Monsenhor Rach
Vencedor UAE President Cup Handicap Arabian New Year 1400 areia - 8 de fevereiro
Vencedor UAE President Cup Handicap Filhos do Deserto 1600 grama - 8 de março
Vencedor UAE President Cup GP Claudio Roberto Ribas 1800 grama - 30 de março
Vencedor UAE President Cup Handicap Revista do Cavalo Árabe 2.000m grama - 2 de maio
Seraphin Du Paon x Musa Rach (*Polonez)
Paulo
Miranda Rach
Vesper Rach x Melina Rach (HS Titian)
2º lugar CEI 2* YR 120 km com Sofia Engels
RACH ENDURO
Zendaya Rach
HS Titian x Zoe Rach (Mister Eros HX)
Qualified with Avery Betz-Conway for Pan Ameican Championships
Charlton Rach
*Eksport x Cecha Rach (Pavel Rach)
1º lugar CEI2* 120 km - Brasília com Rodrigo Saliba
Veriano Rach
Pavel Rach x Veronika Rach (*Sarmata)
2º lugar 140 km - Ademuz - Espanha com Antonio Marcelino proprietário: Haras Albar
Cidinha Franzão Editor-In-Chief Graphic Design
Mohamed Saad Arabic Translator & Marketing Manager
SHAHALEL AL SHAQA (NA-Mousa Al Shahania x Siwar Al Shaqab) Photo: GCAT
Almir José Ribeiro Racing Director at ABCCA
Ricardo Jamil Saliba Vice President of Racing at ABCCA
Favio Lorenz Publisher Argentina
Cristiane R D Guardia Vice President of Promotion at ABCCA
Anne Jonchery France
Isam Sayed UAE
Dave Quijano Photographer
Nadine Frampton Australia
SUMMARY
6 Virginie Atger: Long gone are the days when she was a Showjumper
14 Saudi rider Muhannad Al-Salmi crowned 2025 champion of the Al Ula Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup
18 Double podium for M7 Stables at Al Ula
21 Tribute to Becky Hart: Champion endurance athlete and equestrian educator
22 Matty Sample wins 2025 Tom Quilty Gold Cup
26 Silvestre de Sousa crowned champion jockey in historic UAE Season
28 ERA Awards presented at Abu Dhabi Turf Club
32 Berlin MP shines in Muscat Stage of GCAT
36 Alexxanderr claims victory in Doha
41 Tasheem PMA crowned gold stallion in Scottsdale
46 Alexxanderr triumphs in the senior stallion championship of GCAT Riyadh
50 Exxaltress and Tasheem PMA champions at the Miami Stage of the GCAT
56 Monsenhor Rach wins for the fourth time in a row and makes history in Arabian Horse Racing in Brazil
58 Monsenhor Rach claims third consecutive victory!
60 Monsenhor Rach secures second consecutive victory in the Filhos do Deserto Race
61 Monsenhor Rach triumphs at Cidade Jardim
62 RB Kingmaker takes his crown in the Al Mneefah Cup
63 Tilal Al Khalediah the hero once again in the Obaiyah Arabian Classic
64 Bianca De Ghazal dazzes in HH The Amir Silver Sword!
65 Al Ghadeer retains Sword and Triple Crown
66 Al Wakrah reigns supreme in Gr1 PA Qatar International Cup!
67 Amjaad wins on debut in Qatar Prix Massoud
68 Ray’q tiumphs in a thrilling HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Thani Trophy
69 Arman storms to victory in Mared Al Sahra Cup
70 Sarastro digs deep for victory in the Mared Al Sahra Premium Maiden Cup
Virginie Atger: Long gone are the days when she was a Showjumper!
by Anne Jonchery
She is one of the World’s elite endurance riders, and while 2024 has been a most stressing and challenging year for her, Virginie Atger is certainly not at the apotheosis of her career. Nevertheless, this 2024 World Championship in Monpazier marks a real milestone in the career and life of this rider who celebrated her fortieth birthday on September 26.
Virginie Atger of France was in the top 10 of the world Endurance rankings every month of 2024. Her impressive year included a Team gold medal at the FEI Endurance World Championship in Monpazier (FRA) and an Individual fourth-place finish with her horse Cham de la Palud.
Riding before she could even walk!
This is no surprise when you consider that her family background is dedicated to horses: her mother, Bénédicte Emond-Bon, enjoyed great success as an international endurance rider and coach for the French endurance team, and her father, also a rider, created the famous Aurabelle stud farm.
Long identified as “the Atger girl”, Virginie turned to show jumping and eventing to emancipate herself from this rather cumbersome surname: “It was difficult to make a first name for myself ... Moreover, I felt more adrenaline in these disciplines, and it was hard for me to get into endurance. I started competing at the
age of 5, with show jumping and my horse Tiramisu. But I quickly got into endurance thanks to my mom,”.
While Virginie has done gymnastics in competition, one mare made her fall in love with endurance:
“Eleis d’Aurabelle made me win, and I had adrenaline rushes ten times stronger than I had ever felt before! Endurance is a complete discipline, more complicated, more technical, based on a passion for horses and respect for the animal,”. Working hard, Virginie hears her mother say over and over again: “Never give up, you are likely to do it before the miracle happens,”. Bénédicte was a visionary...
A
couple united by passion for 20 years
Virginie is not alone at “Blue Ride” stables in Ginnaservis, Var (southern France). One man is the cornerstone of her success: Angel Lazes, her partner and father of their two children, Milann and Nino, born in 2013 and 2020. A top-level rider before he met Virginie, he now rides the horses in training, and assists and supports Virginie and the other stable riders at competitions. Together, they breed, work and develop endurance horses up to the highest level, and offer training courses to share their passion and knowledge of endurance. They have also diversified their business by setting up a saddlery.
When talking about Angel, Virginie calls him “the man who shares my life and my passion, the one without whom I would not be, or do anything,”. About Virginie, Angel says she is the woman of his life.
A
medal tinged with gold and star
Team gold medallist and 4th individual winner at the World Endurance Championships in Monpazier (Dordogne - France), Virginie Atger was able to rely on Cham de la Palud (Bédouin de Piboul (PSA) x Kanya 252 (Shagya)) to overcome the 160km kilometers of this magnificent but complicated Périgord event.
Faced with wild and changeable weather, and during an emotionally-charged period, Virginie was able to deal with the elements to give the best of this duo.
Bereaved by the death of her mother, Béné-
left: Virginie Atger and Ras Payadaor
dicte Émond-Bon, who passed away on June 13, Virginie was also buoyed by the support of her team during this long and difficult day. With seven international senior medals to her credit, the young mother is forging one of the finest records in French equestrian sport.
05:30 a.m. and chills
05:30: one hundred and eighteen couples set off for the 160-km endurance event at Monpazier, backing of the World Championships, in the dark of night and under Dantesque weather conditions that augured well for a long and complicated event.
In the pouring rain, the riders’ headlamps were of no use. Only violent lightning revealed to the riders what lay beneath their horses’ feet. It was not at all engaging: mud and water holes followed one another, requiring extreme vigilance.
As for Virginie Atger, it was not just the capricious weather she had to contend with. The rider from the Var region was about to set out
to conquer a world title with the omnipresent memory of her mother and mentor who had died three months previously: “These last few months have been difficult...” she admits modestly.
The price of experience
Preparing for this Championship was not a smooth process: months of doubts, reflection and questioning, before finally reaching the top step of the podium.
Here is a look back at a loop where everything could have been turned upside down. “The first stage was long (38.65km). I knew that with the rain during the night and in the morning, this first loop was going to be demanding. To make it through to the evening, a very good set-up was imperative, and the horses had to be sufficiently well behaved not to make mistakes, and to keep a regular, cadenced speed,” she analyzes.
Virginie Atger’s experience, which includes four appearances at the Senior World Championships, with team gold medals in 2023 at Boutheib (UAE) with Raya de Jalima (PsA, Baltik des Ors x Piruet) and in 2006 at Aachen, where she also took individual silver on Kangoo d’Aurabelle (DsA, Tauqui El Masan), has paid off.
“This is my sixth World Championship, and I know what the tension is like at an event like this! But not Cham. I did not know how he would react. Right from the start, I could feel that he was responding. During the transitions, I heard him breathe and I said to myself “that is it! All my apprehension vanished in a few strides. Cham was really listening to me when it came to letting go of the groups we did not want to follow. I told my support team that the set-up was perfect,”.
For Angel, in addition to her experience, “Virginie has the ability to keep a cool head. She is able to make the right decisions at the right time. She always finds the good and the positive in every horse, and they give it back to her a hundredfold! This mental structure is what sets her apart from other top-level riders,”.
The beautiful story of Cham de la Palud
At the 2006 World Equestrian Games, Virginie
Virginie, Angel Lazes and their sons Milann and Nino
Atger and Kangoo d’Aurabelle were beaten by Spain’s Miguel Vila Ubach and Hungares, a Shagya horse. Determined to breed horses of this breed, Renaldo Sapone reached out from... Bénédicte Émond-Bon, and Kanya 252 joined the de la Palud stud: she is the mother of Hungares. After complicated attempts, an embryo transfer led to the birth of Cham de la Palud. “This is the beginning of Cham’s story: it all started with a piece of advice from my mother,” says the rider, filled with emotion.
Trained on the track by Christophe Pradié, Marie Sapone, Léa Reynaud Dulaurier, Émilie and Elsa Kuntz, as well as their mother Pascale Dietsch, Renaldo Sapone’s companion, Cham has been given to the triple European team champion in 2019. “Cham has a rather atypical model: a rather wide chest, big limbs, a not very tight topline, but he is getting better with age and work. His locomotion and physique have really improved. After our first 120km, I immediately felt that this horse had something extra. I
have always believed in him and I was sure I was right,” says Virginie.
There is another reason why Virginie believes in him: “He reminds me a lot of Kangoo (d’Aurabelle ... Aix la Chapelle 2006 ..., editor’s note), in his physical and behavior. Everything came together, and from that first 120, I told myself we’d go far. I knew he would be my next World Championship horse!”.
“More than a horse: he has been my best friend”
“These last few months have been difficult...”. With the announcement of her mother’s illness, and then her death, Virginie has been going through a very turbulent and painful period, and Cham has been a great support: “rather capricious, since the beginning of the year (discovery of Bénédicte’s illness, editor’s note), he has changed his attitude and put his usual capriciousness aside. When I arrive at the paddock, he neighs. He has always been there for me in these difficult times...”.
Virginie Atger and Cham de la Palud
Sold?
This Gold medal with Cham de la Palud has a very special flavor for Virginie, but she might never have hung it around her neck: “A fortnight before the selection camp for the European Championships in Ermelo (late summer 2023, editor’s note), I received a very good offer to buy Cham. I have always asked my mom for advice when I have had an offer. She always told me to be reasonable, to sell because a horse can get hurt, and that I had a business to run and a family to feed,” she recalls. This time, Virginie did not call Bénédicte, refusing to listen to this speech. But Bénédicte had dinner with Pascale Dietsch and Renaldo Sapone, who told her about the offer!
Against all odds, she did not advise her to sell the horse; on the contrary! “You are at a stage in your career where everything’s going well: your business is running, your family is settled; keep the horse! I will talk to Renaldo and Pascale. They do not want to put pressure on you, but if you keep him, they will be happy,” Bénédicte confides.
A period of doubt followed with Cham’s non-selection for the European Championships, for which Jean-Michel Grimal had preferred Raya de Jalima. But Virginie was able to count on the support of a breeder and owner confident in the future and in the quality of his horse.
Engaged to the Monpazier pre-ride, a dress rehearsal for the World Championships, at the end of August 2023, Virginie withdrew Cham from the race at the 5th loop: “He was not in the best of shape and I preferred to stop. If we are having such a great season this year, it is because last year we knew how to give up,” explains the rider lucidly.
January 2024 ...
Double disappointment (non-selection and abandonment of the pre-ride), and then the terrible news: Bénédicte is seriously ill.
From the beginning, Bénédicte’s health became complicated: “With my father-in-law, we took turns at the hospital every day. I had a crazy team at home, even more than usual. Angel was really present, and they all really helped me to stay focused on my objective of the World Championships in Monpazier, and the selection race (Saumur - March 2024, editor’s note)”.
