Newbury: Eljas du Bienn was crowned champion of the UAE President's Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses in the prestigious Cup's first race at the historic Newbury Racecourse in the United Kingdom. The race was part of the calendar of the 33rd edition of the global series.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Cup series continued its successes at European racecourses with support from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is committed to supporting Arabian horse owners and breeders. This initiative aims to preserve their authentic heritage and strengthen their presence at major international festivals and racecourses.
Eljas du Bienn, by Muntaser Al Khalediah out of Djaiza du Bienn by Dormane, recorded an Emirati victory in the colors of his owner, Sheikh Hamed bin Khadim bin Butti Al Hamed. The colt, trained by Elisabeth Bernard Jean-Fran§ois and ridden by Antoine Werle, launched a powerful run, seizing the lead and maintaining it to the finish line. This marked Eljas du Bienn as the first champion of the UAE President's Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses at Newbury Racecourse.
The champion covered the 1,600-metre distance on turf in 1:46.67, claiming the Group 3 title for three-year-old Purebred Arabian horses against an elite field. Nemo de Carrere finished second, Leila de la Gloire came third, Ameer Athbah finished fourth, and RB Thrust took fifth place.
The Newbury race supported the champions of the future, providing owners and breeders with a platform to showcase young horses. This contributes to developing breeding standards and introducing new names in international races.
Eljas du Bienn's victory is significant as it is the first win recorded at Newbury, and it highlights an Emirati presence at the race's top. The win reflects the prestigious standing of Arabian horse racing and the Cup's role in showcasing breeding quality.
Newbury is the first of two UK legs on the 33rd edition's calendar, with Doncaster Racecourse set to host the second on 12th September during the St Leger Festival. This highlights the strong presence of the Cup within the British and European racing landscape.
Sheikh Hamed bin Khadim bin Butti Al Hamed expressed pride in the victory, acknowledging the support of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He emphasized the UAE President's Cup as a leading global platform and praised Eljas du Bienn's distinguished performance in securing the victory.