News & Media

Racing season begins with the Dubai International Racing Carnival at the new Meydan racecourse

27. January 2010

January 28 race meeting sponsored by Shadwell Farm sees the start of two months of world-class international competitionl

Dubai, UAE, 27 January 2010 – This Thursday sees the long-awaited start of the racing season at the new Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse, as well as the opening meeting of the seventh Dubai International Racing Carnival. This inaugural race meeting at Dubai's new flagship racecourse kicks off two months of high quality international competition, representation which is unmatched anywhere else in the world.

The meeting, kindly sponsored by Shadwell Farm USA sees the first rounds of the Al Maktoum Challenge for Purebred Arabians, a Group One race, and a Thoroughbred edition, a Group Three. Both will be run over 1600m on the All Weather track.

Meydan's Chairman of the Board and CEO Saeed Humaid Al Tayer said: "It is with great pleasure that Meydan welcomes Shadwell Farm USA as the sponsor of this race meeting. Our sponsor, and of course, the horsemen from around the globe share our passion for international Thoroughbred racing and the thrill of competition, and have helped the Carnival become the fixture it is today. We are also extremely proud to open Meydan's doors to patrons and distinguished guests, inviting all to experience our world-class facilities for the first time".

Rick Nicholls, Shadwell's Vice President added: "Shadwell Farm USA is proud and excited to continue its' partnership with the Dubai Racing Club by sponsoring a night of racing at the new Meydan Racecourse. We look forward to a great future with Meydan and we are happy to be involved with such a prestigious event".

Commenting on the Dubai International Racing Carnival, Meydan Board member Malih Lahej Al Basti said: "Since the Carnival began in 2004, we have seen it grow to such standards that it has become an ideal destination for trainers and owners to send their horses to compete with some of their best contemporaries from all over the world, and the timing means they can go on to further international competition. This Thursday sees entries confirmed from South Africa, Brazil, Germany, United Kingdom, France and Ireland. It is sure to be the start of an exciting opening season".

Dubai Racing CEO Frank Gabriel Jr concluded: "We are very excited the season is almost underway. With its state-of-the-art facilities, it is likely to appeal to horsemen and guests alike. We wish everyone a thoroughly enjoyable evening and look forward bookmarking a successful first chapter at the new Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse."

Thursday's meeting offers a number of hospitality options available to suit all tastes. Entrance to the public areas of Meydan Racecourse is free of charge and there are also complimentary transfers to and from Meydan Racecourse from Arabian Ranches (outside the main entrance of the shopping centre), Dubai Marina, Emirates Towers (Boulevard entrance by Cartier), Wafi (outside of Pyramids) and Souk Madinat.

The Dubai Transport Company Operates a taxi service from Meydan with the taxi drop-off and pick up point located outside the Meydan Grandstand.

For further information or tickets for any DRC events or hospitality, please visit www.dubairacingclub.com or contact the Hospitality Department at Dubai Racing Club on +971 4 327 0077 or hospitality@dubairacingclub.com

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