August/September 2018 Mini-Issue

$7.99 August / September 2018 Volume 30, Number 5

2 0 1 8 Celebrating 30 Years as Arabian Horse Racing’s Foremost Publication

SO BIG BOY

Delaware Park Arabian Derby, Grade 2

Labor Day Weekend at Delaware Park!

The 26th Running of the

BUZZ BRAUNINGER ARABIAN DISTAFF HANDICAP Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Purse $45,000 Guaranteed!

The only Grade 1 event for Fillies and Mares.

Saturday, September 1st - post time for all races 1:15pm.

After the races, join us for a dinner party and movie. This inspirational Award-winning documentary tells the story of lifelong horseman Ernst Oertel, his tragic riding accident, and his unwavering drive and passion to return to his life.

Producer/Director Amanda Roxborough says, “Ernst is an inspiration to all of us. The bond between horse and human is a powerful and healing energy, and we witness just that in his journey.”

Youʼre invited!

Dinner Party & Movie, Honoring Jockeys!

Saturday, September 1, 2018, 6:30pm White Clay Creek Country Club Showing of the Award-winning Inspirational Documentary, Leg Up, produced by Amanda Roxborough No cost. RSVP Now to reserve your spot!

Email : arabianfinishline@gmail.com Funds raised for

This Arabian Horse Racing weekend is sponsored by:

easternarabianracing.org

12

26

18

INSIDE THIS ISSUE DEPARTMENTS

ARTICLES/STAKES 12 14 18 22 26

Clash of the Titans Finish Line - 2008 Poland Racing - The Last 20 Years Stakes Racing in the U.S. Stakes Racing in Europe

3 10 30 34

Editor’s Notes Notes from the Ovals Leading Earners List of Runners

COLUMNS 4 6 8 36

Just Talkin’ by Michael Economopoulos Making Claims by Joe Nevills Equi Tech by Dr. Deb Powell The Backside by Steve Heath

ON THE COVER

April Fano's So Big Boy in Delaware Park's paddock prior to his win in the Delaware Park Arabian Derby (Gr.2). Photo credit Hoofprints Inc. Design by Corliss Hazard.

@ArabFinishLine

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Disclaimer : The opinions expressed in Arabian Finish Line are those of the individual authors and are not necessarily those of the editors and owners of this publication. Arabian Finish Line does not intentionally print incorrect materials. The contents are the responsibility of the parties furnishing materials and do not necessarily constitute a statement of fact. Accuracy of information is subject to information known to us at printing deadline. We apologize for any errors which are sometimes unavoidable. Arabian Finish Line is not responsible beyond retraction of error.

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2 • Arabian Finish Line • August/September 2018

Editor's Notes

By Stephanie Ruff Before I came to the Arabian racing industry in 1993, I was working in the thoroughbred racing industry, and I thought that's where my future was going to be. Thoroughbred racing had been my passion since I was a child, and I was one of the many people who didn't know Arabians raced. My experience with Arabian horses was when I was a senior in college and was as a member of the University of Kentucky's Horse Judging Team competing at U.S. Nationals in Louisville, Ky.

I took a position at the Arabian Jockey Club because I needed a job, and this was a good place to start.

Now, 25 years later, I am still in the Arabian racing industry. It is definitely a labor of love. I'm certainly not getting rich by being here.

When Marion Altieri gathered Sue and Jim Meyer, Kathy Smoke, Michelle Morgan, Amanda Roxborough and myself together to attend and speak at Breyerfest, we did so at our own expense

and on our own time (minus our hotel rooms that Marion was able to comp for us.) I can't speak for the others, but for myself I did it partly because I love and support this industry. However, more than that, I love the people in this industry.

I am a loyal person - at times loyal to a fault. This industry has done a lot to build my professional career. The people I do business with are some of the best people you will find on this earth. And because of that I am loyal to them.

However, there comes a point when loyalty isn't enough. Still, just when I think I've had enough someone steps up and shows me that there are other equally loyal individuals out there. They are as committed to the people and horses of Arabian racing as I am, and they support this magazine, and subsequently, myself.

For that I am grateful. For that I thank you. I am not going to name names here, but you know who you are. And there are quite a few of you.

So we soldier on...the loyal ones. We continue to volunteer our time, effort and expertise to promote the Arabian racing industry. We continue to try and make it better than it has been. Will we succeed? It's hard to tell. But we will keep trying. Because we are loyal to Arabian horses and the people who love them.

ERRATA In the June/July issue, the "Behind the Scenes" profile featured Hendrik and Lettie Smeding. Unfortunately, their last name was misspelled in the article. Their last name is Smeding. I apologize to Hendrik and Lettie and to everyone for any confusion and inconvenience this error has caused.

