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| Staff Writer |
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The prestigious Crown Prince's Cup, sponsored by Cebarco, is being transformed into a two-day festival this week at Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club in Sakhir, marking a significant evolution in the event's 43-year history.
Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, this historic contest has flourished since its 1982 inception. The inaugural winner was Sari, owned by Shaikh Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khalifa and piloted by Hassan Haji.
Recent developments have seen the imported horse category opened to international competitors, with Godolphin becoming the first overseas stable to claim victory through Warren Point in 2023. This follows the remarkable achievements of Victorious Racing, who secured three victories with Port Lions, New Show, and Isle of Jura. Al Mohamediya Stable joined the honour roll when Medal Winner triumphed in 2022.
"These developments aim to enhance competition and make the races more exciting, with a variety of classifications and distances," commented REHC officials. "This reflects the club's efforts to improve local and international horseracing standards, making it a key destination for competitors from all over the world."
The roll of honour features multiple winners including the outstanding Anchorman, who secured three victories (1996, 1997, 1999), while Shadow Boxer (2002, 2004) and Blues Bass Billy (2010, 2012) each claimed doubles. Al Nawafeeq Stable made history with Bartack winning the first two editions of the imported category in 2015 and 2016, before Al Adiyat Racing added their name to the prestigious roster.
In the saddle, Bahraini champions Hassan Ezzat and Ahmed Akbar share the riding honours with four victories apiece, alongside international stars Gerald Mosse, Gary Hind and Frankie Dettori.
Last season's winners across the categories were Abiyan 1777 (Arabian), Immortal (locally produced), and Isle of Jura (imported), setting the standard for this year's expanded festival.
The two-day extravaganza begins this Thursday, with tickets available through bahrainturfclub.com, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to witness this historic meeting's latest chapter.