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Napoleon Solo at Gulfstream Park before the Coolmore Fountain of Youth

Napoleon Solo, Solitude Dude, Jackson Hole Headline Star-Studded Coolmore Fountain of Youth Field at Gulfstream

Newcastle Race Cards 19 February nine-race programme preview

Premier Nine-Race Card Scheduled for Thursday’s All-Weather Fixture

Bahrain race cards 19 February – Horses and jockeys in action at Bahrain Turf Club

Bahrain Turf Club Hosts High-Stakes Evening with Exciting Multi-Race Lineup

Runners competing at Sedgefield during Sedgefield Race Cards 19 February meeting

Thursday’s Six-Race Sedgefield Fixture Set to Deliver Competitive Action

Stunning Peach winning the Year Of The Horse Cup at Sha Tin under Angus Chung

Stunning Peach Edges Sha Tin Thriller as Cruz Sets Sights on Group Company

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Napoleon Solo at Gulfstream Park before the Coolmore Fountain of Youth

Napoleon Solo, Solitude Dude, Jackson Hole Headline Star-Studded Coolmore Fountain of Youth Field at Gulfstream

The Coolmore Fountain of Youth (G2) on Feb. 28 promises to be a thrilling test for the nation’s top 3-year-olds, with an elite field of 23 sophomores set to chase the $425,000 prize over 1 1/16 miles at Gulfstream Park. Leading the nominations are undefeated Grade 1 winner Napoleon Solo, front-running sensation Solitude Dude, and Todd Pletcher-trained Jackson Hole, all of whom arrive with hopes of taking the next step toward the March 28 Florida Derby (G1).

Gold Square’s Napoleon Solo has yet to make his sophomore bow after impressively winning both juvenile starts, including a commanding victory in the Champagne (G1) at Aqueduct last October. The chestnut has been sharpening steadily at Palm Meadows, Gulfstream’s Palm Beach training facility, and is expected to bring his measured speed and late kick to the Fountain of Youth.

Chris Fountoukis’ Solitude Dude has also been impossible to ignore, winning all three of his starts by a combined 21 lengths. The chestnut’s Swale (Jan. 31) triumph at seven furlongs marked his first test beyond six furlongs, and the colt’s front-running style could make him a formidable pace presence on Feb. 28.

Jackson Hole, a two-time winner in 2025, skipped the juvenile season entirely but has developed rapidly under Hall of Fame trainer Todd Pletcher. His January 17 wire-to-wire victory at 1 1/16 miles showcased both stamina and speed, and connections also nominated Swale runner-up Class President for added depth.

Brad Cox’s Further Ado, a two-time Grade 2 winner at 2, joins the fray after returning from a winter break. The colt’s victories, including a 20-length maiden romp followed by a narrow Kentucky Jockey Club (G2) win, mark him as a major contender. Cox also nominated Commandment, a seven-furlong maiden winner last November, while other stakes performers like Bravaro, Diciassette, Two Out Hero, and Talkin complete a deep and competitive roster.

Last year’s edition was a springboard for Godolphin’s Sovereignty, who parlayed a Fountain of Youth victory into wins in the Florida Derby, Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes (G1), and Travers (G1), ultimately earning Horse of the Year honors. The Feb. 28 program offers nine stakes, including eight graded, worth $2.025 million, with the Davona Dale (G2) for fillies also on the card.

Nineteen 3-year-old fillies were nominated to the Davona Dale, with notable names including On Time Girl, Sneaky Good, Sticker Shock, Paradise, Haute Diva, and Omaha Bay. Todd Pletcher also nominated Imperatrice and She Be Smooth among others, ensuring a highly competitive undercard complementing the main event.

The Coolmore Fountain of Youth stands as a pivotal steppingstone on Gulfstream’s Road to the Florida Derby, offering young stars a chance to announce themselves on the national stage. With speed, stamina, and experience all in the mix, Feb. 28 promises a day of gripping racing drama.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz

Newcastle Race Cards 19 February nine-race programme preview

Premier Nine-Race Card Scheduled for Thursday’s All-Weather Fixture

The historic Newcastle Racecourse will host a distinguished nine-race all-weather programme on Thursday, 19 February, running from 3:57PM to 8:00PM, offering a showcase of sprint and middle-distance talent across a structured schedule.

