Qatar Secures First Victory at Dubai World Cup with 'Hit Show'
The 29th edition of the Dubai World Cup saw fierce competition, highlighting contributions from multiple countries in equestrian sports.
'Hit Show' has secured Qatar's inaugural title at the Dubai World Cup, clinching the $12 million race sponsored by Emirates Airlines during the conclusion of the 29th edition of the event.
The victory came after an intense and competitive race, where 'Hit Show', a Qatari representative, defeated the American contender 'Mixsto' by a half-length margin.
The race featured eleven horses on a sandy track, spanning 2000 meters, with strategies varying throughout the competition.
The lead positions fluctuated until the final 200 meters, culminating in a thrilling contest among three horses.
'Hit Show' crossed the finish line with a time of 2:03.50, just 11 seconds and half a length ahead of 'Mixsto', with the Japanese horse 'Forever Young' securing third place.
Ali Al-Kubaisi, the racing manager at Wathnan Racing, expressed his elation at 'Hit Show's' victory, noting that it was a surreal experience given the competitive nature of the event, particularly as this was the horse's first appearance outside the United States.
Al-Kubaisi stated that confidence in the horse's ability was high, especially since the main race attracts top horses globally.
He commented on the calm demeanor before and during the race, emphasizing the importance of remaining composed, particularly knowing that 'Hit Show' was capable of a leading performance.
Al-Kubaisi also highlighted the significance of starting from gate number seven, recalling previous successes from that position.
'Hit Show' had been expertly prepared for major international races, including the Dubai World Cup.
The 29th edition of the Dubai World Cup showcased a diverse range of winners from five countries.
Qatar's exceptional triumph in the main event was complemented by two victories for the United Arab Emirates in the second race, 'Dubai Gold Cup', and 'Dubai Golden Shaheen' in the sixth race.
Japan secured three titles, beginning with the 'Emirates Derby' in the fifth race, followed by the 'Dubai Turf' in the seventh and the 'Longines Dubai Sheema Classic' in the eighth race.
The United States claimed two victories, starting with the 'Dubai Kahayla Classic' for purebred Arabian horses in the first race and the 'Godolphin Mile' in the third.
Ireland finished with a win in the fourth race at the 'Al Quoz Sprint'.