Press Release September 17, 2012, UK ~ Staged under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance, the Dubai International Arabian Race Day celebrates its 30th anniversary at Newbury Racecourse on Sunday, 23 September with record prize money and a fabulous array of attractions for visitors.
The event, hosted by Channel 4 presenter, Derek Thompson, was formally launched today (Monday) by His Excellency Mirza Al Sayegh at a press conference held at the Berkshire course where an eight race program and the most valuable and exciting line-up of competitions, prize draws and themed activities was announced.
Top class Pure Bred Arabians from Europe and the Gulf States will compete for prize money totaling £159,000 (€197,080.+) following a significant boost to the values of the day’s four Group races which are headed by the £50,000 Group 1 Shadwell Dubai International Stakes, a race won by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan, one of the world’s leading owner / breeders of Arabians, no fewer than 11 times.
In addition to the prize money which includes an increased contribution from Jebel Ali Racecourse who become a Group 1 sponsor for the first time at the event, The Royal Cavalry of Oman, renowned supporters of Arabian Racing in Britain, will present a cash prize of £300 to the groom responsible for the Best Tuned Out horse in each race.
H. E. Mirza Al Sayegh said, “It is a milestone year for the Dubai International Arabian Race Day and we are delighted that with the support of Newbury Racecourse and the Arabian Racing Organization we can provide an opportunity for so many people to enjoy this European showcase event.
“The combination of excellent racing, free admission and the chance to win valuable prizes traditionally attracts large crowds and once again we look forward to welcoming many families and children from local schools who, through activities like Colorful Camels and the Children’s Hat competition, add so much to the color and excitement of the day.”
The Arab Horse Society will stage a parade of ‘Versatile Arab Champions’ in the Parade Ring at
12.45 pm ahead of the eight-race programme which gets underway at 2.00 pm. Racegoers will be able to see a variety of pure and part-bred Arabs who have achieved success in a wide range of equine disciplines including dressage, show jumping and endurance.
Dignitaries from the Emirates Equestrian Federation will be welcomed to Newbury once again to present the trophies for the penultimate race of the day, the Group 2 Emirates Equestrian Federation International Stakes.
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Newbury Racecourse – Sunday 23 September 2012Dubai International Arabian Race Day Celebrates 30th Anniversary