 |
|
| Staff Writer |
 |
Tonight's racing event offers a contrasting lineup, with Purebred Arabians and thoroughbred juveniles competing in separate races. The 4YO Purebred Arabians will battle it out in the UAE Arabian Derby to conclude their Classic year. Meanwhile, the finale will feature some blue-blooded thoroughbred juveniles looking to establish their credentials for the upcoming Classic year.
Joe Star, a Jewel Crown alumnus horse, will lead the 13-runner field for the UAE Arabian Derby, which now has Listed status for the first time. With a rating of 108, Bahwan is the second-highest rated horse in the race. He should feel comfortable running over 2200m based on his Polish form, and a win here can be a significant achievement for him.
In the sole Thoroughbred contest, Point Given, trained by Bhupat Seemar, is the most eye-catching entrant. Sired by Blue Point, the horse will represent his exceptional sire and prolific Derby-winning owner Saeed Suhail. Ramaah, trained by Ismail Mohammed, is another well-bred colt who will try to shed his maiden tag at the third attempt.
The rest of the field has a bit to prove based on their trial runs or initial form. The six-race card also includes maidens and handicaps ranging from a mile to 2200m.
The opening contest is a mile maiden for the 3YOs and looks like a wide-open contest, with Al Dinari, King De Flauzins, and Kokin De Faust as the most appealing newcomers. The second race is a similar mile maiden and could go to Alwasl, who stayed on best in a 1400m maiden earlier in the season and should relish the extra furlong here.