The six Purebred Arabian contests were sponsored by Dubai International Arabian Races, whose flagship event takes place at Newbury on July 24 this year
25 April 2016, Uk ~ The UK Arabian racing season got off to a flying start at Chelmsford City Racecourse on Sunday 17 April in front of well over a thousand racegoers, many of whom were families experiencing Arabian racing for the first time.
It was a day that reflected last years’ success as 2015 ARO Champion Jockey, Simon Walker, put his stamp on the 2016 season riding a treble on Callymay, Jaldi Karo and Yeskan Du Cayrou. Last years’ Champion Novice Jockey, Will Pettis, also got off the mark, riding Alhaader to victory in the first race. This years’ Novice title could well go to ARO debutant Charlie Price, who caught the eye finishing third on his first ride, before following up two races later with a win on Noble Athlete.
The Best Small Trainer Award winner last season, Georgina Ward, recorded an impressive victory with Jaldi Karo in the conditions event, who will now go to the ARO Cup (Gr.3 PA) at Newbury on Lockinge Day. Both Noble Athlete and Callymay run in the colors of owner-trainer Delyth Thomas, whilst even greater training success befell James Owen, recipient of the 2015 Newcomer Award. He recorded a treble with the aforementioned Yeskan Du Cayrou, Alhadeer and also Awzaan, the last two running in the colors of ARO and DIAR patron HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
“It was a fantastic way to start the season, particularly in front of such a large audience.” Amanda Smith, ARO Racing Manager, commented. “The racecourse and its’ staff could not have been more helpful and we are extremely grateful to them for all their assistance in making this day so successful. The atmosphere on course throughout the day was really relaxed and friendly, and we are looking forward to returning to Chelmsford City on 1 July.”
This sentiment was echoed by Racecourse Manager, Fraser Garrity. “We were delighted to welcome an ARO fixture to Chelmsford City Racecourse for the first time and really enjoyed a cracking day of Arabian racing. With two further fixtures here later in the year, we hope this is the start of great relationship with ARO.”
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