Virginie then worked with Franck Larrey, mental coach for the French Equestrian Federation, who told her: “Now you have to have priorities. If tomorrow, the day before the Championships, things are not going well for your mom and a choice has to be made, what will you do?” Ev-
erything became very clear to Virginie: first her mom’s health, then the World Championship and the rest after that. “So, I alleviated my whole season to focus on Monpazier,”.
Three days before the selective event, the CEI3* in Saumur, Bénédicte’s health deteriorated considerably. Virginie’s team nevertheless took Cham to Maine-et-Loire: “I told myself that if my mom’s health really deteriorated too bad, the horse would have made a return trip. Her condition stabilized, so I flew to Saumur,”.
Once there, Virginie received some bad news: “I almost took a plane again at 6:00 pm. For the first time since things had started to go wrong, my mom said to me: “You know, it is the weekend, the surgeons will not be here. Nothing is going to happen. You just get on your horse and take care not to hurt yourself, because when you are worried and tired, you are less vigilant”. So Virginie got on the horse... and won the race. “I called Biki (Bénédicte’s nickname, editor’s note) who had not been able to download the results. I was crying and she wondered what was going on.
When she found out I had won, she cried a lot,”.
A time of hope: “we felt like we could win everything, even the war against the disease”
This victory was a real boost for Bénédicte, Virginie and those around them: “It was our moment of respite over the last six months. We felt like we could win everything, even the war against the disease. We all believed in it...”.
Sadly, what we know happened...
“With the pressure of Cham’s acquisition offer, the victory he gave us in Saumur and the two months of preparation for the World Championship, I told Angel that even if I was not qualified for the Championship in Monpazier, even if I would not finish it, Cham had given us all moments that were worth all the gold in the world! It did not matter if I did not finish the race, if I did not go to the Championship; Cham had given me victory in Saumur while my mom was still there,”.
Virginie Atger and Ras Payadaor
Goodbye Bénédicte ...
After Bénédicte’s funeral and “the magnificent tribute paid to her, partially thanks to Elsa (Kuntz, editor’s note), there were the races at Compiègne. I did not know if I would have the strength to go: seeing everyone again was tough. I was eliminated on both days on sixty kilometers races due to bad luck”.
Then came the training camps with their demands, the French team reunions and the pressure.
Virginie went through the exercises recommended by her mental trainer to understand the feelings she was experiencing, “to get my nose out of the grindstone, and step back a bit”. Nothing has been left to chance for this World Championship; Virginie’s rigor then demonstrated outwardly: “I gave me all the possible odds,” explains the rider, “I cycled every day and trained with Mélo (Mélody Théolissat, editor’s note) ... I wanted to have zero regret. When I woke up on the morning of the Championship, I said to myself “here you are, everything has gone as it should, you have done everything, now let’s go. And off we went,”.
We all know what happened next: eleven hours, twenty-seven minutes and eight seconds after the
start of this crazy day, Cham crossed the finish line, then safely passed the final veterinary inspection, contributing greatly to France’s collective Gold medal and finishing just one place of the podium: “I was very close to Mélo (less than a second behind Mélody Théolissat, editor’s note), but at the end of the last loop, there were some muddy trails. Because of his morphology, Cham is not comfortable at all with this type of ground. Going a little faster meant taking the risk of falling. In any case, two of us could not win the individual medal...”.
Looking back on her victory, Virginie has one regret: “I could not let my joy explode at the finish...”, but when she recalls Cham in the meadow the next morning, her eyes sparkle, this time with happiness: “When I see him galloping in his paddock, for me he has won an individual medal; this horse is simply exceptional!”
... like those World Championships in Monpazier: the first without “Biki”, whose voice and accent will remain forever in our memories.
Photos courtesy of Virginie Atger, Anne Jonchery, FEI/Maximo Argenziano and Martin Dokoupil
Virginie and her mother Bénédicte Emond-Bon
Virginie Atger and Massai de Bezaudun
Saudi Rider Muhannad Al-Salmi Crowned 2025 Champion of the Al Ula
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup
Muhannad Al-Salmi riding Nebras Muscat
Held from 8-9 February 2025, Al Fursan Endurance Al Ula 2025 hosted two prestigious competitions: the 120km Guardian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup (CEI2*) and the 160km Al Mutadil Endurance Cup (CEI3*). The two events attracted 285 riders from over 66 countries: 200 participants in the 120km race and 85 in the 160km race.
Saudi rider Muhannad Al-Salmi delivered a stellar performance to claim victory at the 2025 Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup, held at Al Fursan Equestrian Village in AlUla. Competing in the CEI 2\* 120 KM event, Al-Salmi emerged as champion among a field of 200 elite male and female riders from around the world.
This prestigious event, recognized as one of the most distinguished endurance competitions globally, offered an unprecedented prize pool of SAR 15 million (USD 4 million)—the largest in the history of endurance racing.
Riding Nebras Muscat (Calin de Mirande x Bielaia de Ghazal), Al-Salmi clinched the title with an impressive average speed of 23.6 km/h, completing the course in 13:09:15. In a tightly contested race, Emirati rider Abdulla Alamri of F3 Stables secured second place aboard Shardell Jaeger, finishing in 13:08:43 at the same average speed. Fellow Emirati Saif Almazrouei, representing MRM Stables, rode Abela De L’Enclos to third place with a time of 13:09:29 and an average speed of 23.4 km/h.
Bahrain’s Raed Mahmood of the Royal Endurance Team took fourth place on El Shatan De Hiat with a time of 14:17:45 and the same 23.4 km/h average speed. Saudi rider Fares Abu Ras, riding Ger Ashir, secured fifth place with a time of 14:28:26 and an average speed of 22.6 km/h.
Brazilian rider Rafaela Pantel Viana, aboard Gaia de Morgane AA, finished in 27th position while Felipe de Azevedo Morgulis, with Fauve Aya, came in 36th.
The award ceremony was presided over by Prince Abdullah bin Fahd bin Abdullah, Chairman of the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation and Head of the Sports Sector at the Royal Commission for AlUla, who presented the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup to Al-Salmi in recognition of his outstanding achievement.
Muhannad Al-Salmi’s triumph marks another milestone for Saudi Arabia, reaffirming its rising prominence in the international equestrian arena. The AlUla Endurance Cup has quickly become a standout event on the global endurance calendar, attracting top-tier riders and showcasing the Kingdom’s fusion of heritage, sportsmanship, and world-class organization.
Beyond the competitive spirit, the race also spotlighted AlUla’s awe-inspiring landscapes, further positioning the region as a premier destination for international sporting events.
Source and Photos: AlUla Moments and Oreste Testa / Sistemaeventi.it
Abdulla Alamri riding Shardell Jaeger
Saif Almazrouei riding Arabela de L Enclos
Rafaela PantelVianna and Gaia De Morgane AA
Felipe de Azevedo Morgulis and Fauve Aya
Double Podium for M7 Stables at Al Ula
left to right: Salem Malhoof Al Kitbi riding Hameh and Saeed Al Khayari, who rode SW Jiska
M7 Endurance Stables delivered a commanding performance at the CEI3\* 160-kilometre Mutadil Endurance Cup in Al Ula, Saudi Arabia, on February 9, securing both first and second place in a tightly contested race.
Salem Malhoof Al Kitbi, riding Hameh, led the charge to victory, finishing just one second ahead of teammate and fellow Emirati Saeed Al Khayari, who rode SW Jiska. Al Kitbi completed the grueling 160km course in 7 hours, 49 minutes (7:49:00), averaging a speed of 20.5 km/h. Al Khayari followed closely at 7:49:01, marking a remarkable one-two finish for M7 Stables.
Third place went to Al Ain Stables, represented by Uruguayan rider Matias Hernandez on Kherjin, who crossed the line in 7:49:08 — just eight seconds behind the winner—also at an average speed of 20.5 km/h.
Brazilian rider Monica Graziano, aboard La Tâche D’Jok TRIO (D’Jok PY x SM La Turca), bred and owned by Renato Salvador, secured sixth place in the 160 km race. She was joined by fellow Brazilian Thiago Lana, who competed riding the mare Proeza do Bom Viver (RSC El Deb Haran x Anata), owned by Carlos Augusto Amaral Paes de Barros.
A day earlier, Emirati riders missed the podium in the CEI2\* Al Fursan Endurance Cup, a 120km race won by Saudi Arabia’s Muhannad Al Salmi aboard Nebras Muscat in 5:05:31. He was followed just one second later by Abdulla Al Amri on F3 Stables’ Shardell Jaeger (5:05:32). Third place was claimed by MRM Stables’ Saif Al Mazrouei riding Abela De L’Enclos, with a time of 5:07:16.
These competitions formed part of the 2025 Al Fursan Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup. For the first time in its history, the Mutadil Endurance Cup was sanctioned as a CEI3\* event by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI), marking a significant milestone on the road to the FEI World Endurance Championship 2026, which will also be hosted in Al Ula.
The Al Fursan Endurance event is central to Al Ula’s broader vision of becoming a global leader in endurance sports. Held at the state-of-theart Al Fursan Equestrian Village, the competition offered riders an unforgettable experience set against Al Ula’s dramatic desert landscapes and steeped in Saudi Arabia’s deep-rooted equestrian traditions.
As Al Ula gears up to host the 2026 FEI World Endurance Championship, Saudi Arabia’s stature in the international equestrian arena continues to grow. With world-class infrastructure in place, Al Fursan Equestrian Village is poised to host major sporting events that will further elevate the Kingdom’s reputation on the global stage.
Source and Photos: Al Ula Moments and Oreste Testa / Sistemaeventi.it
Matias Hernandez and Kherjin
L-R:Thiago Lana and Proeza do Bom Viver / Monica Graziano and La Tâche D’Jok TRIO
Tribute to Becky Hart: Champion Endurance Athlete and Equestrian Educator
Becky Hart, a trailblazing athlete, dedicated coach, and influential leader in endurance riding, left an indelible mark on the sport both in the United States and internationally. Hart passed away on February 28, 2025, at the age of 71.
A powerhouse in the discipline throughout her competitive career, Hart (San Juan Bautista, California) achieved extraordinary success, most notably winning three consecutive individual titles at the FEI Endurance World Championships in 1988, 1990, and 1992. These victories came aboard her legendary Arabian gelding, R.O. Grand Sultan—fondly known as Rio — who was later inducted into the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) Hall of Fame. Together, Hart and Rio also earned team silver medals for the U.S. at the 1986 and 1992 FEI Endurance World Championships.
In recognition of her unparalleled achievements, Hart was named AHSA Equestrian of the Year in 1990. Her legacy lives on through the Becky Grand Hart Trophy, awarded annually by US Equestrian to Equestrian of the Year finalists in international non-Olympic disciplines.
Hart’s success extended beyond the world stage to national competitions. She won the prestigious Western States Trail Ride — widely known as the Tevis Cup — twice, claimed two AERC National Champion titles, and was inducted into the AERC Hall of Fame in 1992.
With her accomplishments and deep knowledge of the sport, Hart was a natural choice to guide the U.S. Endurance Teams as Chef d’Équipe for several FEI World Championships in the 2000s, where she continued to elevate the performance and professionalism of American endurance athletes.
Beyond her elite accomplishments, Hart was equally passionate about education. A certified Centered Riding instructor, she shared her expertise with riders of all levels—from complete
beginners to seasoned equestrians—at her home base in California. Her dedication to teaching reflected her lifelong passion for horses, which began at age six through riding lessons, Pony Club, and local horse shows across multiple disciplines.
Her remarkable contributions to the sport will be remembered with admiration and gratitude.
Photo credit: Becky Hart and R.O. Grand Sultan at the 1990 FEI World Equestrian Games/ Bob Langrish
Matty Sample Wins 2025
Tom Quilty Gold Cup
Nikki Sample / Razorback Blue Avatar and Matty Sample /
Twenty-two-year-old Matthew Steven Sample, riding the 12-year-old grey mare Brookleigh Danu, has claimed top honours in the 2025 Tom Quilty Gold Cup — Australia’s most prestigious 160 km endurance race, held annually since 1966.
