Major Cinnamon wins 2025 Stakes as great turnout of fans delights Mohamed

Marwan Al Baidhaei’s Major Cinnamon stole the spotlight in the sixth meeting of the Jebel Ali Racecourse on Monday.

The son of Tapiture delivered a masterclass performance under Adrie de Vries in the 1000m 2025 Stakes sponsored by Shadwell.

As the gates flew open, Major Cinnamon bolted forward with incredible speed and won the feature by more than three-quarters.

Michael Costa’s Marsoom put up a strong fight but fell short during the final stages.

Bhupat Seemar’s Elusive Terry, with Tadhg O’Shea in the iron, despite his best efforts, ended trailing behind the two.

Originally scheduled for Saturday, the sixth meeting was postponed due to the condition of the track following rains last week. The Emirates Racing Authority and Jebel Ali Racecourse management rescheduled the meeting, prioritizing the safety of horses and jockeys.

“It’s truly a delight to have a race taking place on a weekday, especially at the very start of the week. While the event was rescheduled from Saturday to Monday, the enthusiasm and passion from both participants and fans remained intact,” said Mohamed Al Ahmed, General Manager of the Jebel Ali Racecourse.

“Despite being a weekday, the racecourse welcomed an impressive turnout, creating an atmosphere brimming with excitement and anticipation.

“The quality of the field was equally commendable, with a promising line-up of talented runners showcasing their potential. This sets the stage for an exhilarating second half of the season, one I eagerly anticipate with high hopes.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Jebel Ali patron Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Mohammad Saeed Shehhi, and the Higher Organizing Committee for their steadfast support and dedication. Their commitment continues to play an instrumental role in the success of race meetings.

“As we move forward, we remain optimistic and excited about the remaining races, confident that they will deliver memorable moments for all involved,” he added.

The excitement didn’t end there, as the Commercial Bank of Dubai Stakes, a 1950-metre race sponsored by Commercial Bank of Dubai, delivered its own tale of drama.

Dubai Welcome emerged the winner with a perfectly timed charge under Qais Al Busaidi.

Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi’s Fight Zone delivered a commanding performance in the Emirates NBD Cup, sponsored by Emirates NBD bank.

The action-packed day reached another crescendo in the Maiden Stakes, sponsored by the Emirates Sprint Series, as Classic City (USA) delivered a stirring performance to claim victory in a thrilling finish.

Ridden by Alexandre da Silva, the six-year-old gelding demonstrated grit and unrelenting determination to hold off a late surge from his rivals.

Close behind was the School of Art, while rounding out the top three was Costa’s Ghaaleb.

Hamdan Sultan Al Subousi-owned three-year-old Sir Harmony with Connor Beasley in the saddle won the Al Shafar Investment Stakes, sponsored by Al Shafar Group.

Sir Harmony held off a strong challenge from Bhupat’s Military Order, who finished second, four lengths behind the winner.

After missing the winner’s circle despite coming close in a couple of races, the home team bounced back in the Umm Suqeim Cup.

As the gates opened, Gaassid burst forth with astonishing speed. Under Coen, he surged ahead, taking the lead almost instantly.

Behind him, Tactical Bound, guided by Adrie de Vries, pushed forward with relentless vigor.

He was determined not to let Gaassid run away with the victory. Yet, despite his best efforts, he found it challenging as Gaassid’s pace was unmatched, his lead growing with every stride.

In the final furlong, the Costa-trained colt with a burst of speed won the race by six lengths.

Qaiss Aboud’s Mahboub Hamzah won the Porsche Cup.