Jebel Ali Racecourse’s eighth meeting features Shadwell Stakes, Irish Race Day
Amir Naqvi
A seasoned journalist covering major sports events around the world. Amir is Sports Editor with Gulf Today.
- 2 hours ago
A day of high-octane thrills awaits, with seven fiercely competitive races showcasing the finest Purebred Arabian and Thoroughbred horses, as Jebel Ali Racecourse prepares to host its eighth meeting on Saturday.
The highlights of the seven-race card include a Thoroughbred Handicap over 1,950 meters, sponsored by Shadwell, with a prize pool of Dhs96,000.
Adding to the excitement, the meeting will feature the theme Irish Race Day, with three partners from Ireland joining the sponsorship roster to mark the deepening of ties between the two nations.
Backed by three Irish entities, Gain Equine Nutrition International Stakes, The Curragh Thoroughbred Handicap, and Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Stakes will also take centre stage.
Sheikh Abdul Aziz Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi’s Daramethos and Michael Costa’s Saayedd are among the favourites in the Shadwell Stakes.
A consistent performer at Jebel Ali, Daramethos brings both class and experience, which makes him a serious contender.
Beyond the track, Irish heritage will be on full display.
Beyond the thrilling races, a festive atmosphere will showcase the finest local and Irish artisanal creations.
“Sticking to our commitment of going ahead with concept-based racing, a thrilling new chapter unfolds as we proudly present our eighth meeting, a celebration of the enduring bond between the UAE and Ireland, and name it the Irish Race Day! This prestigious event shines a spotlight on the deep-rooted connection between both nations through the shared passion for equestrian excellence,” said Mohamed Al Ahmed, General Manager of the Jebel Ali Racecourse.
“We are honored to welcome three esteemed partners from Ireland, each a pillar of the Irish racing community. First, we deepen our cherished relationship with the historic The Curragh Racecourse. For the first time, they grace the Jebel Ali Racecourse as a race sponsor, a testament to our flourishing partnership and shared vision for the future of racing,” he added.
Another feature The Curragh has attracted a quality field of 13. The Curragh race offers an enthralling contest, with Salem Bin Ghadayer’s seasoned warrior, Royal Commando, locking horns with Osama Refai’s battle-hardened contender, Road Bloc.
Yet, lurking in the shadows is Soulofchess, representing Glade Gutter Racing.
A thrilling spectacle awaits the Gains Equine Nutrition International Stakes, where 15 are in the fray.
What truly sets this race apart, however, is the fierce duel between Bhupat Seemar and Qaiss Aboud.
Bhupat unleashes a formidable quartet, with Cabrit, Crocogate, Fayadh, and Guarani ready to stake their claim. Aboud counters with a trio of contenders—Ironside, Jubail, and Mijbil.
“Joining us on this occasion is Gain Equine Nutrition, a renowned Irish purveyor of equine well-being. Their presence underscores their growing commitment to the UAE and the wider region, bringing their expertise in equine nutrition to the forefront of the sport,” said Ahmed.
“We are delighted to have them sponsor a race at Jebel Ali, marking a significant step in their regional expansion.
“Completing our triumvirate of Irish partners is Irish Thoroughbred Marketing, who have been promoting Irish racing and industry on a global scale. Their support further elevates the prestige of our Irish Race Day.
“Looking ahead, we anticipate an even grander celebration of Irish heritage next season, coinciding with the momentous 50th anniversary of the relationship between the UAE and Ireland. We envision a vibrant showcase of Irish companies, further strengthening the ties between our nations.”
The meeting opens with the Porsche Cup for four-year-old Purebred Arabians bred in the UAE.
A competitive field of 16 runners is set to line up for the 1,400-metres race.
The 3YO NW2 Stakes, offering AED 72,000, has attracted a field of five, including Salman Al Sabri’s Feeras, Musabbeh Al Mheiri’s African Candy, and Bhupat Seemar’s Golden Redemption.
The 1,600-meter Glorious Saturday Handicap, offering a prize purse of Dhs 76,000, has drawn a strong and competitive field of 14 contenders.
Trainer Costa will be doubling his chances of victory, sending out a formidable duo in Elraaed and Seendid, both poised to make a strong impression. Meanwhile, Bhupat has also entered two promising runners—Ghost of Mambo and Ranchero—each with the potential to challenge.
The Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Stakes will bring the curtain down on the eighth meeting.