This year’s event took place from 9–11 May at ‘Pat’s Paddock’ in Sassafras, Tasmania — the southernmost venue in the race’s history. Since 1986, the event has rotated between states, offering riders unique landscapes and challenges across Australia. The Tasmanian course provided a distinct and memorable Quilty experience.
Competing in the Middleweight division, Matty Sample and Brookleigh Danu, owned by Matthew Sample, completed the demanding course in 10:43:19 at an average speed of 14.92 km/h — earning them the overall win.
Finishing alongside Matty was Nikki Sample on 12-year-old bay gelding Razorback Blue Avatar, who also clocked 10:43:19. The duo crossed the finish line hand in hand, with Nikki securing second place and taking home the coveted Best Conditioned Horse award.
A total of 135 riders competed in the 2025 Tom Quilty Gold Cup, divided into four divisions: Heavyweight (17 riders), Middleweight (59), Lightweight (47), and Juniors (12). Riders began the race at midnight, facing five stages of 45 km, 33 km, 45 km, 21 km, and 16 km — all to be completed within 24 hours.
Division winners included:
Heavyweight: Harrison Berg on Khan Sadyk, 12:17:55, and Best Condition
Lightweight: Susan Woodward on Kalody Park White Feather, 12:19:38
Junior: Alexa Parker on Bellawongarah Isaac, 13:42:28, and Best Condition
Despite its challenging terrain, the course rewarded strategy, preparation, and partnership between horse and rider. Early stages offered safe overnight conditions, while later sections revealed the natural beauty of Tasmania. Loop 3 delivered sweeping views of Bass Strait and the Rubicon Estuary. Riders cresting the high points of Loop 2 at dawn were treated
to sights of the Western Tiers and autumn-hued orchards, before looping back to the base via a passage under the Bass Highway.
Stages 4 and 5 continued the course’s diversity with fine gravel, plantation trails, and sandy native bush tracks — a true test of endurance for horse and rider alike.
The 2025 track exemplified the spirit of the Quilty: rewarding well-prepared teams that rode within their means, showcasing trust, endurance, and horsemanship at the highest level.
History of the Tom Quilty Gold Cup
The Tom Quilty Gold Cup began in 1966 — the year endurance riding was born in Australia.
R.M. Williams, then editor of Hoofs and Horns magazine, was inspired by reports of the Tevis Cup in the United States. He rallied support through his publication, leading to a meeting on 5 April 1966 in Sydney, where it was decided to hold the first 100-mile (160 km) endurance ride in the Hawkesbury District of New South Wales.
Williams sought support from his friend, legendary horseman and cattleman Tom Quilty of the Kimberley region, who donated $1,000 to create a gold cup for the winner. That origi-
R M Williams by John Elliott
nal cup now resides in the Stockman’s Hall of Fame in Longreach, Queensland. The event was named in Quilty’s honour.
From the outset, the spirit of the ride was not about prize money, but about personal achievement. Riders compete for the honour of wearing the coveted silver Quilty buckle — a symbol regarded by many as the equivalent of an Olympic gold medal in the endurance world.
The first winner in 1966 was Gabriel Stecher, who rode his Arabian stallion Shalawi bareback for the entire 100 miles. The success of that inaugural event led to the formation of the Australian Endurance Riders Association and established the Tom Quilty Gold Cup as a national fixture.
A 1986 referendum among endurance riders led to the decision to rotate the event between states, giving all riders the chance to compete in their home regions.
by Cidinha Franzão
Photos: Sarah Sullivan Photography
More information: https://tomquilty.com/tq25-website-official
Tom Quilty
Susan Woodward on Kalody Park White Feather
Alexa Parker on Bellawongarah Isaac
Harrison Berg on Khan Sadyk
Silvestre De Sousa Crowned Champion Jockey in Historic UAE Season
Brazilian jockey Silvestre De Sousa capped off his first full campaign in the United Arab Emirates by securing the 2024–2025 Champion Jockey title with 54 wins—seven clear of 12time titleholder Tadhg O’Shea. De Sousa’s commanding season included pivotal victories in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi, highlighted by a standout triumph aboard *Dubai Future* in the Group 2 Dubai Gold Cup for Godolphin.
At 44, the three-time British Champion Jockey (2015, 2017, and 2018) added another major accolade to an already illustrious career, which features a Dubai World Cup victory in 2014 with African Story, trained by Saeed bin Suroor in the iconic royal blue of Godolphin. De Sousa credited his success to the strong backing of trainers Musabbeh Al Mheiri and Majed Al Jahoori, along with steadfast support from Yas Racing, owned by HH Sheikh Mansoor bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
With over 4,000 career wins worldwide, De Sousa not only topped the UAE jockey standings but also ended O’Shea’s longstanding reign at the top—a dominant streak that saw the Irishman claim 12 titles.
The title race remained fiercely competitive throughout the season, but De Sousa pulled decisively ahead with his Dubai Gold Cup win on April 5. He then cemented his lead in the final two meetings: first in Al Ain on April 10, where he landed a double aboard AA RX Burn and RB Blynd Date (both trained by Al Mheiri); and again in Abu Dhabi on April 12, capturing the Arabian Triple Crown R3 with So’Ud, trained by Al Jahoori and owned by Yas Racing.
“I’m very happy with the season I had, especially as it was my first full campaign in the UAE,” De Sousa said. “It wasn’t easy, but I had fantastic support from Musabbeh Al Mheiri and the owners throughout the year. I was a
bit hesitant to wave the Brazilian flag after my final win, as I was riding in the silks of HH Sheikh Mansoor—but I did it as a tribute to the many Brazilian friends working with horses here, who may never have this kind of opportunity.”
De Sousa began his career as Champion Apprentice at the Jockey Club of São Paulo before moving to England, where he has lived for 25 years and built a reputation as one of the world’s elite jockeys.
“It was special to ride for Musabbeh and Yas Racing under Sheikh Mansoor. I never imagined I’d ride a full season here—let alone win the title and take the Dubai Gold Cup. I ride to win, and I enjoy riding good horses. Ending the season with a victory in Yas Racing’s silks was the perfect finish,” he added.
De Sousa made his UAE debut during the 2004/05 season and registered his first local win in 2012 with Songcraft, trained by Bin Suroor for
Godolphin. His 2014 Dubai World Cup triumph with African Story remains a career highlight. He now boasts a total of 166 wins in the UAE.
For veteran trainer Musabbeh Al Mheiri, the 2024–2025 season marked a return to form as he captured his second UAE trainers’ title, having first achieved the feat in 2014–15 with 49 wins.
“It was great to have Silvestre riding many of my horses this season. He’s brilliant—a three-time British Champion Jockey”, said Al Mheiri. “Winning races these days is very competitive, with so many talented trainers and top-quality horses across the board. That’s why this championship means so much to me personally.”
Yas Racing also emerged as champion among the owners, capping a remarkable season for all involved.
Silvestre de Sousa and So’Ud (Gazwan x Ahoud) winners of Arabian Triple Crown R3
ERA Awards Presented at Abu Dhabi Turf Club
The curtain fell on a thrilling UAE racing season with the prestigious ERA Awards ceremony, held on April 12, 2025, at the Abu Dhabi Turf Club. As the final meeting of the season drew to a close, the Emirates Racing Authority honoured the outstanding individuals and horses who made their mark over the course of the year.
At the forefront of the accolades was His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who capped off a dominant campaign with dual titles. Sheikh Mansoor was named Champion Breeder for Purebred Arabians and also Champion Owner, with Yas Racing amassing an impressive 46 wins throughout the season, an achievement that firmly established them as a powerhouse in Arabian racing.
Musabbeh Al Mheiri was crowned Champion Trainer, his stable producing 40 winners during a consistently successful campaign. In the saddle, it was Silvestre De Sousa who claimed the Champion Jockey title, tallying a remarkable 54 victories and showcasing his world-class skill and tactical awareness at tracks across the Emirates.
Among the rising stars, apprentice jockey Qais Al Busaidi earned the season’s Apprentice Championship after outriding his claim and
finishing with 16 wins. His composure and determination have marked him as a rider to watch in the seasons to come.
Trainer Marwan Al Baidhaei received the ERA Najm Award, an honour bestowed on individuals who exemplify dedication, sportsmanship, and passion for the sport. His influence within the industry continues to grow, with his contributions on track being duly recognized Saturday night following a successful season with his small team.
Connor Beasley had a season to remember, punctuated by an unforgettable ride aboard Heros De Lagarde in the HH The President Cup. That performance earned him the Pat Smullen Exceptional Ride Award, a fitting tribute to his tactical brilliance under pressure. Beasley also partnered First Classs, the standout Purebred Arabian of the season, to Group 1 victories on both dirt and turf. Trained by Doug Watson, First Classs was rightfully named Purebred Arabian Horse of the Year.
A big congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their hard work and commitment to making this UAE racing season truly unforgettable.
HH Sh Mansoor bin Zayed Al Nahyan named Champion Owner and, PA Champion Breeder for 2024–2025
First Classs was rightfully named Purebred Arabian Horse of the Year
Silvestre de Sousa crowned Champion Jockey and Musabbeh Al Mheiri Champion Trainer
Berlin MP Shines in Muscat Stage of GCAT
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Omani coastline and the Hajar Mountains, the third stage of the Global Champions Arabians Tour in Muscat from 6-8 March delivered an extraordinary showcase of Arabian horse breeding. With Tour regulars such as D Borkan and Shahbrys HVP returning to the ring alongside some exceptional horses from Omani breeders, the event welcomed esteemed guests and passionate fans from around the world for three days of thrilling competition and cultural celebration.
With an impressive roster of world-class contenders, the Muscat stage concluded with an unforgettable closing ceremony. The evening’s festivities celebrated Omani heritage with an enchanting display of traditional music and dance, immersing spectators in the rich culture of the region. The excitement continued with the entrance of Gold Senior Stallion Champion Berlin MP, who was honoured in a grand procession beneath a canopy of golden lights. As the final moments unfolded, the night sky was set ablaze with a breathtaking drone display
over the Arabian Gulf, marking the end of an extraordinary chapter in the Global Champions Arabians Tour.
AJ Sindala secured the first gold of Muscat for Ajman Stud, United Arab Emirates, with eight votes for gold. The refined grey filly, expertly handled by Glenn Schoukens, won her qualifying class with a score of 92 points. Dubai Arabian Horse Stud clinched the silver title with D Neeran, who placed third in her qualifying class with a score of 91.93 points, whilst the winner of Section A, Athbah, secured bronze for Qatar’s Al Thamer Stud.
Yearling colt Tashaar Al Shaqab took gold for Al Shaqab Stud of Qatar, following a class win in the qualifier with 91.79 points. Sharar Almanhal took silver for Qatar’s SK Arabians following a gold title at GCAT Ajman in January and silver in Muscat. AJ Nayd followed in the bronze position for Ajman Stud, UAE.
Shahalel Al Shaqab continued her unbeatable winning streak, taking another gold for Al Shaqab Stud, Qatar, and handler Arnauld Mertens. Shahbrys HVP followed in silver for Ajmal
SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: BERLIN MP (S.M.A. Magic One x Baraka MP); Owner Hleetan Qatar Stud, Breeder Mindy Peters. SILVER: AMMAR (RFI Farid x Adiya); Owner Almirqab Farm, Breeder Al Juman Stud. BRONZE: SHAREEM RC (FA El Rasheem x EKS Shakira); Owner and Breeder Royal Cavalry Oman
Stud of Saudi Arabia, whilst AJ Sajeel took bronze for the UAE’s Ajman Stud.
Last year’s leading male, D Borkan, returns to winning form, taking gold for Dubai Arabian Horse Stud following a class win on 92.57 points, with unanimous 20s across the board for type and head & neck. Albidayer Stud, also from the UAE, took silver with Azaam Al Amal, while D Hayel took bronze for Qatar’s Al Thamer Stud.
Former World Champion D Shihana delivered a breathtaking performance to take gold in the Senior Mare Championships for owners Dubai Arabian Horse Stud of the UAE. Ajman Stud took the silver and bronze with Al Aryam Banafsaj and RK Sadeem respectively.
