IRISH-bred three-year-old Tannaaf will be racing for Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Mike de Kock and jockey Wayne Smith in the Qatar Derby over 2000m on turf at the Doha Racecourse on Wednesday evening.

Mike regards this as a suitable comeback run for the son of High Chapparal, Gr3 and Listed placed in the UK in May 2015 after winning his debut back in August 2014.

Tanaaf seen winning his debut at Newmarket, UK.

The Qatar Derby is classified as a ‘Class 1’ race and has attracted a full field. Mike commented: “I am not sure what the Graded equivalent would be, but the Royal Family in Qatar are spending in the racing industry. They clearly have a game plan and the stature of this race has improved with the purse, which now stands at $US500,000.”

He said about Tannaaf: “He is a smart sort and he stays well. He hasn”t raced for six months and our grass track here in Dubai only opened for use 10 days ago, but he is fresh and will go into the Derby with a chance.”

The stable had one previous Qatar runner in the form of Bennie Blue.  He finished fourth in a Conditions Race over 2400m under Paul Devlin back in 2008.

Qatar Derby field below: