be True Self’s second trip to Saudi Arabia, having contested the first edition of the Red Sea Handicap (3000m) in 2020. She finished 6th in the race behind previous Melbourne Cup winner Cross Counter and three-time Melbourne Cup placegetter Prince Of Arran.
In addition to two Group 3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes victories, True Self also has three Listed wins to her name.
OTI wishes True Self’s Australian and Irish connections the best of luck!