The grand finale of the event saw Berlin MP crowned the Gold Senior Stallion Champion for Hleetan Stud, Qatar, after an electrifying performance. Almirqab Stud of Qatar’s Ammar stood silver, while Oman’s Royal Cavalry took bronze with Shareem RC.
As the Tour moves forward to its next destination, Shahalel Al Shaqab retains her posi-
tion at the top of the female rankings with 60 points, while Sharar Almanhal takes the lead in the male standings with 54 points. Last year’s Best Handler Paolo Capecci now leads the overall handler rankings with 153 points, following a dominant performance in Muscat.
Mr. Faleh Al-Nasr, Chairman of the Global Champions Arabians Tour, commented: “Returning to Muscat marks a special moment in our second season as we continue to celebrate the majesty and cultural significance of the Arabian horse. Oman’s rich heritage and scenic beauty provide the perfect backdrop for this event, fostering cultural exchange and showcasing the elegance of Arabian horses to the world.”w
Next month sees the Global Champions Arabians Tour return to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in the Europe and Middle East series from the 9th to the 12th of April at Jump Saudi, and makes its debut in Miami Beach, USA from the 17th to19th of April at 36th Street Park, for the second stage of the Americas series.
JUNIOR FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: SHAHALEL AL SHAQAB (NA-Mousa Al Shahania x Siwar Al Shaqab); Owner and Breeder Al Shaqab (Member of Q.F.). SILVER: SHAHBRYS HVP (Royal Asad x Rebecca HVP); Owner Turki Alothman, Breeder Agropecuária Vila dos Pinheiros. BRONZE: AJ SAJEEL (Shanghai EA x AJ Sephora); Owner and Breeder Ajman Stud – HH Sh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi.
SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: D SHIHANAH (FA El Rasheem x D Shahla); Owner and Breeder Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. SILVER: AL ARYAM BANAFSAJ (Dominic M x Al Aryam Basma); Owner Ajman Stud – HH Sh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Breeder Al Aryam Arabians. BRONZE: RK SADEEM (Magid Moniscione x BV Especially Stivana); Owner Ajman Stud – HH Sh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Breeder Rashed Khaled Alanzan (Shazin Stud).
Breeder
YEARLING FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: AJ SINDALA (Gaith Al Zobair x AJ Sajwa); Owner and Breeder Ajman Stud – HH Sh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi. SILVER: D NEERAN (Exxalt x D Shihanah); Owner and
Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. BRONZE: ATHBAH (Ghaith Al Zobair x Shamah Al Athba); Owner Al Thamer Stud, Breeder Al Athba Stud
JUNIOR COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: D BORKAN (FA El Rasheem x D Ajayeb); Owner and Breeder Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. SILVER: AZZAAM AL AMAL (EL Galal Baahir x Arabesca Scarlet Moon); Owner Sheikh Mohammed Saoud Sultan S Alqassimi, Breeder Al Amal Arabians. BRONZE: D HAYEL (D Shakhat x D Jawaher); Owner Al Thamer Stud, Breeder Dubai Arabian Horse Stud
YEARLING COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: TASHAAR AL SHAQAB (Excalibur EA x Mazaya Al Shaqab); Owner and Breeder Al Shaqab (Member of Q.F.). SILVER: SHARAR ALMANHAL (M Munther x Shams Almanhal); Owner SK Arabians, Breeder Fahed Salem Alzaabi. BRONZE: AJ NAYD (AJ Mardan x HDM Bella Ciao); Owner and Breeder Ajman Stud – HH Sh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi
Alexxanderr Claims Victory in Doha
The second stage of the Global Champions Arabians Tour delivered an unforgettable spectacle at the stunning Katara Cultural Village, 5-8 February, where world-class competition and rich cultural heritage converged from February 5th to 8th. Over the course of four thrilling days, the event welcomed thousands of visitors, including international guests and esteemed Qatari royals, further cementing Doha’s position as a premier destination for Arabian horse excellence.
With a packed grandstand and a world-class lineup of over 200 competitors, the show concluded with a spectacular closing ceremony. Gold Senior Stallion Champion Alexxanderr, owned by Al Sayed Stud, Saudi Arabia, was crowned following a breathtaking display featuring a powerful Daf instrument performance and dancing, along with a dazzling fireworks show and an innovative 2000-strong drone display, which lit up the Doha skyline, reflected in the glistening water of the Arabian Gulf.
Competition in Doha was fierce, with new contenders and Tour regulars vying to earn their points in this prestigious series, which boasts an overall prize fund of over €24,000,000 across both the Europe & Middle East and the Ameri-
cas series, as well as the World Arabian Horse Championship Supreme.
Arabella Al Shahania secured the first gold of Doha for H.H. Sheikha Yasmeen M K Al Thani of Al Shahania Stud, Qatar. Sired by LR Solo Mio, this refined yearling filly won the hearts of all judges with a unanimous vote for top honours. Qatar’s Al Jumail Stud clinched the silver title with Delayel Alsayed, who placed second to Arabella in the Yearling Fillies Section D qualifying class, whilst winner of Section C, Khuzama Ajmal secured bronze for Saudi Arabia’s Ajmal Stud, owned by Turki Alothman.
Yearling colt Al Fahad Mas took gold for Al Jumail Stud of Qatar with eight votes for the top spot. Handled by Miles Buckley, the grey colt sired by Alexxanderr scored 91.86 in the qualifier on day one. Silver went to Sharar Almanhal, who was recently purchased by Qatar’s SK Arabians following a gold title at GCAT Ajman last month. Fal followed with a bronze title for Almirqab Farm, Qatar.
Shahalel Al Shaqab took her second gold of GCAT 2025 with a win for Al Shaqab Stud, Qatar, and handler Arnauld Mertens. Al Wajba Stud’s homebred filly, Expectations Alwajba took silver with Raphael Curti, whilst Shahbrys HVP fol-
lowed in bronze for Ajmal Stud of Saudi Arabia.
As for the Junior Colts, Alwajba Stud claimed gold with LR Anselmo, a 3-year-old colt bred by Las Rosas Estancia SRL of Uruguay. During the award ceremony, GCAT Global Partners, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, an Assets Group company, presented the owners with a stay at the luxurious island resort. D Borkan, who finished top of the Male rankings in 2024 as a yearling, took silver for Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. Qatar’s Al Thamer Stud followed in the bronze medal position with D Hayel.
Returning to the ring after a two-year hiatus, former World Champion Mozn Albidayer took gold in the Senior Mare Championships for owner Alwajba Stud of Qatar, following a class win on Friday. All but one of the 11 judges voted her for gold. Silver went to Ajman Stud’s Al Aryam Banafsaj and bronze to the Al Shaqab Stud beauty, D Beisan.
Following Alexxanderr’s impressive victory in the Senior Stallion Championship with 10 out
of 11 votes for gold, silver went to Amaar for Almirqab Stud of Qatar handled by Giacomo Capacci. Bronze went to Hleetan Stud’s Berlin MP, bred in the USA by Mindy Peters.
Alongside the impressive prize money on offer, the gold Senior Mare and Stallion champions were awarded a Mercedes-Benz by GCAT Doha’s Official Automotive Partner, proudly presented by NBK Group’s Chairman, H.E. Sheikh Nawaf Bin Nasser Al Thani, plus a Purnell watch, courtesy of Local Partner, Ali Bin Ali Group.
As the Tour moves to the third stop of the Europe and Middle East series, which will take place from the 6th to the 8th of March in Muscat, Oman, Shahalel Al Shaqab retains her place at the top of the female ranking, while Sharar Almanhal moves to the top of the male rankings. Following a hat trick of gold medals, Raphael Curti moves to the top of the handler overall rankings with 110 points.
Source and photos: Global Champions Arabians Tour
SSENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: ALEXXANDERR (Excalibur EA x AR Most Irresistible
MARES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD:
FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD:
SENIOR
MOZN AL BIDAYER (S.M.A. Magic One x Mattaharii)
JUNIOR
SHAHALEL AL SHAQAB (NA-Mous Al Shahania x Siwar Al Shaqab)
YEARLING FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: ARABELLA AL SHAHANIA (LR Solo Mio x Assilah Al Shahania); Breeder and Owner H.E. Sheikha Yasmeen M K Al Thani. SILVER: DELAYEL ALSAYED (Alexxanderr x Delights Divah RB); Owner Aljumail Stud, Breeder Alsayed Stud. BRONZE: KHUZAMA AJMAL (Marquis Cahr x Myriam El Khatib); Owner Turko Alothman, Breeder Ajmal Stud.
YEARLING COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: AL FAHAD MAS (Alexxanderr x Al Bandary MAS); Owner Faisal Al Kubaisi (Al Jumail Stud), Breeder Fahad Abed N Al Boainain. SILVER: SHARAR ALMANHAL (M Munther x Shams Almanhal); Owner SK Arabians, Breeder Fahed Salem Alzaabi. BRONZE: FAL (AJ Radman x Farfalla HHC); Owner Almirqab Farm, Breeder Rawdat E’Thanya.
JUNIOR FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: SHAHALEL AL SHAQAB (NA-Mous Al Shahania x Siwar Al Shaqab); Breeder and Owner Al Shaqab (Member of Q.F.). SILVER: EXPECTATIONS ALWAJBA (Excalibur EA x Expected Beauty); Owner Al Wajbba Stud, Breeder Sheikh Al Qaqa Bin Hamad Al Thani. BRONZE: SHAHBRYS HVP (Royal Asad x Rebecca HVP), Owner Turki Alothman, Breeder Agropecuária Vila dos Pinheiros.
JUNIOR COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: LR ANSELMO (RFI Unique x LL Al-Mudena); Owner Al Wajba Stud, Breeder Las Rosas Estancia SRL. SILVER: D BORKAN (FA El Rasheem x D Ajayeb). Breeder and Owner Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. BRONZE: DD HAYEL (D Shakhat x D Jawaher). Owner Al Thamer Stud, Breeder Dubai Arabian Horses Stud.
SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: MOZN AL BIDAYER (S.M.A. Magic One x Mattaharii); Owner Al Wajba Stud, Breeder Sheikh Mohammed Sooud Sultan S Al Qassimi. SILVER: AL ARYAM BANAFSAJ (Dominic M x Al Aryam Basma); Owner Ajman Stud – HH Sh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Breeder Al Aryam Arabians. BRONZE: D BEISAN (D Seraj x RAH Rosalia); Owner Al Shaqab (Member of Q.F.), Breeder Dubai Arabian Horse Stud.
SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: ALEXXANDERR (Excalibur EA x AR Most Irresistible); Owner Khalid Bin Said Bin Abullah Al Sayed, Breeder Frances Butler & Brandi Carson. SILVER: AMMAR (RFI Farid x Adiya); Owner Almirqab Farm, Breeder Al Juman Stud. BRONZE: BERLIN MP (S.M.A. Magic One x Baraka MP); Owner Hleetan Qatar Stud, Breeder Mindy Peters.
COLTS
COLTS
JUNIOR
CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: LR ANSELMO (RFI Unique x LL Al-Mudena)
YEARLING
CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: AL FAHAD MAS (Alexxanderr x Al Bandary MAS)
Tasheem PMA Crowned Gold Stallion in Scottsdale
The Global Champions Arabians Tour’s inaugural stage of the all-new Americas series shook up the big City Tent at WestWorld of Scottsdale, Arizona, 18-20 November, bringing new energy and elevated style to the Arabian horse show scene.
With a nod to Western heritage and style, the arena came to life with performances from Native American hoop dancers, a Mariachi band and Folklorico performances, alongside a laser light show.
Held during the historic milestone 70th edition of the Scottsdale Show, GCAT attracted prominent Arabian horse industry figures from every continent to witness the first champions of the Americas series crowned.
Competition in Scottsdale was intense, with horses and handlers vying for a share of the show’s $270,000 prize money, and valuable points towards the overall ranking, which will see the Best Female, Best Male, Best Handler and Horse of the Tour crowned in the Las Vegas final this September. The Gold, Silver and Bronze champions from Scottsdale—18 in total—also secured their place at the World Arabian Horse Championship Supreme, which takes place in Doha, Qatar from 03 – 06 December 2025.