3 • Arabian Finish Line • August/September 2018

Mandolynn Hill Farm

OPEN

HOUSE

It’s time again for the annual MANDOLYNN HILL FARM OPEN HOUSE! Kick up your heels at a real Texas party everyone is invited and bring your friends!

Friday night, October 26th, join us at Lone Star Park for two Juvenile races-- And SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27th, the place to be is MANDOLYNN HILL FARM!

October 27 2018!

9am-2pm

You’re in Good Company 9:00 10:00 11:00 11:30 12:30 1:00 1:30

Doors open! Coffee and donuts OPEN BARN - View horses Michelle Morgan talks on ARC breeders program and TABA breeders program Owner seminar & information on joining a partnership - Amanda Roxborough, speaker Lunch Kids’ Contest Best Dressed Cowboy/Cowgirl Raffle

*Proceeds from the Raffle go to the Arabian Racing Cup Breeders Incentive Program. The program is to promote breeding and reward the breeders- paying monies to Breeders PROUD SUPPORTERS OF of winning Arabian race horses.

MANDOLYNN HILL FARM Dr. Mickey & Michelle Morgan 8701 FM 2931 Aubrey, Texas 76227 940-365-2559 cell: 214-679-2026

Contact us for directions or visit

www.mandolynn.com

CALIFORNIA

The Emirates Breeders' Gold Rush Handicap series consists of three races with points awarded for a bonus to be given after the third race, which will be October 16 at Fresno. After two races, the point standings are: Dream Pearl (8), Sand Victor (6), RB Hot Risk (3), True Grit SA (2), and Raineing Sand (2).

DELAWARE

EARA's Labor Day event - Labor Day weekend is shaping up to be a fun one for EARA at Delaware Park. Saturday, September 1 will be the Buzz Brauninger Arabian Distaff H. (Gr.1). Following the race will be a complimentary dinner at the White Clay Creek Country Club sponsored by EARA. After dinner will be a showing of Amanda Roxborough's award-winning documentary "Leg Up".

TEXAS

Retama Park - August 7 through September 5, 2018 September 5, 2018 is the Grade 3 Altitude Texas Arabian Oaks for 3- and 4-year-old fillies and the Grade 3 Rosebrook Farms Texas Arabian Derby for 3- and 4-year-olds. $20,000 guaranteed purse for each race.

Lone Star Park - September 28, 2018 - November 10, 2018 October 26 - Texas Arabian Lone Star Juvenile Stakes (Gr.3) races, $20,000 purses, 6 furlongs. Nominations close October 12.

November 9 - Arabian Stallion Stakes (Gr.3) races, sponsored by Crystal and Co.. $20,000 purses, 1 mile. Nominations close October 26.

ARABIAN JOCKEY CLUB

Effective January 1, 2019, the Arabian Jockey Club will require all horses that hold or apply for a Certificate of Registration for Racing (Racing Certificate) to obtain a second DNA verification and the insertion of an AHA issued microchip for identification, as well as the current requirement of a lip tattoo.

All horses applying for a Certificate of Registration for Racing must obtain a second DNA verification and the insertion of an AHA issued microchip for identification prior to obtaining their lip tattoo and entering a race. There is a minimum waiting period of six months from the issue of the original Certificate of Registration before being able to apply for a Certificate of Registration for Racing and the second DNA verification and microchip insertion.

All horses with a current Racing Certificate will be required to apply for an updated Certificate of Registration for Racing to include the second DNA verification and an AHA issued microchip prior to entering a race in 2019 and thereafter. Protocols and fees for applying for a Certificate of Registration for Racing are available for download: https://bit.ly/2B80ss2 For horses born prior to 2019 who have already been microchipped, the veterinarian filling out the Verification Identification Form will be required to scan and enter the microchip number on the ID form. For all horses born after 2018, the AHA issued microchip must be used.

In order to encourage early participation, there is an introductory fee offered if your application is submitted prior to the end of 2018.

Also, please note the mandatory six month waiting period required between the issue of the horse’s original Certificate of Registration and the application for a Certificate of Registration for Racing.

The Arabian Jockey Club stands by this new requirement and believes that it will only add to the professionalism and credibility of Arabian racing in the United States and internationally. You are able to apply for the new Certificate of Registration for Racing effective August 1, 2018. We encourage all owners/agents with horses having a current Racing Certificate or those with young horses anticipated to race beginning in 2019 complete this requirement as soon as possible to avoid any delays with last minute applications for this mandatory requirement in 2019. For questions you can contact Susan Meyer at meyer4133@earthlink.net.

