Lacaro du Croate Secures Victory in UAE President’s Cup
The UAE President’s Cup Series for Purebred Arabian Horses made an impressive European debut during its 33rd edition in Paris. Held at the renowned ParisLongchamp racecourse, the French leg of this prestigious series unfolded on Sunday amidst the Emirates French Guineas races. The event highlighted the growing influence of the UAE President’s Cup in Europe’s equestrian scene, underscoring its commitment to Arabian horse racing.
A Triumph for Lacaro du Croate
Lacaro du Croate, a five-year-old mare owned by Mansoor Bin Khalil Bin Mansour Al Shahwani, emerged victorious in the French leg of the UAE President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses. Trained by Xavier Thomas-Demeulte and expertly ridden by jockey Guillaume Guedj-Gay, Lacaro du Croate clinched the Group 1 title after a compelling 2,000-metre race on turf, besting a field of elite Arabian horses aged four years and older.
The mare’s powerful performance was evident in the final metres of the race, where she demonstrated remarkable stamina and speed, completing the course in 2:13:84 minutes. Her victory not only solidifies her status as a leading contender in Group 1 races but also enhances her record, which now boasts three wins and eight top-three finishes from 11 starts.
Competition Highlights
In a race defined by intense competition, Lacaro du Croate finished ahead of Lebeau du Carrere from Wathnan Racing, who secured the second position. Muneer, another strong contender, followed in third place, while Al Zeeb from Al Shaqab Racing and RB Kingmaker, trained by Hilal Alalawi, completed the top five.
The significant victory for Lacaro du Croate at ParisLongchamp not only adds a prestigious title to her accolades but also reflects the dedication of UAE leadership in promoting Arabian horses globally. The race is part of a broader initiative to foster growth and excellence within the Arabian horse racing industry.
Emirates French Guineas: A Day of Celebrations
The Emirates French Guineas, held concurrently with the UAE President’s Cup, further enriched the day’s excitement. The colt Rayf, representing the Aga Khan Studs, captured the Emirates Poule d’Essai des Poulains title over a 1,600-metre distance, completing the race in 1:38:63 minutes. Guided by trainer Francis-Henri Graffard and jockey Mickael Barzalona, Rayf’s victory was celebrated with a substantial prize pool of 650,000 euros.
In the Emirates Poule d’Essai des Pouliches, Diamond Necklace, trained by Aidan O’Brien and ridden by Ryan Moore, triumphed over the same distance. With a time of 1:40:73 minutes, she secured the title, further enhancing the reputation of the Emirates French Guineas as a key fixture in European racing.
Official Recognition and Future Aspirations
The event witnessed the presence of dignitaries such as UAE Ambassador to France Fahad Saeed Al Raqbani and Faisal Al Rahmani, Secretary-General of the UAE President’s Cup Series. Their participation in the awards ceremony for the Precious Cup champions underlined the global reach and ambition of the UAE’s equestrian initiatives.
Musallam Al Amri, a member of the Higher Organising Committee, noted the series’ growing international stature, particularly following its success in the American leg at the Kentucky Derby. He emphasized the UAE’s pivotal role in advancing the presence of Purebred Arabian horses worldwide, reaffirming its commitment to supporting owners and breeders globally.