The Arabian Racehorse Issue 1

Issue No.1

22nd April 2015

T H E

A R A B I A N

RACEHORSE

French Breds Dominate in Doha and Dubai UK Season Preview Part 1

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T H E

A R A B I A N

RACEHORSE Issue 1 - 22nd April 2015 3

News

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French Breds Dominate in Doha and Dubai Full reports of the HH Emir's Trophy International Festival , Doha Triple Crown and the Dubai World Cup opener, the Kahayla Classic

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Shadwell Super 7 Competition Free to enter competition for the UK racing season sponsored by Shadwell Stud

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UK Season Preview Part One In support of the Shadwell Super 7 competition, some of the Arabian Racing Organisation regulars give their 'First Team' selections

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Farewell Susanna Tribute to Fegentri Secretary General, Susanna Santesson

Produced by equine creative media Stable Flat, Moreton Manor Stud, South Moreton, Oxon, OX11 9AH equinecreativemedia@gmail.com 00 44 7782 349 047

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NEWS QATAR RACING &EQUESTRIAN CLUB UK SPONSORSHIP Changes in the senior personnel at Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) have resulted in the new management team reviewing their overseas sponsorship commitments.

QREC, who have been one of the Arabian Racing Organisation's (ARO) major sponsors at grass-roots level for the past five years, have decided to discontinue all UK sponsorship, with the exception of the first leg of the Group 1 Doha Triple Crown, to be run at Goodwood in August.

ARO confirmed that they will be continuing with the breeders' scheme, albeit with reduced premiums, though are still in discussions with QREC regarding a revised scheme as part of their new sponsorship strategy.

ARO also confirmed that all races and prize money will remian as stated in the Part One Calendar.

ZAYIN ZACHILLES SCOOPS AHS AWARD The Arab Horse Society Performance Awards recognise performance horses in ridden disciplines in three sections: purebred, part-bred and AngloArabs. Awards are also made to individual winners in each affilitated discipline, with free entry to horses owned by AHS members.

The 2014 High Points Racing Champion Award went to ZAYIN ZACHILLES (Kaolino x CS Comete).

"I am delighted my homebred colt Zayin Zachilles won the AHS Performance Horse Awards - High Points Racing Champion, along with being 2014 Reserve UK Champion Arab Racehorse," enthused Paul Simmons.

"He has won four races now, from 7 furlongs to a mile and six furlongs and has been consistently placed. He has been a superstar for my stud and is a real flag bearer for Zayin breeding, and I am very proud of him."

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FRENCH BREDS DOMINATE IN DOHA & DUBAI DEBBIE BURT When, in January this year, the International Federation of Arabian Horse Racing Authorities (IFAHR) named AL MOUWAFFAK (FR) as the top rated three year old (on 116) and DJAINKA DES FORGES (FR) as the joint top rated older horse of 2014 (along with AL TAIR (GB)) on 124, it was only the beginning of what has been an impressive start to the 2015 season for the ‘FR’ suffix.

On the domestic scene, of the horses registered with the Arabian Racing Organisation (ARO) to date, seven of the top ten rated horses (95+) are also French bred, with Dubai International Stakes (Gr1) winner AL HIBAAB (FR) topping the table on 117. In that top ten, only the President of the UAE Cup (LR) winner LAHOOB and the Emirates Equestrian Federation International Stakes (Gr2) winner

Djainka Des Forges (FR) wins the 2014 Qatar Arabian World Cup ahead of Al Tair (GB)

Both the Group 1 events of the HH Emir’s Sword Festival, the Qatar International Trophy and the Emir’s Sword, went to French bred winners in MISTER GINOUX (FR) and AL MOURTAJEZ (FR). This was soon followed by another impressive Group 1 success when MANARK (FR) led from pillar to post in the Kahayla Classic in Dubai. Even more remarkable was the fact that the first five horses home in that event were all foaled in France.

SALAAMA represent British foaled runners, though both carry French blood on the dam’s side.

Given the history and commitment that France has given to the breeding of the Purebred Arabian racehorse, this is hardly surprising and despite other breeeders efforts around the world, this dominance is unlikely to be challenged in the foreseeable future.

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H.H. The Emir 24th International Equestrian Sword Festival – Doha, Qatar This year’s HH Emir’s Sword Festival not only provided three days of top class Arabian racing, but also announced the Doha Triple Crown - to be run in three countries, with a $1,000,000 bonus to the winner of all three races.