10 • Arabian Finish Line • August/September 2018

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CLASH OF THE TITANS

The Day *Orzel Met Kontiki

By Tobi Lopez Taylor, www.tobitaylor.com This year marks the 50th anniversary of the epic duel between the unbeaten “white tornado” Kontiki and *Orzel, the 1967 U.S. National Champion Racehorse. This race took place on March 30, 1968 at Turf Paradise, then a fairly new track on the outskirts of Phoenix, Ariz.

Kontiki, bred by Dr. Lloyd and Doris Rosenvold and owned

by Christopher and Valeene Hampton-Wilcox, was a striking white-grey horse of primarily Crabbet, Davenport, and domestic breeding, with a little Polish and Egyptian thrown in. His greatgrandsire Ziyadi had been a well-known California racehorse, and another ancestor, Antez, had sired a wartime Polish Derby winner as well as Sartez, touted as the “World’s Fastest Arabian.”

Kontiki himself preferred to fly out of the starting gate and not look back. In his debut at Turf Paradise in December 1967, he went wire to wire, winning by 20 lengths. About three weeks later, he was loaded down with 130 pounds and still cruised to a seven-length victory. In his next start his weight was increased to a hefty 140 pounds, and he still broke first, kept the field at bay, and triumphed by three lengths.

His rival, *Orzel, a flashy chestnut standing nearly 16 hands, had run as a four-year-old in Poland in early 1967, winning two of seven races and finishing in the money in all but one. *Orzel was by *Pietuszok, a Russian-bred stallion known for his ability to sire racehorses, including *Orla, a Polish Triple Crown winner. *Orzel’s dam Ofirka produced five stakes winners.

During his negotiations with the Poles to purchase *Orzel, Ed *Orzel gets the lead and hands Kontiki his only defeat.

Tweed was told that the slow-maturing colt was the favorite to win the next year’s Polish Derby. In August 1967, Tweed sent his new horse to Evangeline Downs in Louisiana, where *Orzel learned to run on dirt. There, he easily won two pari-mutuel races and was named the first U.S. National Champion Racehorse. Shipped to Turf Paradise in November, *Orzel suffered his only American defeat in his Arizona debut, finishing second to El Gohari, whom he’d defeated in Louisiana. In *Orzel’s next start, he faced eight rivals and carried 140 pounds (co-high weight), but sailed home six lengths ahead of the field.

On March 30, *Orzel and Kontiki finally met at Turf Paradise in a 1 ½ mile invitational handicap. Although racegoers knew that these two were the ones to beat, the other six horses, all winners, were no slouches. These included the hardy Nusabre (carrying 113 lbs.), a future member of the Arabian Horse Trust Racing Hall of Fame; Ben Hib Ku (113 lbs.), who would later be named 1968 U.S. National Champion Racehorse; Ibn Saka (134 lbs.), Ibn Shara (113 lbs.), Ghami (106 lbs.), and Silki (112 lbs.). *Orzel was assigned high weight of 142 pounds (the highest impost of his career). The betting public made Kontiki the favorite, since he’d won his previous three starts by a combined 30 lengths and carried two fewer pounds than *Orzel.

When the gate opened, Kontiki zoomed to the front, while *Orzel broke slowly and was still next to last at the half-mile mark. Egged on by Nusabre, Kontiki ran the first quarter in :24 4/5 seconds and the half in :51 flat. Kontiki was still a length ahead of Nusabre as they turned for home, but Orzel had been steadily passing horses, and lay in third place at the top of the stretch. When *Orzel finally

made his move, the white colt couldn’t fend him off. *Orzel won by a length over Kontiki in a time of 2:49 4/5, about two seconds faster than his previous win at this distance. As the racing chart put it, Kontiki “continued gamely but could not manage winner.” Nusabre hung on for third place.

Although no one knew it at the time, this race was pivotal for two reasons: it would prove to be Kontiki’s only defeat in his nine-race career, and it would be *Orzel’s final start. Like *Orzel, Kontiki went on to be named a U.S. National Champion Racehorse. He also set four track records.

Both horses transitioned to successful careers in the show ring and later became notable racing sires.

It’s fitting and proper that in 1995 these two great adversaries were both inducted into the Arabian Horse Trust Racing Hall of Fame. Today, 50 years after they went head to head at Turf Paradise, we still remember and celebrate this clash of the titans.

2019

PUREBRED ARABIAN

STALLION GUIDE

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STALLION OWNERS: SUBMIT YOUR STALLION FOR THE 2019 GUIDE TODAY! VISIT OUR WEBSITES OR CALL

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Stakes Racing in the U.S.

