The 2023-2024 racing season at the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) recently came to an end, showcasing exceptional figures and a commitment to developing and maintaining Qatar’s horse racing industry on a global scale. Led by Issa bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi, the QREC management is dedicated to applying the highest standards seen in the world’s most prestigious racecourses. The season demonstrated the advantage of having Al Rayyan and Al Uqda racecourses available to host races throughout the season, with a program developed well in advance.
According to final statistics from the QREC Racing Department, significant effort was put into the last season with a focus on meeting expectations of strong competition among owners, trainers, and jockeys. Abdulla Al Kubaisi, QREC Racing Manager, highlighted the organization of 67 race days during the season, including races on both turf and sand at Al Rayyan and Al Uqda. The program took into account weather conditions and the ratings of Arabians and Thoroughbreds to ensure a wide range of horses had the opportunity to compete.
The 2023-2024 season saw a total of 560 races, with 403 races held at Al Rayyan Racecourse from October 18, 2023, to April 25, 2024, and 157 races held at Al Uqda from November 18, 2023, to March 2, 2024. The season featured a total of 7,881 runners, with 5,754 at Al Rayyan and 2,127 at Al Uqda. The prize money for the season reached a record-breaking 87,510,520 Qatari Riyals, with 78,030,520 million from races at Al Rayyan and the remainder from races at Al Uqda.
One highlight of the season was the H H The Amir Sword Festival, where the prize money reached $10 million for the second consecutive season. This significant increase in prize money helped attract runners from European and Asian countries, raising the standard and enhancing the stature of the festival in the region. Additionally, the minimum prize money for a feature race was set at QR120,000 for the first time, adding to the excitement and prestige of the races.
Overall, the 2023-2024 racing season at QREC showcased the dedication and hard work of the management team in maintaining a high standard of horse racing. With a focus on competition, development, and raising racing standards, the season saw record prize money and an increase in international participation. As preparations begin for the 2024-2025 season, expectations are high for another successful year of thrilling races and fierce competition among owners, trainers, and jockeys.
