Two Bahraini horses will today take part in the world’s richest race at King Abdulaziz Square in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The $30.5 million Saudi Cup day will culminate in the showpiece $20m race.
Simsir (Victorious) and Global Giant (Al Adiyat Racing) have been slated to compete in the 1,800-metre race, which will witness 14 contenders in the fray for the coveted prize.
Simsir was the big surprise when it won Bahrain’s international Endurance Cup last year.
Global Giant finished second, beating other renowned horses from all over the world, including Irish Derby Champion Sofargen.
Simsir and Global Giant are trained respectively by Bahraini Fawzi Nass and Briton John Godson.
Dark Power, winner of STC race, will seek to retain its title it clinched last year after winning the 1,351m race on the grass track.
New Show (Victorious), winner of Crown Prince’s Cup this year, will also take part in one of the races.
Roman River (Bahraini MNA Stable) will make its debut, competing in the 1,200m race on sandy track, which will witness the participation of 14 horses.
Meanwhile, Supreme Council for Youth and Sports first vice-president and Bahrain Olympic Committee chairman Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa and Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club High Committee chairman Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa attended the competitions of the first day of the Saudi Cup.
The Saudi International Handicap witnessed bold showing from Bahrain contenders as Desert Lion, Rayounpour and What A Welcome followed winner Petrus home.
Shaikh Isa praised the continuous excellence of the races organised by Saudi Arabia at various levels, noting that the Saudi Cup is a sports forum that everyone is keen to participate in because of its prominent role in promoting the development of horseracing in the region.
Shane Foley claimed the overall International Jockeys Challenge yesterday.
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