Al Shaqab’s Almaa wins Prix Nefta

Al Shaqab Racing’s Almaa won the Prix Nefta (Gr2 PA), her second Group success, in Toulouse, France, on Monday.The Thomas Fourcy-trained filly cantered in third position, behind Diva du Paon, in the lead, and Naziq. Almaa attacked and easily passed Diva du Paon in the middle of the home straight. A furlong from the post, Almaa had to fight against Naziq in order to ensure the success and eventually imposed herself by half a length. “She surprises me and progresses day after day,” Fourcy said.“She confronted older mares today, who for most of them were making their seasonal debuts; maybe that helped her today. However, she did a real thing today because she cantered several lengths behind Naziq who led at a good pace and she reaccelerated. The distance is not a problem. She is easy to ride and a sweetheart. She should now go for a rest before the two races for 4yos and then the one on the day of the Arc.” Almaa has now secured three consecutive wins since making a second-place debut in October 2016.