Photos by Hoofprints, Inc.

Delaware Park Arabian Derby (Gr.2) July 28, 2018

By Kasey Johnston, https://kaseyjojohnston.wixsite.com/kaseyjohnston An eight horse field fought for the coveted win in the Delaware Park Arabian Derby (gr.2). The annual race has taken place since 1994 in Wilmington, Del. and promised a guaranteed purse of $30,000. The one and one fourth mile race took place entirely on the dirt track, which was reportedly in fast condition and presented a fair start for each of the horses.

Favorite So Big Boy got bounced around after the gates opened and was shuffled back. On the front end, Dance With Me BW from the five hole took the lead, but was quickly threatened by Big Cork. The two continued to stay neck and neck, followed closely by Captain Bush and So Big Boy. It was not until the final turn that the race began to take a new form with So Big Boy battling it out with a new head of the herd, Burn Em Joey. It quickly became clear that So Big Boy and Burn Em Joey owned the race at the wire, leaving the other six horses far behind. However, there could only be one stakes champion, of which So Big Boy proved to be worthy. Ridden by Jomar Ortega, So Big Boy crossed the finish line first by 6 1/2 lengths, paying $6.60 to win. Burn Em Joey, owned by Joe and Betty Gillis, finished second, and Colors In Motion, for Cre Run Enterprises, was in for third.

So Big Boy Owned by April Fano and trained by Scott Powell, four-year-old So Big Boy is the first stakes winner for his sire, Darley Horse of the Year So Big Is Better. His dam is the stakes-placed winner R L Zell (by Stiltz), who is a half-sister to Darley Champion Zachzell. She has also produced Victorias Zell (stakes-placed winner by Line Dancer). So Big Boy has earned a total of $24,000 in his short career. With two starts and two first place races, the first on July 9th and the second being this Delaware stakes, we can assume that this horse has a great career ahead of him.

22 • Arabian Finish Line • August/September 2018

Photos by Hoofprints, Inc.

Delaware Park Arabian Oaks (Gr.2) Sponsored by Cre Run Farm August 4, 2018

By Kasey Johnston, https://kaseyjojohnston.wixsite.com/kaseyjohnston Seven horses, all Arabian fillies of three and four years of age, broke from the gates in the 14th running of the Delaware Park Arabian Oaks (Gr.2), sponsored by Cre Run Farm, where the winner would see a $30,000 guaranteed purse. The 9th race of the cloudy August day provided a fast track and a great start for the field. The first Delaware Park Arabian Oaks took place in 2005, and has since then kept the traditional 1 1/16 miles on a fully dirt rack.

Each participant broke beautifully from the gates, providing the opportunity for the 1 horse, Daze Of Awe, the 2 horse, Uptown Sandy Girl, and the 4 horse, Mizzdora, to take a quick lead before the pack. The heavy race favorite, Uptown Sandy Girl, did not disappoint her supporters as she kept her spot towards the front of the crowd, fighting for the lead first with Daze Of Awe and then Scott Powell's Bigg Girl. Uptown Sandy Girl, with Jose Garcia aboard, and first-time-starter Bigg Girl began a match race with only a quarter mile left in the race. However, Bigg Girl refused a position on the inside rail. Uptown Sandy Girl used this hesitation to her advantage and took the lead, which increased to 4 3/4 lengths at the finish line. Her time for the 1 1/16 miles was 1:57.71. Bigg Girl, ridden by Jomar Ortega, came in second, and Royally Bred, bred and owned by race sponsor Cre Run Enterprises LC, in third.

This was not the first win that we have seen Uptown Sandy Girl snatch this summer, nor likely will it be her last. We have seen her in the winner’s circle four times in 2018, resulting in earnings of $98, 470. Owned by Jon R. Henningsgard, bred by his wife Krista, and trained Lynn A. Ashby, 4-year-old Uptown Sandy Girl never seems to disappoint her entourage. This particular race marks the fourth stakes victoryof her career.

23 • Arabian Finish Line • August/September 2018

So far this year, Dream Pearl (right) has two stakes wins over Sand Victor. Sand Victor (above) has one stakes win over Dream Pearl.

Photos by Vasser Photography.

Dream Pearl and Sand Victor Trade Blows in California

By Kasey Johnston, https://kaseyjojohnston.wixsite.com/kaseyjohnston. Photos by Vasser Photography.

The Emirates Breeders' California Gold Rush Handicap I and II On a sunny afternoon at Oak Tree Pleasanton, seven horses broke from the gates competing for the $12,000 purse offered in The Emirates Breeders' California Gold Rush Handicap. The six furlong race consisted of three-year-old and up Arabian horses. This series of races is sponsored by Emirates in support of California racing.