The fixture will attract horses aged three years and upwards, providing a platform for both seasoned performers and emerging talent to demonstrate aptitude on the Tapeta surface. Trainers and riders will focus on precision, tactical awareness, and consistency as the card unfolds from the opening contest through to the evening finale.

The meeting will commence at 3:57PM with THE JOIN THE MIDNITE MOVEMENT HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 3) over 2m 57y, featuring 11 runners aged 4YO+ competing for a purse of £15,200. This opening contest will test stamina and positional acumen over the extended distance, establishing the tone for the day’s proceedings.

Following at 4:30PM, THE READ MEG NICHOLLS’ BLOG HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) will bring together 7 three-year-olds over 7f 14y for a prize of £7,100. Competitors will require measured early pace and well-timed acceleration to navigate the straight efficiently and challenge for supremacy in this intermediate sprint.

At 5:00PM, the programme progresses with THE NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 4), a 7f 14y affair contested by 5 runners aged 3YO+ for £10,000. This event will provide lightly raced horses with the opportunity to gain experience and demonstrate potential in a controlled yet competitive environment.

The early evening will feature THE MIDNITE A NEXT GENERATION APP HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) at 5:30PM, over a distance of 1m 5y for 9 runners aged 4YO+, offering a purse of £9,000. The mile-long contest will test consistency and positional awareness among established handicappers seeking to assert authority at this grade.

At 6:00PM, THE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) over 7f 14y will assemble 8 seasoned competitors aged 4YO+ competing for £6,000, providing a middle-distance examination that balances speed with tactical precision.

Sprinting action will dominate the remainder of the programme, commencing at 6:30PM with THE CREATE YOUR BUILDERS AT MIDNITE CLASSIFIED STAKES (CLASS 6) DIVISION I, a 6f dash featuring 9 runners for £6,000. DIVISION II at 7:00PM will showcase 8 entrants over the same distance for £6,000, while DIVISION III at 7:30PM will host 8 competitors over 6f for £6,000, guaranteeing brisk, high-intensity contests that will carry the excitement through the evening’s concluding races.

The meeting will conclude at 8:00PM with THE MIDNITE: BUILT FOR 2026 NOT 2006 HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5), a 5f sprint involving 9 runners aged 4YO+, offering a purse of £7,100. This finale promises to close the evening’s assembly with precision and speed, underscoring the diverse spectrum of contests offered across Newcastle’s prominent all-weather Racecourse.

The Newcastle Race Cards 19 February will feature a curated nine-race programme encompassing sprint and middle-distance contests, providing a platform for emerging talent and seasoned runners on the distinguished all-weather Racecourse.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz

Bahrain race cards 19 February – Horses and jockeys in action at Bahrain Turf Club

Bahrain Turf Club Hosts High-Stakes Evening with Exciting Multi-Race Lineup

This Thursday, 19th February 2026, Bahrain Turf Club will host a night where dreams meet determination. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with horses, jockeys, and trainers all poised to showcase their finest form. The highlight of the night will undoubtedly be the 6th race – H.H.SH. Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cup, proudly sponsored by BAPCO Energies, where an impressive USD 135,000 prize money awaits the winner over a testing 2200m course. Anticipation is building as the top contenders eye glory in this prestigious feature event.

The evening will kick off at 8:15 pm with the H.H.SH. Mohammed Bin Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cup, covering 1600m for a prize of USD 8,000. Just half an hour later, the H.H.SH. Hamdan Bin Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cup will follow at 8:45 pm, again at 1600m with the same stakes. Both races are expected to set a thrilling pace for the night, giving racegoers an early taste of the competition’s intensity.

As the clock strikes 9:15 pm, the H.H.SH. Khaled Bin Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cup will take center stage over 1600m, this time with USD 12,000 on offer. Fans will be watching closely as emerging talents test their mettle on the track. Following this, the sprint specialists will shine in the Bahrain Turf Series – Al Sakhir Cup, sponsored by Texel Air, at 9:45 pm. Covering a shorter 1000m distance, this race carries a significant USD 80,000 prize, promising a fierce clash of speed and strategy.

The excitement will continue with the Bahrain Turf Series – Bahrain Vision Cup, sponsored by Beyon, at 10:20 pm. Stretching over 1800m with another USD 80,000 prize, this race will test stamina and tactics, setting the stage perfectly for the night’s main event. The H.H.SH. Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cup at 10:50 pm will then command the spotlight, drawing the strongest horses and jockeys as they battle over 2200m. With USD 135,000 at stake, the winner will claim one of the most coveted trophies of the evening, making it a race that fans and participants alike are eagerly awaiting.

