Doha, Qatar – Estoori showcased its dominance once again, securing victory in the Bu Samrah Cup at Al Rayyan Racecourse yesterday. The six-year-old Thoroughbred, owned by Meshaal bin Ali Al-Attiyah, successfully defended its title in the Local Thoroughbred Handicap, a key event in the Qatar racing calendar. The win solidifies Estoori’s position as a leading contender in local racing and highlights the growing strength of Qatar’s equestrian program.
The race, held on December 4th, featured 14 runners competing over 1700 meters. Estoori, trained by Mohammed Balasim Al Jumaili and ridden by Fayos Martin Borja, finished two lengths ahead of Suheal Qatar, with Al Gamamah taking third place. Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club’s (QREC) Head of Racing Operations, Rashid Saed Adiba, presented the trophies to the winning connections.
Estoori Retains Bu Samrah Cup in Commanding Performance
Estoori’s victory wasn’t simply a repeat of last year’s success; it was a demonstration of consistent form and strategic racing. The horse broke well from barrier six and quickly established a prominent position, settling in behind the early pace set by Nadiraha and Barkt Al Majd. This positioning allowed jockey Fayos Martin Borja to effectively assess the competition and plan their final push.
As the field approached the home turn, Estoori moved into second place, setting the stage for a thrilling final stretch. Suheal Qatar mounted a strong challenge, briefly drawing alongside the leader. However, Estoori responded with a decisive surge in the last 100 meters, pulling away to secure a comfortable win. The performance underscored the horse’s stamina and ability to perform under pressure.
Other Notable Results from Al Rayyan Racecourse
Beyond the feature race, the day’s card featured several other impressive performances. Chakib secured a maiden victory in the opening race, while Al Deebil also broke his maiden in the subsequent contest. AJS Al Ruwais delivered a dominant win in Race 3, showcasing its potential for future success.
Additionally, Future Man edged out a close finish in Race 4, and Azzam demonstrated impressive speed in Race 5. Za’eer Al Shahania continued its winning streak with another emphatic victory in Race 6. Malhouf Al Mushlah, despite a slow start, impressed in his debut performance in the Arabian show horse race, adding to the diversity of talent on display. These results demonstrate the breadth of competition within horse racing in Qatar.
The success of these races, and the overall quality of the competition, is a testament to the QREC’s ongoing investment in developing both Thoroughbred and Arabian horse racing. This commitment includes improvements to training facilities, attracting skilled jockeys and trainers, and promoting the sport to a wider audience. The QREC plays a vital role in fostering the growth of equestrian sports in the region.
Looking ahead, Al Uqda Racecourse will host another eight races today, including the prestigious Thoroughbred race for the Lusail Cup. This event is expected to draw significant attention from racing enthusiasts and further showcase the talent within Qatar’s racing industry. The Lusail Cup is considered a stepping stone for many horses aiming for higher-level competitions.
The outcome of the Lusail Cup will likely influence the rankings and future race selections for participating horses. While Estoori’s immediate plans remain unclear, its performance in the Bu Samrah Cup positions it as a strong contender for future major races. Observers will be watching closely to see how the QREC continues to develop and promote racing throughout the season.