Although all broke clean from the gates on the dirt track, it was Dream Pearl in the four hole who proved herself worthy of the stakes win. The chestnut mare, ridden by Pedro Terrero, lagged early and seemed to be stuck behind the crowd. Towards mid-race, she took to the rail and stole the lead at the wire.

Her win was closely followed by second place Sand Victor (ridden by Hugo Herrera) and third place RB Hot Risk (ridden by Cristobal Herrera). Dream Pearl paid $6.60 to win, $2.40 to place, and $2.10 to show. The final time of the race clocked in at 1:19:46 with a 50 foot run-up.

They knocked heads again on Saturday, August 11 in the second leg of the Emirates series. This one went off at the Sonoma County Fair in Santa Rosa, Calif. True Grit SA set the early pace while jockey Pedro Terrero struggled to hold back Dream Pearl when she broke ready to run. Around the turn, Terrero angled five-wide and let Dream Pearl go. She accelerated, catching leader Sand Victor in a driving finish to win by two lengths. Third to finish was Raineing Sand. Final time was 1:52:21 for the mile race.

Dream Pearl now has 12 wins out of 25 starts, advancing her total earnings to almost $120,000 in her four year career. The 7-year-old mare is owned by Dorothy Burt, Evelyn Call, Cory Soltau, and Terri Eaton and trained by Terri Eaton. Bred by Joe and Betty Gillis, Dream Pearl is a daughter of Burning Sand out of Triumphs Pearl, by Seyvilla Triumph.

Sacramento State Fair Arabian Stakes In between the Emirates races was the Sacramento State Fair Arabian S. run on July 29. A seven horse field competed for the $8,000 purse offered in this all Arabian, three-year-old and upward race. The stakes took place on an all dirt track and was six furlongs in length. The cloudy, Californian day presented no issue for the participants, who all had a clear break from the gate.

With Hugo Herrera up, Sand Victor took this round, winning by 1 1/4 lengths and paying $4.60 to win. His rival Dream Pearl came in second and True Grit SA was third. Final time for the six furlongs was 1:19.21. The 7-yearold grey stallion by Burning Sand out of Vague De Gemme, by Baco Du Cassou is owned by Betty and Joseph Gillis and trained by Terri Eaton. He has earned $18,065 in 2018, boosting overall earnings to $160,5100.

24 • Arabian Finish Line • August/September 2018

Summer 2018

T H E

A R A B I A N

R A C E H O R S E

DIAR Preview Spring Review

FREE, quarterly digital publication with dedicated coverage of all the Arabian Racing Organisation meetings and single races in the UK, plus coverage of pattern races overseas.

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Stakes Racing in Europe

Qatar Derby des Pur-Sang Arabes de 4 Ans June 17, 2018

Text and photo by Debbie Burt, www.equinecreativemedia.com Along with ‘Arc’ weekend, the Prix de Diane is an annual highlight on the French racing calendar, with Parisians flocking to the historic racecourse in Chantilly to picnic in the centre of the course. Like the ‘Arc’, the fixture also hosts top class Arabian racing, in this case the French Arabian Derby, the first opportunity for four-year-olds to compete against their peers at Group 1 level in Europe.

The principals were closely matched on form, with Rajeh the sole Group 1 winner at the trip, having won the Qatar Total Arabian Trophy des Poulains at Saint-Cloud last autumn, ahead of Rodess Du Loup and stablemate Goumoh, with Akoya much further behind. Rajeh had also previously beaten him into third the Prix Cheri Bibi (Gr3PA), with Hajres in fourth.

However, later in Toulouse, Rodess Du Loup recorded his first Pattern victory in the French Arabian Breeders Challenge (Gr2PA) dropped back to a mile, where Dynamites and Hajres were third and fourth.

Many of the ten runners had reappeared in the Prix Dormane (Gr3PA) at La Teste in April over 1900m, where Hajres scored a one and a half length win over Rajeh. Mashhur Al Khalediah was third ahead of Rijm and Rodess Du Loup, so the stage was set for a fascinating renewal. In the event, the early pace was set by Mashhur Al Khalediah and Akoya, with Rodess Du Loup handily placed in third, in company with Dynamites, ahead of Rajeh and Hajres.

With 400m to go, Christophe Soumillon brought Rodess Du Loup around Akoya and the tiring Masher Al Khalediah to make his challenge, whilst Rajeh and Francois-Xavier Bertras joined them up the centre of the course, with Rijm and Hajres in pursuit. However, Soumillon had the edge, and the grey son of Dahess pulled away, moving over to the rail for a length and a quarter win. Rijm and Julien Auge and a fast finishing Hajres and Jean-Bernard Eyquem were closing towards the finish, overhauling Rajeh for the places by the time they reached line.