The evening will round off with two more compelling contests. The HH.SH. Sheema Bint Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cup at 11:20 pm, covering 1400m and boasting USD 30,000, will feature talented middle-distance runners ready to make their mark. Finally, the night will conclude with the H.H.SH. Hamad Bin Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cup at 11:50 pm, spanning 2200m and offering USD 12,000, promising a dramatic finish to an action-packed evening.

Thursday night at Bahrain Turf Club promises a blend of speed, strategy, and stamina, with every race carrying its own story and excitement. As horses line up, jockeys mount, and the crowd holds its breath, the 19th of February will be a celebration of horse racing at its finest—a night where legends are made, and memories are created.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.

Runners competing at Sedgefield during Sedgefield Race Cards 19 February meeting

Thursday’s Six-Race Sedgefield Fixture Set to Deliver Competitive Action

An afternoon of six races will unfold at Sedgefield Racecourse on Thursday, 19 February, where runners will face a programme that should reward sharp jumping and staying power, while connections will hope their charges keep just enough in reserve for the circuit’s testing run to the line.

Proceedings will begin with RACE 1 — THE FAIRLIGHT STUDIO NOVICES’ HURDLE (CLASS 4) scheduled for 1:23PM, carrying £10,000 in prize money over 2m 3f 148y. Dunkerque will be partnered by Sean Quinlan, Follow Your Luck will be ridden by Brian Hughes, Fearless Dragon will have Joe Williamson aboard, and Mr Ramoon will be guided by Conor Rabbitt, while another runner will complete the five-horse field in this opening novice contest.

The second contest will be RACE 2 — THE CANINE PREMIER HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) at 1:58PM, run for £8,900 across 2m 102y. Glen Road will be ridden by Callum Bewley, Double Digits by Danny McMenamin, Coup de Coeur by Brian Hughes, and One Mill Harbour by Alan Doyle, with one further runner also declared for a contest expected to favour accurate jumping at pace.

Stamina will come into focus in RACE 3 — THE SIGN LEAD HANDICAP HURDLE (CLASS 4) at 2:33PM, offering £7,700 over 3m 2f 171y. Ivane will be partnered by Mr Sam Lee, Dwight K Schrute by Gavin Sheehan, Spike Jones by Mr Sam Burton, and Forged Well by Ryan Mania, alongside additional runners in what should prove one of the afternoon’s strongest staying tests.

Racegoers will then see RACE 4 — THE SEASIDE TRAVEL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5) at 3:08PM, staged for £6,150 over 3m 2f 101y. Defence Witness will be guided by Jonathan England, Getaway Glory by Craig Nichol, Ballydangan by Peter Kavanagh, and Community Rebel by Brian Hughes, while another runner will complete the field in a race where consistency over fences will be vital.

The afternoon’s largest field will appear in RACE 5 — THE HAPPY BIRTHDAY BECCA HANDICAP HURDLE (CLASS 5) at 3:43PM, again run for £6,150 over 2m 3f 148y. Thank You Blue will be partnered by Lewis Stones, North Parade by Oscar Palmer, A Mere Bagatelle by Alex Chadwick, and Dearkeithandkaty by Jonjo O’Neill Jr., with several additional runners expected to ensure a competitive handicap contest.

The meeting will conclude with RACE 6 — THE PAXTONS HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5) at 4:17PM, contested for £6,150 over 2m 5f 62y. Halpha Soleil will be ridden by Joshua Thompson, Too Cool Forshrule by Brian Hughes, Mersey Street by Jonjo O’Neill Jr., and Uncle Al by Conor Rabbitt, while two further runners are set to complete the closing field.

With varied distances and race types across the card, Thursday’s fixture of Sedgefield Race Cards 19 February is expected to offer useful opportunities for developing performers while maintaining competitive action across hurdles and fences as the winter programme continues.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz

Stunning Peach winning the Year Of The Horse Cup at Sha Tin under Angus Chung

Stunning Peach Edges Sha Tin Thriller as Cruz Sets Sights on Group Company

The Year Of The Horse Cup at Sha Tin produced a finish worthy of the occasion on Thursday night, as Stunning Peach finally converted long-held promise into top-level ambition with a dramatic short-head victory in the HK$3.12 million Class 2 feature over 1600 metres.

