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Calif leads an unprecedented seven-strong Bahraini challenge at Saturday's Saudi Cup meeting, where US$38m in prizes awaits at King Abdulaziz Racecourse, Riyadh.
The Fawzi Nass-trained contender, carrying the Victorious Racing silks, is aiming to improve on last year's third in the US$2m Gr.1 Howden Neom Turf Cup. Alberto Sanna takes the reins as Calif faces familiar foes Spirit Dancer and Killer Ability over 2100m.
Joining Calif in the Neom lineup is the progressive Sovereign Spirit, representing Al-Afoo Racing. The Jaber Ramadhan trainee, fresh from a Crown Prince's Cup second, has secured the services of Ryan Moore.
The 1351m US$2m 1351 Turf Sprint sees Bahrain's strongest representation. Byline, trained by Allan Smith for Al Adiyat Racing, aims to better last year's close third under Tom Marquand.
The in-form Goemon, owned by Mohamed Khalid Abdulrahim and trained by Haider Ebrahim, puts his three-race winning streak on the line while dropping in trip from 1600m.
Completing the sprint trio is Ava Go Joe, carrying AMS Racing's hopes for trainer Ali Jan. The 7YO faces a new challenge, stepping up from his preferred 1000m distance following an impressive Bahrain Turf Series victory.
The US$500,000 Saudi International Handicap sees two Bahraini challengers over 2100m. Qaader, from the Nass yard, lines up alongside Cracksking, Smith's recent Crown Prince's Cup Festival winner for Al Adiyat Racing, who reunites with Marquand.
Yusuf Buheji, Bahrain Turf Club CEO, reflected on the milestone: "The strength of Bahrain's team of horses at this year's Saudi Cup highlights the progress of our domestic racing product. To have seven of our highest-rated horses competing on one of the sport's biggest stages is a testament to the growing quality within Bahrain.
"As a club, we take great pride in their participation at this level and look forward to watching them represent the Kingdom of Bahrain on Saturday."