“We’ve been impressed by the caliber of horses showcased at this first stage of the Americas series, and the feedback from participants and spectators has been incredibly encouraging,” commented Sheikh Mohammed bin Nasser Al Thani, Deputy CEO of Global Champions Arabians Tour. “We extend our sincere gratitude to the Americas team for their dedication and hard work, which have made this inaugural stop on the Americas circuit a resounding success.”
The first gold title of the Americas series went to the Yearling Champion, Sedona AS, who took the top spot in Scottsdale for owner Arabian Soul Partners LTD. This refined bay filly sired by Dominic M won the qualifying class on 92.00 points. Silver went to Indira BF for Desert Sky Arabians LLC, who placed third in Tuesday’s qualifier with a score of 91.10. MD Zarah, owned and bred by Manuel Durini finished in bronze medal position, following a win in her section of the qualifying classes on Tuesday.
Calais SVB lifted gold in the Yearling Colt Championships for Silverbox Southwest LLC, convincing all but one judge following a class win of 91.80 points. Silver went to the winner of the section
A qualifier, Om El Elyrus, who scored 92.00 in his class for owner Om El Arab LLC. Aria Benito took the bronze for Aria Prestige Holdings LLC following a third place in Tuesday’s qualifier.
Top honours in the Junior Fillies Championship went to Bella Z, another of prolific sire Dominic M’s offspring, who scored 93.40 in her class for owners PCF Arabians LLC, Cindy McGown, Sam Peacemaker and Duke & Renae Mendel. With the highest score of the show and the highest championship points, she moves to the top of the female rankings. Marlayna PCF claimed silver for Orrion Farms LLC, while Bionca LMA, winner of the section a qualifier on 93.20 took bronze for Harry and Lisa Markley.
As for the Junior Colts, Stella Bella Arabians LLC claimed gold with homebred Rhaphael SBA, a 3-year-old colt by Qatar-based stallion Rhan Al Shahania. Nader Al Bidayer, also sired by Rhan Al Shahania and bred by Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, took silver for Cindy McGown and Danubius Arabians SRL. Bronze went to Wall Street B for owners Midwest Station 1 Inc.
The ethereal Exxaltress clinched gold in the Senior Mare Championships for Orrion Farms LLC. Sired by Excalibur EA, this 9-year-old scored 92.60 points to take second place in the previous day’s qualifier. Om El Belasina secured silver for Om El Arab LLC, and Katie McGregor walked away with a well-earned bronze title with the homebred Vixxen K.
In the final showdown of GCAT Scottsdale, Tasheem PMA was crowned gold stallion champion with eight votes for gold and moves to the top of the Overall Male rankings. Owned by Theresa Lungwitz, this 4-year-old stallion by Taj Raheem scored 93.20 in his class, exuding Arabian type. Royal Atticus took the silver title for Royal Arabians LLC, with Om El Benicio following in bronze for Diane Brown.
With Andy Selman topping the handler rankings on 60 points after this first stage, the Americas Tour now heads to Miami Beach, Florida, for the second stop in this five-part series from 19-20 April 2025.
Source and photos: Global Champions Arabians Tour
SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: TASHEEM PMA (Taj Raheem x Chiara Luna)
YEARLIND FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: SEDONA AS (Dominic M x CW Sexxi); Owner Arabian Soul Partners LTD, Breeder Green Pastures Arabians INC Or Colleen Cozzetto. SILVER: INDIRA BF (Ansiedad J x Cadenza BF); Owner Desert Sky Arabians LLC, Breeder Joseph Bradley Herman. BRONZE: MD ZARAH (MD Zlatan x MD Alihandra); Owner and Breeder Manuel Durini.
YEARLING COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: CALAIS SVB (Royal Asad x Caressable NA); Owner and Breeder Silverbox Southwest LLC. SILVER: OM EL ELYRUS (OM El Maximus x OM El Euphoria); Owner and Breeder OM El Arab LLC. BRONZE: ARIA BENITO (Emir Sahara x JL Beverlie); Owner and Breeder Aria Prestige Holdings LLC.
JUNIOR FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: BELLA Z (Dominic M x OFW Bella Marajj); Owner PCF Arabians LLC and Cindy McGown or Mark Davis Sam Peacemaker, Duke and Renae Mendel, Breeder Duke and Renae Mendel. SILVER: MARLAYNA PCF (Martino PCF x Layna Leona PCF); Owner Orrion Farms LLC, Breeder PCF Arabians. BRONZE: BIONCA LMA (Sharif Al Zobair x Psophia LMA); Owner Harry or Lisa Markley, Breeder Harry or Lisa Markley and David Mcrone.
JUNIOR COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: RHAPHAEL SBA (Rhan Al Shahania x Aphrodite SBA); Owner and Breeder Stella Bella Arabians LLC. SILVER: NADER AL BIDAYER (Rhan Al Shahania x Nerissa Albidayer); Owner Cindy MC Gown or Mark Davis and Danubius Arabians SRL, Breeder Sheikh Mohammed Bin Saud Al Qasimi. BRONZE: WALL STREET B (QR Marc x Juliah Andrews); Owner Midwest Station I, INC; Breeder Robert & Janene Boggs.
SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: EXXALTRESS (Excalibur EA x Vesperra); Owner Orrion Farms LLC; Breeder Francis Butler, Sybil Collins and Sandra Smith. SILVER: OM EL BELASINA (OM El Sinon x OM El Beladeena); Owner and Breeder OM El Arab LLC. BRONZE: VIXXEN K (Exxalt x Trevala FC); Owner and Breeder Katie McGregor.
SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: TASHEEM PMA (Taj Raheem x Chiara Luna); Owner Thereza Lungwitz, Breeder Patrick McGinnis or Amy Voliva. SILVER: ROYAL ATTICUS (Royal Asad x Sweet Satisfaction); Owner Royal Arabians LLC, Breeder Cindy MC Gown or Mark Savis. BRONZE: OM EL BENICIO (WH Justice x OM El Benecia); Owner Diane Brown, Breeder OM El Arab International.
SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: EXXALTRESS (Excalibur EA x Vesperra)
YEARLIND FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: SEDONA
YEARLING COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: CALAIS SVB (Royal Asad x Caressable NA)
AS (Dominic M x CW Sexxi)
FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP –
COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD:
JUNIOR
GOLD: BELLA Z (Dominic M x OFW Bella Marajj)
JUNIOR
RHAPHAEL SBA (Rhan Al Shahania x Aphrodite SBA)
Alexxanderr Triumphs in the Senior Stallion Championship of GCAT Riyadh
Taking place in the purpose-built Jump Saudi arena, the fourth stage of the Global Champions Arabians Tour in Riyadh offered a spectacular celebration of Arabian horse heritage and excellence. With Tour icons such as Shahalel Al Shaqab, D Borkan, and Berlin MP returning to the arena alongside an impressive array of Saudi and international contenders, the event drew an enthusiastic crowd of breeders, dignitaries, and fans for four days of unforgettable competition and cultural richness.
With an elite lineup of Purebred Arabian horses vying for championship titles, the Riyadh stage culminated in a grand finale that honoured Saudi culture in dazzling fashion. The closing entertainment offered a blend of traditional music and dance. The highlight came as the celebrated stallion Alexxanderr was crowned
Gold Senior Stallion Champion, receiving honours in front of a captivated audience.
Arabella Al Shahania took home the first gold for Al Shahania Stud, Qatar, winning the Yearling Fillies Championship with a polished and elegant performance. She was followed in silver by Areej Akmal, representing Saudi Arabia’s AKMAL Stud, while AJ Sindala, gold winner in Muscat, completed the podium with a bronze for Ajman Stud.
In the Yearling Colts Championship, Mistiq Al Shahania dazzled for Al Shahania Stud with fluid movement and refined type to claim gold. Nebras NA secured silver for Al Naif Stud, Saudi Arabia, while Sharar Almanhal, a consistent presence on the Tour, earned bronze for SK Arabians, Qatar.
SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: ALEXXANDERR (Excalibur EA x AR Most Irresistible); owned by Almirqab Farm and bred by Frances Butler and Brandi Carson. SILVER: BERLIN MP (S.M.A. Magic One x Baraka MP); owned by Hleetan Qatar Stud and bred by Mindy Peters. BRONZE: E.S. HARIR (AJ Dinar x TF Magnums Magic); owned by SK Arabians and bred by Sheikh Abdulla Bin Majid Alqassemi
Shahalel Al Shaqab extended her undefeated run by taking another gold for Al Shaqab Stud, Qatar in the Junior Fillies Championship, with Shahbrys HVP once again following closely in silver for Ajmal Stud, Saudi Arabia, and Expectations Alwajba taking bronze for Al Wajba Stud, Qatar.
D Borkan returned with force in the Junior Colts Championship, seizing his second consecutive gold for Dubai Arabian Horse Stud with yet another high-scoring performance. Chalino CJ earned silver for Al Shahania Stud, Qatar, while Naif Al Areeb took bronze for Al Nouf Stud, proudly representing Saudi Arabia.
The Senior Mare Championship saw a commanding win for D Beisan of Al Shaqab, delivering a flawless presentation of type and femininity. RK Sadeem earned silver for Ajman Stud, while Najla Umm Aludham earned a proud bronze for Umm Aludham Stud, Saudi Arabia.
In the final championship of the event, the renowned Alexxanderr claimed the Gold Senior Stallion Championship for AL Mirqab Farm, Qatar, with poise and strength. Berlin MP, the Muscat champion, followed with silver for Hleetan Stud, Qatar, while E.S. Harir took bronze for SK Arabians, UAE.
As the Tour progresses to its next destinations, Shahalel Al Shaqab continues to lead the female rankings with an unbeaten record, while Sharar Almanhal climbs in the male standings. The handler leaderboard remains topped by Paolo Capecci, who continues to impress with consistent performances across categories.
The Global Champions Arabians Tour returns to Europe in June for the Cannes stage, continuing its journey through some of the world’s most iconic destinations.
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Source and photos: Global Champions Arabians Tour
YEARLING FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: ARABELLA AL SHAHANIA (LR Solo Mio x Assilah Al Shahania); owned and bred by H.E. Sheikha Yasmeen M K Al Thani. SILVER:AREEJ AKMAL (Rhan Al Shahania x Badia A); owned and bred by Akmal Stud. BRONZE: AJ SINDALA (Ghaith Al Zobair x AJ Sajwa), owned and bred by Ajman Stud – HH Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi
JUNIOR FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: SHAHALEL AL SHAQAB (NA-Mous Al Shahania x Siwar Al Shaqab); owned and bred by Al Shaqab (Member of Q.F.). SILVER: SHAHBRYS HVP (Royal Asad x Rebecca HVP), Owned by Turki Alothman and bred by Agropecuária Vila dos Pinheiros. BRONZE: EXPECTATIONS ALWAJBA (Excalibur EA x Expected Beauty); Owned by Al Wajbba Stud and bred by Sheikh Al Qaqa Bin Hamad Al Thani
YEARLING COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: MISTIQ AL SHAHANIA (LR Solo Mio x Haya Al Shahania); owned and bred by HE Sheikha Iman M K Al Thani/Al Shahania Stud. SILVER: NEBRA NA (Mutabahi Al Hawajer x Bint Marajj); owned bu Mohammed Abdullah A Al Muheisen and bred by Mohammed Sulaiman Mohammed Alkhudhayr. BRONZE: SHARAR ALMANHAL (M Munther x Shams Almanhal); Owned by SK Arabians and breed by Fahed Salem Alzaabi
SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: D BEISAN (D Seraj x RAH Rosalia); owned by Al Shaqab (Member of Q.F.) and bred Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. SILVER: RK SADEEM (Magid Moniscione x BV Especially Stivana); owned by Ajman Stud – HH Sh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi and bred by Rashed Khaled ALanzan/ Shazin Stud. BRONZE: NAJLA UMM ALUDHAM (Wadee Al Shaqab x DA Magic Moment); owned and bred by Nasser Mohammed Mesfer Al Hajri
JUNIOR COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: D BORKAN (FA El Rasheem x D Ajayeb); owned and bred by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. SILVER: CHALINO CJ (Ghaly Al Hawajer x Euphoria); owned by Al Shahania Stud and bred by James Swaenepoel. BRONZE: NAIF AL AREEB (Mutabahi Al Hawajer x Ghzaia Al Dahm); owned by Al Nouf Stud and bred by Faisal Saad Jofain Al Otaibe
Exxaltress and Tasheem PMA champions at the Miami stage of the GCAT
SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: EXXALTRESS (Excalibur EA x Vesperra)
Global Champions Arabians Tour presented by Qatar Airways debuted on the sands of Miami Beach and an unforgettable Miami unveiling for the World’s Premier Arabian Horse Championship Series
The Global Champions Arabians Tour (GCAT), the world’s premier Arabian horse championship series, made an unforgettable debut in Miami with a sun-soaked, star-studded event. Held from April 17–19, 2025, this marked the second stage of the GCAT Americas series and delivered a dazzling display of world-class Arabian horse excellence, international glamour, and signature Miami Beach luxury.