Trainer Tony Cruz, a dual Hong Kong champion, did not hide his excitement after the Irish-bred gelding lunged late under Angus Chung to deny the fast-finishing Top Dragon. The clock stopped at 1m 33.95s, Regal Gem finishing third, as Cruz secured his third success in the race formerly known as the Chinese New Year Cup.

Settled in sixth from barrier four, Stunning Peach travelled sweetly before spearing into daylight on straightening. He struck the front at the 300m, only for Top Dragon — forced to shift course before unleashing his run under Maxime Guyon — to issue a fierce challenge. Under determined riding, Stunning Peach clung on in a pulsating final stride.

Cruz, who previously captured this contest with Penglai Xianzi (2013) and Beauty Smile (2021), now has loftier aims in mind.

“I’ve got big ideas for him,” Cruz said. “He got injured last year at Happy Valley, but now he’s fully recovered I’m aiming at the top – Group races in Hong Kong, and if he proves himself there, we’ll consider looking overseas.”

The trainer pointed to the decisive weight turnaround as a crucial factor.

“He had 135 pounds last time. Today he carried 116. That tells the tale. With that weight, he was getting an advantage from every rival. Angus rode a perfect race and that made all the difference.”

Formerly trained in Ireland by Joseph O’Brien as Islandsinthestream, the son of Wootton Bassett had twice finished runner-up at Group 1 level in Europe before export. Thursday’s success lifted his Hong Kong earnings to HK$7.8 million, including a HK$1.5 million Top-Up Bonus.

Cruz later completed a double when Gentlemen Legacy edged stablemate Liveandletlive by a nose in the Class 3 Red Packet Handicap over 2000m under Hugh Bowman.

Year Of The Horse Cup Sets the Tone for Rising Stars

The Year Of The Horse Cup meeting also showcased emerging talent. Trainer Francis Lui drew lofty comparisons after Hot Delight maintained his unbeaten record in the first section of the Class 3 Yue Yee Handicap (1200m).

Ridden by Vincent Ho, the three-year-old swept clear by two and three-quarter lengths in 1m 09.04s, clocking a sharp 22.01s for the final 400 metres. Lui suggested the youngster might be ahead of retired champion Golden Sixty at a similar stage.

“He needs to improve, but at this stage he looks better than Golden Sixty did,” Lui remarked. “He’s learning to relax. Even up to a mile should be no problem.”

Elsewhere on the card, Jubilant Winner provided Jamie Richards with his 100th Hong Kong success under Alexis Badel, while four-time champion trainer Caspar Fownes moved to the top of the trainers’ standings with 36 victories for the season.

The evening concluded with a series of competitive handicaps, reinforcing the depth of talent currently on show at Sha Tin as attention now turns to Sunday’s HK$13 million Group 1 Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (1400m), where Ka Ying Rising will attempt to extend an extraordinary winning sequence.

For Stunning Peach, however, the Year Of The Horse Cup may prove a defining stepping stone — the night potential crystallised into genuine Group-race ambition.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz.

Huntingdon Racecards 19 February National Hunt runners clearing a fence in Cambridgeshire

Seven Contests to Unfold Across a Busy Afternoon at Huntingdon

As Wednesday afternoon settles over Cambridgeshire, all eyes turn to Huntingdon Racecards 19 February where a competitive seven-race National Hunt card promises precision jumping, tactical battles and a true test of stamina. The action begins at 1:06pm and runs through to 4:36pm, with over £63,000 in prize money on offer. From sharp novice chases to demanding staying contests, the Irish influence is strong throughout the afternoon and so is the quality.

The opener at 1:06pm, Race 1, the IT Pays To Buy Irish Novices’ Handicap Steeple Chase, may feature just three runners, but the contest carries serious competitive weight. Run over 2m 171y and worth £10,500, it sets the tone for an afternoon built on tactical precision where every fence matters.

Secret des Dieux (FR), partnered by Sean Bowen for James Owen, could look to seize control early and dictate the tempo. Epinephrine (FR), representing Venetia Williams under Charlie Deutsch, brings proven chasing strength and the ability to mount a strong late challenge. Hypotenus (GB), with Taylor Fisher aboard for Joe Tickle, completes the trio and in such a compact field, patience and perfect timing could prove decisive.

