HORSERACING – Prime Minister’s Court Minister and Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (REHC) High Committee chairman Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa attended yesterday the ‘Commemorative Race for the Visit of His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain’, held at Nakayama Racecourse in Japan.
On the occasion, Shaikh Isa underscored that the kingdom’s burgeoning presence within the international horseracing sphere epitomises the vision of His Majesty King Hamad and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Shaikh Isa added that REHC initiatives in this regard have not only fortified Bahrain’s stature in the international sporting arena, but have also fostered participation and partnerships that are vital for the sustainability, progress, and competitiveness of the sector.
Shaikh Isa emphasised that this commemorative race signifies a pivotal moment in the collaborative efforts between Bahrain and Japan, showcasing their mutual interests in equestrian sports and horseracing.
He further noted the significance of the event aligning with the official visit of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister to Japan, which has yielded ambitious strategic outcomes, thereby bolstering the bilateral partnership between the two nations and enhancing joint cooperation to achieve shared aspirations across various sectors.
Shaikh Isa also highlighted that Japan’s hosting of this race at one of its most prestigious racecourses is a testament to Bahrain’s esteemed reputation within the equestrian and horseracing community, marking a substantial advancement in consolidating the kingdom’s presence on the international stage.
During the ceremony, Shaikh Isa crowned the victor of the main event of the ‘Commemorative Race for the Visit of His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain’, a thrilling contest run over a distance of 1,800 metres featuring an elite array of horses. Shaikh Isa presented the trophy to the representative of Yuji Hasegawa, owner of the winning horse Meursault, and also recognised trainer Yasutoshi Ikee and jockey Christophe Lemaire for their exceptional contributions.
Shaikh Isa also extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the winners, expressing his best wishes for their continued success and further achievements in forthcoming competitions.