Abu dhabi: Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of State, along with Mohammed Abdullah Al Junaibi and Reem Mubarak Al Buwainain, crowned Japanese contender Strauss as the winner of the US$1 million Abu Dhabi Gold Cup – powered by ADNOC. Strauss, owned by Carrot Farm Ltd, was trained by Ryo Takei and ridden by Brazilian jockey Joo Moreira.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event was attended by prominent figures including Dr Ali Hamad Al Dhaheri, Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Ali Al Ali, and Ahmed Taleb AlShamsi. This attendance underscored the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup’s status as a significant fixture on the international racing calendar. The race concluded with Joo Moreira securing an impressive win with a time of 1:33.98 minutes, earning a spot in the US$1 million Grade 1 Old Forester Bourbon Turf Classic at Churchill Downs in the United States.
Dark Trooper, owned by Wathnan Racing and ridden by James Doyle, finished second, while Comanche Brave, ridden by Ryan Moore, took third place. Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, highlighted the event’s role in strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position on the international racing stage. He praised the world-class competition and the significant presence of global jockeys and horses.
The race programme featured several prestigious contests, including the Group 1 Alanudd Classic and the first leg of the Arabian Triple Crown, with a combined prize value of AED5.7 million. The results included victories by Hameem, Amer Burn, AlShaheen, Joe Star, Aablan, and Royal Power, underscoring Abu Dhabi Turf Club’s commitment to both Thoroughbred and Purebred Arabian racing.
Trainer Ryo Takei commended Abu Dhabi’s development, emphasizing the advantageous barrier draw that benefited Strauss. Jockey Joo Moreira noted the horse’s initial unease but praised its ability to settle into a rhythm, leading to the decisive victory.
Dayle Brown, Racecourse Director at Abu Dhabi Turf Club, emphasized the event’s impact on the broader racing ecosystem and its role in supporting Abu Dhabi’s vision as a global hub for elite equestrian sport. The landmark event was supported by strategic partnerships, including a three-year agreement with ADNOC and Etihad’s role as an Official Sponsor.
The evening extended beyond the races, featuring live entertainment, a Best Dressed competition, and family-friendly activities. The celebrations concluded with an after-party headlined by DJ Bliss, blending elite sport with world-class entertainment.