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Ajtebi’s ‘Calming Influence’ Makes the Difference

DUBAI - The partnership of Mahmoud Al Zarouni-Ahmed Ajtebi delivered the goods after the newly appointed Godolphin trainer Mahmoud Al Zarouni saddled Calming Influence to win the Godolphin Mile Gr-2 for the Godolphine Stables. The duo defended the title which was won last year by Two Step Salsa for the powerful operation.

Calming Influence, taking a big jump in class, was given a supremely confident ride by Ahmed Ajtebi making a joyous double celebration for the locals as they held off Green Coast by a length, with Skysurfers, the Godolphin second-string finishing third.

Plans for Cat Junior to make the running went out of the window when he blew the start, and Ajtebi got the perfect lead from long shot Le Drakkar.

The Godolphin-owned Desert Party, the mount of Frankie Dettori, was in trouble before the straight and trailed in 11^th.

Simon Crisford, racing manager to Godolphin, said: “What a start for Godolphin, and what a day for Mahmoud and Ahmed, who gave Calming Influence such a brilliant ride. He is not easy – he can be hot and run free – but he was in control throughout and I could not be happier for him.

“Mahmoud, too, has done a lot of hard work on Calming Influence, and it is great for the locals, who also give us so much support.

Calming Influence will go back to Europe and be aimed at all the top races.”

Ahmed Ajtebi, jockey said: “I’m so happy to win for the trainer. I’ve been with him for five years.”

hisham@khaleejtimes.com