Bhupat Seemar and Tadhg O’Shea continued their reign of brilliance after sweeping four races while Musabbeh Al Mheiri’s Al Shibli unleashed a breathtaking performance in the Jebel Ali Sprint Prep, sponsored by the Emirates Sprint Series.
Jebel Ali Racecourse’s resident trainer, Michael Costa’s Sadaaty, produced a sizzling performance in the Jebel Ali Mile Prep, sponsored by Shadwell.
Al Shibli and Sadaaty’s victories in features of the seventh meeting of the Jebel Ali Racecourse season, offering a prize purse of Dhs100,000, have set the stage for a thrilling clash on February 15 during the Jebel Ali Sprint and Jebel Ali Mile—highlights of the track’s calendar.
The six-year-old son of Shamardal under Silvestre De Sousa won the Jebel Ali Sprint Prep by almost two lengths.
Bhupat’s Morning proved to be a formidable contender, mounting a relentless challenge and keeping the pressure on throughout.
However, Al Shibli surged ahead in the final furlong, fending off his rival’s pursuit to give another triumph to dual UAE Champion Trainer Mheiri, who celebrated four wins at the Dubai Racing Carnival on Friday.
It was an unforgettable day for the Bhupat, who bagged the UAE trainer’s crown for the second time in three years, and O’Shea.
Bhupat and’ O’Shea’s winning spree began with the second race of the seven-race card when Maputo claimed a commanding victory in the Al Huzaifa Cup. Crossing the finish line with over three lengths to spare, Maputo left Ahmed Bin Harmash’s Million Doro trailing in his wake.
Bhupat and O’Shea were back in the winner’s circle as the three-year-old Galactic Star edged past On the Way in the Emirates NBD Cup, sponsored by Emirates NBD Bank. The ever-flourishing duo continued their streak of triumphs, claiming victory in the Commercial Bank of Dubai Stakes with the remarkable Secret Manner.
The son of Dubawi soared to victory by over two lengths ahead of Tactical Bound.
Arabian Tale capped the spectacular day for Seemar and O’Shea, securing their fourth victory with a thrilling finish in the Vertex Cup. Arabian Tale outlasted Mheiri’s Mersaal by the narrowest of margins, delivering a dramatic conclusion to the seventh meeting of the racecourse.
Another captivating highlight of the day was the vibrant celebration of Students and Universities Day, a theme that added a touch of youthful energy and academic spirit to the event.
Students from the top two institutes of Dubai, including Heriot-Watt University and Middlesex University Dubai, attended the races.
“It was a successful day as we celebrated Students and Universities Day that brought together students from different institutions, creating an atmosphere of excitement,” said Mohamed Al Ahmed, the General Manager of Jebel Ali Racecourse.
“We organised a variety of engaging activities for them, including teamwork challenges, fun games, and an insightful introduction to the world of horse racing.
“It was inspiring to make the students aware of the immense potential and opportunities this remarkable industry holds.”
Mohamed emphasized that this initiative provided students with a unique opportunity to explore the diverse and dynamic world of horse racing.
“The turnout was incredible, with a large and lively crowd of fans adding to the energy of the day. The preparatory races for the Jebel Ali Mile and Jebel Ali Sprint were a highlight, showcasing immense promise and building anticipation for what’s next to come.
“All eyes now turn to February 15, when the grand events—the Jebel Ali Mile and Jebel Ali Sprint—will take center stage.
“It promises to be a day of thrilling competition and unforgettable moments, marking a pinnacle of our racing calendar.”
Earlier, the indomitable Kayla De Carrere, trained by Eric Lemartinel, stole the show in the Wathba Stallions Cup, a prestigious 1600-meter contest dedicated to the Purebred Arabians.
With a display of unrivaled power, Kayla De Carrere dominated the race from start to finish.
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