Al Maqam Triumphs Again at Baidda Algaa Cup in Doha

In a thrilling display of equestrian skill, Al Maqam emerged victorious at the Baidda Algaa Cup for the second consecutive year, reinforcing his status as a champion. The race unfolded on March 15, 2024, at the Al Rayyan Racecourse in Doha, Qatar, where the six-year-old gelding showcased remarkable determination in the Local Purebred Arabian Novice event, covering a distance of 1,700 metres.

Racing under the colours of Khalifa bin Sheail Al Kuwari, Al Maqam faced early challenges from a wide draw. Jockey Pierre Charles Boudot strategically positioned him at the back, allowing the race to develop before making a decisive move. As the field turned for home, Al Maqam shifted into a higher gear, battling fiercely against late challenger Mared Al Zaeem. The finish was incredibly tight, but Al Maqam held on to clinch victory by a neck.

Other Notable Performances at the Racecourse

Following Al Maqam’s triumph, the event continued to impress with several standout performances. In the Purebred Arabian Show Horses category, Nibras Al Marroona finished strong, guided by Salman Fahad Al-Hajri, to secure a length victory.

The Thoroughbred Handicap (0–95) saw Corinth dominate under the skilled guidance of jockey Alberto Sanna, pulling ahead to win by an emphatic 7.5 lengths. The Purebred Arabian Handicap (60–80) turned into a nail-biter, with Lwich De Bozouls, ridden by Boudot, narrowly edging out competitors by a short head.

Consistency was the hallmark of Thouab Al Shahania in the Purebred Arabian Handicap (55–75), while the Local Purebred Arabian Handicap (55–75) was claimed by Aaneef Zakhir, who benefitted from a well-timed ride by Arnaud De Lepine to win by a length.

In the Thoroughbred Handicap (0–70), Ruling Master showcased his prowess with a commanding victory of five lengths, guided by Salman Fahad Al-Hajri. The Local Thoroughbred Handicap (0–45) concluded with Malik and jockey Soufiane Saadi asserting their dominance, finishing two lengths ahead of the competition.

The day began with White Christmas delivering a strong performance in the Thoroughbred Maiden Plate, with jockey Louis Nomis steering the horse to a convincing 2.5-length victory.

Following the races, Saad Ali Al Kubaisi, Deputy Director of the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC), crowned the winners, celebrating the remarkable achievements of both horses and their riders.

As the excitement of the Baidda Algaa Cup settles, the performances displayed at Al Rayyan Racecourse continue to resonate with fans of horse racing, highlighting the dedication and talent within the sport.