Afjan Secures Victory at UAE President Cup with Dramatic Finish

Afjan showcased his exceptional talent by winning the Group 3 (PA) UAE President Cup, held over a distance of 2,150 meters at Duindigt on March 3, 2024. This race marked the eighth leg of the Arabian Purebred Classic Series, further solidifying Afjan’s reputation following his strong second-place finish in a Group 2 (PA) race in Rome.

Thrilling Performance from Afjan

The now five-year-old Purebred Arabian, trained by Jean De Mieulle and owned by Al Shaqab Racing, demonstrated remarkable skill under jockey Olivier d’Andigne. Afjan, sired by Tm Fred Texas, had previously achieved a Group 1 (PA) victory over 2,000 meters at the age of three, as well as a Group 3 (PA) win over 1,900 meters in the same season.

In a race that began with a swift pace set by Al Zeer (Al Mamun Monlau), Afjan found himself at the back of the pack after a slow start. Despite trailing behind, he remained composed, gradually finding his rhythm as they entered the home straight. Once he hit top speed, Afjan surged wide, overtaking his competitors with impressive power.

As the race approached its conclusion, Afjan caught up with the long-time leader in a nail-biting finish, ultimately winning by a neck. Ska de l’Aigle (Al Mourtajez) secured third place, showcasing a competitive race among the top contenders.

Background and Breeding

Afjan was bred by Al Shaqab Racing and is out of the unraced mare Muzoon (Amer). He is a half-brother to Mezown (Amer), who also made a mark in the racing world as a Group 3 (PA) winner over 1,900 meters and a runner-up in a Group 1 (PA) event at the same distance.

This latest victory at the UAE President Cup not only highlights Afjan’s outstanding capabilities but also underscores his potential for future races in the Arabian Purebred circuit. His ability to perform under pressure and his impressive pedigree set the stage for what could be a remarkable racing career ahead.

As fans and experts alike celebrate this thrilling performance, the victory positions Afjan as a prominent contender in upcoming events, making him a horse to watch in the Arabian racing community.