Racing: Racing's first post

THE POST of Sheikh Mohammed's first jockey will give Steve Cauthen's successor the most numerically strong book of rides in Europe, though in terms of quality it trails the Khalid Abdullah-Pat Eddery team, writes Paul Hayward.

With around 500 horses in training in Britain, France and Germany, the most dynamic of the Maktoum brothers looks certain to maintain his hold on the owners' championship and is a safe bet to make amends for last year's disappointing record in major races. Among the best of the Sheikh's prospects for 1993 are Zieten, Taos, Marillette, Blush Rambler, Dayflower and Barathea.

John Gosden in Newmarket and Andre Fabre in France are his principal trainers.