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SHEIKHZAYEDROAD showed he is as good as ever with a fine second place in the Dubai Gold Cup at Meydan today.
The nine-year-old was an unconsidered 25/1 shot but stormed through the closing stages of the two-mile Group 2.
He only finished behind the short-priced favourite Vazirabad who won the race for the third time.
Sheikzayedroad, owned by Mohammed Jaber, was suited by the strong early pace set by Frontiersman.
Trainer David Simcock's charge was settled out the back by jockey Martin Harley, who was content to bide his time.
Harley allowed his mount time to find his stride and was rewarded with a stirring challenge through the closing quarter of a mile.
The Trillium Place contender was closing on Vazirabad through the last strides and the latter's victory margin was a rapidly diminishing length.
Sheikhzayed's career earnings, which were already in seven figures, were significantly boosted by prize money of almost £150,000.
More importantly, the gelding's 45th racecourse appearance proved that his enduring talent remains intact and augurs well for the season ahead.