Sheikh Ahmed’s enduring legacy lives on as Local Dynasty rules Season Opening Cup

Jebel Ali Racecourse opened its new season with a deeply emotional first meeting since the passing of its founder, the late Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, whose vision, passion and dedication laid the foundations for one of the UAE’s most cherished racing venues.

The season opener began on a sombre yet heartfelt note, as the racing community gathered to remember a man whose influence on the sport will endure for generations.

Sheikh Ahmed, brother of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, passed away on September 21, 2026.

Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Director General and Board Member of the Emirates Racing Authority (ERA) and Chief Executive Officer of A.R.M. Holding; Mohamed Al Ahmed, General Manager of Jebel Ali Racecourse; and Bhupat Seemar, a prominent trainer and multiple-time UAE Champion, paid heartfelt tributes to the late Sheikh Ahmed, remembering his immense contribution to UAE racing and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

Shehhi said: “Today, we gather to honour the enduring legacy of the late Sheikh Ahmed, the visionary founder and sponsor of Jebel Ali Racecourse, whose passion and dedication laid the foundations for horse racing at this iconic venue.

“I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed, and Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, for their unwavering support and commitment to ensuring that racing continues at at both Jebel Ali and ARM racing.

“I wish all trainers, jockeys and owners at Jebel Ali and across the UAE the very best for a successful season.

“It will certainly feel different without Sheikh Ahmed, but it is our responsibility to ensure that his legacy lives on and continues to inspire future generations. His contribution to racing will never be forgotten,” he added.

Doug Watson’s Local Dynasty fought a determined battle to claim victory in the 2026-2027 Season Opening Cup, overcoming a strong challenge from Antonio Cintra and Julio Olascoaga’s Haasim.

The two contenders were locked in a thrilling neck-and-neck battle throughout the official feature race of the meeting, but it was Watson’s six-year-old gelding who found an extra gear in the closing stages to prevail and secure the honours.

Mohamed Al Ahmed said: “It has been a great start to the season, and congratulations to all the owners, trainers, jockeys and connections, as well as all the winners. We have been through a difficult time, but we have the strength and determination to continue. We have a responsibility to carry forward Sheikh Ahmed’s legacy, build on it and continue to improve. That has always been our mindset and was the vision and direction set by the late Sheikh Ahmed for Jebel Ali.

“Our commitment is to keep improving, season after season. It is a responsibility we embrace with great pride and pleasure, and one we are determined to fulfil.”

Watson completed a double on the card following Azan’s victory in the Umm Suqeim Stakes, but it was another hard-fought success. Salem Bin Ghadayer’s Exculpation, under Bernardo Pinheiro, refused to go down without a fight, pushing Azan all the way in a determined challenge.

Antonio Cintra and Julio Olascoaga’s Namaguederaz enjoyed a smooth passage to victory in the Commercial Bank of Dubai Stakes.

After a couple of near misses in earlier races, Seemar finally found success as Kalidasa produced a dominant performance to land the Sufouh Stakes.

Speaking after the presentation, Seemar said: “It’s great to be back at Jebel Ali, although Sheikh Ahmed, one of our biggest supporters and patrons, is very much missed. His contribution to UAE racing was immense.

“His legacy lives on, and while we deeply miss having one of the world’s leading owners not with us, it is wonderful to see his familiar colours on the track and his legacy continuing. That is something very special.”

Ahmad Bin Harmash’s Yasup claimed victory in the Dubai Refreshment (P.J.S.C.) Cup, while Qaiss Aboud got the meeting off to a winning start by landing the opening race, the Maiden Sprint Stakes.

Ghadayer also enjoyed success on the card, with On the Way delivering victory in the Al Shafar Investment Stakes.