Alkass Digital
Hamad Bin Abdulrahman Al Attiya, President of the Asian Equestrian Federation and Vice-Chairman of QREC, presented the trophies to the winners of the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC)-sponsored the Gr1 PA Qatar Derby des Pur-Sang Arabes de 4 Ans.
Winner of the Gr.3 (PA) Sheikh Mansoor Festival - Prix Dormane at La Teste, France, when last seen, the superb chestnut Muraad (Thakif) landed the 2,000m black-type race, which saw 11 four-year-old Arabian runners vying for the title at Chantilly, France, on Sunday.
Sporting the silks of owner and breeder Yas Horse Racing Management, Muraad was considered as the main danger to favourite Luwsail (Al Mourtajez), owned by Al Shaqab Racing. Trained by Damien De Watrigant, Muraad is now a Gr.1 (PA) winner.
Ridden by loyal partner Ioritz Mendizabal, Muraad made the running. Still in the lead entering the final straight, he pulled clear and held on the late challenge of Extra Time (Valiant Boy) by a neck. Luwsail ran on to take third.
“The last fifty meters was long, very very long”, said the winning trainer said after the race.
“His quality is that he’s very courageous. At La Teste nobody wanted to go forward, so Ioritz ended up leading as the horse wanted to stride on. His only problem is that he jumps off very quickly from the stalls and then we can’t stop him. I said to Ioritz to not fight with him and make the running unless one of Al Shaqab’s horses decides to. But don’t fight with him.
“Ride him like a good horse. He’s in top form and that’s the race to win, that’s his race.”
Bred by Yas Horse Racing Management, Muraad is out of Gabra (Dormane).