Race 2 at 1:41pm raises the intensity. The ITM at Huntingdon Maiden Hurdle sees a lively field of twelve tackle 2m 98y for £10,000. As a Class 4 maiden, it provides a valuable opportunity for emerging talent to step forward. Expect a stronger gallop, tighter positioning and a compelling run to the line as young hurdlers test both pace and composure.

At 2:16pm, Race 3 places greater emphasis on stamina in the Think Thoroughbred, Think Ireland Handicap Steeple Chase. Six runners face 2m 4f 41y in this Class 5 contest worth £8,500. The extended distance ensures fluent jumping and measured energy distribution will be critical, especially in the closing stages when fatigue meets unforgiving fences.

Race 4 at 2:51pm adds depth and intrigue. The Visit Irish Bloodstock Sales with ITM EBF Mares’ National Hunt Maiden Hurdle brings together eleven mares over 2m 5f 101y. This Class 4 contest could highlight future staying prospects, as endurance, balance and late acceleration shape the outcome.

The competitive theme continues at 3:26pm with Race 5, the Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Novices’ Limited Handicap Hurdle. Eleven runners line up over 2m 98y for £7,000, and with closely matched ratings, this could develop into one of the closest finishes of the day. Tactical awareness and well-judged rides will be crucial.

At 4:01pm, Race 6, the Experience Irish Racing with ITM Mares’ Novices’ Limited Handicap Hurdle, sees eight runners tackle 2m 4f 93y for £7,650. The intermediate trip demands a delicate balance between conserving energy and sustaining rhythm, especially as the tempo lifts turning for home.

The finale at 4:36pm, Race 7, ensures the meeting concludes with a true staying spectacle. The Travel Incentive for British Buyers Handicap Steeple Chase stretches over 3m 2y, testing resilience and clean jumping in equal measure. Five runners face this Class 4 challenge worth £9,750, where grit, stamina and flawless fencing will define the result.

From a tactical three-runner duel to a stamina-testing closer, the 19 February card at Huntingdon builds in intensity and intrigue. With Irish-backed contests adding depth and character, the afternoon promises competitive racing, technical precision and compelling narratives from first fence to final stride.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz.

Horses lined up at Chantilly Race Cards 19 February races

Comprehensive Look at Thursday Racing at Chantilly Racecourse

On a crisp Thursday at Chantilly, the scenic Chantilly racecourse will unfold a full day of flat racing, presenting eight contests that stretch from late morning into the afternoon. Promising three-year-olds and seasoned performers will test their speed and stamina across sprint and middle-distance events, making the 19 February fixture a compelling showcase of early-season talent.

The day will open at 11:42 with the Prix de la Grange de Commelles, a 1,900-metre contest carrying €24,700 in prize money. Expected runners include Sourdeval, Lion Marche Seul, Parker, Quantas, and Saint Monchik, each aiming to secure strong positions before the final straight.

At 12:17, the Prix du Chateau de la Reine Blanche will cover 1,900 metres with €24,700 on offer. Anticipated contenders are Avenue de Messine, St Kilda, Axiokersa, Aurora Beau Real, and Grande Baigneuse, all expected to challenge for early control before the closing stages.

The Prix du Moulin de Giez follows at 12:52, running 1,400 metres and offering €24,000. Key runners include Artemise, Angel Dreamer, Persia On Line, Landed, and La Chunga, in what is likely to be a fast-paced mid-distance test.

At 13:27, the Prix du Bois de Beauvilliers spans 1,400 metres with a prize of €30,700. Basanti, Matinal, Noble d’Argent, Rozarion, and Epi are the main entries, with early positioning expected to play a decisive role.

The sprint events dominate the afternoon, beginning with the Prix de l’Allee du Pont au Roi at 14:12 over 1,300 metres for €17,300. Ganzeville, Laura Trezy, Wikenda, Inter Pol, and Hatfaville will contest for the lead in this sharp test of speed.

At 14:47, the Prix de l’Allee de la Porte Vaillant will cover 1,300 metres with €20,200 in prize money. Expected runners include Audeladeseetoiles, El Kraken, Legal Eagle, Elenka, and Akamasoa, all seeking a strong start and clean passage to the line.

