The Saad Mutlaq-trained Asfan Al Khalediah (KSA) made sure the Group 2 PA Al Mneefah Cup presented by the Ministry Of Culture remained in Saudi Arabia by producing another impressive performance.
Sporting the famous white colours of HRH Prince Khalid Sultan Sons, the 4-year-old Purebred Arabian colt, who was the youngest horse in the 2100m race, had already won his prep race in emphatic style and against proven Group 1 performers and foreign raiders, he was even more assertive when winning this by six and three-quarter lengths from his stable companion Bint Ghaliat Al Khalediah (KSA).
It was the French-trained mare Sultana (GB) who set the pace, followed by fellow French raider Teema (FR), while Asfan Al Khalediah was positioned just behind the pair. When they left the final bend, jockey Abdullah Alawfi kicked clear and very quickly put the race to bed in a time of 2.18.43. The Elisabeth Bernard-trained mare Sultana finished third.
It was a very popular victory for the son of Laith Al Khalediah and Mistahilat Al Khalidiah, who remains unbeaten.