Abeyyah Shines In International Jockeys Challenge Round Two
Abeyyah And Makthorh Deliver Gripping 1400m Duel
A superb front-running display from Italian jockey Nina Baltromei guided the locally trained filly to a pulsating victory in the International Jockeys Challenge Round Two at King Abdulaziz Racecourse on the opening day of the Saudi Cup Meeting 2026. Abeyyah, the 4YO filly carrying the colours of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Sons, proved far too resolute for her rivals in the US$400,000 (SAR1.5 million) contest over 1400 metres, holding off a determined challenge from Makthorh by half a length in a time of 1:26.799.
The race, restricted to 4YO colts, geldings and fillies rated 0-95, attracted a competitive field for the second round of the International Jockeys Challenge, a highlight of the supporting card on the first day of the world's richest race meeting. With US$200,000 going to the winner, the stakes were significant, and it was Bader Rizaiq's charge who rose to the occasion most emphatically.
Baltromei Delivers Commanding Front-Running Ride
Baltromei, representing Italy in the International Jockeys Challenge, judged the pace to perfection aboard her Saudi-bred mount. Settling Abeyyah into a comfortable rhythm from the outset, she dictated terms throughout and found plenty in reserve when the challengers emerged in the closing stages. It was a ride of considerable tactical intelligence, demonstrating precisely why the International Jockeys Challenge format continues to showcase the finest riding talent from across the globe.
The response from Makthorh was admirable. Muhammad Aldaham produced a strong late effort aboard the Fahad Saad-trained filly, who was also carrying a rating of 80, and for a few strides inside the final furlong it appeared the gap might close. However, Abeyyah was not for catching, and the half-length margin at the line was a fair reflection of her superiority on the day. Makthorh collected US$80,000 for her connections, Prince Faisal bin Khaled bin Abdulaziz.
The same owner-trainer combination was also responsible for the third-placed Aela Mahlek, a four-year-old gelding who finished two and a half lengths behind the winner under American jockey Forest Boyce. Rated 82, the highest-rated runner amongst the first three home, Aela Mahlek ran creditably but could never land a serious blow on the front two. The gelding earned US$60,000 for connections.
Saudi-Bred Talent On Full Display At King Abdulaziz
The result underlined the growing depth of Saudi-bred talent currently emerging through the domestic racing programme. All three placed horses were bred in the Kingdom, and the manner of Abeyyah's victory suggested she could yet have further improvement to come this season. For Rizaiq, who has been quietly building a reputation amongst the Saudi training ranks, the victory on the biggest stage represented a significant milestone.
The International Jockeys Challenge, which features jockeys from racing nations worldwide competing across designated races during the Saudi Cup Meeting, added a compelling international dimension to the proceedings. Baltromei's victory from the front was the day's standout riding performance, and it set a lively tone for what promises to be a spectacular weekend of racing at King Abdulaziz Racecourse.
Abeyyah's connections will be hoping this proves the beginning of a memorable campaign, whilst the Fahad Saad stable can take encouragement from the performances of both Makthorh and Aela Mahlek going forward.
1st. Abeyyah (T: Bader Rizaiq / J: Nina Baltromei)
2nd. Makthorh (T: Fahad Saad / J: Muhammad Aldaham)
3rd. Aela Mahlek (T: Fahad Saad / J: Forest Boyce)