The Prix de l’Allee Quinconce follows at 15:22, also 1,300 metres with €22,100 up for grabs. Happy Again, Absolute, Miss Yorkshire, Makarov, and Same Rules Apply will aim to time their finishing effort to perfection.

The meeting concludes at 15:57 with the Prix de l’Allee des Philosophes, covering 1,300 metres and a prize of €28,800. Key runners are Regalien, Franciscano, Speedster, Godessa, and Drogo, all expected to battle for honours in the closing race.

The Chantilly Race Cards 19 February promises a full day of competitive racing across sprint and middle-distance contests. Early positioning, pace, and finishing strength are likely to determine the outcomes in each of the eight races.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz

Prosperity Gallops Across Hong Kong

Hong Kong Celebrates Year of the Horse with Prosperity Gallops Across Hong Kong

Hong Kong lit up on 18th February night as the city welcomed the Year of the Horse with the spectacular “Prosperity Gallops Across Hong Kong” fireworks display, a highlight of the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Year of the Horse campaign. The 23-minute extravaganza turned Victoria Harbour into a canvas of vibrant pyrotechnics, horse-themed imagery, and auspicious symbols, captivating thousands of spectators along the waterfront.

The display featured a stunning 31,888 pyrotechnic shells, including horseshoes and the words “HKJC” and “WIN” blazing across the night sky. From the harbourfront to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, where guests attended a special ceremony hosted by the Club, the event combined elegance, spectacle, and a celebration of the city’s equestrian heritage. HKSAR Chief Executive The Hon John KC Lee highlighted the city’s ongoing integration into national development plans while praising the Jockey Club’s role in fostering community spirit through horse-related events.

The Hon Martin Liao, Chairman of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, reflected on the importance of horses and horse racing to the city. He described the Year of the Horse as particularly auspicious and underscored the Club’s commitment to promoting equestrian sports and community well-being. “Our campaign honours the horse and the sport that has shaped our city’s progress while bringing joy and celebration to residents and visitors alike,” he said.

Across the border in Conghua, Guangzhou, spectators were treated to an equally mesmerizing spectacle combining 1,200 drones and fireworks, depicting galloping horses and symbols of good fortune. The shows in both cities were part of the Club’s year-long initiative celebrating horses, equestrian sport, and the community spirit they inspire.

Looking ahead, one of the campaign’s major highlights will be the launch of world-class racing at the Club’s new Conghua Racecourse in October, marking a milestone in equine development for the Greater Bay Area. The Year of the Horse campaign blends thrilling races, international equestrian showcases, and cultural and family events, uniting communities across the region in celebration.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz.

Dubai Beach in action during Meydan Racecards 20 February at Meydan Racecourse

Dubai World Cup Dreams and Kentucky Hopes Drive a Crucial Carnival Night

There are certain nights at Meydan when the Carnival begins to feel serious, when every stride carries consequences beyond the floodlit straight. Friday is one of those evenings — a programme shaped by ambition, with Classic dreams and Dubai World Cup aspirations quietly hanging in the balance. At the heart of the card sits the Group 2 Balanchine Stakes over 1800 metres on turf, a contest that has long served as a springboard to bigger prizes.

Balanchine Stakes Tops the Meydan Racecard Preview

Godolphin hold a powerful hand in the Balanchine, fielding three of the seven runners, headed by Dubai Beach. She arrives with solid credentials, having accounted for three of these rivals in the Group 2 Cape Verdi over a mile five weeks ago. Among those reopposing is her stablemate Dubai Treasure, who finished third that day. Trainer Saeed bin Suroor, a four-time winner of the race, is mindful of the step up in trip.

“Dubai Beach and Dubai Treasure came out of the Cape Verdi in good shape and have been working well,” he said. “It is a slightly different field compared to last time, and nine furlongs will be a new experience for both of my fillies. I am hoping that they can get nice and relaxed in the race again, which will give them the best chance of getting the trip.”

Charlie Appleby, who has claimed this prize five times, introduces Blue Nazare, an impressive debut scorer at Great Yarmouth in October. “Blue Nazare was impressive on her only start to date,” he said. “She took her time to acclimatise to conditions out in Dubai but has come into herself recently. I don’t foresee any issues with the step up in trip, although she is taking on some good fillies who have already run this winter.”