Al Mourtajez (FR) in the parade ring in Doha THE ARABIAN RACEHORSE

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The Festival features three days of mixed Arabian and Thoroughbred racing, plus two Ladies Fegentri series races and match races for local Arabians. The Tuesday was the most relaxed of the three days and the main race of the day, the Gulf Cup for Arabians bred in the Gulf States, went to the leading trainer and jockey combination of Jassim Al Ghazali and Harry Bentley with AL MUJAHAZ (QA) (Hafid Du Bac x Kerjam).

bringing him back after he suffered an injury. They went a good gallop and I was drawn one and I wanted to make use of such a good draw. Once I came off the bend, AL MUJAHAZ was travelling so well, I did not want him to go too soon.

When I asked him to quicken, he did it so well. He has got so much ability. He has won on pure class.”

The Fengentri conditions race over 7 furlongs for Arabians produced a one-two for the Julian Smart team with HARIIR (GB) (Amer x Al Shahania Aseala), piloted

by Norway’s Dina Heggum, coming clear of HARRAN (GB) (Burning Sand x Aziza D’Aroco) for a three length victory. Qatar was the first of the Middle Eastern racing nations to join the Fengentri series, which has been holding amateur riders’ races around the globe for more than 50 years.

“It is nice to see the Fengentri lady jockeys come and ride here, especially in a Gulf country,” said Smart in his post race interview. “We could not have asked for a better result than taking the first two places.”

Harry Bentley aboard Al Mujhaz (QA)

AL MUJAHAZ had been beset by tendon problems, missing two seasons, but had previously been a classy performer, with Group wins in the Emir’s Trophy and the Heir Apparent Sword. Beaten on his reappearance in the Qatar Gold Sword (won by TARAF (QA)), he nonetheless returned sound and had been aimed at this event.

Speaking to the Gulf Times, Bentley explained “Jassim has done a great job in

Heggum was delighted with the experience. “It is amazing to come to Doha and win at the biggest race meeting. I hope to be back here soon. It is a wonderful track and a great place to ride.”

The feature race on Wednesday was the Group 1 Qatar International Trophy, with 12 runners lining up for the mile contest.

QUEENS RANSOM BFV (USA) (Chndaka x Seraph Wings) made the most of his plum inside draw and took them along at a good pace ahead of ABHAR (GB) (Majd Al Arab x Akie Croix Noir) and TM THUNDER STRUCK (USA) (Majd Al Arab x Bonnett), with the remainder close in attendance.

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Mister Ginoux (FR) and Julien Auge cross the line ahead of Al Anga (FR)

In the final quarter of a mile, Tadhg O’Shea made his move on ABHAR to challenge the long time leader, but as the field spread across the track entering the straight there were many with chances.

Julien Auge had rousted MISTER GINOUX (FR) (Amer x Nacree Al Maury) from his position at the back of the field and the grey colt responded well with a thrilling turn of foot, sweeping wide and late to the front, with only a furlong to go.

AL ANGA (FR) (Amer x Kerbelle Du Loop) was closing on MISTER GINOUX, despite meeting trouble in running, but the line came too soon and she was beaten by half a length, with stablemate ADEN (GB) (Burning Sand x Mayada) three quarters of a length back in third.

This was a fourth victory for MISTER GINOUX whose previous wins included the Group 3 French Breeders Challenge at Toulouse in the autumn and also a course and distance success in the Qatar Derby in December. The only four year old in the race, he had made the most of his allowance, but was nonetheless impressive in the manner of his win.

Al Shaqab’s Racing Manager Harry Herbert was full of praise for both the colt and his trainer saying. “I was not that confident with two or three furlongs to go, but it is amazing to see the turn of foot the horse showed, but he had to do it the hard way. Al Shaqab has a great team and his trainer Thomas Fourcy’s success rate is staggering”.

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Above: Al Majh'Hoor (GB) in the paddock Left: Runners going away from the stands Below: Thomas Fourcy with Mister Ginoux (FR) and Julien Auge return triumphant to the winners circle

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The culmination of the racing festival is of course HH The Emir’s Sword, a Group 1 contest over a mile and a half on turf.

Though only a small field of seven, it included DJAINKA DES FORGES (FR) (Kerbella x Djamour Des Forges) winner of the Qatar Arabian World Cup and the joint top-rated Arabian racehorse of 2014. Also lining up for HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Thani were AL MAJH’HOOR (GB) (Mared Al Sahra x Dixie Darlene) and TARAF (QA) (Burning Sand x Gethaabar), in a bid to provide trainer Julian Smart with a fourth win in this event.

The overseas trained runners were headed by the exciting AL MOURTAJEZ (FR) (Dahess x Arwa), unbeaten in his last three starts in pattern company, including the Group 1 Doha Cup at Deauville for his young trainer Thomas Fourcy. Also running in the colours of Al Shaqab Racing, but trained by Jean-Francois Bernard, was FAHR (FR) (Nizam x Fifth) who had been fourth at Longchamp to DJAINKA DES FORGES in the World Cup. Representing Oman was RADDAD (GB) (Amer x Djemila), who had remained in Doha after winning the Group 2 Qatar Gold Trophy, earlier in the month.

