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Golden Vekoma keeps rolling, takes UAE 2000 Guineas (G3)

January 24, 2025

Golden Vekoma powers to victory in the 2025 UAE 2000 Guineas (G3) -DRC photo
Golden Vekoma powers to victory in the 2025 UAE 2000 Guineas (G3) -DRC photo

Vekoma’s well-seasoned 3-year-old colt Golden Vekoma was on top of his game once again in Meydan’s UAE 2000 Guineas S. (G3), winning the 1,600-meter race on Jan. 24 by two lengths for his first graded/group win.

Golden Vekoma, who won the Guineas Trial in his prior start, is now 3-0-1 in four outings for owner -Mohammed Ahmad Ali Al Subousi.

In post 13 of 16, Golden Vekoma was in midpack while well off the rail down the backstretch. Continuing his wide trip around the turn, he steadily gained on the leaders and was within two lengths of the lead turning for home. He took over the top spot with 300 meters to run and spurted away to a comfortable victory.

“We have had good 3-year-olds before but none for this distance,” said trainer Ahmad Bin Harmash. “We will go to the Saudi Derby (in February) next, because when you have a class horse, you have to try something different.”

“He’s a horse we’ve always thought a lot of and he=s a horse who=s only going to get better,” added jockey Connor Beasley. “He’s got the size, scope and looks to go with it. The world’s his oyster, really, and I’m looking forward to seeing what the second half of the season brings.

“He’s seen the mile out well there and he wasn’t stopping at the end. I think if something had come to him he’d have pulled out even more.”

A $145,000 OBS April grad, Golden Vekoma is the seventh stakes winner and second graded winner for his 2024 leading American freshman sire. Bred by Woods Edge Farm, LLC, Golden Vekoma’s winner’s dam Sticks Wondergirl is a daughter of the 2005 American champion 2-year-old male Stevie Wonderboy. Her six foals to date include stakes winner Midshipman’s Dance.