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| Staff Writer |
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Racing at Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club sees the third round of the 2024-25 Bahrain Turf Series heating up today, featuring competitive middle-distance and sprint divisions.
The 1,800m Al Adiyat Cup, sponsored by YBA Kanoo, welcomes two intriguing British raiders. Charlie Johnston introduces dual Listed synthetic winner Dear My Friend, testing turf credentials ahead of a possible tilt at the Crown Prince's Cup.
George Scott, already successful in the kingdom with last year's Crown Prince's Cup hero Isle Of Jura, fields Phantom Flight. The 110-rated Listed winner partners with Callum Shepherd, recently returned from injury.
Scott said: "Phantom Flight is a really interesting horse. He's rated 110. He loves fast ground and he is potentially a really exciting horse for us in Bahrain. It's going to be fascinating to see how he acquits himself."
Leading the home defence is last term's Al Adiyat Cup victor Zagato, matching Phantom Flight's 110 rating, while Sovereign Spirit lurks dangerously off 109.
The 1,000m Al Wasmiya Cup, backed by National Bank of Bahrain, sees opening day scorer Swift Asset bidding to reclaim series leadership. Jaber Ramadhan's speedster rates highest at 105.
George Baker launches a two-pronged assault with previous series winner Get It, successful in the Stewards' Cup, alongside stablemate Kiwano, already proven over course and distance.
Both contests highlight the growing international appeal of Bahrain racing, with domestic talent facing stern examination from quality overseas raiders in these US$80,000 features.