Afjan Claims Victory At The UAE President’s Cup For Purebred Arabian Horses In The Netherlands

On Sunday, the 8th installment of the UAE President's Cup Series for Purebred Arabian Horses unfolded at Duindigt Turf Racecourse in The Hague, marking a significant chapter in the 32nd edition of this classic event. Afjan, representing Al Shaqab Racing, showcased an impressive performance, clinching victory in a field that brought together elite competitors from Europe's premier stables.

The race, a testament to the UAE President's Cup's growing prominence across European racecourses, saw a gathering of top-tier entries, solidifying its status within the Dutch racing sector. This event, renowned for being the richest Arabian horse race in the Netherlands, dished out a prize purse of $100,000. Competitors ran over a distance of 2,150 metres, with participation open to horses aged four years and above, classified under Group 3.

Afjan, sired by TM Fred Texas out of Muzoon and boasting a rating of 111, demonstrated outstanding agility and speed under the guidance of jockey Olivier d'Andigné and trainer J. de Mieulle Grijs. Launching a formidable charge from the rear, Afjan managed to edge past Al Zeer by a mere neck, marking a thrilling end to the race. Al Zeer, with connections to M.F.A.H. Al-Attiyah, took the second spot, while Ska de L'Aigle secured third place.

The completion time of 2:21.02 minutes by Afjan not only underscored the horse's exceptional capabilities but also etched this victory into the annals of the event's history in the Netherlands. The presence of dignitaries such as Ameirah Obaid Mohamed Obaid AlHefeiti, UAE Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Faisal Al Rahmani, Secretary General of the Higher Organizing Committee, added prestige to the ceremony, where they presented awards to the victors.

Musallam Al Ameri, a key figure in the organising committee, highlighted the significant competitive leap the UAE President's Cup Series has made on the international stage, attributing its success to the high-quality participation from Europe's leading stables. Al Ameri's remarks underscored the dedication of horse owners and the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan in elevating Arabian horse racing globally.

"These achievements are a direct result of the generous support and strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who has consistently championed the development of Arabian horse racing on the world stage. We are proud of the incredible atmosphere and wide acclaim that accompanied this race and congratulate all the winners and participants."