Felix and Glen Force headline Dubai Turf

Gulf Today, Sports Reporter

A strong field of world class horses, which features the likes of Felix and Glen Force, has been declared for the prestigious Group 1 $4m Dubai Turf.

The Marco Botti-trained Felix is among the favourites for the meeting. A first experience on the Meydan track was in store for Felix on Monday morning, having cleared quarantine the day before.

The trainer’s wife Lucie oversees his preparation, whilst also fulfilling the role of exercise rider.

She said: "His rider Sean John couldn’t travel because of the quarantine in England and he’s got a family so he had to stay home. He was very sorry he couldn’t go. He’s lent the reins to me, for a week.

"He’s been going around steadily, allowing him to have a good look around without doing anything excessive. I will see how well he will be in himself later in the week."

Depending on his progression, Felix might enjoy a little blowout come on Wednesday or Thursday.

Glen Force has joined Fawzi Nass having formerly been with Sir Mark Prescott, as was Nass’ 2012 Golden Shaheen winner Krypton Factor. He has been in great form in Bahrain and arrives on the back of three consecutive victories.

Nass said: "He has proved a decent purchase and has done well in Bahrain. He is fit and well but is taking on some top international performers on Saturday so it will be interesting to see how he goes."

Lord Glitters is emerging as something of a Meydan specialist and the grey 8-year-old looked fantastic in the Dubai sunshine this morning under regular groom Matt Ennis.

"We’ve been delighted with Lord Glitters in Dubai, he’s had a really good winter down there," trainer David O’Meara said on Monday morning.

"It is obviously a place he thrives in and I just think the track and the trip really suit him and it helps bring out the best in him. “He just did a routine canter on the training track this morning and he’ll be back on the grass tomorrow."