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| Staff Writer |
A stellar field of 12 runners from six racing jurisdictions is set for Friday's US$1 million Bahrain International Trophy, marking a historic first as the Gr.2 contest runs under lights at the Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (REHC). Last year's victor Spirit Dancer returns to defend his crown for trainer Richard Fahey, with co-owners Sir Alex Ferguson and Ged Mason flying in for the prestigious event.
The implementation of the new floodlight system represents a significant milestone for Bahraini racing, completed in record time and opening new possibilities for the racing calendar. The 7:35pm start time adds an extra dimension to what is already the kingdom's most valuable race.
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Leading the international challenge is Nations Pride, the Godolphin flag-bearer who enters fresh from his triumph in the Gr.1 Arlington Million. The 5YO looks poised to improve upon last year's showing, benefiting from a more calculated campaign. Fellow Group One winner Point Lonsdale, trained by Aidan O'Brien, aims to better his third-place finish from last year's edition.
The strength in depth of this year's renewal is further highlighted by the presence of Lead Artist, who brings fresh form having captured the Darley Stakes at Newmarket. Regular pilot Kieran Shoemark has been reunited with the John and Thady Gosden-trained colt during morning preparations, reporting his mount to be in fine fettle.
Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, chairman of the Isa Bin Salman Education Charitable Trust and REHC, emphasised the significance of the event in the context of Bahrain's growing international racing profile. The kingdom's emergence as a global equestrian destination has been supported by His Majesty King Hamad and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
The post position draw, conducted at the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, has added another layer of intrigue to the 2,000-metre contest. Spirit Dancer's allocation of gate 11 presents an interesting tactical challenge in his bid for historic back-to-back victories, while Nations Pride's draw in stall 8 could prove advantageous.
French challenger Calif, trained by Yann Lerner, will break from gate 6, while the Japanese contingent, including Yamanin Sympa, drew stall 4. The draw ceremony attracted connections from around the globe, highlighting the truly international nature of the event.
Global Broadcast Milestone
The race's global reach continues to expand, with an unprecedented 23 broadcasters set to beam the action worldwide. European coverage includes Racing TV and Sky Sports Racing, while Fox Sports will broadcast to US audiences. ESPN/Star+ will serve Latin American and Caribbean viewers, demonstrating the event's growing international appeal.
In a significant development, Japanese digital platform Netkeiba, boasting 17 million monthly users, will provide first-time coverage to the racing-mad nation. Canadian audiences will also enjoy debut coverage through leading sports network SportsNet.
Historic Context
The Bahrain International Trophy has quickly established itself as a significant fixture on the global racing calendar. Notable previous winners include Lord Glitters (2020), who subsequently claimed the Jebel Hatta, and Barney Roy (2021), whose illustrious career featured victories in the Gr.1 St James's Palace Stakes and Jebel Hatta. Spirit Dancer's attempt at becoming the first dual winner adds another compelling narrative to this year's renewal.
Preparation Updates
The international contingent has adapted well to their surroundings at REHC. Owen Burrows-trained Alflaila has caught the eye in morning work, while the Japanese runners have followed their characteristic preparation pattern, with light exercise following more strenuous sessions earlier in the week.
Speaking at the draw ceremony, REHC High Committee representative Shaikh Salman bin Rashed Al Khalifa expressed his satisfaction with the field: "It's a very strong field – we're very happy with the line-up of 12 horses that are heading to the starting gates on Friday, and I'm sure it's going to be another successful event. The lights give a different atmosphere and I'm sure everyone is going to enjoy Friday's race."
Supporting Card
The main event headlines an impressive eight-race card that showcases both thoroughbred and Arabian racing excellence. The supporting programme features several prestigious races including the World Arabian Horse Organisation Cup (US$14,000), the Lexus Cup (US$14,000), and the Gulf Air Cup (US$14,000).
The Economic Development Board Cup carries a purse of US$30,000, while the Grand Seiko-Bahrain Jewellery Centre Cup offers US$40,000 in prize money. The Bapco Energies Cup (US$30,000) and Beyon Cup (US$16,000) complete a card worth a total of US$158,000 in additional prize money.
Final Preparations
As the big day approaches, final preparations are being meticulously executed. The newly installed lighting system has been thoroughly tested, and the track surface is being prepared to international standards.
The presence of world-class jockeys, trainers, and horses has created a palpable buzz around the REHC facility.
Full draw: 1 Goeman, 2 Lead Artist, 3 Andromede, 4 Yamanin Sympa, 5 Point Lonsdale, 6 Calif, 7 Young Ireland, 8 Nations Pride, 9 Killer Ability, 10 Alflaila, 11 Spirit Dancer, 12 Sovereign Spirit.
The stage is set for what promises to be a memorable chapter in Bahrain's racing history, as the kingdom continues to cement its position as a leading force in international horse racing.