Bahrain Strengthens Global Presence in Horse Racing at Newmarket’s July Festival
TDT | Manama
Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com
His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Minister of the Court of the Prime Minister and Chairman of the Supreme Authority of Rashid Equestrian and Horse Racing Club, affirmed Bahrain’s continued commitment to cementing its position in the global horse racing scene.
He noted that Bahrain’s ongoing achievements in the sport, widely praised by international circles, reflect the ambitious vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
HH Shaikh Isa emphasized the growing role of horse racing in opening up investment opportunities and attracting global partnerships, highlighting the sport’s potential to drive economic sectors forward through its competitive spirit and international interest.
These remarks came during his attendance at the prestigious Kingdom of Bahrain Trophy race at the Newmarket July Festival in the United Kingdom — a key event Bahrain regularly participates in, reinforcing its historic and deep-rooted ties with the UK.
His Highness underlined the Kingdom's dedication to strengthening its international presence in horse racing, particularly through high-profile events like the July Festival, which draws global audiences and elite competitors. He commended the festival’s exceptional organization and thanked everyone involved for showcasing world-class talent in the sport.
HH Shaikh Isa also praised the role of the Economic Development Board (EDB) in promoting Bahrain’s competitive investment climate through such major sporting events, enhancing the Kingdom’s global economic and equestrian ties.
During the event, HH Shaikh Isa presented the Princess of Wales’s Stakes Trophy, sponsored by the Kingdom of Bahrain, to Hamdan Sultan Al Sabousi, representing Godolphin Stables, after their horse “Kurdobes” secured first place. He also honored trainer Charlie Appleby and jockey William Buick for their top finish.
Meanwhile, Her Excellency Noor bint Ali Al Khulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development and CEO of the EDB, awarded the Bahrain Trophy for Group 2 horses to Mick and Janice Mariscotti, owners of winning horse “Zafateri,” trained by Eve Johnson Houghton and ridden by Charlie Bishop.
Additionally, HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Ambassador to the UK, presented the Bahrain Trophy for Group 3 horses to Mr. Michael Tabor, representing the owner of “Scandinavia,” trained by Aidan O’Brien and ridden by Ryan Moore.
HH Shaikh Isa congratulated all owners, trainers, and jockeys who triumphed across the races and wished them continued success.
As part of the annual Bahrain Trophy Race, the Rashid Equestrian and Horse Racing Club signed multiple agreements with leading international companies to invest over $1 million USD into horse racing events in Bahrain. These partnerships aim to boost competitiveness and further elevate the Club’s international standing, aligning with global best practices in the sport.
Bahrain continues to sponsor several prestigious horse races in Europe, including the Kingdom of Bahrain Trophy and the Princess of Wales’s Stakes at Newmarket, and the Bahrain-Ireland Series at Leopardstown in Ireland.
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