Sixth meeting of Jebel Ali Racecourse set to thrill with cracking seven-race card

Get ready for an electrifying day of racing at the Jebel Ali Racecourse this Saturday! As the season progresses and the stakes grow higher, the sixth meeting promises an unforgettable spectacle for racing enthusiasts and fans alike.

Known for its unique uphill finish and breathtaking backdrop, the cracking seven-race card featuring international runners sets the stage for another thrilling day of racing.

The official feature of the first race of the New Year at the Jebel Ali Racecourse is the 2025 Stakes, sponsored by Shadwell, a 1000-metre Thoroughbred contest offering a Dhs96,000 purse.

The race has attracted a strong field of eight, including Mozahim, Elusive Terry, Soulofchess, Mr Kafoo and Major Cinnamon.

Resident trainer Michale Costa has pinned hopes on Mozahim and Marsoom. Stepping up to challenge Mozahim for a shot at glory is Bhupat Seemar’s formidable contender, Elusive Terry.

Tadhg O’Shea, the turf legend who has won an unprecedented 12 jockey’s championship titles, will guide elusive Terry. Another highlight of the card is the Commercial Bank of Dubai Stakes, sponsored by the Commercial Bank of Dubai.

11 are in the fray at the 1950-meter Thoroughbred race with Dhs80,000 at stake.

Leading the home charge are Wessall and Elraaed, draped in the distinguished yellow silks synonymous with the legacy of Jebel Ali Racecourse patron Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Trained by Salem Bin Ghadayer, First of November could be a challenge for Wessall.

With six outings over this distance, including two victories and a third-place finish, the son of Bernardini owned by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has proven his grit on the track.

Under jockey Xavier Ziani, he remains a contender not to be overlooked.

Bhupat’s Arabian Tale is set to pose a formidable threat to the duo. With O’Shea at the reins, he is primed for a commanding performance.

“I wish to express our profound gratitude to the partners and sponsors whose generous support has been instrumental in the success, said Mohamed Al Ahmed, General Manager of the Jebel Ali Racecourse.

“This Saturday’s race meeting promises to be an absolutely electrifying commencement to the year!

“Imagine the thrill of competition paired seamlessly with the vibrant hues of New Year festivities. It’s more than just about the races — it’s a grand celebration of fresh beginnings, community spirit, and the creation of unforgettable memories together.

“The entire venue will be buzzing with a plethora of activities designed to delight and entertain everyone. “Let’s embrace the thrill of the races, the joy of the New Year festivities.

“Beyond the track, the vibrant atmosphere of Jebel Ali Racecourse will offer an unforgettable experience for families and racing enthusiasts alike.”

The action begins at 1:30pm with the Porsche Cup, a race restricted to Purebred Arabians battling it out over 1200 metres for a prize of Dhs50,000.

At 2pm, the focus shifts to Al Shafar Investment Stakes, sponsored by Al Shagar Group.

The Thoroughbred contest for 3-year-olds over 1200 meters carries a purse of Dhs60,000.

Excitement grows with race three, the Maiden Stakes, sponsored by Emirates Sprint Series, taking place at 2:30 pm.

By 3pm, the Emirates NBD Cup, sponsored by Emirates NBD Bank, brings more experienced contenders to the track.

A competitive field of 10 runners will line-up at the gates in this Thoroughbred race over 1400 meters, which offers Dhs72,000.

Sheikh Hamdan’s Sunny Street, boasting a rating of 80, emerges as a leading contender in this contest.

This son of Exceed And Excel, trained by Ghadayer, is poised to make his mark on the track.

Costa entrusts the promising Matloob under Ben Coen as they embark on their quest for victory.

The Umm Suqeim Cup will serve as a finale, bringing the day’s festivities to an exhilarating close.