Mashkoor wins Zayed & Rashid Initiative Cup as Mheiri seals double in Jebel Ali’s third meeting

Jebel Ali Racecourse bathed in patriotic colour on Saturday as it hosted its third meeting of the season, transforming the venue into a vibrant prelude to the UAE’s 54th Union Day celebrations.

What unfolded was more than a race card — it was a spirited tribute to the nation’s story, its unity, and the enduring vision that shaped it.

Each race on the seven-race programme paid homage to the nation’s milestones, with thoughtfully chosen titles that honoured the UAE’s founding, its leaders, and its unbreakable union.

The headline event — the Zayed & Rashid Initiative Cup — honoured the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late His Highness Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the visionary Founding Fathers who carved the path toward a united nation.

The centrepiece of the meeting stood proudly at the heart of the programme, carrying a purse of Dhs 120,000 and delivering a story of grit, heart, and surprise.

Marwan Al Baidhaei’s Mashkoor, ridden by Richard Mullen, emerged as the unexpected hero, securing a gutsy, narrow victory over the highly favoured War Hawk. Mashkoor held off fierce late challenges from both War Hawk and Mount Kosciuszko in a thrilling finish.

“We are delighted to have hosted and celebrated the UAE National Day and the Zayed & Rashid Initiative Day. It was evident that every detail received careful attention, starting with the names of the races — all seven were thoughtfully inspired by elements representing the UAE,” said Mohamed Al Ahmed, General Manager of Jebel Ali Racecourse.

He continued: “This creative vision came from the team at Jebel Ali, who ensured the event was both memorable and meaningful.

“The celebrations included traditional displays, local market stalls, and even a spectacular horse show between the feature and other races, adding a vibrant cultural touch to the thrilling action. The stands were packed with enthusiastic spectators, reflecting the immense support and excitement the event generated.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners. It was truly a successful and memorable meeting. My sincere thanks go to the Higher Organising Committee and the Board Members for their continuous support and dedication in making this event a remarkable success.”

The curtain lifted with the 1971 Cup, sponsored by Porsche, paying tribute to the historic year the nation was born.

The 1200m Maiden for UAE-bred Purebred Arabians saw the veteran Af Amar, trained by Qaiss Aboud, win comfortably ahead of Almotamatter.

The 2nd of December Stakes, sponsored by Al Shafar Investment, along with the Daaeem Incentive Race, honoured the exact date of the UAE’s founding — now celebrated with pride as National Day.

The longshot Spy Kingdom, guided by Connor Beasley for trainer Ahmad Bin Harmash, delivered a stunning, authoritative victory, charging home by more than eight lengths.

Favourite Casino Bay, trained by Bhupat Seemar, had no answer to the winner’s superior acceleration.

Marking the decades of progress since unification, the 54th Stakes witnessed the arrival of a new star.

Duke of Immatin, trained by Musabbeh Al Mheiri, surged to glory under Richard Mullen, fending off the determined challenge of Donde Firmo, trained by Julio Olascoaga.

The racing spectacle took on profound significance with the Seven Emirates Sprint Stakes — a symbolic tribute to the seven magnificent emirates that converged in purpose and destiny to forge a unified nation.

The lightning-fast 1000m dash saw Doug Watson’s Saarim, ridden by Patrick Dobbs, power home with a late burst to outlast the spirited longshot Indicate.

The Union Day Stakes, sponsored by Commercial Bank of Dubai, echoed the spirit of national celebration.

Exculpation, a colt from the yard of Salem bin Ghadayer, delivered a determined performance under Bernardo Pinheiro, holding off Run With The Cash in a gritty finish.

Wrapping up the proceedings was the Ghaf Tree Stakes, named after the UAE’s resilient national tree.

The Ice Phoenix rose to the occasion spectacularly, giving Mheiri his second win of the card after finishing comfortably ahead of Arlan.