Brighter future for Arabian racing in Germany

Despite problems in the past a brighter future has been predicted for Purebred Arabian racing in Germany.

Dr. Hussain Al Redha, who has a long association with Germany having studied medicine in the country, believes the sport has plenty of potential in the country.

Speaking to journalists in Frankfurt on the eve of the fifth running of the Emirates Challenge Stakes, the well-known Arabian breeder and owner of Desert Arabian Stud said: "Since the sponsorship of the Emirates Challenge Stakes began in 1998 Arabian racing has made steady progress in Germany.

"In those days there was less than 40 Arabian horses in training, but this has since trebled. The major problems for Arabian racing in the past was poor prize money and a shortage of races.

"I encouraged Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance and Industry, to sponsor the Emirates Challenge Stakes and with his support along with His Highness The President's sponsorship, it has made a valuable contribution to the sport.

"The DRAV (German Arabian Organisation) have done a good job in promoting the sport and are raising the profile of Arabian Racing.

"The breeding of Arabians in Germany has been assisted and improved by the availabilty of the best stallions from Shadwell Stud through artifical insemination. This has allowed German breeders to access some of the best bloodlines and will improve the quality of Arabian racehorses in the future.

"One of the problems for owners is the high cost of training fees (600 Euros a month), which are much lower in neighbouring countries in Europe.

"This hasn't helped many German owners in sending their horses to be trained in these countries.

"The Emirates Challenge Stakes has been a major success story. The very first running of the meeting attracted a crowd of over 5,000, which was fantastic considering that Germany were playing in the World Cup that day.

"This year's renewal has been well-promoted through TV and the Media by DRAV and the racecourse management are hoping for a big crowd especially if the weather is nice."