Doncaster: Doncaster Racecourse in the United Kingdom is set to host the 13th round of the UAE President's Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses, marking a significant event in the Cup's 32nd edition. The UAE President's Cup series serves to promote Arabian horse racing and supports horse owners and breeders globally, a testament to the UAE's dedication to preserving the heritage of the Arabian horse and enhancing its status on international racecourses.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UK round, integrated into the prestigious St. Leger Festival, will feature elite future champions in what is termed a 'Clash of the Strongest.' This event marks the conclusion of the English-Arab Derby, where top colts and fillies from leading studs in Britain and Europe will vie for the esteemed title. The race, classified as a Group 1 event over 2,000 meters, offers the highest prize purse in the history of Arabian horse racing in Britain and Europe, amounting to a total of £400,000.
A total of eight horses are slated to compete, with entries comprising four from France, three from the UK, and one from Qatar. Leading the field is Libeau de Carrere, trained by Alban de Mieulle and ridden by Mickael Barzalona for owner Wathnan Racing. The same stable will also present Moneer, trained by Damien de Watrigant and ridden by Jean-Bernard Eyquem.
Qatar's Al Shaqab Racing, the victors of last year's UK round with Mosail, will return with Al Dhiib, trained by Thomas Fourcy and ridden by Faleh Bughenaim, as well as Sheehan, trained by Francois Rohaut and ridden by Tom Marquand.
Other notable entries include Lino, owned by Yannick Schulze and trained by Eric Dell'ova, ridden by Olivier Peslier, the sole jockey with previous UK Cup victories; Murakib, owned by Faritz Racing, trained by Okba Ashour, and ridden by Ray Dawson; Madaoui, owned by Five Racing, trained by Charlie Wallis, and ridden by George Wood; and Hibkinada de Mazieres, owned by Oakwood Bloodstock, trained by James Owen, and ridden by Marco Ghiani.
Aref Hamad Al Awani, a member of the Higher Committee of the UAE President's Cup Series, stated, "The UK round represents the summit of the annual calendar for this prestigious series, reaffirming our valuable partnerships with iconic races and historic tracks. Participation in the legendary St. Leger Festival reflects the standing and prestige of the UAE President's Cup, which has led the way for 32 years as one of the most distinguished and valuable classic races worldwide."