Roger Varian is excited to see how high Rahiebb can climb this season as the Frankel colt begins his campaign in the Yorkshire Cup on Friday. Rahiebb improved markedly last season after his second to Merchant at this meeting. He caught the eye when third to Carmers in the Queen’s Vase, finishing ahead of Scandinavia. The latter went on to win the Goodwood Cup, before taking the St Leger. Rahiebb ran a huge race in the Doncaster Classic, beaten a neck by Scandinavia, ahead of Derby winner Lambourn.
He holds an entry in the Ascot Gold Cup, and Friday will determine whether he can step up to such a prestigious level. Speaking to Sporting Life, Roger Varian said: “He’s obviously an exciting horse to have in the camp this year. He had a largely progressive season last year, culminating in running a close second to Scandinavia in the St Leger.
“That was a career best for the horse and I’m very hopeful he can build on that this year. He’s got the profile of a horse who should improve with age.” Rahiebb’s dam won her four year old debut. She’s a half-sister to the 2019 German St Leger winner Ispolini, who also improved as a four year old.
Varian ‘delighted’ with colts improvement
Given the aforementioned pedigree, it’s no surprise to see Rahiebb pleasing connections physically at home. Varian continued, as he noted: “I’ve been delighted how he’s matured physically over the winter. The Yorkshire Cup’s a lovely place to get him started. The track and the trip will suit him and he’s versatile when it comes to ground conditions.
“He’s a big horse and it might be that he needs his first run back. But I anticipate him running very well and it should be a springboard to a good season ahead. We think stamina is his forte and we can dream about him developing into a Cup horse.”
Rahiebb will face six rivals, including last year’s King Edward VII Stakes winner Amiloc. The Postponed gelding was last seen when a two length fourth to Ethical Diamond in the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
Epic Poet also lines up, who’s been a model of consistency for David O’Meara. Furthur renews his rivalry with Rahiebb, having finished ahead of him at Ascot before down the field in the St Leger.