I fly out for Dubai later today so thought I would put up some tips for those who are following the races (one warning though - I am an appalling punter and anything I back usually loses so please keep that in mind!):

US$6,000,000 Dubai World Cup (Gr 1)
ELECTROCUTIONIST (USA) or KANE HEKILI (JPN)

US$5,000,000 Dubai Duty Free (Gr 1)
IRRIDESCENCE (SAF)

US$5,000,000 Dubai Sheema Classic (Gr 1)
OUIJA BOARD (GB) or HEART'S CRY (JPN)

US$2,000,000 Dubai Golden Shaheen (Gr 1)
HEART ALONE (BRZ)

US$2,000,000 UAE Derby (Gr 2)
FLAMME DE PASSION (JPN)

US$1,000,000 Godolphin Mile (Gr 2)
MARBUSH (IRE)

I was recently asked what I am most looking forward to on this trip. To be honest, I'm particularly looking forward to seeing the Japanese horses as it is the strongest line-up of Japanese horses we have ever seen internationally.

I am also excited about the field for this year's Dubai Duty Free. It is not only the second leg of the Asian Mile Challenge but some of the best horses in the world (11 Group One winners) will contest it. The race will also re-write the history books as the two full sisters - the 2005 South African Champion filly Irridescence, and her Group 1 winning sister Perfect Promise (representing Australia) will contest it.

On a personal level this year's event has meant a lot because I have been involved in the 2006 Dubai International Racing Carnival Blogging Project.

The Athlone blog will remain quiet over the next week whilst I am traveling. Best of luck to everyone with their predictions on the night.