Secret Manner wins Umm Suqeim Stakes as Attwaal soars to glory in Emirates Airline Cup

Bhupat Seemar’s Secret Manner won the Umm Suqeim Stakes, while Michael Costa’s Attwaal landed the Emirates Airline Cup – Daaeemm Incentive Race, as Jebel Ali’s fourth meeting of the season unfolded under the theme of Students and Universities Race Day.

Secret Manner produced a decisive performance to capture the Dhs120,000 Umm Suqeim Stakes, fending off strong challenges from Costa’s Elraaed and Mount Kosciuszko.

Attwaal, under Silvestre De Sousa, delivered a gritty victory, surging ahead in the closing stages. Favourite Cats By Five loomed large late on, but Attwaal showed tremendous resolve, refusing to yield and pulling clear to cross the line by just over a length.

As part of a special initiative, Students and Universities Race Day also provided rare insight for students from different universities into the world of horse racing. Students from Hult Business School and Middlesex University Dubai were present on the occasion.

“First and foremost, Students and Universities Day was an exceptional initiative, where we had the pleasure of welcoming students from two of Dubai’s premier institutions—Hult Business School and Middlesex University Dubai—with over 150 eager students in attendance,” said Mohamed Al Ahmed, General Manager of Jebel Ali Racecourse.

“The core idea behind this event was to introduce the next generation to the world of horse racing, and I firmly believe it is our responsibility to offer them such opportunities, giving them an invaluable glimpse into the sport’s multifaceted nature.

 “The expansion of this initiative was promoting the sport and fostering a deeper connection between students and the racing world. They had the unique opportunity to speak directly with jockeys and trainers, gaining first-hand insights into the discipline, skill, and strategy required at the highest levels of the sport.

 “Through their interactions with these industry professionals, students learned not only about the technicalities of racing but also about the mental resilience and commitment needed to thrive in such a fast-paced, high-stakes environment. It was inspiring to witness the genuine interest and excitement on their faces as they delved into the world of horse racing.

“The multi-billion-dollar horse racing industry in the UAE plays a pivotal role in the nation’s economy, contributing significantly both locally and globally. Students were given a comprehensive view of the sport’s influence, from its economic impact to the cultural significance it holds in the region.”

The students toured the saddle area, watched the races, and spoke to one of the UAE’s most accomplished riders, Ray Dawson.

“The students explored the various facets of the racing world, learning about breeding, training, the racing calendar, and the various career paths the industry offers,” he added.

Earlier on the card, Ernst Oertel’s AF Muhem set the tone in spectacular fashion by storming to victory in the opening race, The Porsche Cup. Looking unstoppable from the outset, AF Muhem powered clear in commanding style, leaving rivals in his wake and crossing the line emphatically ahead of stablemate AF Marmuq, who was forced to settle for second as the winner asserted total dominance.

In the Al Shafar Investment Stakes – Daaeemm Incentive Race, Musabbeh Al Mheiri’s Munyah delivered a commanding performance. Under jockey Antonio Fresu, the son of Into Mischief cruised effortlessly to the finish, more than five lengths ahead of Mawhoob.

Mutaany landed the JARC Sprint Series Stakes with a narrow victory, edging out Dukedom, while Diamond Dealer’s earlier success in the Al Awir Stakes completed a double for Seemar.

The curtain came down on the fourth meeting with the Al Huzaifa Cup, another Daaeemm Incentive Race, where Doug Watson’s Amjaad dominated proceedings, winning comfortably ahead of Political Truth.