Dubai: After a two-month break, the action returns to the Sharjah Equestrian & Racing Club on Saturday when the UAE’s oldest racetrack stages a six-race card highlighted by the Longines Conquest Classic Handicap for Purebred Arabians.
A strong field of 13 have been declared, including Smalah and Rabdan who are both trained by leading Arabian handler Eric Lemartinel.
Smalah is the choice of Tadhg O’Shea, with apprentice, Nicolas Barzalona, aboard Rabdan.
Twice a winner on dirt, both times this season, once over this course and distance, as well as 1400 metres at Al Ain, Smalah would appear to have a lot in her favour.
Rabdan has also recorded both his career victories on dirt, both over 2000 metres at Al Ain in January 2015.
“Both the yard’s runners should go well,” said O’Shea. “They are proven over the trip but Smalah has won at Sharjah which helped me choose her.
“It is an open race but, hopefully, both will go close.”
Madjanthis heads the weights, with apprentice Manuel Fernandes riding for Ernst Oertel.
Fantastique MHF, trained by Doug Watson, has five victories to his name, all at Sharjah, but has not won since November, 2014.
“He seems to save his best for Sharjah,” said Watson. “He is in good form and can, hopefully, run well.”
The only thoroughbred race on the card is the American University of Sharjah Handicap.
