Qatar Racing's Lightening Spear Comes Second in Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes

London, May 20 (QNA) - Lightning Spear, which belongs to Qatar racing, came in second place in the Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes, edged by Rhododendron edgedin in a thrilling match. Lightning Spear came with a strong run of his own throughout the final furlong under Oisin Murphy. Both gave their all in the run to the line, with Susan Magnier, Michael Tabor, and Derrick Smith's Rhododendron prevailing by a short head. Another of the winners stablemates, Kentucky-bred Lancaster Bomber, was 2 3/4 lengths back in third. Bloodhorse reported today that The Lockinge often provides clues for the Queen Anne Stakes, the opening race of next month's Royal meeting at Ascot. Canford Cliffs, Frankel, and Ribchester completed the double in recent years. British bookmakers were swift to cut Rhododendron to as short as 3-1 for that race. All seven races bore Qatari names and names of Shaqab horses, reflecting the great status of Al Shaqab and Qatari horses in Europe in general and in England in particular. The names of the matches were in the following sequence: Shalaa, Al Rayyan, Al Zubara, Olympique Glory, Boqueto's run and Tornado. Al Shaqab's sponsorship of the race for the fourth year in a row has been widely praised for its support for horse racing. The race is sponsored by Qatar in England, where the most prestigious races are held around the world and a remarkable timing reflects the growth and expansion of the Qatari role in the world sports arena in general In the field of horse racing and equestrian in particular. (QNA)