Rodess Du Loup (out of Aurore Du Loup, by Darike) showed improvement on previous form to win, giving trainer Charles Gourdain back to back wins in the contest. According to an interview with The French Purebred Arabian, Gourdain blamed himself for Rodess Du Loup’s previous defeat when he had applied blinkers, which were left off on Sunday. However he had always liked the horse as soon as he had arrived in his yard. As Rodess Du Loup is owned by Qatari, Khalid Al Attiyah, he cited the HH Emir’s Sword (Gr1PA), as a likely future target, with a trip to the UK as a possibility beforehand.

This may well mean he follows a similar programme to Gourdain’s 2017 winner, Nafees, who doubled up in the President of the UAE Cup (UK Arabian Derby) at Doncaster last September.

26 • Arabian Finish Line • August/September 2018

Dubai Day at Newbury July 29, 2018

Text and photos by Debbie Burt, www.equinecreativemedia.com. their three-time Za’abeel winner Al Mouhannad, Al Chammy had also won the UK prep for the race and was one of two DIAR bonus award winners at the meeting.

Peslier then went on to win the Shadwell Arabian Stallions Hatta International Gr1PA over a mile and a quarter on Joudh for YAS Horse Racing Management and Didier Guillemin. Their recently appointed racing manager Thierry Delegue was delighted with their filly’s performance, saying: “This race is an important win for a filly. It is possible she may go to Abu Dhabi in November for the Jewel Crown.”

Not even the rain could dampen the spirits of Oliver Peslier and the Royal Cavalry of Oman at this year’s Dubai International Arabian Races at Newbury on July 29. The French maestro rode the winners of the four Group races at the meeting, three of which were for the Royal Cavalry.

DIAR and Arabian Racing Organisation Patron, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum also recorded three wins in the two premier handicaps and the international conditions race with some exciting young horses.

The feature race is always the Dubai International Stakes Gr1PA also over a mile and a quarter. This crowned an exciting day for Peslier and the Royal Cavalry with a win for Nafees, trained in France by Charles Gourdain. This was third victory at this level for Nafees, having won both the French and UK Arabian Derbys in 2017.

Gourdain commented: “I left him with very little work before the race. He was fresh because we’ve had hot weather in France, so because of the

Peslier opened his account in the DIAR International Stakes Gr3PA for juveniles over seven furlongs, on the Royal Cavalry’s Tahirwah. However, it was not before a lengthy wait, as the outcome of the race was debated in the stewards room.

He commented: “I had plenty of room, but the Italian horse was hanging towards the rail. I was confident we had won on the line, and the best horse won in the end.”

Of Al Chammy’s win in the Jebel Ali Za’abeel International Gr1PA over six furlongs, Peslier said:“He won really well, the ground has changed a lot from the first race. It is a wonderful day for the Royal Cavalry of Oman, for Dubai and for Sheikh Hamdan.”

That pair were trained for the Royal Cavalry by Said Al Badi from their base at Wargrave in Berkshire. A full brother to

Top: Al Chammy (Nizam x Al Ryme, by Kesberoy) wins the Jebel Ali Za’abeel International Gr1PA. Middle: Joudh (Mahabb x Shamayl, by Kesberoy) sporting his sheet for winning the Shadwell Arabian Stallions Hatta International Gr1PA. Bottom: The winners of the Dubai International S. Gr1PA left to right are the groom, Jean-Pierre Deroubaix (just behind the group), Capt. Salim Al Hakmani, Olivier Peslier on Nafees (Azadi x Vivamaria, by Njewman) and Brigadier Abdulrazak Al Shahwarzi.

27 • Arabian Finish Line • August/September 2018

traveling I had to be very careful. Before the race I started to worry he had not done enough work, but he’s a brave horse and well-ridden by Olivier. He kept him in behind horses, and he finished strongly like he usually does.”

HH Sheikh Hamdan’s winners were all young, improving horses offering plenty of hope for future DIAR meetings. No And No Al Maury was most impressive in the UAE Emabassy in London International Conditions Stakes over a mile and a quarter. A close second in the Listed PA DIAR prep at Capannelle in Italy in April, he was also a DIAR bonus award winner.

