Diamond Gem AA Claims Victory At The UAE President's Cup Series In Baltimore

On May 17, 2025, the prestigious UAE President's Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses, part of its 32nd edition, took place in the United States at the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. This event was held concurrently with the 150th Preakness Stakes, a cornerstone of American thoroughbred racing. The race witnessed Diamond Gem AA emerging victorious, marking a significant moment in the competition's history.

The competition, sponsored by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE and Chairman of the Presidential Court, is designed to promote Arabian horse racing globally. It supports breeders and owners worldwide while aiming to preserve the Arabian horse's heritage and enhance its international profile. This initiative reflects the UAE's dedication to nurturing the sport of Arabian horse racing.

The race at Pimlico Race Course attracted a massive audience of more than 100,000 people, alongside extensive coverage by American media. This level of engagement underscores the event's stature as a premier platform for Arabian horse racing. The day featured a total of 14 races, integrating seamlessly into the celebrated Preakness Stakes day, which is a crucial part of the American Triple Crown series.

Diamond Gem AA, bred from Burning Sand and Tramaasah, and owned by Joseph and Betty Gillis, showcased a stellar performance under the guidance of jockey Carol Cedeno. The horse demonstrated its prowess by pulling ahead in the final moments of the race, clinching victory over RB Grand Slam, piloted by Inardis Rodriguez, who secured the second spot. AA Take A Chance, with Xavier Perez as jockey, managed to grab third place. These competitors were among the finest in the field, highlighting the race's competitive spirit.

The race, a 1,700m dirt track event open to horses four years and older, was classified as a Grade 1 race. With a purse of $200,000, it attracted top-tier talent. Diamond Gem AA, trained by Jerenesto Torrez, recorded a winning time of 1:57.01, reclaiming the title it previously won in 2023.

The victory ceremony saw the presence of notable figures such as Mr. Omar Al Yahyai from the diplomatic corps, Ms. Rawdha Al Mansoori of the UAE Embassy in Washington, and Mr. Saeed Al Muhairi, representing the Higher Organizing Committee of the UAE President's Cup Series. They presented the trophies to the winning connections, celebrating the achievements of Diamond Gem AA and its team.

In summary, the UAE President's Cup in the United States was a landmark event, not only for the victorious Diamond Gem AA but also for Arabian horse racing. Its successful integration with the Preakness Stakes and the international attention it garnered further solidified its importance in the racing calendar, fostering global appreciation for the sport.