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| Staff Writer |
Laurel River's victory in the 2024 Dubai World Cup will go down in history as one of the greatest racing performances ever seen.
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The 6YO, bred and owned by Juddmonte Farms, was transferred to the Dubai-based stable of Bhupat Seemar in the summer of 2023. After a disappointing start, where Laurel River faded to finish seventh in the Gr.3 Al Shindagha Sprint, he bounced back to win the Gr.3 Burj Nahaar on Super Saturday, which punched his ticket to World Cup night.
Despite drawing 12 of 12 at Wednesday's barrier draw, Laurel River surged into a clear lead at the midway stage and went on to score by eight and a half lengths, breaking the record held by the legendary Dubai Millennium, who won the 2000 World Cup at Nad al Sheba by six lengths.
Trainer Bhupat Seemar was ecstatic, saying, "I'm still coming to terms with what's happened. I think it'll probably sink in in another day or two. It's absolutely amazing." Jockey Tadhg O'Shea also spoke highly of Laurel River, saying, "He was explosive last time, and I said the other morning to Bhupat, I pulled him aside and said I'd never ridden a horse with his ability ever."
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Laurel River's victory was made all the more impressive by the quality of the horses who finished in his wake. Last year's winner, Ushba Tesoro, raced far back for the opening 1600 metres but wound up with his customary late run to finish second, just beating out recent Saudi Cup winner Senor Buscador for the US$2.4 million second prize. Senor Buscador added to his US$10 million payday in Riyadh with a nifty check for US$1.2 million.
The 2024 Dubai World Cup race was a true spectacle, with 14 races held on the night, offering US$48 million in prize money. The Dubai World Cup, the world's richest horse race, was the highlight of the night, with the 2000-metre race attracting some of the best horses from around the world. The race was held at the Meydan Racecourse, which has a seating capacity of 60,000, making it one of the largest horse racing venues in the world.
The Dubai World Cup race night was a true celebration of horse racing, with thousands of fans from around the world flocking to Dubai to witness the spectacle.
| RACE REPLAY |
Winner Race 2024 |