The Royal Cavalry of Oman’s Nafees won the Qatar Derby des Pur-Sang Arabes de 4ans (Gr1 PA) in Chantilly yesterday.
The colt showed great courage to defy a determined Azhar, who finished second ahead of third-placed Bandar.
Nafees was the top favourite for the 2000-metre race, after his successful return in the Prix Dormaine (Gr3 PA). He had also won the French Arabian Breeders’ Challenge (Gr2 PA) last year at Toulouse.
“He keeps improving and one of his biggest qualities is his courage. Olivier Peslier rode him perfectly. He did not make any effort during the race and it made the difference at the end. He is entered in the Gr1 at Goodwood in July, but we will see what we do,” Nafees’ trainer Charles Gourdain said.
Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club’s head of Racing section, Abdulla Rashid al-Kubaisi, presented the trophies to the winners.
Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club’s head of Racing section Abdulla Rashid al-Kubaisi (left) with the winners of the Qatar Derby des Pur-Sang Arabes de 4ans (Gr1 PA) in Chantilly yesterday. (Scoopdyga)
