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| Staff Writer |
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Dubawi Spectre delivered a commanding performance to land the Doha Cup at Al Rayyan Racecourse, providing leading trainer Jassim Ghazali with the highlight of a remarkable four-timer.
The progressive 4YO, owned by Mansoor Ebrahim S. I. Al Mahmoud, unleashed a devastating turn of foot in the final 300m under Marco Casamento, powering clear to score by three lengths from Al Shaman in the Class 2 Thoroughbred Handicap over 1700m.
The Doha Cup, a prestigious fixture in Qatar's racing calendar, has previously been won by notable performers including Desert Force (2022), who went on to land the Gr.1 Qatar Gold Trophy, and Swift Return (2021), later successful in the Gr.2 Qatar Derby.
Ghazali and Casamento were in unstoppable form, combining for a treble in the final three races. Hazm Al Sulaimi initiated their successful run in the Local Purebred Arabian Handicap, followed by Kassir De Carrere claiming the Purebred Arabian Novice Plate.
The yard's dominant display had begun earlier when Shellbrook, partnered by Alberto Sanna, landed the Thoroughbred Handicap to set the tone for Ghazali's memorable afternoon.
Supporting Card Success
Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club's Racing Manager Abdulla Rashid Al Kubaisi presented the trophies on a day that saw further success for local connections. Ahmed Kobeissi-trained Nirond claimed the Purebred Arabian Handicap, while Awaayid struck in the Local Thoroughbred Maiden Plate for handler Zuhair Mohsen.
The juvenile ranks produced an impressive winner in Proud Samaritan, who stormed home in the Thoroughbred Maiden Plate for trainer Hamad Al Jehani, while Tomorrownevercomes completed the card with victory in the closing handicap for Rashid Mohammed Alathba.