Owner Sheikh Obaid transfers seven runners to Karl Burke after suggesting Balding 'wasn't lucky'
Sheikh Obaid, the trigger-happy owner based in Dubai, has caused a stir in the racing world by removing his horses from Andrew Balding's yard. Obaid has transferred seven runners from Balding's Hampshire stable to Karl Burke in Yorkshire, less than a month after parting ways with Simon and Ed Crisford. This unexpected move comes after Obaid has developed a reputation for making sudden changes in his team, having previously sacked jockey Andrea Atzeni and removed a horse from Luca Cumani's yard.
Defeat in Autumn Stakes may have been the tipping point
The final straw for Obaid may have been the defeat of 2-1 joint-favorite Arabic Legend in the Group 3 Autumn Stakes at Newmarket last weekend. This loss may have led Obaid to believe that Balding's luck had run out and prompted him to make the decision to transfer his horses to a different trainer.
Balding holds no hard feelings
Despite the sudden departure of Obaid's horses, Andrew Balding remains gracious and understanding. He acknowledges that luck has not been on their side and holds no ill-will towards Obaid. Balding even goes as far as to say that if Obaid ever wanted to have horses at his yard again, he would welcome him back without hesitation. Losing such a prominent owner is undoubtedly a blow, but Balding remains positive about the future of his stable.
Focus on ending the season on a high
Andrew Balding is determined to end the season on a positive note. He will be saddling five runners, including 2000 Guineas hero Chaldean, at the upcoming British Champions Day. With Frankie Dettori as the jockey for Chaldean in the QEII, Balding is optimistic about their chances. He believes that Chaldean has recently returned to his early season form and has high hopes for a successful performance.
