THE SAUDI CUP 2021

The Obaiya Arabian Classic (LRPA)

The second running of the Obaiya Arabian Classic as part of the Saudi Cup card saw the crowning of a new champion in Saudi Arabian racing in Mubasher Al Khalediah. Already the winner of two Prince Sultan World Cups (Gr1PA), the six-year-old took over the mantle of Al Khalediah’s star runner from Tallaab Al Khalediah.  Drawn in stall five he was settled in the rear on the rail, though was soon brought wide by Adel Alfouradi and gradually made his way closer to the pace. Tallaab Al Khalediah had the advantage of stall one, which should have been ideal for this regular frontrunner, however by the home turn, it seemed that age had finally caught up with the 10-year-old. Deryan took over the lead, tracked by Mutawakel Al Khalediah, with Mubasher Al Khalediah steadily making ground behind.

In the home straight Deryan asserted his position and only Mutawakel Al Khalediah could go with him, the pair drawing a good six lengths clear. Mubasher Al Kahlediah gave chase and as Deryan’s effort started to fade, Mubasher Al Khalediah’s superior stamina took effect. At the line he was a length and a quarter in front of Mutawakel Al Khalediah with last years’ second Hajres bravely staying on for third.

This gave Al Khalediah Stables and trainer Mutlaq Mushref a one-two in the world’s most valuable race for Arabians. Prince Fahad, representing winning owner said: “It means a lot to us; His Royal Highness Prince Khaled always wants to have the first in all races. We wish that the champ of last year won it this year; thank God we won this race with a Saudi jockey and got first and second places, which is a very good start to the year, and we hope to get better in the future.   “Our jockey won a Group 1 at the end of last month, so we were expecting a lot out of him. I think this horse is one of two future stars of Alkhalediah Stables. Hopefully we will see him in the Dubai Kahayla Classic, and hopefully he can win. We hope he repeats the love story of Tallaab Alkhalediah.”   Eddie Castro who rode Mutwakel Alkhaledia in second commented: "It was a nice race. My horse ran good. There are no excuses. I think maybe 2000 metres is a bit far for him. Maybe 1800 metres will be better for him."   It was a similar story from Cristian Demuro, who partnered Hajres, saying “He ran good. I think if the race was run over further, he would have finished second. Longer is better for him.” All photo and video credits to The Saudi Cup.

Watch MUBASHER AL KHALEDIAH (KSA) (2015 gr h Laith Al Khalediah x Fayha Al Khalediah) win the Obaiya Arabian Classic (LRPA) 2000m

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