Dubai: Jebel Ali Racecourse, which provides the perfect setting for a wonderful day’s racing thanks to its unique ‘Garden Party’ atmosphere, is all set to host the curtain-raiser meeting for the 2015-2016 UAE racing season on Friday, the first of the 11 scheduled at the venue.
Launched in 1990 by Maj. General Shaikh Ahmad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Chief of Dubai Police and Public Security, the venue has grown in popularity with each passing year and traditionally stages races for thoroughbreds and Purebred Arabians.
Friday’s six-race card sees the the venue’s pillar partners — Shadwell, Derrinstown Stud, Al Shafar Investment, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Al Tall Englineering and Al Ridha Insurance Brokers — returns as sponsors of the races.
Mirza Al Sayegh, representing Jebel Ali’s chief patron Shaikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance, reiterated Shaikh Hamdan’s commitment to continuing his sponsorship of the historic venue.
“His Highness is honoured to support a venue that has become such a significant part of UAE racing’s culture and heritage,” he said at a press conference at the Mina Al Salam on Monday.
“Shaikh Hamdan is proud that his support, through Shadwell and Derrinstown Stud, enables Jebel Ali to continue hosting high-quality racing. Jebel Ali provides meaningful events for its sponsors, horsemen, community and racing fans.
“Shaikh Hamdan is also keen to support educational institutions like Zayed University through the sport and to encourage more involvement from potentially future racing fans.”
Shadwell and Derrinstown Stud are the breeding operation of Shaikh Hamdan’s racing empire.
Shareef Al Halawani, Manager Jebel Ali Racecourse, disclosed that all race meets for the season have secured the required sponsorship.
“Our races are sold out one hundred per cent, we couldn’t be happier,” he said. “However, this would not have been possible without the support of Shaikh Ahmad, Shaikh Hamdan and all our long-standing partners.
“We are happy to be this position and would also like to extend our thanks to all the owners, trainers and jockeys who continue to enrich our race meetings by participation with their best horses.”
Al Halawani extended his gratitude and thanks to Shaikh Hamdan for his sustained sponsorship of racing at Jebel Ali.
“All preparations are in place and we will continue to focus on providing the best entertainment for families and friends attending our races,” he added. “Once again we will conduct exciting competitions during our races and give away free gifts to all our visitors.
“A car gifted by Shadwell, will be raffled off at each of our meetings while the popular Pick Six and selections competitions will once again be held.”
Jebel Ali Racecourse will also honour the champion trainer and jockey during the course of the season.
Jebel Ali Racecourse
Season Race Days
October 30
November 13 & 27
December 11 & 18
January 8 & 22
February 5 & 19
March 4