Over the course of three thrilling days, the exhilarating event welcomed guests, including VIPs, industry leaders, and international media. Set against the vibrant Atlantic shoreline, the event transformed Miami Beach into a world-class equestrian stage, welcoming over 100 horses and handlers from across the globe to compete for crucial GCAT points and a share of the Americas circuit’s $2.7 million prize fund. Spectators were treated to a stunning blend of sport and spectacle, with categories judged on type, head and neck, body, legs, and movement — culminating in a thrilling final day of championship competition.
With the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop, spectators experienced the grace, power, and allure of the world’s most exceptional Arabian horses as they compete in categories judged on type, head and neck, body, legs, and movement. Each performance is a mesmerizing display of athleticism.
The grand finale on Saturday evening saw the following horses capture the prestigious Gold Championship titles:
Senior Stallions: Tasheem PMA owned by Theresa Lungwitz – Royal T Arabians, USA
Senior Mares: Exxaltress owned by Orrion Farms, USA
Junior Colts: STA High Voltaj owned by Al Wajba Stud, Qatar
SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: TASHEEM
Junior Fillies: Ibitsam Aljassimya owned by Al Jassimya Farm, USA
Yearling Colts: Masarat owned by Orrion Farms, USA
Yearling Fillies: Rohara Aria Heiress owned by The Aria Partners, USA
The competition was followed by a breathtaking performance that captivated the judging panel and audience alike. The closing ceremony featured a spellbinding show with aerial performances, immersive lighting, and live entertainment — all against the glittering Miami Beach skyline with a surprise performance of “All I do is Win” by DJ Khaled.
“The Miami Beach stage has exceeded all expectations,” said Faleh Al Nasr, Chairman of the Global Champions Arabians Tour. “We’ve brought the passion and artistry of Arabian horses to a global audience here, in a city that embraces culture, elegance, and excellence.”
The event wasn’t just about the horses — it was a full-blown cultural celebration. On Thursday evening, 17-time Grammy Award winning artist Sting delivered an unforgettable beachfront performance that drew a crowd of notables including Jeff Bezos, DJ Khaled, FIFA World Cup President Gianni Infantino, Real Housewives of Miami’s Lisa Hochstein, Julia Lemigova, and Kiki Barth, Jon Vilma, Businessman Michael Cayre, Etienne Sabino, Emily Austin, Jamie Reuben, Mario Carbone, Jeff Zalaznick, and more, setting the tone for the extraordinary weekend ahead.
On Saturday night, Miami’s own Flo Rida brought the energy sky-high with a show-stopping performance that lit up the closing night and drew appearances from DJ Khaled, Jeremy Piven, Terrence J, Model Karolina Kurkova, Julia Lemigova, Martina Navratilova, Bethenny Frankel, Gianni Infantino, Alexia Nepola, Alexis Stoudamire, Mayor of Miami Frances Suarez, keeping the beachside crowd dancing well into the night.
PMA (Taj Raheem x Chiara Luna)
Locals and international guests indulged in world-class cuisine throughout the weekend thanks to the VIP hospitality experience curated by Major Food Group, featuring dishes from celebrated restaurants Carbone, ZZ’s, and Sadelle’s. The immersive event village buzzed with activity throughout the weekend, with culinary pop-ups, luxury retail, and cultural showcases paying tribute to the spirit of Miami. The event was presented by Qatar Airways and supported by Richard Mille.
In partnership with Qatar Airways, GCAT has brought this unparalleled experience to Miami Beach.
As part of the 2025 GCAT Americas circuit, the Miami Beach stage followed the season opener in Scottsdale, Arizona, and precedes additional stages in São Paulo, (Brazil), Brandon (Canada), and Las Vegas — all leading to the grand finale at the World Arabian Horse Championship Supreme in Doha, Qatar.
São Paulo, Brazil, will host the next stage of the 2025 GCAT Americas on July 13-14, in conjunction with the 44th Brazilian National Arabian Horse Show, at the Helvetia Riding Center, in the city of Indaiatuba, State of São Paulo.
Ricardo Jamil Saliba, owner of Rach Stud and Vice President of Races of the Arabian Horse Breeders Brazilian Association, stated: “The Miami leg was fantastic; an exhibition we haven’t seen since the 1980s, when we had the show event, and with that we attracted new people to the world of Arabian horses. The Global Champions Arabians Tour is a program, both in Europe and the Americas, that aims to put the Purebred Arabian horse in the place it deserves; and for people to understand how important it is to have an Arabian horse. And all this festivities reinforce how valuable our horse is. And we look forward to hosting the next leg of the Global Champions Arabians Tour Americas and being able to welcome guests with the traditional Brazilian welcome.”
CHAMPIONSHIPS
YEARLING FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: ROHARA ARIA HEIRESS (Ibn Farid x Diamond of Azraff); owned by The Aria Partners LLC and bred by Rohara Arabians LLC. SILVER: SEDONA AS (Dominic M x CW
JUNIOR FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: IBTISAM ALJASSIMYA (Ibn Farid UAE x Juhaina Aljassimya)
Sexxi); owned by Arabian Soul Partners and Cindy Mcgown and Mark Davis and bred by Green Pastures Arabians INC or Colleen Cozzatto. BRONZE: MAIA AS (Dominic C x Marbella PCF), owned by Arabian Soul Partners and Cindy Mcgown and Mark Davis and bred by Arabian Soul Partners LTD.
YEARLING COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: MASARAT (Dominic M x Mulan ITSB), owned by Orrion Farms LLC and bred by Peng Jiang. SILVER: SVB CALAIS (Royal Asad x Caressable NA), owned by Cindy McGown or Mark Davis and Al Ameera Stud and bred by Silverbox Southwest LLC. BRONZE: OM EL ELYRUS (OM El Maximus x OM El Euphoria), owned and bred by OM El Arab International.
JUNIOR FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: IBTISAM ALJASSIMYA (Ibn Farid UAE x Juhaina Aljassimya), owned and bred by Aljassimya Farm. SILVER: VIVACIOUS VC (Rhan Al Shahania x Sybylla UA), owned by Marsha Thompson and bred by Paul and Nicole Reece. BRONZE: FELIX AJMAL MALAK (Dominic M x Felix Ajmal Mora), owned and bred by Felix Arabia.
JUNIOR COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: STA HIGH VOLTAJ (Taj Raheem x Rose CME), owned by Al Wajba Stud and bred by Marion Maschke or Andreas Maschke. SILVER: RFI PAVAROTTI (RFI Unique x Preferida Rach), owned by Royal Arabians LLC and bred by Rodrigo Foz Forte. BRONZE: RAPHAEL SBA (Rhan Al Shahania x Aphrodite SBA), owned and bred by Stella Bella Arabians LLC.
SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: EXXALTRESS (Excalibur EA x Vesperra), owned by Orrion Farms LLC and bred by Francis Butler, Sybil Collins and Sandra Smith. SILVER: PERFINKA (Esparto x Perfirka), owned by Alrajhiat Stud and bred by Bilka State Stud Farm. BRONZE: VIXXEN K (Exxalt x Trevala FC), owned and bred by Katie McGregor.
SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: TASHEEM PMA (Taj Raheem x Chiara Luna), owned by Theresa Lungwitz and bred by Patrick MgGinnis or Amy Voliva. SILVER: ROYAL ATTICUS (Royal Asad x Sweet Satisfaction), owned by PCF Arabians – Sam Peacemaker and bred by Cindy McGown or Mark Davis. BRONZE: VESPASCIAN (Shanghai EA x Vesperra), owned by Suzanna Hupp and bred by Frances Butler and Sybil Collins and Sandra Smith.
Source: Global Champions Arabians Tour (GCAT) and Cidinha Franzão
JUNIOR COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: STA HIGH VOLTAJ (Taj Raheem x Rose CME)
YEARLING FILLIES
CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: ROHARA ARIA HEIRESS (Ibn Farid x Diamond of Azraff)
YEARLING COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP – GOLD: MASARAT (Dominic M x Mulan ITSB)
Monsenhor Rach Wins for the Fourth Time In a Row and Makes History in Arabian Horse Racing in Brazil
On May 2nd, at the Cidade Jardim Racetrack in São Paulo, the purebred Arabian Monsenhor Rach shone once again by winning the Revista do Cavalo Árabe Handicap Prize, while also setting a new record for the 2,000-meter turf race.
The race began with Allure BV (*D’Jok Py x *Arzade Cabirat by Rhalan Cabirat), ridden by apprentice Danilo Novais, taking the lead up until the final 400 meters. That’s when Monsenhor Rach (Seraphin Du Paon x Musa Rach by *Polonez) launched a powerful attack on the outside under the precise guidance of jockey Ruberlei Viana. Closely followed by Stud Brasil Gávea (Stud Brasil Mondesir x *Manari by Dormane), ridden by Marcos Ribeiro, he unleashed an impressive sprint.
With a powerful burst in the final stretch, Monsenhor Rach surged ahead and crossed the finish line with an 8 ¾-length lead over the runner-up — despite carrying 64 kg, 12 kg more
than his main rival. His final time was 2:19.355, breaking the previous record of 2:20.674 held by Atentaddo VE since May 3, 2015.
With this achievement, Monsenhor Rach becomes the first Arabian horse to win four consecutive races in Brazil (February 8, March 8, March 30 and May 2), from just seven total starts. He debuted in September 2024 with a third-place finish, fifth place on November, but since December, when he was the runner-up, has embarked on a flawless trajectory in 2025.
This year, he has triumphed under the following conditions: 1,400 meters on dirt, 1,600 meters on turf, 1,800 meters on turf in Paraná (over 400 km from São Paulo), and 2,000 meters on turf in this latest historic victory.
A 4-year-old bay stallion bred by Rach Stud, Monsenhor Rach is the son of the French stallion Seraphin Du Paon and the mare Musa Rach. He
is known for his strategic racing style: starting calmly, staying mid-pack, and then unleashing a powerful finish in the final stretch.
Third place went to RG El Bak (RG Karat x *Endora by Wojslaw), ridden by Jeffecleone Bispo, who made a strong recovery in the final meters to overtake Allure BV.
Trainer Lucas Quintana stated: “Monsenhor keeps improving with every race. At first, he was difficult to manage — he even failed to take the turn in his second race — but since December he’s become a much more professional horse. Today, even under heavy weight and strong competition, he broke the 2,000-meter record. He’s a great representative of the Rach Stud’s M line and will surely bring us many more joys.”
Jockey Ruberlei Viana added: “Lucas (Quintana) is an excellent trainer, and Monsenhor Rach is a spectacular horse. This was our second win together — the first was in Paraná. He gets better with every performance. I just let him do what he knows best: run.”
Ricardo Jamil Saliba, breeder and owner of Rach Stud, said: “It was a historic race, with toplevel competitors. We hadn’t seen a 2,000-meter race since 2015. He not only won but also broke Atentaddo VE’s record — who also carried 64 kg. We are very happy with this outstanding performance.”
