Doha, Qatar – Tiding, a four-year-old chestnut colt, secured a decisive victory in the Al Shaqab Cup, a Thoroughbred Handicap race held at Al Rayyan Racecourse yesterday. Ridden by Alberto Sanna and trained by Gassim Al Ghazali, Tiding surged from the back of the pack to win by 3½ lengths, marking a significant win for owner Sheikh Abdul Rahman Rashid Al-Thani. The race, a highlight of the Qatari equestrian calendar, showcased competitive Thoroughbred racing.
The Al Shaqab Cup, contested over 2200 meters with a field of 14 horses, saw Tiding overcome a slow start to deliver a powerful finish. This victory adds to the growing prestige of Al Rayyan Racecourse as a premier racing destination in the region. The event was attended by racing enthusiasts and officials, including Rashid Saed Adiba, Head of Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) Racing Operations Section, who presented the trophies.
Tiding’s Stunning Comeback in the Al Shaqab Cup
Tiding’s performance was particularly notable for its late acceleration. Held back in last place for much of the race, the colt patiently waited for the opportune moment. Sussex initially led the pace, followed closely by Warming and Blazing Sunset, setting a challenging tempo for the competitors.
However, as the horses entered the home straight, Tiding unleashed a remarkable burst of speed. This devastating turn of foot allowed him to effortlessly overtake the leading contenders, demonstrating both the horse’s athleticism and Sanna’s skillful riding. The maneuver proved decisive, securing a comfortable lead and ultimately the win.
Leopards Park, ridden by Louis Nomis, finished a strong second, 3 lengths ahead of Mia Man in third place. The performance of Leopards Park suggests a promising future for the horse in upcoming handicap races. The consistent pace-setting by Sussex also contributed to a competitive race dynamic.
Other Notable Races at Al Rayyan Racecourse
The day’s racing card featured several other compelling events. Aktolgali, with Jefferson Smith aboard, claimed victory in the Purebred Arabian Handicap (45-65). Al Jaish, ridden by Faleh Bughenaim, won the Local Thoroughbred Maiden Plate, showcasing the talent emerging from local stables.
Additionally, Chakib, guided by Salman Fahad Al-Hajri, triumphed in the Local Purebred Arabian Handicap. Jeb’ran Al Shahania secured a win in the Purebred Arabian Maiden Rated Plate, while Mai Dubai, with Maikon De Souza riding, narrowly won a thrilling Thoroughbred Handicap over 1400 meters. Aneed Al Shahania, under Lukas Delozier, dominated the Local Purebred Arabian Conditions over 2200m, demonstrating its superiority in the category.
The QREC continues to invest in developing both Thoroughbred and Purebred Arabian racing in Qatar. This commitment is evident in the quality of the races and the increasing participation of both local and international riders and trainers. The organization aims to position Qatar as a global hub for equestrian sport, attracting investment and fostering talent.
The Al Shaqab Cup is a key component of the Qatari racing season, often serving as a stepping stone for horses aiming for higher-level competitions. The success of Tiding in this race could indicate a potential for future participation in more prestigious events. QREC officials will likely assess the horse’s condition and performance before making any decisions regarding its next race.
Looking ahead, the Qatari racing calendar is packed with upcoming events, including further opportunities for Thoroughbred and Purebred Arabian horses. The focus will be on identifying and nurturing promising talent, both locally and internationally, to enhance the competitiveness of Qatari racing. The next major event is expected to be announced by the QREC in the coming weeks, with details regarding dates and participating horses to follow.
