HH Sheikh Mansoor Bin Zayed al Nahyan Global Arabian Flat Racing Festival

Who would have thought that the original racehorse, the Arabian, would run on the same night as it's distant relative the mighty mare Black Caviar. What's more they all galloped on the hallowed turf of the historic Moonee Valley racetrack, home of the iconic Cox Plate. What an historic occasion. The Moonee Valley Race Club  committee bent over backwards to make the connections of the Arabians welcome. The first ever Australian race in the HH Sheikh Mansoor Bin Zayed al Nahyan Global Arabian Flat Racing Festival was a showcase for the versatile Arabian. These wonderful horses  came from as far afield as Canberra to Cairns. The jockeys in the HH Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies IFAHR Cup came from all over the world to contest the first Ladies Amateur race to be held in Australia. This is part of a world wide series and it is hoped that Australia will have a representative riding next year. The winner of this race was Ridgecrest Shy Guy ridden to a six length victory by Jadey Pietrasiewicz of the Netherlands.

The Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Cup 2040 metre race was won in a closely fought finish by Warrawee Naaziq giving his owner/trainer/jockey Kim Noble the thrill of a lifetime. Thanks must go to HH Sheikh Mansoor and his Festival Director Ms Lara Sawaya for bringing the event to Australia for the first time and giving the Arabian racing enthusiasts a sorely needed kickstart. This is just the beginning and it is a terrific one and the enthusiasm and faith that the trainers and owners exhibited by traveling so far to participate bodes very well for the future of Arabian racing in Australia.

For more race results check the NARA website:www.naraaustralia.com