The field was completed by VETLANA DE FAUST (FR) (Al Saoudi x Svetlana), the only runner for Qatar’s leading trainer Jassim Al Ghazali, who had just won the preceding Thoroughbred Group 1 Emir’s Trophy for the second time with DUBDAY. AL MOURTAJEZ was smartly away and soon established an early lead over AL MAJH’HOOR and the remainder of the field. Approaching the winning post for the first time, the grey son of Dahess ducked left away from the rail, but maintained a good pace in front, with little change in the order behind. Rounding the final bend, DJAINKA DES FORGES appeared poised to make her customary late challenge as her stablemate AL MAJH’HOOR went wide, allowing her up his inner. Though Julien Auge had other ideas, asking AL MORTAJEZ to quicken again and his colt always had the edge. Richard Mullen was hard at work on DJAINKA DES FORGES but could never get his filly closer than a length to AL MOURTAJEZ, though the pair drew clear of AL MAJH’HOOR in third.

An impressive Al Mourtajez (FR) strides out after the line under Julien Auge for Thomas Fourcy and Al Shaqab Racing

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This was an exhilarating performance by a colt who had missed the Arabian World Cup having hurt his back whilst rolling in his stable, but he showed no ill effects here.

Speaking after the race a delighted Harry Herbert, racing manager for Al Shaqab said “Of course Al Shaqab will try to have a horse for the Doha Triple Crown, I think it is a wonderful initiative to have a series of valuable Arabian races, we will look at our possible runners and this horse may go to Goodwood later this year.”

“It’s magical to win here,” said Thomas Fourcy, who has only been training for two years.

“He is a horse that likes to dominate, so Julien sent him to the front and his strength is his ability to keep quickening.

He likes it when they come to him and then he goes on again. The Qatar Arabian World Cup at Longchamp is the long term target.”

Earlier, the morning press conference had announced the latest addition to the International Arabian racing calendar, with the inauguration of the Doha Triple Crown, which boasts a $1,000,000 bonus to the horse that can will all three Group 1 races.

The series will begin with the £400,000 Qatar Harwood International Stakes to be run over a mile on the final day of the prestigious Glorious Goodwood Festival.

The second leg will incorporate the €1,000,000 Qatar Arabian World Cup already established as part of the Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe weekend in Paris – over

a mile and a quarter. The series concludes with Qatar’s most valuable race, the QR 3,000,000 HH The Emir’s Sword, over a mile and a half.

The President of Qatar Equestrian Federation, Hamad Bin Abdulrahman Al Attiya said, “The Doha Triple Crown represents a major development in the global promotion of Arabian Racing linking three major festivals and strengthening our alliance with European racing.

“We are delighted that our new partnership with Goodwood provides us with the opportunity to launch the series at one of the world’s most beautiful racecourses and one of international racing’s most highly regarded race meetings.”

Genny Haynes, Director of the Arabian Racing Organisation, the sole Arabian Racing Authority in the UK, welcomed the initiative saying, “It is extremely exciting to have a race of this stature forming part of the UK Arabian Racing Calendar and we look forward to playing our part in the promotion of this major new race series.”

Lord March, Chairman of Goodwood Racecourse, expressed his delight at their involvement with the new series saying, “Goodwood has a long held reputation for combining heritage and innovation and we are looking forward to welcoming some of the world’s highest rated Arabians to race on the Sussex Downs.”

With the notable victories of MISTER GINOUX and AL MOURTAJEZ, Al Shaqab look to hold a strong hand for the series, which adds an exciting new dimension to the growth of the international calendar.

THE ARABIAN RACEHORSE

Shadwell Arab Stallions Europe: AL SAOUDI 2000 Nuits St Georges - Fatzica AL JAKBAR 2003 Al Sakbe - Essaada MADJANI 2000 Tidjani - Salama MONSIEUR AL MAURY 1998 Djelfor - Melusine Al Maury NO RISK AL MAURY 2002 Kesberoy - Nectarine Al Maury USA: CHNDAKA 1990 Dormane - Malika Fontenay KAOLINO 1998 Dormane - Cary de Carrère NIVOUR DE CARDONNE 1995 Manganate - Pistache du Cassou

MADJANI

Success around the world

BON BAISER DE FAUST 2nd Qatar Coupe de France des Chevaux Arabes - Gr.1 PA (Chantilly) HANDASSA 3rd Doha Cup - Gr.1 PA (Deauville) Other winners: France MANDANY KANJANI ZEMBRA AINHOA MADJANIS Sweden and Denmark MAHANY DE PIBOUL UEA MADJANTHAT SNS NUJOOD USA RB FRYNCH BROAD RB MOOSE MADJANTHIS TU FOR THE MONEY RB FRYNCH ME Morocco WIFI DE FAUST MADJANI DE L’ATLAS Qatar WEST DE FAUST

