Ajay Anne: Setting A New Vision For Arqana In The Middle East

Aligning with their approach to the bloodstock industry he remarks, “I think it's a very progressive auction house run by people who are thinking about the future.
“Their catalogue includes horses of higher quality every year with both European and American pedigrees.
“Their catalogue caters to varied buyers from all over the world.

Having attended 18 Dubai World Cups, Dubai serves as his central hub of the Middle Eastern bloodstock market. Anne's track record and industry relationships reinforce his alignment with Arqana's progressive ethos, valuing innovation and inclusivity.

“I'm also an ERA steward. So, I have the privilege of actually observing what kind of horses have done well, rather than just glancing at a race once. I get to experience it in a slightly greater detail.

“That helps a lot in Dubai in terms of buying horses for Meydan, the dirt horses or the turf horses and the quality horses that you need.” says the dedicated agent.
“I've been based in Dubai for 18 years and for 14 years, I've been running my own bloodstock company,” said the enterprising bloodstock agent.

Arqana’s Thoroughbred Bridge identifies a strong bond between Arqana's progressive ethos and his values as a bridge to his success in Dubai. From his beginnings at Darley to founding New Approach Bloodstock, Ajay has orchestrated notable transactions, such as acquiring Rozene, the dam of this year's Indian Derby winner, Enabler. Anne's varied contributions, including stewardship in the UAE and leadership in synthetic surface development, highlight his dedication to advancing the racing industry.

Highlighting UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain as pivotal players in the racing world, the bloodstock matchmaker emphasises the challenge of winning in these regions. He notes substantial investments in high-quality horses, elevating international race meets. Recognising the region's current prominence, he stresses the importance of attracting buyers from these countries to events like galas.

European Excellence Linked to Quality and Adaptability

Ajay attributes the success of European breeds in the Middle East to their quality and adaptability. He highlights notable achievements such as Planteur's Dubai World Cup victory and Noverre's prowess as a sire. Further victories, including Gusto's unexpected triumph and successes with Grendisar and Royal Dubai, underscore European dominance. Horses like Sari Dubai and More Aspen exemplify the competitive landscape, solidifying European superiority in the Middle East.

Ajay accentuates the Middle East's inclination towards European horses, yet he observes a divergence in track surfaces across the region. While Dubai and Saudi Arabia lean towards dirt tracks, Qatar and Bahrain emphasise turf. Despite Saudi Arabia's transition to turf racing, European horses continue to excel on dirt. Auction houses like Arqana, Tattersalls, and Goffs are attuned to this demand.

“The pedigrees are available to meet every need in the Middle Eastern market, which accommodates both turf and dirt horses.

“In two weeks, Romantic Warrior's half-brother will go on sale. Thus, it's amazing to see how the catalogue's growth has increased not only in quantity but also in quality.

Celebrating Diversity and Quality

The Bloodstock professional lauds the diverse array of horses available, catering to a wide spectrum of preferences, from swift sprinters to enduring classic distance runners exemplified by the likes of Eldar Eldorov. When delving into Arqana's breeze-up sales, Ajay accentuates the remarkable quality of lots on offer, particularly offspring hailing from leading sires such as Frankel, Dubawi, and Camelot.

“There's a half-brother to Romantic Warrior who would attract interest from interest from the entire world.”
Another noteworthy among them is Lot 60, a descendant of Frankel, which stands out as a testament to the exceptional lineage showcased at the event.

While advancing scientific approaches to breeding and training, Anne underscores the enduring importance of artistry in horse racing. He maintains that success in the sport relies on many factors beyond mere measurements or pedigree. Ajay echoes this sentiment, emphasising the intricate nature of the endeavour, where no single method can predict a horse's triumph. This blend of science and artistry ensures a dynamic and engaging landscape for all involved.

Arqana distinguishes itself globally by curating catalogues that appeal to international buyers, notably from the Middle East. The quality of horses, particularly in breeze-up sales, continues to improve, with more American entries. War of Will, an Arqana purchase, achieved US honours, exemplifying their success.

Arqana's Prestigious Pedigrees and Evolution

In the Middle East, Arqana offers high-calibre pedigrees, including Guineas winners, enhancing the catalogue's appeal. Their horses in training sales are competitively priced and meticulously selected, streamlining purchases for agents like Ajay and elevating Arqana's standards. Anne highlights significant achievements from past Arqana breeze-up sales, such as Eldar Eldorov and Rockemperor, both Group One winners, and War of Will, who succeeded in the US after being sold by Arqana. He also mentions Chanel, a notable success. Looking forward, Anne anticipates continued evolution in breeze-up sales, catering to the growing interest from the Middle East.

“The sector is growing and will continue to do so as more and more people enter it. It's arguably one of the few places in the world where both the quantity and quality of horses are abundant, and where there is a growing market for them,” states Ajay.

He adds that fifteen years ago, Dubai-based owners purchased many 85 or 95-rated horses for the Dubai International Carnival, followed by turf racing in Qatar. With Saudi Arabia initiating the world's richest race, demand for high-quality horses soared. Bahrain's Carnival also attracts top-tier turf horses, indicating the region's growing need for quality equines.

“They are demanding, not just numbers, but quality. So, to cater for that quality, I think Arqana will be looking at attracting that quality. Likewise, I'll try to educate as many people as possible from the Middle East to come and buy from Arqana,” he assures.

The Role of Communication and Knowledge in Arqana's Expansion

Ajay's goal is to expand Arqana's Middle Eastern clientele by connecting them with top-quality horses, offering assistance, and addressing queries. His gratitude for the opportunity stems from his longstanding relationship with Arqana. His path from an Indian Army farm to a prosperous bloodstock agent has been enriching, punctuated by significant milestones such as graduating from the prestigious Darley Flying Start program in 2006.

Strategic Selection and Market Dynamics

When discussing how Arqana curates the selection of horses for its sales, Ajay observes and explains, “Arqana’s selection process is rather stringent. Since the vendors have come to understand that they have been choosing premium horses and drawing in high-calibre customers throughout the years. Thus, premium customers will part with premium funds. Therefore, there is a loop where the sales organisation must supply high-quality horses, and the consignors supply those horses. If this isn't done, the clients won't spend high-quality money in the next stage.”

“There is mutual understanding. You must own a specific calibre of horse to participate in the Arqana Breeze up Sale. After that, the team—which includes people like me—tries to attract the greatest customers to Arqana so they may choose from excellent horses with a strong pedigree for purchase.” Anne elaborates.

With diligent attention to the evolving dynamics of the Middle Eastern market, and guided by Anne's principled leadership, Arqana is poised to sustain its position of authority in the global racing sphere.