Habib Al Kutub triumphed in the inaugural UAE President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses held at Latakia Racecourse in Syria on Friday. This event marked a significant milestone as it was the first time the prestigious series took place on Syrian soil, showcasing the growing interest in Arabian horse racing in the region.
Competing in the 16th leg of the cup, Habib Al Kutub, trained by Fahd Bakour and ridden by Khaldoun Hammoud, delivered an impressive performance over a distance of 2,000 metres. The horse, which is a product of Tahoun Ugarit and Anoud Al Safi, carried the colours of Al Kutub Stables and finished the race in a time of 2:22.00.
The race featured a competitive field of 16 runners, with early leaders Sanad Al Aref and Zain Al Waad setting a fast pace. However, Habib Al Kutub steadily advanced and took the lead as the competitors approached the final turn, ultimately pulling away to secure victory. Mohib Al Aref finished in second place, followed by Baghdad Al Shabak in third and Fahd Al Kour in fourth.
Significance of the Event
The UAE President’s Cup series, supported by His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aims to promote the Arabian horse racing industry and encourage breeding and ownership of these horses. The successful staging of the Syrian leg is seen as a vital step in enhancing the profile of Arabian racing in the region.
Musalam Salem Al Amri, a member of the Higher Organizing Committee of the UAE President’s Cup, expressed pride in the event’s success, highlighting the strong participation and competitive standards. He noted that the UAE–Syrian Festival, which included 15 races over two days, provided a significant platform for local owners and breeders.
Future Prospects
The festival not only showcased the talents of Purebred Arabian horses but also reinforced the importance of expanding the series to include Syria. The event attracted considerable attention from local horse owners and breeders, indicating a promising future for Arabian horse racing in the country.
The crowning ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Hamad Rashid Al Habsi, the UAE Ambassador to Syria, and other dignitaries, underscoring the event’s significance in fostering ties between the UAE and Syria through the shared passion for Arabian horses.
As the UAE President’s Cup continues to grow, the successful debut in Syria may pave the way for further collaborations and events that celebrate the rich heritage of Arabian horse racing.
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