Shadwell Estate Company Ltd. Contact: Marion Lachat Tel: +44 (0)1842 755913 Fax: +44 (0)1842 755189 arabians@shadwellstud.co.uk

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Facebook.com/ShadwellArabian

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Manark (FR) and Dane O'Neill breaking the PA track record

Dubai Kahayla Classic GR1 PA – Meydan, Dubai The world’s richest night of horseracing now totals a staggering $30 million in prize money and with a new sponsor in IPIC, the prize money for the Dubai World Cup opener has been raised to a cool $1,000,000.

Now in its twentieth year, the Dubai World Cup is a race meeting like no other. It may have changed racecourses and even racing surfaces, but with six Thoroughbred Group 1’s following the Gr1 PA Kahayla Classic, it is undisputedly a night of horseracing excellence. Previously run for a purse of USD $250,000, the increase to USD $1 million puts the Kahayla Classic on a par with the Goldophin Mile, Dubai Gold Cup and the Al Qouz Sprint for Thoroughbreds.

There had been much speculation about Dubai Racing Club’s decision to return to dirt, taking up the original Tapeta surface in May last year. Other work included

altering the drainage and also the camber of the track - 1.5% in the straight and 5.5% on the bends. The new surface, which is a blend of 90% sand and 10% silt and clay, was ready to be trialled in November at which point it was considered to be too loose.

Given that there is comparatively little racing at Meydan to other tracks, it was inevitable that the track would take a long time to settle. Dubai Racing Club’s Executive Director Frank Gabriel explained, “Little by little it has matured.

Like any new track, it needs maturity.

Maturity in track surfaces is achieved around the world by Mother Nature.

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“We are in the desert, so watering capacity and rainfall is limited. It is more about harrowing and grading and the right amount of water to get consistency.”

have been invited to be a part of the line up for the Kahayla Classic. It is not often that two horses from the same stable get invited from outside the UAE.

He continued. “The more horse traffic you have the better, which is why each week it is getting better and better.”

“The major factor for me is that it will be run on the sand track. Our two fillies are very good on the turf. However Djainka Des Forges handled the Tapeta surface very well last year and they train on a similar track at Al Shahania. If they travel well and keep fit, we can expect a good show from them.

Fifteen runners lined up for the Kahayala Classic, included the joint top-rated Arabian racehorse of 2014, DJAINKA DES FORGES (FR) (Kerbella x Djamour Des Forges). Starting as favourite, she was bidding to give her trainer Julian Smart a third win in this contest and a second for HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Thani, for whom he also trained TARAF (QA) (Burning Sand x Gethaabar).

“I would not be too confident as we know what happened in the HH Emir’s Sword.

Djainka was beaten by a superior Al Mourtajez. The World Cup is a very special day and the Kahayla is the first race Djainka Des Forges (FR) leads stablemate Taraf (QA) in the preparade ring at Meydan

Smart had been unlucky with DJAINKA DES FORGES, who was denied by less than a length when runner up to RABBAH DE CARRERE (FR) (Bibi De Carrere x Mizzna) in last year’s event, and on this occasion she was again drawn wide.

Interviewed in the Gulf Times, Smart said “I am very happy that two of our horses

on the card. There will be a lot of pressure but we will be up to the challenge.”

One runner for whom the new dirt surface held no fears was dual Darley Horse of the Year, VALIANT BOY SBFAR (FR) (Darweesh x Thumb Print), who was unbeaten in his last eight starts. Trainer Liz

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Merryman had enlisted the skills of Hall of Fame jockey Joel Rosario, who had won the Dubai World Cup on Animal Kingdom, in 2013.

Speaking before the race, Merryman felt that her charge was thriving, “I think he has settled in really well and he had a nice breeze on Monday. Now we will have to see how he shapes up on the world stage.”

Other fancied runners included HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s pair, VERSAC PY (FR) (Njewman x Elipse) and MANARK (FR) (Mehabb x Mendra).

Both were coming into the race on the back of successes: VERSAC PY had won the third leg of the Al Maktoum Challenge, also a Group 1, over course and distance and naturally was strong in the market.

MANARK, was stepping up on his win in the Bani Yas, a Group 2 over 7f. Their trainer, Frenchman Erwan Charpy, had long held dreams of winning the Kahayla Classic, having won the Gulf News Mile on the very first World Cup night back in 1996.

