HRH Crown Prince's Horseracing Cup: Bahrain’s Equestrian Legacy Continues with Two-Day Festival

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s equestrian and horse racing enthusiasts are gearing up for the much-anticipated His Royal Highness the Crown Prince's Horseracing Cup, sponsored by Cebarco. The prestigious event will span two days, Thursday and Friday, January 30-31, at the Rashid Equestrian and Horse Racing Club (REHC).

This iconic race, one of the cornerstones of Bahraini horse racing, boasts a rich heritage dating back to its inception in 1982, coinciding with the official launch of racing at the club’s track.

Held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the event has cemented its position as a hallmark of the racing calendar. Over the years, it has seen remarkable advancements, including increased prize money and a rise in the number of races, reaching eight in the previous season.

Starting from the 2024/2025 season, the event has expanded into a two-day festival. Additionally, the race for imported horses, introduced two seasons ago, now welcomes entries from international owners alongside Bahraini competitors. These developments aim to elevate competition and add excitement to the event, with diverse classifications and distances designed to attract both local and international participants.

The REHC has curated a special programme of activities and competitions for attendees, promising an unforgettable experience. Tickets are available on Bahrainturfclub.com, ensuring easy access for fans eager to soak in the festive atmosphere.

The golden history of the Crown Prince's Horseracing Cup is etched with the achievements of prominent owners, stables, horses, and jockeys over its 43-year legacy. The inaugural race in 1982 was won by Shaikh Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khalifa’s horse “Sari”, ridden by jockey Hassan Haji.

Last year, the 2024 edition saw victories from "Abiyan 1777" in the Arabian horse category, "Immortal" among locally produced horses, and "Isle of Jura" in the imported horses category.

Notable milestones include the introduction of the imported horse category in 2015, which has seen victories by four different stables. Among them, Victorious Stable stands out with three wins, including last season’s triumph by “Isle of Jura.” The Godolphin Stable from the UAE made history in 2023 as the first international stable to claim the cup with "Warren Point."

Legendary horses such as "Anchorman", who won three times (1996, 1997, 1999), and double champions "Shadow Boxer" and "Blues Bass Billy" have left an indelible mark on the competition.

Jockeys have also made their mark, with Bahrainis Hassan Ezzat and Ahmed Akbar, alongside international stars like French jockey Gérald, British jockey Gary Hind, and the legendary Italian jockey Frankie Dettori, each clinching four titles to become the event’s most successful riders.

The Crown Prince's Horseracing Cup continues to elevate Bahraini horse racing to new heights, drawing global attention and fostering a vibrant culture of equestrian excellence.