Flama Sunshine sparkles in Al Nayifat Stakes, Lahfaty lands Tattersalls Cup

Bhupat Seemar’s Flama Sunshine unfurled her potential in a spectacular display of speed to win the Al Nayifat Stakes, sponsored by Keeneland, during the 10th meeting of Jebel Ali Racecourse in Dubai on Sunday.

The three-year-old filly under jockey Tadhg O’Shea left her rivals trailing behind after crossing the finish line with more than six lengths ahead of Devassa.

Devassa, trained by Julio Olascoaga and ridden by Silvestre De Sousa, fought bravely but had to settle for second place.

Arryaaf, a promising bay filly trained by Michael Costa, ran a determined race under Ray Dawson, finishing third with a time of 1:29.79, just 0.04 seconds behind Devassa.

Musabbeh Al Mheiri’s African Candy delivered a decisive victory in the Al Nawayef Stakes, sponsored by Keeneland.

Ridden by Silvestre De Sousa, the Rosalind son surged ahead, leaving Don Vaccaro more than three lengths behind.

Don Vaccaro, carrying a higher weight and rating, finished second. Al Fareeq (USA) came in third, a further 1.26 lengths back.

“Our relationship with Jebel Ali Racecourse has been incredibly positive, and we always feel warmly welcomed when we visit, said Edward Prosser, Keeneland European representative.

Kentucky-based horse racing empire Keeneland is the world’s largest and most renowned thoroughbred auction house.

“We have a close and valued relationship with Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the patron of Jebel Ali, and his team.

“This year, we had the privilege of sponsoring two races, and Jebel Ali Racecourse trainer Michael Costa comes over to Keeneland in September to purchase horses from there,” he added.

After a few near misses, Costa made a return to the winner’s circle as Lahfaty delivered a thrilling victory in the Tattersalls Cup.

The race was a true test of endurance and grit, with the talented filly proving her mettle in a fiercely contested battle.

Under Connor Beasley, Lahfaty surged forward in the final furlong, narrowly edging out Guarani, who had fought valiantly but couldn’t match her rival’s late burst of speed.

Tattersalls, the premier auction house for racehorses in the United Kingdom and Ireland, sponsored this race.

Jason Singh, marketing manager of Tattersalls, said, “Tattersalls is delighted to be back at Jebel Ali, proudly sponsoring a race once again. We have been sponsoring races here for many years, and it is always an honour to support this prestigious venue.

“Along with the many owners and stables who purchase from Tattersalls, our sponsorship is a token of appreciation. Visiting Jebel Ali is like experiencing one of the finest racecourses in the Gulf, and we are always pleased to be part of its rich racing tradition,” he added.

The penultimate meeting of the Jebel Ali Racecourse was held during the second day of Ramadan, and it fittingly carried the theme ‘Ramadan Feast.’

“It was a spectacular day of racing at Jebel Ali, made even more special as it coincided with the second day of Ramadan and our traditional Ramadan Feast,” said Mohamed Al Ahmed, General Manager of Jebel Ali Racecourse.

“In the true spirit of the holy month, we had the privilege of distributing Iftar to everyone in attendance, fostering a sense of unity and community.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our sponsors, including Keeneland, Tattersalls, Commercial Bank of Dubai Stakes, and others. Their unwavering support and generosity continue to elevate the sport and enrich the experience for all involved,” he added.

Julio Olascoaga’s Mount Kosciuszko dominated the Newbury Racecourse Cup.

The six-year-old gelding outlasted Regheeb in a thrilling duel, powering through the final stretch to claim a decisive victory.

Base Note, trained by Simon & Ed Crisford, showcased his class in the Commercial Bank of Dubai Stakes. Base Note held off a determined challenge from Alhzeem and Saayedd.

Eric Lemartinel’s Zaaeem won the Wathba Stallions Cup, the opener of the seven-race card.

Ahmad Bin Harmash’s King’s Fountain (GB) surged to victory in the Bin Dasmal Group Stakes.