Trained in France by Damien de Watrigant, who commented: “It’s a family who strengthen as they get older. I am very happy that Sheikh Hamdan trusted me with this horse, as he bought it after it had finished second first time out for me, and I told him it would be a nice horse. He was bred by Mrs. Koch of Al Maury Stud, and now he is showing on the track what he is showing me in the morning. I think I ran him over too short a distance in the beginning because he is by Nizam and is a bit keen, but my head lad has done a very good job with him and has got him very relaxed at home. You saw today he was very settled with plenty of energy to finish the race.”

Shadwell Stud Director Richard Lancaster was delighted with the day saying: “We didn’t have the big stars that we’ve had in the past, but we’ve some nice young horses for the future, and we’ve learnt a little bit more about them all. The star for the future I’m sure is No And No Al Maury.

“I’m sure His Highness has enjoyed this day immensely. Considering how unlucky we’ve been with the weather, we’ve had a great crowd, and they’ve stayed to the end. It’s thanks to Sheikh Hamdan and his enthusiasm that we are here today.”

Qatar International S. (Gr.1) at Goodwood August 1, 2018

Text and photo by Debbie Burt, www.equinecreativemedia.com.

Muraaqib added yet another Group 1 PA victory to his name with a one and a half length victory in the Qatar International Stakes at Goodwood. In doing so, he triumphed over last year's second Ebraz, with Lightning Bolt in third, claiming the £200,000 winners’ prize. He is HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s most successful homebred Arabian racehorse, putting his previous second at La Teste well behind him, bouncing back to form with the addition of blinkers.

In a field of ten, which included last years’ one-two Tayf and Ebraz, as well as Lightning Bolt, all Group 1 PA winners, it was Muraaqib who showed superior acceleration in the final stages. With the initial pace of the race slower than expected, the field bunched up in the home straight with a number of horses, including the winner and second, not getting a clear run with two furlongs to go. However, the class of both horses showed as they pulled away, with Ebraz having too much to do to reel in the winner.

Pau-based trainer Francois Rohaut has always believed Muraaqib was best over a mile and confirmed that this race had been the aim, saying: “We knew that the blinkers would make the difference today. We saved them for this race. He is the best Arabian I have ever trained, and probably right now, he is the best Arabian in the world, over a mile at least."

Rohaut felt that the Doha Triple Crown would not be an option, unless HH Sheikh Hamdan wished him to run. It was more likely that he could return to Abu Dhabi in November to contest the Jewel Crown Gr1PA, also over a mile, which was a race he won in the stewards room last year.

He was ridden for the first time in Abu Dhabi by Jim Crowley, HH Sheikh Hamdan’s retained jockey, with whom he renewed his partnership. Crowley also agreed that the blinkers were a positive addition. He continued, saying: “I was just waiting for a gap to appear, and when it did he won well. He travelled on the bridle, and it is a great feeling to win this race.”

Richard Lancaster, Shadwell Stud Director, was delighted for His Highness saying: “It’s a great team effort. Jim rode him beautifully. Plans were laid out for this some time ago, and Francois has done a fantastic job. Muraaqib is that bit older and wiser, so the blinkers did their job today. At La Teste he was giving weight away to the winner, but that was the race he needed to put him right for this.”

29 • Arabian Finish Line • August/September 2018

ARC Breeders Incentive Program Preparing to Transition to Full Program Why this matters to you NOW! As an introductory promotion, all breeders have been eligible for ARC Breeder Bonuses since the new program went into effect in 2016. A total of $18,000 is earmarked for paying out this year to the three state affiliates (California, Delaware, and Texas) over four races each ($1,500 per race, paying $500 to the breeders of the top three horses).

The program will continue in this way for this year’s runners and horses running in 2019, incentivizing all breeders regardless of the horse’s nomination process.

However, in 2020, the program nomination requirement will be placed in full effect, requiring that horses running in ARC Breeders Incentive Program races are fully nominated before their three-year-old year in order to receive these funds for the remainder of their lifetime.

Why is this timely now? Your horses that are being pointed to the track to race in 2020 for their three or four-year-old years are currently yearlings or two-year-old’s right now.

These babies must be nominated before they turn three (before December 31st specifically) in order for them to remain eligible for program rewards beginning 2020.

“We decided to offer the option of installment payments so that the breeder was not forced to pay the full amount up front and risk the horse getting hurt or never making it to the track after the full amount was paid,” said Michelle Morgan, ARC Chief Steward.

“It was our goal to make it as easy on the breeder as possible, while providing them the opportunity to make it back all at once with either a 1st, 2nd or 3rd place finish. You are paid ONE WEEK after your horse finishes 1st, 2nd, or 3rd- each gets a $500 bonus. This means any bonus earned after that first payout during the horse’s lifetime is pure profit, since your foal’s total nomination is $500.”

