Michael Dickinson has defended the Tapeta surface at Meydan
Michael Dickinson has defended the Tapeta surface used at Meydan after it suffered some high-profile criticism.
Last Updated: 29/03/14 4:32pm
Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum, the brother of Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed, said in an interview with Gulf News that the synthetic surface was inconsistent.
But former trainer Dickinson, who developed the surface, told Press Association Sport: "I have been very happy with the performance of the Tapeta track.
"All the races have been fair and on a level playing field. Above all it was safe, and all the horses appear to have come home safe and sound.
"The winners have come from all corners of the globe, from Abu Dhabi, South Africa, Ireland, England and Hong Kong
"The Golden Shaheen was six furlongs run in 1.10 minutes, which is what you would expect from horse of that calibre.
"All the jockeys and trainers I've spoken to have been happy with the track. Tapeta have had three people helping the ground staff crew prepare for the big night.
"It's a world-class track for world-class performers. They have come from North, South, East and West and all delivered their best.
"Hong Kong trainer John Moore was thrilled with the surface and his jockey Joao Moreira said it was fabulous."