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Gentildonna scores in Dubai Sheema Classic

Ryan Moore rode GentildonnaRyan Moore rode Gentildonna
© Healy Racing Photos

Ryan Moore and Gentildonna overcame a troubled passage to win the Dubai Sheema Classic presented by Longines at Meydan.

Moore had the perfect position in the first half of midfield against the rail and looked in control as he eased off the rail to avoid weakening rivals on the turn for home.

However, last year's runner-up looked in serious trouble as Moore failed to find a passage through Cirrus Des Aigles and Ambivalent and was forced to switch the Deep Impact filly in a dramatic move.

Gentildonna was able to pick up again and ultimately ran out a relatively comfortable winner from the brilliant French veteran, Cirrus Des Aigles, with Ambivalent in third.

There was early drama in the race when Mars appeared to go wrong, veering violently to the far side of the course, hampering several runners in the process.

He crashed into the far rail as Richard Hughes attempted to pull him up and threw the British champion jockey over the top.

Hughes was seen sitting up on a stretcher in an ambulance and was reportedly only winded.

Christophe Soumillon, jockey of Cirrus Des Aigles, said: "I had a really good run off a strong pace that suited us. I saw Ryan and wanted to get first run on him. My horse battled really well.

"Unfortunately, we were up against a dual Japan Cup winner and on the night she was just too good."

Hughes was taken to hospital for precautionary X-rays but is expected to be fit enough to fly home this evening.

Silvestre de Sousa, who was drawn next to Mars aboard Excellent Result, said: "Richard's horse was fighting him right from the off. It looked a horrible fall."

Mars was reported to have suffered from a suspected heart attack.