The Revista do Cavalo Árabe Handicap Prize was organized by the Arabian Horse Breeders Brazilian Association in partnership with the Jockey Club of São Paulo, and reinforces Monsenhor Rach’s status as one of the leading figures in contemporary Arabian horse racing in Brazil.
By Cidinha Franzão. Photos Porfírio Menezes
Monsenhor Rach Claims Third Consecutive Victory!
After winning the first two races held in São Paulo, Monsenhor Rach shone once again—this time on Paraná soil—by claiming victory in the Grande Prêmio Cláudio Roberto Guimarães Ribas. The race marked the return of the Arabian Purebred horses to the Hipódromo do Tarumã, in Curitiba.
On Sunday, March 30, after 23 years, the Jockey Club of Paraná once again hosted an Arabian Horse race, in an event that went far beyond the track. In partnership with the Brazilian Association of Arabian Horse Breeders (ABCCA), the audience enjoyed a full cultural experience, including traditional music, dance performances, and Arabian cuisine.
Right after the break, Stud Brasil Gávea (Stud Brasil Mondesir x Manari by Dormane), ridden by Jeffecleone Bispo, and Ozymandias Rach (Sir Bani Yas x Orchestra Rach by Vaillant Rach), with Leandro S. Santos aboard, fiercely contested the lead. Halfway down the backstretch, Cromo D’Jok, guided by Gabriel Santana, surged on the outside to take the lead. Meanwhile, Monsenhor Rach (Seraphin Du Paon x Musa Rach by *Polonez), ridden by Ruberlei Viana, had already moved into third place.
At the top of the stretch, Cromo D’Jok Trio opened up a slight lead—but not for long. With an impressive burst on the outside, Monsenhor Rach took over in just a few strides and then
confidently maintained his advantage until the finish line, winning by 2¼ lengths. Completing the board were Stud Brasil Gávea, Ozymandias Rach, and RG Kometa.
Trained by Lucas Quintana, the 4-year-old chestnut Monsenhor Rach clocked 2:05.14 minutes for the 1,800 meters on a light turf course.
“Monsenhor Rach is an exceptional horse with a fantastic pedigree. He is the son of Musa Rach, who also produced Menthor Rach—a seven-time winner—and Marlize Rach, with three victories. He had already shown promise, but now he’s really flying. Even with two turns, the time was excellent. It was truly a fantastic race,” said trainer Lucas Quintana.
“I followed Quintana’s instructions to the letter: holds him back at the start and then let him do what he loves most—run. He’s an extraordinary horse. A wonderful victory,” said jockey Ruberlei Viana.
“Since birth, Monsenhor has been one of our favorite horses, thanks to his pedigree: sired by Seraphin Du Paon, one of the top racehorses in France, and Musa Rach, a pure Polish
mare. The victory was amazing, but I’d like to highlight the success of the event—there was a great turnout, driven by curiosity to see an Arabian horse race. It was moving to see the crowd cheering,” said Ricardo Jamil Saliba, breeder and owner of Rach Stud; and Vice President of Races at ABCCA.
Ricardo also extended thanks to Guilherme L. Ronconi Marques, Director of Social Communication and Marketing at the Jockey Club do Paraná, and to President Paulo Irineu Pelanda for their support and partnership with ABCCA.
The starting gate, located right in front of the main grandstand, drew a large crowd eager to watch every moment of the race up close.
The Grande Prêmio Cláudio Roberto Guimarães Ribas was organized by the Arabian Horse Breeders Brazilian Association, at the invitation of the Hipódromo do Tarumã and the Jockey Club do Paraná —a triumphant return of the Arabian breed to the Paranaense turf scene.
By Cidinha
Franzão. Photos: Jockey Club do Paraná / Felipe Neves
Monsenhor Rach Secures Second Consecutive Victory in the Filhos do Deserto Race
Monsenhor Rach confirmed his excellent form by securing, in commanding fashion, his second consecutive victory in the Filhos do Deserto Race. With his trademark style of starting calmly among the midfielders and advancing confidently in the final stretch, the 4-year-old bay crossed the finish line with a 2¾-length lead over the runner-up.
The race took place at the Cidade Jardim Racetrack on March 8, over a distance of 1,600 meters, this time on turf. The event featured seven competitors 3-years-old and older and Monsenhor Rach recorded a time of 1:50.471.
From the start until the final 200 meters, the lead was hotly contested between Cromo D’Jok (*D’Jok PY x RT Crysti, by Nawwak NA), ridden by Gabriel Santana on the outside, and Ozymandias Rach (*Sir Bani Yas x Orchestra Rach, by Vaillant Rach), with Fernando Larroque on the inside.
Once again under the precise guidance of Jeane Alves, Monsenhor Rach (Seraphin Du Paon x Musa Rach, by *Polonez) showed his trademark composure. With a powerful surge, he overtook
Cromo D’Jok, pulled ahead, and claimed the lead with authority.
In the final meters, Cromo D’Jok was further challenged by Stud Brasil Gávea (Stud Brasil Mondesir x *Manari, by Dormane), ridden by Jeffecleone Bispo, who advanced on the inside to secure second place.
“We are very happy with this second victory. It was an excellent race, and Monsenhor Rach once again demonstrated his style: he tracks his opponents calmly and finishes with confidence to win,” celebrated Ricardo Jamil Saliba, breeder and owner of Rach Stud Agropecuária.
Trainer Lucas Quintana also praised the horse’s development: “Monsenhor Rach took a little while to stand out in his early races, but he was always among the front runners. He likes to run freely, which is why the jockeys hold him back at the start and then let him do what he loves most: run and win.”
Filhos do Deserto handicap race was organized by the Arabian Horse Breeders Brazilian Association in partnership with the São Paulo Jockey Club.
Monsenhor Rach Triumphs at Cidade Jardim
After securing a second-place finish in his previous race, Monsenhor Rach, expertly ridden by Jeane Alves, clinched victory in the Handicap Award – UAE President Cup Arabian New Year. This inaugural race of the year took place on February 8 at São Paulo’s Hipódromo de Cidade Jardim.
The 1,400-meter dirt race for 3-YO and over, featured six competitors, four of which had previously won significant races, while the remaining two had secured runner-up positions. Organized by the Arabian Horse Breeders Brazilian Association in collaboration with the Jockey Club of São Paulo, the event highlighted the prominence of Arabian horse racing in Brazil.
Sired by Seraphin Du Paon, the 4-year-old chestnut Monsenhor Rach (out of Musa Rach by *Polonez) demonstrated his signature racing style. He began the race conservatively, allowing rivals Cromo D’Jok Trio (*D´Jok PY x RT Crysti by Nawwak NA) and Ozymandias Rach (Sir Bani Yas x Orchestra Rach by Vaillant Rach) to vie for the lead. With remarkable stamina and determination, Monsenhor Rach surged from the inside in the final stretch, overtaking his competitors and finishing 9¼ lengths ahead of Cromo D’Jok Trio, ridden by Gabriel Santana.
Stablemate Passamarie Rach (Mared Al Sahra x Passion Rach by Vaillant Rach), under Luís Henriques, secured third place.
Breeder and owner Ricardo Jamil Saliba of Rach Stud expressed his enthusiasm: “We are
very happy with his victory. The race was excellent; he had been training very well, and we are confident that many achievements will follow.”
Trained by Lucas Quintana, Monsenhor Rach is the first offspring of the French stallion Seraphin Du Paon to race in Brazil. He is also the third descendant of Musa Rach to win on Brazilian tracks, reinforcing the lineage’s legacy of success.
Saliba reflected on the breeding choices: “Seraphin was the horse that impressed me the most, both for his beauty and conformation, when we imported his semen. We had high expectations for his offspring. Additionally, Monsenhor’s mother, Musa Rach, is also the dam of Mentor Rach, who won seven races, and Marlise Rach, with three victories. She is a renowned matron, with three victorious sons at the Jockey Club, which is a record.”
Rach Stud Agropecuária once again dominated the race by entering three competitors: Monsenhor Rach, Passamarie Rach, and Ozymandias Rach, all trained by Lucas Quintana.
The Handicap Award – UAE President Cup Arabian New Year was organized by the Arabian Horse Breeders Brazilian Association in partnership with the Jockey Club of São Paulo, underscoring the growing importance of Arabian horse racing in the national sporting landscape.
By Cidinha Franzão. Photos: Paulo Evangelista
RB Kingmaker takes his crown in the Al Mneefah Cup
The fourth running of the US$1.5m Al Mneefah Cup sponsored by Ministry of Culture for Purebred Arabians was a thriller RB Kingmaker (USA, Baseq Al Khalediah x Rb Royale Madame) rallied widest of all, asserted himself over leading contender Asfan Al Khalediah (KSA) at the top of the stretch and held off a late rally from eventual runner-up Nabucco Al Maury (FR) to win by one length under Cristian Demuro.
It was another half-length back to Asfan Al Khalediah in third. The final time was 2:20.298 for 2100m over the King Abdulaziz Racecourse turf course.
Trained by Helal Alalawi, principal of UAEbased National Stables, the 6-year-old son of Baseq Al Khalediah broke from post 12 of 13 and was widest of all throughout the running of the race. Piloted with chilly confidence by the France-based Italian jockey, the grey won his second career Group 1, following the February 2024 edition of the HH The President Cup in Abu Dhabi.
The win was especially fulfilling for Helal Alalawi, who has long heralded RB Kingmaker as
one of the best horses he has trained, as he had finished finished second (Soko, 2022), fifth (Fettah Du Loup, 2022) and fifth (Joe Star, 2024) in previous editions.
“I anticipated the moment they would quicken, as I know the Al Khalediah. So I always had my eye on them. If you don’t attack, they always get away. I surprised them a little and my horse responded well. He is a horse I have always ridden and I know him well. It is fabulous to win this race. It is a Group 1 race and this also opens the doors for Dubai and elsewhere”, said jockey Cristian Demuro.
Trainer Helal Alalawi said: “There are no words to tell you how I’m feeling. To be honest, this has been a dream that has now come true. Today is one of the biggest achievements we have in our career. Cristian executed the race exactly how we asked him to and was perfect. He knows the horse, and as you saw, we saw the real Kingmaker today.”
Credit: Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia //Mathea Kelly
Tilal Al Khalediah the hero once again in the Obaiyah Arabian Classic
The Naser Mutlaq-trained Tilal Al Khalediah (KSA) wrote himself into the history books when he stormed home in the US$2m Obaiyah Arabian Classic presented by Diriyah, a Group 1 event for Purebred Arabians. He won a second Obaiyah Arabian Classic, though in a slower time than 2024. The race was disputed in 2000m at the King Abdulaziz Racecourse.
It was the third year in a row that the ultra-consistent performer on all surfaces has struck here, having landed the same race in 2023 and the Al Mneefah Cup 12 months ago. He would continue a fine 2024 by running away with the Dubai Kahayla Classic, and is now an Arabian G1 champion on both grass and dirt.
It was the third year in a row that the ultra-consistent performer on all surfaces has struck here, having landed the same race in 2023 and the Al Mneefah Cup 12 months ago. He would continue a fine 2024 by running away with the Dubai Kahayla Classic.
Ridden by his regular jockey Adel Alfouraidi for trainer Nasser Mutlaq and the Al Khalediah Stables, Tilal Al Khalediah (Laith Al Khalediah x Aaseyat Al Khalediash) was always to the fore and disputed the lead with Barakka (GB, AF Al Buraq x Laqataat)) but the event was over turning into the straight as he galloped three and a half lengths clear of Eifrit (FR, Jenjal x Gaswa) in a time of 2:16.382.
Jockey Adel Alfouraidi said: “It’s an honour to win this race again. I know this horse, he loves this track, and I was not afraid of any of the other horses.”
“This horse, I love him so much. Group 1 after Group 1, he does it every time. He can go for the Kahayla in Dubai now. He makes me happy. I’ve known him for five years and he’s a champion and I have a great team working with me”, said trainer Naser Mutlaq.
Credit: Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia //Mathea Kelly
Bianca De Ghazal Dazzes in HH The Amir Silver Sword!
