Jap Hadad lands Sharjah feature, Pinheiro and Bittar seal double

Gulf Today, Sports Reporter

Jap Hadad and Royston Ffrench carried the famous silks of Sheikh Saeed Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum to an unlikely victory in the HH Sheikh Mansoor Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Cup at the Sharjah Longines Racecourse.

The early stages of the race didn't unfold as planned for the seven-year-old horse trained by Irfan Ellahi. The horse, displaying exuberance, was fractious in the gates, putting its chances in jeopardy. Fortunately, starter Shane Ryan exercised patience and skillfully managed the situation, allowing Ellahi's charge to regroup.

Despite a slow start due to the horse's antics in the stalls, the jockey, Ffrench, guided the grey mount with a powerful late surge.

The well-timed challenge proved effective as they managed to overtake competitors, including the Majed Al Jahoori-trained Asmaa Al Wathba and Bernardo Pinheiro.

As the race concluded, there was a notable two-and-a-half lengths between the victorious pair and the runner-up, Asmaa Al Wathba, with Azzouz, ridden by Charlie Bennett and owned by Jaber Bittar, securing a commendable third place, a further two lengths behind.

Sultan Mohammed Khalifa Al Yahyaee, the Director of the Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club, expressed his deep appreciation for the unwavering support of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, towards the club. Yahyaee also extended his gratitude to Sheikh Sultan Bin Muhammad Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, for his steadfast support.

Reflecting on the success of the third meeting of season at Sharjah Longines Racecourse, Yahyaee conveyed his delight and satisfaction, emphasizing that the Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club continues to hold a prominent position in the UAE racing scene.

Yahyaee took the opportunity to acknowledge and thank the sponsors.

He also expressed gratitude to the Emirates Racing Authority for their ongoing efforts and collaboration in advancing racing in the UAE.

Highlighting the significant impact of the management and all individuals involved in racing, Yahyaee emphasized their collective efforts in enhancing the overall quality of racing at the club. Looking ahead, he conveyed optimism and eagerness for the promising developments expected in the upcoming meetings.

Patrick Aoun, Regional Longines Brand Manager for the Middle East & South East Asia, attended the races.

Bernardo Pinheiro and trainer Dr Jaber Bittar wasted no time registering a double on the card when the Al Reef Stables-owned Zammam outstayed long-term leader AF Al Abadee to land the 2000m maiden - an hour after Mubeed had taken the opening 1200m maiden in impressive fashion.

AF Yakhtem made a decisive impact by securing victory in the 1000m handicap. The skilled jockey Tadgh O’Shea played a key role in guiding AF Yakhtem to success, showcasing the effectiveness of the partnership between horse and rider in the competitive racing environment.

Makhtar, ridden by Richie Mullen, powered home on the far rail in the 2000m handicap (0-75) to hand trainer Dennis O’Brien a sixth success of the campaign.

Irish rider Andrew Slattery partnered his first winner in the UAE when Perfect Balance found plenty in the straight to capture the 2000m Thoroughbred handicap for trainer Bhupat Seemar and owners Desert Rose Racing.

Perfect Balance now boasts form figures of 211 at Sharjah and this victory by upwards of four-and-a-half lengths from the front-running Gareth (Ahmad Bin Harmash/Connor Beasley) and Untold Secret was the fourth of his career.