Seemar, Ghadayer jostle for honours at Jebel Ali Racecourse’s 8th meeting

Jebel Ali Racecourse’s eighth race meeting promises a vibrant afternoon of dirt-track action, headlined by three standout contests that bring depth, quality, and international flavor to the card.

Besides the feature races, the meeting will embrace the theme Irish Race Day, with three partners from Ireland joining the sponsorship roster to mark the deepening of ties between the two nations.

The Taste of Kildare Cup, run over 1000m, takes center stage as the signature event of Irish Race Day, attracting a quality field of seven runners.

A competitive clash awaits in the Taste of Kildare Cup as Rabaah, the six-year-old by Dubawi, returns with strong course credentials and a lofty rating of 103. With Richard Mullen aboard, he brings consistency and proven class to the field.

He will be pressed by Billy Webster, a hardy campaigner from the Doug Watson yard. Partnered by Patrick Dobbs, the Profitable gelding has multiple wins to his name and could pose a real threat if things fall his way.

The Gain Equine Nutrition International Stakes boasts a deep and competitive field, with the spotlight falling on two top UAE trainers — Bhupat Seemar and Salem Bin Ghadayer — each sending out a pair of well-fancied contenders.

Seemar’s duo is headed by the progressive Secret Manner, twice a winner at the trip and partnered with the ever-astute Tadhg O’Shea, while Arabian Tale adds experience to the yard’s challenge.

In equal force, Ghadayer counters with the battle-hardened Excel Power, whose wealth of experience makes him a constant threat, alongside Kibo Misaki.

The Goffs Stakes promises a compelling clash as three-year-old juveniles step up in class. Seemar holds a strong hand with four runners, led by Ashwaan, a promising colt who made an impressive winning debut. Alongside him, Omaha Front brings similar credentials, while Na Eem and Ordep offer consistency and tactical versatility, giving Seemar multiple strings to pull in what is set to be a tightly contested race.

Ghadayer throws his hat into the ring with Frontview, an unexposed colt whose raw talent could unsettle the favourites. Michael Costa pins his hopes on the newcomer Saleet, and Doug Watson sends out the filly Sonnet Sixteen, each capable of shaking up the race if they find the right rhythm.

“We are excited to unveil a thrilling chapter as we host our eighth meeting, this time celebrating the enduring bond between the UAE and Ireland with Irish Race Day. This special occasion highlights the shared passion for equestrian excellence that unites both nations,” said Mohamed Al Ahmed, General Manager of Jebel Ali Racecourse.

“We are proud to welcome distinguished partners from Ireland, each a cornerstone of the Irish racing community. At the forefront is the historic Curragh Racecourse, joining us as a race sponsor—a shining symbol of our growing partnership and a shared vision for the future of the sport,” he added.

“Joining us on this special occasion from Ireland are Gain Equine Nutrition, Irish Thoroughbred Marketing, Goffs, and Into Kildare.

“Their participation highlights their growing commitment to the UAE and the wider region, bringing their expertise in equine nutrition to the forefront of the sport.

“I would also like to extend my thanks to, Bin Dasmal Group and Porsche for their invaluable support of the races.”

Musabbeh Al Mheiri saddles three runners — African Candy, Inner City, and Symbol of Power — in the Bin Dasmal Group Stakes – Daaeemm Incentive Race. Bhupat Seemar counters with his seasoned duo, Muzaahim and Border Edge, both ready to strike, while Michael Costa’s pair, Nahaash and Mnawish, could also make their presence felt.

In The Curragh, Where Champions Are Made – Daaeemm Incentive Race, the battle again revolves around Seemar and Ghadayer, both fielding two runners in a tightly matched mile test. Seemar sends out Black Forge and Justanotherdance, a combination of promising talent capable of pressing the pace and hitting the line strongly. Ghadayer’s Halucinogenie and Lobaaster also have the potential to make an impact.

The Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Stakes – Daaeemm Incentive Race promises a competitive clash, with Ahmad Bin Harmash sending out Muntasir, a versatile chestnut by Gun Runner. The experienced Road Bloc, trained by Osama Refai, is among the top favourites.

The Porsche Cup opens the eight-race card with a bang, showcasing 16 promising Purebred Arabians in a maiden test over 1400m on dirt. Exclusively for four-year-olds bred in the UAE, this race offers a thrilling platform for emerging talent to make their mark.

Amir Naqvi, Sports Editor