A star in the making! Bianca De Ghazal (Al Mourtajez x Brin D’Amour De Gazal) confirmed her immense potential with a stunning victory in the HH The Amir Silver Sword for 4YO Purebred Arabians over 2100m. Owned by Nasser Abdulla A A Al-Mesned and trained by Xavier-Thomas Demeaulte, the talented grey filly delivered a scintillating turn of foot under Jim Crowley, storming past the leaders to secure a one-length victory. This triumph marked Bianca De Ghazal’s second consecutive win in just her third career start, further solidifying her reputation as an exciting young prospect in the Purebred Arabian ranks.
The race began with Hamas La Gloire (AF Al Bahar x Margaux’s Moon) taking up the early lead, closely pursued by Intisar De Monlau (Al Mamun Monlau x Leila De Monlau), who pressed forward to challenge the frontrunner. The tempo remained steady as both battled for
supremacy. As the field turned for home, Bianca De Ghazal made her move in emphatic fashion, surging forward from the outside with a devastating late sweep to overtake the leaders and power to victory.
Lacaro Du Croate (No Risk Al Maury x Beanie Du Croate), trained by Xavier-Thomas Demeaulte and ridden by Pierre-Charles Boudot for owner Mansoor bin Khalil bin Mansoor Al Shahwani, finished second while Intisar De Monlau, representing Mubarak Ali M Al-Nuaimi and trained by Mrs. Jean-François Bernard, held on for third, a further half a length behind under Jean-Bernard Eyquem.
With this performance, Bianca De Ghazal has firmly announced herself as one of the most exciting young Purebred Arabians in training and her future looks exceptionally bright.
Source: Mohamed Saad/QREC. Photo: Juhaim/QREC
Al Ghadeer retains Sword and Triple Crown
Al Ghadeer Creates History with Back-toBack HH The Amir Sword Triumph and Doha Triple Crown Glory
There are champions and then there is Al Ghadeer (Al Mourtajez x Gharraa)—a horse whose name is now etched among the immortals. Under the silks of Al Shaqab Racing, the Francois Rohaut-trained superstar delivered yet another breathtaking performance to capture the HH The Amir Sword (Gr1-PA) for the second consecutive year, securing an unprecedented Doha Triple Crown double in the process.
With Christophe Soumillon in the saddle, Al Ghadeer once again showcased his dominance over 2300 meters, overcoming a strong challenge from Al Doha (Al Mourtajez x Topaze Du Croate) in the final strides to win by one and a half lengths. The Thomas Fourcy-trained runner-up, owned by H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa Al Thani, gave a determined chase under Mickael Barzalona, but could not deny history.
A further one and a half lengths behind, HM Alchahine (Al Mourtajez x Al Chyhanah),
representing National Stables and trained by Helal Al Alawi, finished third under Cristian Demuro, completing a podium sweep for the progeny of Al Mourtajez.
The race unfolded with Afjan (TM Fred Texas x Muzoon) setting the early tempo, while Al Ghadeer settled in mid-division. Nour Al Maury (Azadi x Nectarina Al Maury) made a bold move to press forward, positioning himself second. As the race developed, Al Ghadeer gained ground along the rail, smoothly shifting into fourth. Approaching the final bend, Soumillon urged his mount forward, and Al Ghadeer responded in style—hitting the front as they straightened for home.
Despite a determined late surge from Al Doha, Al Ghadeer found another gear, storming to the line in emphatic fashion to reaffirm his place as the undisputed king of Purebred Arabian racing.
Source: Mohamed Saad/QREC. Photo: Juhaim/QREC
Al Wakrah Reigns Supreme in Gr1 PA Qatar International Cup!
In a stunning display of class, Al Wakrah (TM Fred Texas x Majida), owned by Al Shaqab Racing, triumphed in the Qatar International Cup (Gr1-PA), a 4YO+ Purebred Arabian race over 1400m, marking her return to winning ways in style. Under the expert guidance of Olivier d’Andigne, the 7YO mare powered through the field in the final 200m to surge past the leaders and secure victory by a length for trainer Jean de Mieulle.
The race began with Nemr (TM Fred Texas x Al Dhabi) and AJS Saaeq (AF Al Bahar x Sahab Al Zaeem) setting a strong early pace, with Jabalah (Al Mamun Monlau x Kouthar) positioned just behind. As they approached the final bend, AJS Saaeq made a move to lead alone, but Al
Wakrah showed her true grit, improving in the home stretch to take command and power to the front. Luwsail (Al Mourtajez x Al Dowha), also owned by Al Shaqab Racing and trained by Francois Rohaut, finished in second under Faleh Bughanaim while Jabalah, owned by Wathnan Racing and trained by Alban de Mieulle, was third, only a short head behind, with James Doyle aboard. This victory further elevates Al Wakrah’s already impressive career and with her undeniable talent, she continues to be a dominant force in the Purebred Arabian racing world.
Source: Mohamed Saad/QREC. Photo: Juhaim/QREC
Amjaad wins on debut in Qatar Prix Massoud
The European Purebred Arabian racing season got underway on Friday, 28th March, with the first event for unraced three-year-olds, the QREC-sponsored Qatar Prix Massoud, taking place at Bordeaux Le Bouscat.
Amjaad (Azadi) made an exceptional impression for her debut, winning the 1400m race by two lengths. Trained by Thomas Fourcy, the filly is owned and bred by Al Shaqab Racing and was one of only two fillies taking on the colts in the eight-runner field.
After jumping out quietly from the gates, Amjaad was positioned at the rear of the field under a patient ride from jockey Margot Romary. She was accompanied on the outside by Al Shaqab Racing’s Ad Debel (Mahabb). Still in second last position turning into the home straight, she showed an impressive turn of foot to surge past her rivals with ease. She powered up the
centre of the track to hit the front 50 metres from the line, pulling two lengths clear at the line. Early leader Mahrouse (Mahabb) held on for second in the colours of Yas Horse Racing Management while Mansoor De Faust (Mister Ginoux) finished third for the silks of Ahmed Feghouli a neck further back.
Amjaad is the first registered foal out of Almajdah winner of the Gr.3 PA Prix Nevada II over a mile at three. Almajdah, who was also bred by Al Shaqab Racing, is a daughter of TM Fred Texas and Ajdabya (AF Albahar), who also produced the winning Latam (TM Fred Texas). Ajdabya is a sister to Aba’Ath (Amer), winner of the Gr.1 PA Qatar International Cup. The fourth dam is none other than the great Cherifa, genetrix of countless champions.
Source: QREC/JDG
Ray’q triumphs in a thrilling HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Thani Trophy
Al Uqda Racecourse hosted the prestigious action-packed HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Thani Trophy race meeting on Thursday, 13th March, and in the penultimate and feature race of the day, Ray’q (Azadi x Zahwah) returned to the winner’s enclosure with a thrilling victory in the HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Thani Trophy for 4YO+ Local Purebred Arabians over 2100m. The 6YO horse, owned by H.E. Sheikha Reem bint Mohammed bin Khalifa Al-Thani and trained by Rudy Nerbonne, secured his sixth win in just 10 starts after a fierce battle in the home straight. Jockey Olivier d’Andigne delivered a determined ride as Ray’q fought stride for stride with stablemate Aneed Al Shahania (Azadi x Al Anga) before edging ahead by a head at the line, completing a double for the rider.
Galeb Al Shahania (Burning Sand x Gidwa) dictated the pace for most of the race, but Ray’q and Aneed Al Shahania stormed past in the home straight, pulling well clear of the rest of the field. The final stages turned into a thrilling duel between the two stablemates carrying the same colours, with Ray’q just managing to get his head in front. Aneed Al Shahania (Azadi), ridden by Lukas Delozier, completed a onetwo for H.E. Sheikha Reem bint Mohammed bin Khalifa Al-Thani and trainer Rudy Nerbonne, while Layeq (T M Fred Texas x Ramdha), owned by Khalifa bin Sheail Al Kuwari, trained by Julian Smart and ridden by Pierre Charles Boudot, finished a distant third, five lengths behind.
Source: Mohamed Saad/QREC. Photos Juhaim/QREC
Arman storms to victory in Mared Al Sahra Cup
The day’s sixth race saw Arman (Amer x Qatar Sun) return to the winner’s enclosure in sensational fashion in the Mared Al Sahra Cup, Local Purebred Arabian Conditions, 4YO+, over 1400m. The 5YO gelding, owned by Wathnan Racing and trained by Alban de Mieulle, had come close in recent outings, but found his stride here.
He unleashed blistering speed in the home straight, overtaking the long-time leader and kicking clear to win by a commanding three and a half lengths under an expertly timed ride from jockey Soufiane Saadi. Ezzat Nafs (AF Al Bahar x Bnt Al Ajwad) and ridden by Fayos Martin Borja, took the early lead and maintained it until the home straight. She was closely followed by Al
Sij Al Sakab (TM Fred Texas Gaza) and later by Tayyar Al Shahania (Jaafer ASF x Ala Albal).
While Ezzat Nafs looked on course for victory around the home bend, Arman produced a massive late surge in the home straight, sweeping past the leading group and drawing clear for an emphatic triumph. Ezzat Nafs, finished second after leading for much of the race. Al Mirage (AF Al Bahar x New Princess), owned by Al Shaqab Racing, trained by Jean de Mieulle, and ridden by Faleh Bughanaim, finished strongly to take the third place, a further one and a quarter lengths behind.
Source: Mohamed Saad/QREC. Photos Juhaim/QREC
Sarastro digs deep for victory in the Mared Al Sahra Premium Maiden Cup
Sarastro (AF Al Bahar x Josbella) displayed resilience and determination to secure his maiden victory in the day’s opener, the Mared Al Sahra Premium Maiden Cup for Purebred Arabians, 4-6YOs, over 2100m.
The 4YO colt, owned by Nasser Saif A R AlKubaisi and trained by Mohammed Ghazali, settled smartly near the leaders before launching his challenge in the home straight. Under a well-timed ride from Arnaud De Lepine, he found an extra gear to snatch a hard-fought win by a neck.
Motaghatres (AF Al Bahar x Spiralle), owned by Khalifa bin Sheail Al Kuwari and trained by Julian Smart, set the early pace alongside Songe Al Maury (Munjiz x Savavit Al Maury), dictating
the tempo throughout the race. As they turned for home, Motaghatres, ridden by Jefferson Smith, remained in front, but both Sarastro and Safeer Al Shahania (Munjiz x Mantalo), owned by Al Ghazali Stud, trained by Gassim Ghazali and ridden by Marco Casament, finished powerfully, one on the inside and the other on the outside, surging past the long-time leader in the final strides.
The valiant Safeer Al Shahania secured second place, finishing just a neck behind Sarastro, while Motaghatres took third, further one and a half lengths behind.
Source: Mohamed Saad/QREC. Photos: Juhaim/ QREC
Mubeed wins Gr1 Al Maktoum Challenge Round 3
Thoroughbred Arabian Mubeed (Mahabb x Jazeerah Al Reef) already had a place in the G1 Dubai Kahayla Classic courtesy of his victory in the G1 Maktoum Challenge Round 1 in December, but he made it doubly sure by winning the Al Maktoum Challenge Round 3, held on March 1 at Meydan and sponsored by Arabian Adventures, too, giving trainer Dr Jaber Bittar a third toplevel success of the season.
The five-year-old gelding bred and owned by Al Reef Stables, UAE, was ridden by Ray Dawson, who waited until the home straight to begin his march on long-time leader Hiab Al Zaman, winning comfortably by three and a half lengths from Majed Al Jahoori’s Tariq AF Albahar x Atheer), ridden by Mickael Barzalona
and bred and owned by Yas Racing, with Hiab Al Zaman (Hilal Al Zaman x My Shelby Cobra), ridden by Tadhg O’Shea, trained by Fawzi Nass and owned by Victorious from Bahrain, tiring into third place.
Mubeed’s stablemate Unleashed (Valiant Boy x Caviyar), ridden by Richard Mullen secured fourth place.
“I was delighted to see Mubeed bounce back from his disappointing run last time,” said Dawson. “We thought a lot of him when he won his Group 1 here two months ago. I knew he’d give me that turn of foot, as long as I got an outside run, I knew he’d find a lot.”
Source: Dubai Racing Club. Photo: Emirates Racing Authority