As the 15 runners left the gates, the Smart trained duo of TARAF and DJAINKA DES FORGES made their way over from wide draws to track the leading group. This was headed by MANARK, a horse who has found it hard to settle, but he quickly established an uncontested lead under Dane O’Neill. Close in behind was last year’s third, RAAZIQ (FR) (Munjiz x Sheena) and BIGG N RICH (USA) (Falina Des Fabries x Viraac), with VALIANT BOY SBFAR settled in mid division.

Travelling well within himself, MANARK continued to set the pace, however there was obviously something amiss with VERSCAC PY, who never looked happy from the start and he was pulled up turning for home.

With MANARK gradually increasing the tempo in front, it was clear that many of the field were struggling, with VALIANT BOY SBFAR abandoning his position on the rail to avoid tiring horses. O’Neill, meanwhile, pushed his mount clear of the field, with Keiran Fallon hard at work in pursuit on RAAZIQ. Only DJAINKA DES FORGES and VALIANT BOY SBFAR were able to break away from the pack, in an effort to close from off the pace. However MANARK’s lead never looked in danger, as he continued to draw further away from them for pressure. Only the brave VALIANT BOY SBFAR made any impression, snatching second from RAAZIQ on the line, with the favourite DJAINKA DES FORGES staying on for fourth.

Despite being eased at the finish, MANARK’s time of 2 minutes 16.30 seconds set a new record, smashing VERSAC PY’s previous time by a clear 3 seconds on this new surface.

“It was pretty straightforward really,” explained Dane O’Neill after the race. “We agreed to settle in front and it worked to a tee. I thought there would be a lot more pressure on me, but I suppose a lot of people had thought of him as a non-stayer, so they were probably just waiting for him to be shot at, out in front, but he’s all heart and Erwan has done a great job with this horse.”

A delighted Charpy was full of praise for MANARK and his staff, “I really love this horse. It was a challenge. Everybody thought we were crazy going from seven furlongs to ten with this buzzy horse, but all the team have done fantastic work. It really has been a team effort.

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Getting him to relax was the key to winning, going to the front unchallenged, he had an easy lead, the track was fast, which was probably what got Versac in trouble - a very quick surface is difficult for him, he’s an old boy with lots of wear and tear, so I just hope he is fine.”

HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum explained further. “Well this was the first time to try a mile and a quarter, all his life it has been seven furlongs to a mile and when he ran at Doncaster, we tried to get him to settle and he pulled hard and he got tired. Since he came here, we tried to settle him in the Al Ruwais and he didn’t settle, so we gave him three weeks, then let him use his stride and he won, and again today.”

This attractive son of Mahabb had started his career in France in the care of Damien de Watrigant. He showed early promise, easily winning on his debut over 6 furlongs and was then purchased by Sheikh Hamdan. Continuing his career for the same handler, he won stepped up to 7 furlongs, though found DAHOR DE BRUGERE (FR) (Dahess x Dormadora) and DJEBELIA AL MELS (FR)(Dahess x Koheila Al Mels) too good on his next start in the Group 1 Qatar Coupe De France at Chantilly over a mile.

Dropped in class and back over 7 furlongs, he won again at Dax, before coming over to Newbury to contest the Group 2 International Stakes on Dubai Day. One of the most experienced juveniles in that race, he made all to give Paul Hannagan his first UK Arabian racing win as retained professional jockey to His Highness.

forced him to miss his four year old season, spending it instead at Shadwell’s Thetford base in the UK. He made his return to racing last year for Gill Duffield, finishing third in a Wathba Cup conditions event at Hereford at a mile, and again third in the 5 furlong Group 3 Clarendon Stakes at Newbury, behind ADEN (Burning Sand x Mayada) and AL ANGA (FR)(Amer x Kerbelle Du Loup). He failed to settle when fourth in the Group 1 Zabeel International to AL MOUHANNAD (FR) (Nizam x Al Ryme) and took a fierce hold in the Group 1 QREC Harwood International, giving himself no chance, back to a mile at Doncaster.

However he had shown enough to be sent over to race in Dubai this winter and made his first start for Charpy in February, when he was well beaten in the 5 furlong Group 3 Al Ruwais on Turf. Different tactics and a change of surface made all the difference for a comfortable win in the Bani Yas, though it is not hard to see why there were stamina concerns for the Kahayla.

It has obviously been a considerable team effort, across continents, to unlock the potential of this talented performer; however, MANARK has certainly repaid his owner’s patience and is now unbeaten at Group level from two starts on dirt.

Photographs: Manark wins the Kahayla Classic - Omar Alhegelan / Gallop Magazine Djainka Des Forges leads Taraf - Sally Duckett

He was then a well beaten fourth on his final start, returning to a mile for the Breeders Challenge at Toulouse. A setback THE ARABIAN RACEHORSE

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SHADWELL

SUPER THE ARABIAN RACEHORSE is delighted to announce the free to enter ‘Super 7’ competition, generously sponsored by Shadwell Arab Stallions.

