Bahrain’s showpiece horserace hailed

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

The second edition of the £500,000 Bahrain International Trophy, the Kingdom’s showpiece horseracing event held last Friday at Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (REHC), has received great international and local praise, says REHC executive director Shaikh Salman bin Rashid Al Khalifa.

The meet strengthened the Kingdom’s position on the global horseracing map and illus- trated Bahrain’s capabilities in organising and hosting a race of its magnitude and calibre, as seen by the large group of world-famous horses, owners, trainers and jockeys that took part.

Shaikh Salman expressed his pride in the event’s outstanding organisational level, which he said is a reflection of the great care, attention and support given by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa towards promoting equestrian sports and their development.

Shaikh Salman praised the continuous interest and backing given by REHC High Committee chairman His Highness Shaikh Abdulla bin Isa Al Khalifa, and REHC High Committee deputy chairman His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa in creating the best possible conditions for the success of the Bahrain International Trophy.

Their Highnesses followed up on all stages of preparations, and the testimony of those who participated from different countries around the world are an indication that the race is headed towards achieving the future plans and goals set by the REHC High Committee, Shaikh Salman said.

Bahrain’s success in staging the event was even more remarkable amidst the difficult conditions the world is facing due to the pandemic. REHC made sure to do everything possible to help safeguard the health and well being of all those who took part.

Shaikh Salman affirmed that in light of these difficult circumstances posed by the pandemic, the persistence, determination and concerted efforts of everyone helped overcome such challenges.

Shaikh Salman thanked sponsors Batelco, Bapco and the Bahrain Economic Development Board, as well as various government agencies, for their tremendous support.

The REHC executive director further hailed the great level and the remarkable results achieved by Bahraini-trained horses, having taken the first, second and fourth places in the international event. They were able to outperform a group of strong international horses, which included five Group I winners, making for a superb distinction for local stables. Locally trained four-year- old Simsir was the winner, holding off some stiff competition to triumph for owners Victorious, trainer Fawzi Nass and jockey Lee Newman.

Simsir had his first run in the Kingdom after being bought out of Michael Halford’s yard in the Autumn.

Global Giant under Frankie Dettori just came up short in his attempt to reel in the win in the last furlong, and in doing so finished as runner-up for HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman and John Gosden. Nass also ran the better-fancied Port Lions, who finished fourth.