In a thrilling showcase of equestrian prowess, the eighth session of Emirates Day – Abu Dhabi at the Marrakesh horse racing circuit witnessed the crowning of champions in prestigious competitions, including the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Cup and Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Cup.
“Mamouni Vale,” guided by Rabia Sidrati and ridden by Khaled Iba, triumphed in a neck-to-neck finish to claim the Grand Prix title of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Cup. The intense race, featuring purebred Arabian horses aged four years and above, covered a distance of 1900 meters, with Mamouni Vale crossing the finish line in 2:24:19 minutes.
Meanwhile, “Zarak Maamoura,” under the guidance of Hamidou Mohamed and jockeyed by Ishi Buaroa, secured victory in the Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Cup. Racing over the same distance, Zarak Maamoura dominated the field, finishing eight lengths ahead in 2:27:38 minutes.
In another exciting contest, “Ould Zeenat,” owned by Kamal Daisawy and ridden by Omar Lakjal, emerged victorious in the Al Wathba Farm Cup. The three-year-old horse showcased exceptional speed and agility over a distance of 1600 meters, finishing seven lengths ahead in 2:05:14 minutes.
The prestigious events drew a large audience of passionate horse racing enthusiasts, including distinguished guests such as His Excellency Al Asri Saeed Ahmed Al Dhaheri, UAE Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco, Lara Sawaya, Executive Director of the His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan Racing Festival, and Saeed Al Awadhi, Member of the Emirates Children’s Parliament.
His Excellency Al Asri Saeed Ahmed Al Dhaheri highlighted the significance of the races in strengthening bilateral relations between the UAE and Morocco, underscoring the leadership’s commitment to fostering partnerships across various sectors.
Expressing gratitude for the unwavering support of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Lara Sawaya praised the efforts of all involved in organizing the event, including sponsors and partners, as well as the Royal Horse Encouragement Company “SORC.” She commended the strong participation of elite owners and breeders, affirming the event’s global significance in promoting Arabian horse racing.