Adding new dimensions to enhance the race-day experience, Jebel Ali Racecourse is all set to kick off its eagerly anticipated season with an opener on Saturday, the first of the 11 meetings scheduled at the venue.
Prepare to be swept away by the exhilarating atmosphere as the powerful thundering hooves and the vibrant colours of the Purebred Arabian and Thoroughbred set the stage for unforgettable moments.
Three internationally recognised Stakes — the Jebel Ali Stakes, Jebel Ali Mile, and Jebel Ali Sprint — are the main highlights of the top-notch races taking place during the season.
Additionally, the Emirates Sprint Series adds another layer of excitement, inviting fierce competition and unparalleled thrills to the racecourse.
First meeting featuring seven races will begin with the Wathba Stallions Cup.
Opening Day Cup sponsored by Shadwell is the highlight of the seven-race card, which has attracted six runners. Jebel Ali resident trainer Michael Costa saddles two, including Asaassi and Saayedd, in the feature with hopes of starting the new season with a bang.
Bhupat Seemar, who lifted the UAE trainers’ championship last season and landed the $12 million Dubai World Cup and the $2 million Dubai Golden Shaheen, saddles Elusive Terry.
Sprint Handicap Stakes sponsored by Emirates Sprint Series has drawn 10 runners, including Lahfaty, Zawaaya, Thawban, and Atlantic Sky.
Lahfaty and Thawban will run in the famous yellow silks of racecourse patron Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Mohamed Al Ahmed, General Manager of Jebel Ali Racecourse, congratulated Sheikh Ahmed and hailed his unwavering support.
He also congratulated His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court and Chairman of the Emirates Racing Authority, and Sheikh Rashed Bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Vice-Chairman of the Emirates Racing Authority, and Engineer Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, General Manager, Emirates Racing Authority, for the excellent start to the UAE racing season, which began last week in Abu Dhabi.
“Jebel Ali Racecourse has established itself as a cornerstone in the UAE’s racing calendar. Over the years, the track has significantly elevated the racing scene in the Emirates with its exceptional quality, competitive races, and state-of-the-art facilities.
“I extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all our partners who have, over the decades, helped us raise our standards.
“The prestigious status that the racecourse enjoys today is a testament to the unwavering efforts and continuous support of its founder and patron, Sheikh Ahmed,” he added.
Ahead of the first race, Jebel Ali Racecourse unveiled a stunning new pre-parade and saddling enclosure.
This exquisite facility, conceived by Mohamed Al Ahmed, General Manager of Jebel Ali Racecourse, and crafted by three women Emirati architects, promises to weave together the threads of sport, entertainment, and hospitality into a vibrant tapestry of race-day experiences.
With this innovative enclosure, racegoers are granted a privileged glimpse into the exhilarating world of final preparations, where the spirited horses and their skilled jockeys engage in their last moments before the race.
“Our ambition is to provide a truly immersive race-day experience,” Ahmed said.
“This space allows fans to witness pivotal moments before the horses gracefully make their way to the parade ring, the race itself, and the electrifying finish line.”
A standout feature of this splendid development is the rooftop terrace, offering an elevated vantage point that provides unparalleled views of the thrilling races.
“This terrace is not just a perfect spot for spectating, but it is also poised to become a sought-after space for social gatherings and post-race celebrations,” Ahmed added.
This new enclosure harmonises with the racecourse’s inherent charm while infusing it with a refreshing modern flair.
“It’s all about crafting an engaging environment where fans can connect deeply with the thrilling world of racing, all while being enveloped by the magnificent skyline of Dubai,” Ahmed remarked, reflecting on the project’s essence.