Three-Year-Olds Chase Kentucky Derby Points

Elsewhere on the Meydan card, race seven — the Listed Road to the Kentucky Derby — carries qualifying points for the first time, with 20 awarded to the winner. Bhupat Seemar, who experienced Churchill Downs on the first Saturday in May with Summer Is Tomorrow in 2022, saddles five runners, including Salloom. The colt made amends for a frustrating withdrawal on intended debut with a smooth victory over 1600 metres three weeks ago.

“Salloom is doing great and I think he came out of the last race really well,” Seemar said. “He’s ready to go again and take his chance, but I hope he behaves in the gate – that’s the biggest thing.” Two European challengers add further intrigue to the 13-runner field, including Knight Of Glory from the yard of David Menuisier. Sixth behind subsequent UAE 2000 Guineas winner Six Speed in January, he is expected to appreciate this longer test.

“He’s been doing a lot of stalls work and has been absolutely grand,” Menuisier noted. “The trip will definitely suit him and I think he has a lot more to offer if he behaves himself.” The Group 3 UAE Oaks, offering qualifying points for the Kentucky Oaks, features a field of seven. Labwah, Tjareed, Dozalla and Yuno — first to fourth in the Cocoa Beach Stakes — renew rivalry. “Labwah is super, there are only positives between her last run and Friday,” said Salem bin Ghadayer. “She has a nice draw and I’m confident the extra 300 metres will be a plus.”

Sunway Seeks Staying Glory

The Group 3 Nad Al Sheba Trophy over 2810 metres presents a searching stamina test. Last year’s winner progressed to Dubai Gold Cup success, and this season’s renewal has depth once more. Sunway, victorious in the Al Khail Trophy over course and distance in January, arrives in peak condition. “Sunway seems in really good form,” said Menuisier. “We’ll see how the race pans out but I would expect a good run.”

Among his rivals is Surabad, lightly raced in the UAE after arriving from France. “I think he will be better over this distance than in his last race,” bin Ghadayer observed. Godolphin attempt to extend a remarkable sequence of nine consecutive wins in this contest, with By The Book stepping up in trip after a mile-and-a-quarter effort last time.

The supporting handicaps are competitive. The DEEPAL S07 Handicap over 1000 metres could suit the speedy Miss Yechance, reverting to her preferred distance after being caught close home over 1400 metres. “She has continued training well… just maintenance work, to have her fresh and happy,” explained co-trainer Julio Olascoaga.

Subito, a maiden winner at Churchill Downs, makes his local debut for Seemar in the same race, while the Touch The Future Handicap over 1900 metres sees Norway-based Niels Petersen’s War Socks seeking a breakthrough after six placed efforts. Racing begins at 5.30pm UAE time with a 1400-metre maiden featuring 12 runners. As this Meydan Racecard Preview underlines, Friday’s card is more than a routine Carnival fixture — it is a stepping stone to the sport’s grandest stages.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz.

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The 2026 Coolmore Fountain of Youth field is set, with Napoleon Solo, Solitude Dude, and Jackson Hole among 23 nominated
Newcastle Race Cards 19 February will present a nine-race all-weather programme with sprint and middle-distance contests showcasing emerging and seasoned
Check out the Bahrain race cards 19 February for an exciting night at Bahrain Turf Club, featuring 8 races, including
Preview coverage of Sedgefield Race Cards 19 February with race details, runners, and meeting overview.
Stunning Peach edges a thrilling finish in the Year Of The Horse Cup at Sha Tin, with Tony Cruz outlining
Huntingdon Racecards 19 February feature a competitive seven-race National Hunt programme from 1:06pm to 4:36pm, offering over £63,000 in prize
Complete preview of Chantilly Race Cards 19 February featuring all race times, distances, prize money, and expected runners.
Hong Kong lit up with horse-themed fireworks and drone displays to celebrate the Year of the Horse, highlighting the city’s
Meydan Racecards 20 February feature eight competitive contests, including the Balanchine Stakes, UAE Oaks and key Kentucky qualification races at
Sha Tin race cards 19 february feature an 11-race programme highlighted by the $3.12M Year of the Horse Cup, with
Sedburys Ghost delivered a landmark season for Yawen Wu, validating years of dedication to breeding, family values and careful horsemanship.
Kempton Park racecards 18 February will feature a competitive seven-race evening card under the lights, highlighted by Class 4 contests
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