15 June 2017, UK ~The Arabian Racing Organisation (ARO) announced an increase in numbers on 2016 figures for the five international contests on the Dubai International Arabian Races (DIAR) card when the first entry stage passed at noon on 14 June 2017.

DIAR promotes Purebred Arabian racing worldwide from the grass-roots to the highest level, with the flagship event organised under the generous patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The 117 entries (up on last years’ 92), included the defending title holders in every Group 1 PA race: Muraaqib, Sylvine Al Maury, Radames, as well as Foaad, winner of the international conditions race.

ARO and DIAR patron, HH Sheikh Hamdan’s homebred Muraaqib has already opened his account this year, winning a Group 1 in France on his reappearance and could re-oppose the second, Mehdaaf Athbah, who also holds an entry in the Shadwell Dubai International Stakes, Gr1 PA.

Khattaf Athbah and John Fahy win the 2016 DIAR Juvenile Prep Race at Newbury

The Hatta International Stakes, Gr1 PA, is headed by the Elizabeth Bernard trained Sylvine Al Maury, for the second year running finishing her campaign as the top-rated Purebred Arabian mare in the world. One filly who could challenge her supremacy is Naziq, also trained by Bernard, a dual Group winner last season and runner-up in a Group 2 on her seasonal debut.

Shadwell Stud Director, Richard Lancaster commented: “It is hard not to be thrilled with the entries for this year’s Dubai International Arabian Races, with numbers considerably up compared to last year. The DIAR prep races across Europe, combined with the Bonus Scheme and travel incentives, have played an important role in boosting participation.

“Finally, a big thank you to the breeders and owners who continue to support the series and we look forward to welcoming them to Newbury at the end of July.”

Gemma Cobb, ARO Racing Operations Executive said: “ARO is delighted with the increase in entries, as of course this continues the trend set last year. It is also very pleasing to see all the defending title holders make entries, as well as other top class international and domestic horses. DIAR at Newbury on 30 July promises to be a really exciting day and is always the highlight of the ARO racing calendar. Supplementary entries for the international races and the handicaps confined to UK runners at DIAR close on Wednesday 19 July.

“The DIAR Prep Race scheme has been a great addition, helping to promote the fixture across Europe, together with the Bonus Scheme and Travel Incentive, which I’m sure has been instrumental in gaining these increases. Hopefully we may see one or more of the Prep Race winners or placed horses secure a bonus race on DIAR and thereby claim their additional prize money as Urge Di Gallura did last year.”

~ end report