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Ebrahim Nader is poised to etch his name in Bahraini sporting annals as he prepares to become the first local jockey to compete in Friday's Gr.2 Bahrain International Trophy under the lights at Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club.
The US$1 million contest sees Nader partnering the 5YO Goemon, trained by Haider Ebrahim for owner Mohammed Khalid Abdulrahim, in a field of 12 international raiders competing in the kingdom's richest race, being staged under floodlights for the first time.
A galaxy of global riding talent includes William Buick aboard Nations Pride, Ryan Moore partnering Point Lonsdale, and Jim Crowley on Alfaila. Last year's victorious combination of Spirit Dancer and Oisin Orr returns to defend their crown, joining an illustrious honour roll that includes Yibir, who went on to land the Gr.1 Breeders' Cup Turf, and Lord Glitters, successful in multiple Group One contests.
"This is a very important opportunity for me and I am very excited for it," Nader told the GDN. "I have been dreaming of participating in a race such as this and it is now coming true. I got the support from the horse's owner and trainer, and I'm very thankful for it."
The homegrown talent, whose equestrian journey began at his father's stable, added: "I want to show the world that Bahraini jockeys can compete in big races like this one, and hopefully in the future more local riders will get an opportunity like this."
The cosmopolitan field features runners from Great Britain, Ireland, France, Japan, the UAE, and Bahrain, with Christophe Soumillon booked for Andromede, Oisin Murphy riding Killer Ability, and Japanese hope Yamanin Sympa under Taisei Danno.
The showpiece headlines an eight-race card worth US$158,000 in supporting races, including the World Arabian Horse Organisation Cup and the Economic Development Board Cup, each carrying US$30,000 in prize money.
The official barrier draw takes place this evening at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, with final preparations continuing at the Sakhir track.