Studio City Triumphs in Lisha Cup at Al Uqda Racecourse

In a commanding display, Studio City secured victory in the Lisha Cup, part of the 2000m Thoroughbred Handicap, at Al Uqda Racecourse on March 15, 2024. The six-year-old chestnut horse, favored among the competitors, emerged triumphant by a margin of 3¼ lengths, solidifying its strong performance in the race.

Starting from barrier 2, Studio City maintained a prominent position in third place before making a decisive move in the home stretch. This win marks the horse’s second victory in three starts, along with a runner-up finish, further enhancing the reputation of owner Faleh Suwayed Al Ajami.

Trainer and Jockey Celebrate Success

Trainer Mohammed Al Ghazali celebrated his third winner of the evening, while jockey Lukas Delozier achieved a notable double. The triumphant connections were honored with the Lisha Cup trophies by Rashid Saed Adiba, Head of Racing Operations at the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club.

Earlier in the day, the Thoroughbred Handicap (85-105) witnessed Weissmuller, trained by Hamad Al-Jehani and ridden by Pierre Charles Boudot, clinch victory by a head, showcasing the competitive spirit of the event.

Highlights from the Races

In the Local Purebred Arabian Handicap (75-95), Al-Yaseen Zakhir, ridden by Alberto Sanna and trained by Gassim Al Ghazali, achieved a solid win. Meanwhile, Samsa Al Shahania crossed the finish line 2¼ lengths ahead in the Purebred Arabian Novice Plate, under the training of Rudy Nerbonne and with Delozier in the saddle.

The Thoroughbred Handicap (55-75) saw Temple Of Hera triumph under the guidance of trainer Nayef Batal Al-Otibi and rider Salman Fahad Al-Hajri. Another notable performance came from Noble Patron, trained by Mohammed Balasim Al Jumaili and partnered with Szczepan Mazur, who also won in the Thoroughbred Handicap (55-75).

In the Local Purebred Arabian Handicap (0-65), Taimoor, trained by Mohammed Hassan Al Matwi, prevailed with Saleh Faraj Al-Otaibi in the saddle, while Dance Acclaim, trained by Al Ghazali, secured victory in the Thoroughbred Handicap (0-60) under the same rider.

Completing the day’s events, My George, also trained by Al Ghazali and partnered with Soufiane Saadi, recorded the fastest finish in the Thoroughbred Maiden Plate for three-year-olds, rounding out an exciting day of racing at Al Uqda.