Abu Dhabi Turf Club Hosts 32nd UAE President Cup Purebred Arabian Grand Prix
The Abu Dhabi Turf Club (ADTC) delivered an electrifying evening of world-class racing on December 15, 2024, as it hosted the prestigious 32nd UAE President Cup Purebred Arabian Grand Prix. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and President of ADTC, the event celebrated the UAE’s rich equine heritage and sportsmanship.
Gracing the occasion were Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, members of the royal family, and high-ranking officials, emphasizing the event's significance in honoring Purebred Arabian racing.
Record-Breaking Prizes and Fierce Competition
This year’s Grand Prix featured a staggering prize pool of AED 10.8 million, including an AED 8 million purse for the iconic HH President Cup Purebred Arabian Group 1 race. The competition brought together the world’s elite jockeys and Purebred Arabian horse owners, showcasing unparalleled talent and determination.
The grand finale saw Heros De Lagarde, owned by HE Al Sh Nasser Mohammed Nasser Al-Hasher, trained by Ibrahim Al Hadhrami of Oman, and ridden by Connor Beasley, secure victory with an AED 4.8 million prize. Close behind, Suny Du Loup, owned and trained by Hamad Ali Marar, claimed second place and AED 1.6 million, while Bahwan, with Ray Dawson atop, rounded out the top three, earning AED 800,000.
In the Thoroughbred category, Wathnan Racing claimed first place with a purse of AED 600,000. Marbaan, owned by Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and jockeyed by Ben Coen, came in second, while Laneqash, ridden by Jim Crowley, secured third place.
Exciting Races and High-Stakes Action
The evening showcased seven thrilling races, beginning with the Abu Dhabi Turf Club race (AED 150,000) and progressing to the YAS Sprint (AED 400,000), Al Wathba Mile (AED 350,000), and UAE Breeders' Cup (AED 500,000). The Abu Dhabi Derby offered a prize of AED 400,000, while the HH President Cup for Thoroughbreds featured a AED 1 million purse. The event reached its pinnacle with the HH President Cup for Purebred Arabians, boasting an AED 8 million prize.
Cultural and Luxurious Experiences
Beyond the races, attendees enjoyed a Michelin-star dining experience, breathtaking drone shows, and live musical performances in a sophisticated setting. This combination of cultural celebration and luxurious entertainment cemented the UAE President Cup’s reputation as a beacon of global racing excellence.
Legacy of Excellence
H.E. Eng. Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Turf Club, reflected on the event’s success:
"The 32nd UAE President Cup Purebred Arabian Grand Prix highlights the UAE’s unwavering commitment to equine excellence. Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, we continue to celebrate our heritage while advancing the global profile of Purebred Arabian racing."
Established in 1994 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE President Cup has become a symbol of equestrian heritage and international camaraderie. It continues to draw global attention to Purebred Arabian racing, fostering competition and enhancing the UAE’s stature in the world of equestrian sports.
With unmatched hospitality, world-class facilities, and a dedication to excellence, the Abu Dhabi Turf Club solidifies the UAE’s position as a premier destination for racing on the global stage.