In the case of a deadheat points will be awarded as follows: win - 8 points, second – 4 points, third – 2 points.

Up to two entries per person are to be emailed to: equinecreativemedia@gmail.com No entries will be accepted after midnight 1 May 2015.

Entrants are invited to select a team of seven horses to race in UK ARO races from 2 May to 25 September with the following criteria: * no unraced horses * at least one four year old * up to two overseas trained horses maybe selected

Shadwell Arab Stallions will present the winner with either a Gentleman’s watch and cufflinks or a Ladies watch and a bracelet at the ARO Dinner Dance in 2016.

Points will be scored as follows: 10 points for a win 5 points for second 3 points for third Bonus + 2 points for a Listed or Group win THE ARABIAN RACEHORSE

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UK SEASON PREVIEW PART ONE In support of the Shadwell Super 7 competition, THE ARABIAN RACEHORSE asked some of the ARO regulars for their 'First Team' selections:

JENNY HOGAN ARO Racing Administrator DJET TAOUY (FR) (6 h Dahess x Win Taouy) Top competitor from France for the Group races, really tough and sound horse.

JAMAAHIR (GB) (10 g Makzan x Tikis Tiffany) Handicapper over a variety of trips in the mid/low level and always runs well no matter what the race.

KERMIT THE FROG (FR) (7 g Kerbella x Go With The Flow) Improving and versatile horse who has been given a chance by the handicapper and I hope we will see an even better horse than last year.

Kermit The Frog(FR) and Stef Gandola

LB FARRAH (GB) (6 m Sambist x Simeon Safira) Really nice type and has been carefully brought on through the ranks. Should be a good mid-level handicapper this season.

KAMIKAZE (GB) (7 g Kaolino x On The Wing) Premier handicap winner who goes on a variety of ground conditions and should do well in the medium distance races.

NASHMI (FR) (7 h Amer x Danie Du Cassou) Another top horse for the Group races, consistent, sound horse.

SALAAMA (GB) (4 f Mahabb x Qosheeyya) Lovley well built filly who should be competing at the top level. She is capable of winning against the colts and on the big stage.

AMANDA SMITH ARO Racing Manager AURORA FORTA (UAE) (4 f Abu Alemarat x Bay Brulee) Very impressive runner up in the 3 year old race on Dubai Day, disappointing in France, but the race came at the end of a long season and it’s a tough task for a young filly to stay on the top of her game that long. Has had the winter to rejuvenate and as long as she avoids carrying top weight in handicap races, she could be an exciting prospect.

DJAINKA DES FORGES (FR) (6 m Kerbella x Djamour Des Forges) As runaway victor of the Shadwell Arabian Stallions Hatta on Dubai Day, Djainka des Forges was the most impressive winner of the day. She followed up by winning the Qatar Arabian World Cup in Longchamp.

This races is always very tough on horses

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and she hasn’t quite shown the same dominance in her Qatar or UAE classic races since. However, she is the joint top rated Arabian in the world for a reason and I am confident that, back in the UK, she can show her ability again.

VASTELIN KOLEC (RU) (5 h Newmarket x Velvichia) Really intersting to see a mix of Russian and French breeding. Superb form in Russia, but impossible to know how that will translate to the UK tracks.

ZAYIN ZACHILLES (GB) (6 h Kaolino x CS Comete) This hardy, versatile handicapper was unlucky to miss out on the title of Champion Arabian in 2014. If he carries on where he left off last year he could be a safe bet for some points this year.

GARY CAPEWELL ARO Commentator

Salaama (GB) and Ted Durcan

SALAAMA (GB) (4 f Mahabb x Qosheeyya) Ran twice and won twice in 2014, including an impressive winner of the Group 2 race for 3 year olds on Dubai day last year.

Good to see her back as a four year old in her classic year and could certainly be one to watch in the Shadwell Mares races this year.

ASSY (QA) (6 h Amer x Margoula) Last years Emir's Sword winner who hasn't run since, but is expected to appear in Europe this year. Has won his last 7 races and this Qatari bred Arabian is effective from a mile to 1m4f and will be a force to be reckoned with in Group 1 company.

SYNERGY (GB) (4 f Jiyush x Sing Me A Song) Not ready to run until the final meeting of the year in 2014, this colt looked to have potential when running against some very useful Maidens. Once handicapped he could be an interesting contender.

WHISPER (GB) (12 m The Wiking x Sucha) This mare always gives her best. She’s proved far more versatile than her brother Suchaking and I am confident she will continue to be placed consistently in 2015.

