Sports
Ten thrilling races on HE Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani Rifle Day
January 17, 2024 | 12:13 AM
Under the patronage of HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, President of Qatar Olympic Committee, the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) will organise the 24th race meeting in the 2023-24 season, the HE Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani Rifle Day, at the Al Rayyan Racecourse on Saturday, February 20. The race day will see some of the best Arabian and Thoroughbred runners, who along with their connections will by vying for the titles as well as the whopping prize money on offer amounting to $615,000.The bumper ten-race card day is one of the main highlights of the racing season in Qatar and prize money will be on the line throughout the day, with races eight, nine and ten carrying a purse of $100,000 each and all other races carrying a purse ranging between $30,000 and $55,000.The racing extravaganza will also be associated with celebrations where racegoers can enjoy traditional Qatari music and cuisine, showcasing the rich heritage of Qatar.Among the starts running in the day’s feature, the HE Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani Rifle, we will see the Wathnan Racing-owned and Hamad Al Jehani-trained Jeff Koons battling for another coveted title, having already won the Qatar Derby for Thoroughbreds last December. However, his mission will not be easy with the Alban de Mieulle-trained Simca Mille, winner of the Berlin Grand Prix (Group 1) last August, also in the fray and carrying the same colours.The Group 3 PA HE Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani Trophy for Purebred Arabians will see the return of the champion Abbes, in the colours of Wathnan Racing, to Al Rayyan racecourse, to defend his title. The winner of the Group 1 PA HH The Amir Sword and most recently the Group 1 PA Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Jewel Crown in Abu Dhabi last December. The son of TM Fred Texas will have his eyes set on the trophy for a second year in a row for trainer Alban de Mieulle.The day will have something for everyone with activities organised for family entertainment where people of all ages can engage in a variety of family-friendly activities, including equestrian shows, workshops and children’s play areas.There are exclusive hospitality packages for VIP experience, offering unparalleled views of the races amid luxurious amenities. This is not all though! To make this exciting event accessible to all, tickets for HE Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani Rifle Day are available for free!
January 17, 2024 | 12:13 AM