Al Motawassim and Es Shnaf among favourites for Ruler of Sharjah Cup

Sunday marks the culmination of the current racing season at Sharjah Longines Racecourse, with the final fixture promising to be a spectacular affair.

The highlight of the day is the prestigious 1700m H.H. The Ruler of Sharjah Cup, a race that draws some of the finest horses in the region. It carries a prize purse of Dhs250,000.

Last year, Abu Dhabi Racing’s Badraan Baynounah triumphed in a dominant performance, securing a comfortable victory under jockey Sandro Paiva.

This year, Paiva will ride Zahrat Baynounah, trained by Saif Almarar, as they look to replicate last year’s success. However, the competition is fierce. Ibrahim Al Hadhrami’s Al Motawassim, rated 96 and with a strong record of consistent top finishes, stands out as a leading contender. Es Shnaf, owned by Sheikh Abdullah Bin Majid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club, and Sheikh Saeed Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum’s Jap Abeya, are both expected to present serious challenges to Al Motawassim.

Adding to the intrigue, Yas Racing’s Es Shadad and Zahrat Baynounah bring an element of unpredictability, promising an exciting and competitive race. With an array of talented contenders, the 1700m H.H. The Ruler of Sharjah Cup is set to be a thrilling conclusion to the season.

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

Yahyaee conveyed his immense satisfaction with the success of the season at Sharjah Longines Racecourse, highlighting how the club remains at the forefront of UAE racing. "This season, like many before, has been filled with memorable moments, and we have much to look forward to as we move into the next season," he remarked.

He also expressed gratitude to the club's sponsors, including Longines, the Sharjah Sports Council, and Sharjah TV for their valuable media support, as well as to the Emirates Racing Authority for its ongoing cooperation in advancing the development of racing both in the UAE and at the Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club.

"Thanks to the dedication of the management and all those involved in racing, the quality of racing here continues to improve," Yahyaee added. "We look forward to welcoming fans and ensuring they have an exceptional experience in the seasons to come."

Except for Longines Spirit Pilot Flyback race, all the five of the six-race-card is dedicated to Purebred Arabians. 

Another highlight on the card is the Longines Prima Luna Sharjah Marathon, a demanding 2700m handicap for Purebred Arabians.

Among the standout entries is Marmar Al Wathba from Yas Racing, a six-year-old trained by Majed Al Jahoori. Sired by Mahabb, he has demonstrated consistent form and a strong record on the turf.

Oxford, trained by Abdallah Al Hammadi, also brings considerable experience to the race. Known for his durability over long distances, the seasoned campaigner remains a contender, especially with Abdul Aziz Al Balushi in the saddle.

The Thoroughbreds take center stage in the Longines Spirit Pilot Flyback, a 2000m handicap race set to deliver an action-packed spectacle.

With a field brimming with talent and varying levels of experience, this race promises to be one of the day's most thrilling contests.

Ali Al Badwawi ‘s Azan and Qaiss Aboud Goldspur have emerged as the two leading favourites in the race.

The afternoon kicks off with the Longines Spirit Pilot, a 1,200m maiden race for UAE-bred Purebred Arabians.

Next on the card is the Longines Conquest, a 1,700m conditions race that elevates the challenge and introduces greater tactical complexity.