THE ARABIAN RACEHORSE

Assy (QA)

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DARIFA (NL) (5 m Majd Al Arab x Djelflore) Won a maiden at Newbury over 6 furlongs last season. Was then pitched into Handicap company and only narrowly went down against a much more experienced field. Could possibly have won that day with stronger handling and for a filly she has plenty of size and scope to progress and is potentially well handicapped.

KATONAHOTINROOF MHF (GB) (4 c Kaolino x Morning Lyght) Ran in the final maiden of the season and looked badly in need of the experience mentally. That said he flew home in the closing stages and only went down by a length at the line. Only a three year old, so there should be plenty more to come and it will be disappointing if he can't bag a maiden before progressing to handicaps.

MAZAAYA(GB) (4 f Madjani x Aljawza) Ran in a very strong maiden on her debut when running fairly green, then second at Windsor when not getting the run of the race. Wonderfully bred and sure to improve with experience and a step up in trip. Handicaps will soon be an option but picking up a maiden en route looks a distinct possibility.

NASEEJ (OM) (5 m Dahess x Tornade Royale) Gradually progressed in maidens last term when improving on each start. Then ran in a decent handicap at Windsor when narrowly going down to a similar type. The form was franked by the third winning on

the final day of the season. With normal progression she could prove to be a few steps ahead of the handicapper.

SALAAMA (GB) (4 f Mahabb x Qosheeyya) Created a favourable impression when winning on her debut at Hereford. Then won very easily in Group 2 company at Newbury despite being very green and changing her legs a few times in the closing stages. She looks to have a big future ahead of her and is bound to be sensibly campaigned by her astute trainer. She has a real star quality about her and it's hoped she could go right to the top.

VINDETTA (GB) (6 m Nivadour Cardonne x Viny De Passerat) Ran seven times in her debut season and remains a maiden. It took a while for the penny to drop though and she ran her best race carrying a big weight on her final start.

There could be more to come from her this season and the 7 furlong race at Newbury on Dubai Day could easily be a long term target.

Vindetta (GB) on her debut at Hereford last year under Page Fuller

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PAUL SIMMONS Zayin Arabian Stud [who never tips or bets on his own Zayin horses]

AL HIBAAB (FR) (7 h Al Sakbe x Ietlato De Carrere) Classy performer at the top level last year, winning the Group 1 Dubai International Stakes.

SALAAMA (GB) (4 f Mahabb x Qosheeyya) Superb mare and potential Derby horse.

Impressive winner of the Group 2 juvenile on Dubai Day. VINDETTA (GB) (6 m Nivadour Cardonne x Viny De Passerat) Struggled last year, but half sister to Estival and sure to improve this season.

DEBBIE BURT ARO Press Officer

Al Hibaab (FR) and Ted Durcan winning the Dubai International Stakes

CALLYMAY (5 m Dahess x Raada) Well bred, but disappointed last year.

Expected to do better this term as a second season handicapper.

KAMIKAZE (GB) (7 g Kaolino x On The Wing) Impressive winner of two premier handicap last season and sure to continue getting good results this.

KERMIT THE FROG (FR) (7 g Kerbella x Go With The Flow) Two runs, two wins and has the right attitude, should continue the progress this season.

RADICAL (FR) (6 g Dormane x Wayward Faery) Lightly raced and beautifully bred. With top trainer, should win this season.

AL MOURTAJEZ (FR) (5 h Dahess x Arwa) Unbeaten in his last four starts, all in Group company and ultra impressive when defeating Djainka Des Forges in the HH Emir’s Sword. Trainer states the World Cup is the target, but hard to see connections bypassing a crack at the Doha Triple Crown in its inaugural year, even though a mile would appear to be on the short side.

JALDI KARO (GB) (4 g Jehol De Cardonne x Merwah) Eye catching debut win, ahead of three subsequent winners, though form reversed with two of those on next start over further in Group company. Has changed stables since, but plenty of scope to improve and should be a much stronger horse this year.

KAMIKAZE (GB) (7 g Kaolino x On The Wing) Scored at a mile and a mile and a quarter last year in Premier Handicaps. Only out of the frame on his debut and in the Gold final on Tapeta. Likely to be well placed by his shrewd trainer again this season and should be a regular points scorer.

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KERMIT THE FROG (FR) (7 g Kerbella x Go With The Flow) Winner on both starts and clearly versatile as to trip and surface, winning at 6f on turf and 1m6f on Tapeta. Gelding may bring about further improvement and his trainer had a remarkable strike rate last term.

SPIRITED GAME (GB) (6 m Vert Olive x Keen Game) Al Alwal Stud Leading UK Owned Mare of 2014. Kept busy during her debut year, she progressed well, though likely the Windsor win took its toll when unplaced in her last start in the Gold Final. Sound and consistent, she should be making the frame again this season.