It’s time to start your nominations SIRE NOMINATION FEE: $150 per year. All his progeny of that breeding year are eligible.

FOAL NOMINATION FEE: Weanling Year~ $50, Yearling Year~ $200, 2 Year Old Year~ $250. Must be received by Dec. 31st of each year. A fully nominated foal is eligible to earn Breeder’s Incentive Rewards for the Breeder of Record in any Cup Breeders’ Incentive Races held in the United States for its entire lifetime racing career.

See list of Nominated Stallions and find offcial nomination forms on the website. Or for questions email Michelle Morgan at mandolynn44@gmail.com.

ARABIANRACINGCUP.COM

u.n:told stories of horse life

By Steve Heath

breyerfest 2018 At the Kentucky Horse Park from July 13 to 15, there was this little event called BreyerFest, which is Breyers Animal Creations’ annual celebration of horses. Except for that it wasn’t little. It was massive. Tens of thousands of children and their parents came from all over the country. If you want to know where the future of the horse industry is…they are at BreyerFest. This fabulous three-day family festival combines the excitement of a horse fair with model horse activities, and this year it had an “Off to the Races” theme celebrating all different types of racing competitions.

For 29 years, BreyerFest has been bringing the model horse world to life with spectacular equine performances, the largest model horse shows in the country and the unique opportunity to meet the horses that inspire their models. And the people come out in droves. There were lines everywhere and a constant stream of people wanting to get up close and personal with the horses.

The Arabians were well represented at this event. First and foremost was the presence of *Empres++++// (photo left) who himself was a Breyer model released earlier this year. *Empres’s owner, Prue Critchley, stated that the 23-year-old stallion “thoroughly enjoyed himself and handled the crowds beautifully.” Filling the “Off to the Races” theme was Spin Doctor (photo above), a successful racehorse who earned over $50,000 turned National Champion Dressage Horse. His owner, Kathy Smoke, was overwhelmed by the sheer number of people attending the event and how many of them wanted to visit with her horse. She was also proud of Spin Doctor and how he handled the crowd – the likes of which he had never seen.

Beyond that, Marion Alteri organized a panel to introduce Arabian racing to this new crowd. Talking to the group were Sue Meyer, Kathy Smoke, Michelle Morgan, Amanda Roxborough, Stephanie Ruff and Jim Meyer (pictured right, except Jim Meyer). The discussion was very well recieved.

The weekend was tremendous and exhausting for those that attended. However, it was an incredible opportunity for the Arabian horse to be introduced to a new generation of horse crazy kids. As one little girl exclaimed, “I’m going to tell my dad that my first horse is going to be an Arabian.”

By Stephanie J. Ruff. Photos by Cathleen V Duffey.

36 • Arabian Finish Line • August/September 2018

racehorse photographs copyright

She wins again!!! Cre Run Oaks Arabian Distaff Stakes (Gr. 2)

uptown sandy girl BURNING SAND X WIBWILCCA

WITH 7 WINS SHE IS JUST SHY OF THE $100,000 MARK IN EARNINGS. BRED AND OWNED BY KRISTA AND JON HENNINGSGARD. The Henningsgard’s UPTOWN SANDY GIRL earned her first Darley Award as a 3 year old, and now as an UNDEFEATED 4 YEAR OLD she’s well on her way to another.

The Henningsgards and connections pictured in the winners circle with long time friend John Wayne.

INQUIRIES ALWAYS INVITED Krista and Jon Henningsgard 32543 Joseph Rd, Waller TX 77484 krista.uptownranch@yahoo.com jon.uptownranch@yahoo.com 503-367-6890

www.uptownarabians.com

Congratulations

Bred by CRE RUN

Bred by CRE RUN

MADJIKMAN

BELLFASTT

NIVOUR DE CARDONNE x BELLA ATHEENA, by SAM TIKI 5(2-0-2) in 2018!

Winner~ Delaware Park, July 16th, 1 mile 70 yards, 1:57.90; Sam Houston, April 16th - 5 1/2 furlongs, 1:14.08

Remember!

CRE RUN FARM

C

MADJANI x RUBIE ROSE,

by RUBIS DE CARRERE 2(1-1-0) in 2018!

Winner~ Delaware Park, June 23rd 1 mile, 1:51

You could have leased their dams!

reatingRunners

Find details about our winners, lease mares, new foals and more on our website!

ALAN KIRSHNER AND DEBORAH MIHALOFF

15460 Campbell Lake Road, Doswell, Virginia 23047 804-227-9491 Email: crerun@aol.com

photographs copyright

PROUD SUPPORTERS OF

www.crerunfarm.com