Costa saddles five winners to cap memorable day for Jebel Ali Stables

Amir Naqvi, Sports Editor

The Jebel Ali Racecourse roared back to life with the opening of its 2024-2025 racing season, a day marked by breathtaking victories and the unrivalled dominance of patron Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s horses.

Sheikh Ahmed’s Jebel Ali Stables and resident trainer Michael Costa started the season with a bang after winning five races on the seven-race card at the first meeting of the racecourse.

The winning spree for Costa began when Yotarid under two-time Brisbane champion jockey James Orman traversed the 1000-metre distance with grace to claim the Al Shafar Investment Stakes.

Yotarid’s win was a testament to the perfect blend of speed and skills as he crossed the finish line just a few seconds ahead of Salman Al Sabri’s Split the Profit.

Mohamed Al Ahmed, General Manager of Jebel Ali Racecourse, congratulated Sheikh Ahmed on a perfect start and remarkable victory for Jebel Ali Stables in the opening meet.

“I would like to congratulate Sheikh Ahmed, Mohamad Al Shehhi and Michael Costa following their strong start.” Ahmed also thanked Ziad Galadari and Ahmed Al Shehhi, members of the higher organising committee.

“I am delighted to share that our meeting was an outstanding success. It brought me immense joy to see such a vibrant turnout of racegoers —far surpassing our expectations. This remarkable attendance truly highlights the enthusiasm and support for our racing community.”

Ahead of the first race, Jebel Ali Racecourse unveiled a stunning new pre-parade and saddling enclosure.

“The new facility offered racegoers a unique window into the thrilling realm of final preparations, where spirited horses and their talented jockeys share their last moments before the race. It was well received by the fans who witnessed the pivotal moments leading up to the horses’ journey to the parade ring, the race itself, and the exhilarating rush of the finish line,” Ahmed added.

“I also wish to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation to all our esteemed partners, whose unwavering support over the decades has been instrumental in helping us raise our standards to new heights. The Commercial Bank of Dubai Stakes continued to fuel the excitement, with Nahaash crossing the finish line first.

Once again, it was the dynamic duo of jockey Orman and Costa who celebrated another win.

The Australian handler completed the hat-trick as Thawban with Ray Dawson firm in the saddle guided the four-year-old colt to victory in Sprint Handicap Stakes sponsored by Emirates Sprint Series, a 1200-metre contest for Thoroughbreds.

Highlight of the first meeting, the Opening Day Cup sponsored by Shadwell, unfolded with a thrilling showdown, where Saayedd emerged victorious amidst fierce competition.

The talented Dawson, maintaining his exceptional form, guided Saayedd over the 1600-metre course, crossing the finish line in an impressive time of 1:37:27.

This triumph marked the fourth win for Sheikh Ahmed’s stables, a testament to their meticulous preparation and undeniable prowess in the realm of racing. In the sixth race, the Dubai Refreshment Cup, Sheikh Ahmed’s horses once again showcased their supremacy on the track.

Costa-trained Gaassid, ridden by Orman, claimed a resounding victory, leaving Salem Bin Ghadayer’s Kibo Misaki and Musabbeh Al Mheri’s Eruptive far behind.

“It’s a wonderful day to start the season so strong. It’s a remarkable achievement for my team,” said Costa.

“To begin the season on such a triumphant note is incredibly rewarding and serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of Sheikh Ahmed,” he added.

Earlier, action began with the Wathba Stallions Cup, a race dedicated to the Purebred Arabians. Abdallah Al Hammadi’s Octave under jockey Daniel Tudhope claimed victory with an impressive finish.

Octave edged out Qaiss Aboud-trained Af Nafith by a neck, recording a time of 1:21:91 minutes.

The day concluded with the Al Sufouh Handicap Stakes, where Mount Kosciuszko galloped to a stunning win.