TAWAAZUN (FR) (6 m Monsieur Al Maury x Magie De Faust) First foal of International Stakes winner, she scored twice at three, but was without a win in 2014. Ran well (in receipt of weight) when a close second to Taraf in the Majadini Conditions at Newmarket and stable perseveres this year.

ZAYIN ZACHILLES (GB) (6 h Kaolino x CS Comete) Tough, likeable horse, turning out on nine occasions in 2014 and runner-up in the Arab Championship last year. Probably needs to be eased by the handicapper to win again, but capable of scoring points from the outset.

Spirited Game (GB) and George Blackwell go to post at Windsor

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THE ARABIAN RACING ORGANISATION LTD Who we are…

The UK is a world leader in Purebred Arabian racing.

The Arabian Racing Organisa on (ARO) runs a programme of full Arabian racedays, supported by a number of single Arabian races on Thoroughbred fixtures.

The UK is a summer base for top horses from the Middle East whose owners want to experience the pres ge of running at some of the world’s best racecourses. The ARO season is also a proven training ground for young horses.

Prize money includes incen ve schemes and bonus awards for UK Owners and Breeders.

The 2015 season starts at Wolverhampton Racecourse on Saturday 2nd May, Free Admission!

CONTACT ARO LTD ‘T

S

A R

A UK’

ARO Ltd, Newbury Racecourse, Berkshire, RG14 7NZ 0044 (0) 1635 524 445 info@aroracing.co.uk THE ARABIAN RACEHORSE

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SUSANNA SANTESSON HAS LEFT US MATS GENBERG

This morning Susanna Santesson should have woken up with hundreds of horse racing friends in Beverly Hills, USA. Instead she fell asleep forever in a hospital in Germany – much too young. Susanna’s absence will leave a hole in the festivities during the coming Darley Award weekend.

She will in fact, leave a large hole in the racing world. Even for those who have never heard her name.

Susanna was a person who spent her life working for the parts of racing that is not so often seen in the major headlines of the sport. She was not involved in the million dollar horses or the big deals. Still she was more important to racing than many of the people we read about daily.

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Susanna was the kind of person who made people realize that racing is actually a sport. She spent her life working in and for organizations that cared for the enthusiasts. The people who like herself do what they do out of love – not money or honour.

She was secretary-general for Fegentri (the world’s amateur jockey organisation).

She was a very important part of the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies World Championships.

She chaired the European Association of Racing Schools, and was instrumental in the creation of the world’s first global organisation for racing academies.

She held a number of positions in German racing.

She was always present at our meetings of IFAHR. She was one of the strongest supporters ever of women in horse racing.

The list can go on forever.

Hundreds of young amateurs and apprentices have Susanna to thank for them being able to leave their home turf and see the racing world. She travelled with them everywhere and helped them cross language barriers and realise that as long as you have your saddle in your carry-on luggage and can make the weight you will be fine.

And Susanna will be there.

I last met Susanna Sunday night in Dubai. Me and Catarina had dinner together with her at the terrace of the Meydan racecourse. The evening after the World Cup – we were more or less the only ones in the restaurant.

She said she was happy that we were there, as eating alone was the only thing she didn’t like about her constant travelling.

We spoke about her health.She looked tired and coughed. She said that it was just a cold that wouldn’t go away, but that she would see a doctor.

We left the table and said that we would meet again for breakfast in Los Angeles later the same week.Two hours ago I just learned that this would not happen.

And that Susanna has taken off on the longest journey of them all.

Mats Genberg – International Arabian Horse Racing Federation (IFAHR) Secretary & Chairman of Scandinavian Arabian Racing Association

First published on the IFHAR website on April 3 2015. Reproduced with permission from Mats Genberg.

Photography - Nils Rosenkjaer & GALLOP Magazine 2015

Racing is racing.

Everywhere.

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THE ARABIAN RACEHORSE Issue 2 - online - 1 May

HH Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Darley Awards 2015

Wolverhampton season opener preview Plus an exclusive interview with one of ARO's newest registered trainers - Stephane Leveque

The UK scoops the Best Jockey for the second year running with a win for 2014 ARO Ladies and Novice Champion - Stefania Gandola UK Season Preview Part II Including a look ahead to the first Group 1 of the season, the HH Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nayhan Cup at Lingfield

Lisa Miller Fine Art

Original Arabian horse paintings and prints for sale at: www.thepaintedhorse.co.uk.

Commissions available. Email: lisa@thepaintedhorse.co.uk or Tel: 01994 453545

THE ARABIAN RACEHORSE

One World, 6 Continents

May 27 Press Conference at Marriott Hotel May 28 - 30 World Arabian Horse Racing Conference at May 31 Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Cup HH Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies World Championship IFAHR HH Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Apprentice World Championship IFAHR at Sluzewiec Racetrack Sustained By

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