Doha, Qatar – Al Maqam secured a thrilling victory in the prestigious Baidda Algaa Cup at Al Rayyan Racecourse yesterday, marking the second consecutive year the gelding has triumphed in the Local Purebred Arabian Novice race. Saad Ali Al Kubaisi, Deputy Director of the QREC Registration & Studbook Department, presented the awards to the winning connections following a day of competitive racing featuring both Purebred Arabians and Thoroughbreds. The event underscores Qatar’s commitment to equestrian sports and the breeding of high-quality Arabian horses.
The race meeting, held on January 8th, 2024, showcased a variety of performances as several horses and jockeys claimed victories throughout the day. Al Maqam’s win was particularly notable, coming down to a neck-and-neck finish against Mared Al Zaeem. The competition highlighted the growing talent within the local racing community.
Al Maqam’s Second Consecutive Baidda Algaa Cup Victory
Ridden by Pierre Charles Boudot, Al Maqam overcame a challenging wide draw to secure the win in the 1700-meter race. Boudot skillfully positioned the six-year-old gelding towards the back of the field initially, conserving energy for a strong finish. The strategy proved effective as Al Maqam surged forward when challenged, battling for the lead in a dramatic final stretch.
Despite a late push from Mared Al Zaeem, Al Maqam maintained his composure and determination, edging ahead to win by a narrow margin. This victory reaffirms Al Maqam’s status as a prominent contender in the local Purebred Arabian racing scene. Trainer’s and owner’s dedication certainly played a role in this success.
Additional Race Results
Beyond the Baidda Algaa Cup, other notable races included a dominant performance by Corinth in the Thoroughbred Handicap (0–95), winning by 7½ lengths under Alberto Sanna. This significant margin demonstrates Corinth’s superior form and the effectiveness of the jockey-horse partnership.
Meanwhile, Nibras Al Marroona, guided by Salman Fahad Al-Hajri, claimed victory in the Purebred Arabian Show Horses race, winning by a length. In another closely contested race, Lwich De Bozouls and Boudot narrowly won the Purebred Arabian Handicap (60–80) by a short head, highlighting the unpredictable nature of horse racing.
Thouab Al Shahania showcased consistency in the Purebred Arabian Handicap (55–75), while Aaneef Zakhir secured the win in the Local Purebred Arabian Handicap (55–75) with a well-executed ride by Arnaud De Lepine. Salman Fahad Al-Hajri also experienced success with Ruling Master, winning the Thoroughbred Handicap (0–70) by five lengths. Finally, Malik and Soufiane Saadi triumphed in the Local Thoroughbred Handicap (0–45), and White Christmas won the Thoroughbred Maiden Plate with Louis Nomis aboard.
The Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) consistently hosts high-caliber equestrian events, contributing to the development of the sport and attracting both local and international participants. Horse racing in Qatar is seeing increased investment and attention. The QREC plays a pivotal role in promoting Arabian horse racing and shows a dedicated focus on fostering equestrian talent.
Looking ahead, the QREC is expected to announce further race dates and details for upcoming events in the new year. The performance of these horses and riders will be closely watched by enthusiasts and professionals alike. Future races may indicate potential contenders for larger regional and international competitions, and the continued success of the Baidda Algaa Cup format will likely be evaluated.
