Al Zeer Triumphs at Gr.3 UAE President Cup in Belgium

Al Zeer, a determined five-year-old Purebred Arabian, achieved a notable victory in the Gr.3 (PA) UAE President Cup, held on March 5, 2024, at Waregem, Belgium. This race marked the 11th leg of the Arabian Purebred Classic Series, showcasing a competitive field of 12 horses aged four and older.

Under the guidance of trainer François Rohaut and ridden by jockey Luka Delozier, Al Zeer arrived in Belgium following a commendable second-place finish in a previous Gr.3 (PA) race over 2150 meters at Duindigt. Having already secured a Gr.2 (PA) title last season, Al Zeer added another significant victory to his record.

Race Highlights and Performance

The race began with Al Zeer starting smartly and settling into fourth position. However, he found himself racing three wide without cover as Joe Star, trained by Al Mourtajez, set a brisk pace, with Norma Al Maury tracking closely in second place.

As the horses completed the first circuit and approached the stands, Al Zeer moved up to third, maintaining his position on the outside while the leading pack remained largely unchanged. Down the back straight, Joe Star accelerated, closely pursued by Norma Al Maury, while Al Zeer continued to shadow the leader from the outside.

Entering the final bend, Joe Star managed to kick a length clear, yet Al Zeer began to close in. In a thrilling showdown during the final furlong, Al Zeer demonstrated remarkable resilience, ultimately wearing down Joe Star to secure victory. Nabucco Al Maury, trained by Assy, finished strong in third place.

Background and Pedigree

Bred by MBF, Al Zeer is the offspring of Assma Al Khalediah, a mare known for her impressive racing career, which included three wins between 1900m and 2100m at the age of four and a runner-up position in a Gr.2 (PA) race over 2200m at age five. Al Zeer is also a half-brother to Fazza Al Khalediah, a dual Gr.1 (PA) winner over 2000m at ages four and six, and has multiple Group 1 placements to his name. Additionally, Assma Al Khalediah is a half-sister to Ocyrrhoe, a Gr.1 (PA) winner over 2000m at age four.

The victory at the UAE President Cup not only highlights Al Zeer’s exceptional talent but also underscores the significance of Purebred Arabian racing on a global stage. With his latest triumph, Al Zeer continues to establish himself as a formidable competitor in the Arabian horse racing circuit.