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Trainer David Hayes sounded a familiar note of satisfaction on Tuesday morning as Ka Ying Rising delivered another polished rehearsal ahead of the Ka Ying Rising Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup challenge at Sha Tin. The sprint phenomenon, now a five-year-old and already a fixture at the top of the global rankings, showed both composure and speed in a barrier trial that underlined his readiness for another major test.

With the HK$13 million Group 1 feature on 22 February looming, Hayes was keen to see the gelding settle early as he prepares to stretch back out to 1400 metres for just the second time in his career. The brief was met with ease. Ka Ying Rising coasted through his work before stopping the clock at 1m 08.03s for 1200 metres — his fastest trial at the trip to date — all without being asked for anything extravagant.

Hayes was quick to highlight the manner rather than the margin.

“He broke one eight, and I don’t think Zac was doing too much on him. He had a nice healthy blow,” the trainer said. “We let him relax early, practising for 1400, and I loved the way he responded. He took a sit, travelled sweetly, and when Zac asked him, he quickened like he always does.”

Ka Ying Rising Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup Build-Up Takes Shape

Breaking cleanly, Ka Ying Rising travelled second through the opening stages, recording splits of 24.0 seconds for the first 400 metres and 22.0 seconds for the next. Sliding into the lead approaching the home turn, he lengthened smoothly and drew away under a firm hold, signing off with a sharp final 400 metres in 22.0 seconds.

Champion jockey Zac Purton, by now well accustomed to such displays, summed it up succinctly after dismounting.

“Just the same as usual,” he said of the seven-time Group 1 winner.

The trial served as another reminder of the gelding’s rare consistency. Currently level with Silent Witness on 17 consecutive victories — the most ever achieved by a Hong Kong-trained horse — Ka Ying Rising is chasing a slice of history if he can land the Ka Ying Rising Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup and make it 18 on the bounce.

His only previous attempt at 1400 metres came in last season’s edition of the same race, when he prevailed under Karis Teetan. Ten runners have been entered for this year’s renewal, with familiar elite names such as Lucky Sweynesse, Helios Express, Galaxy Patch and Red Lion among the prospective challengers.

Beyond February, the New Zealand-bred gelding is expected to be aimed once more at Sydney’s Royal Randwick in October for The Everest over 1200 metres, as connections seek to extend his reign at the summit of international sprinting.

Already a standout earner, Ka Ying Rising has amassed more than HK$129.85 million in prize money, a figure that reflects both his longevity and his dominance at the highest level.

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

The HH The Amir Sword Festival will break new ground this week as it returns to the Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC) under the banner “Our Legacy in the Lead,” marking both a milestone edition and the 50th anniversary of the host venue. For the first time, the HH The Amir Sword Festival will unfold across four days, from Wednesday 11 February to Saturday 14 February 2026, promising a spectacle worthy of its golden jubilee setting.

A total of 32 races will be staged during the expanded programme, bringing together elite Purebred Arabians and Thoroughbreds from Qatar and abroad. The traditional “Al Sabiq” Championship, showcasing emerging Qatari riders, adds a distinctive domestic touch to a festival that continues to grow in stature and international reach.

The opening two days will focus on the sand track, where proven performers in both Arabian and Thoroughbred divisions will set the tone. Attention then shifts to turf for the final two days, culminating in a closing afternoon headlined by two of the most prestigious contests in the region: the HH The Amir Sword and the HH The Amir Trophy, each carrying prize money of USD 2.5 million.

Al Ghadeer Eyes Historic Treble in HH The Amir Sword Festival

At the heart of the HH The Amir Sword Festival lies its centrepiece: the Group 1 HH The Amir Sword over 2400 metres for Purebred Arabians. All eyes will be on Al Ghadeer, who bids to secure a remarkable third consecutive triumph in the race.

A victory would not only see him defend his crown but also complete a historic third Doha Triple Crown, further cementing his status among the greats of Purebred Arabian racing. His task, however, will be far from straightforward. Wathnan Racing is represented by UK Arabian Derby winner Lippo De Carrere and multiple Group PA scorer Haseef, while Al Shahania Stud fields Samsa Al Shahania in pursuit of regaining the coveted Sword.

International Depth in HH The Amir Trophy

The HH The Amir Trophy, now run as an International Group 2, continues to attract high-calibre contenders from across the globe. Japanese challenger Satono Glanz returns for a third attempt after finishing runner-up in the past two editions. He is joined by fellow Japanese Group 2 winners Byzantine Dream and Deep Monster, adding further depth to the contest.

El Cordobes will carry strong international credentials into the race, prepared along lines similar to those previously followed by past Trophy hero Rebel’s Romance, ensuring another fiercely competitive renewal over the turf.

Silver Sword Showdown

The HH The Amir Silver Sword, contested over 2000 metres, assembles a field of 16, including four leading French-trained Purebred Arabians. Among them is the unbeaten Laffan, whose Group 1 PA success in the Qatar Arabian Trophy des Poulains stamped him as one of the most progressive performers in training. Stablemate Alhaarith, Sienne Al Maury and Inaya Grine add further depth to what promises to be a searching examination of stamina and class.

Domestic Pride in the Shalfa

The closing day opens with the HH The Amir Shalfa, Qatar’s most prestigious domestic handicap over 2000 metres. Aafoor returns to defend the title he claimed last year and arrives in form following success in the HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani Rifle, underlining the strength of local competition at the Festival.

Global Interest Across Supporting Races

The Group 1 PA Qatar International Cup over 1600 metres features dual Group 3 winner Lino and last year’s fourth Jenkille Hipolyte, both bringing strong credentials into the race.

The Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Cup, upgraded to International Listed status, sees Point Lynas attempt to improve on last year’s runner-up finish, while defending champion General Panic returns after another solid season.

In the Al Rayyan Mile, Pacific Avenue seeks to build on his previous Doha success, while Irish-trained Andab adds further intrigue following a Listed win at Dundalk.

As the HH The Amir Sword Festival celebrates half a century of QREC, the four-day showcase stands as both a tribute to the past and a bold statement of intent for the future. With elite competition across divisions and continents, the Festival looks set to deliver racing of the highest calibre on every card.

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

Tokyo Racecourse staged a full and finely balanced Tuesday of racing on February 10, as 12 contests were run between 10:05am and 4:25pm, blending early-season promise with established class. The meeting unfolded with steady rhythm before rising toward its centrepiece, the Grade 3 TOKYO SHIMBUN HAI, a 78,100,000 Yen feature that provided both clarity and quality to a card built on precision, tempo, and measured execution.

The spotlight in Race 11 belonged to Trovatore, a five-year-old horse who delivered a composed and authoritative performance in the TOKYO SHIMBUN HAI (G3). Christophe Lemaire partnered the Yuichi Shikato-trained runner with trademark assurance, allowing the horse to settle before asserting late to stop the clock at 1:32.2. Racing in the colours of Sunday Racing Co. Ltd. and bred by Northern Farm, Trovatore proved decisive at the top level, holding off Lavanda, while Water Licht completed the placings.

Earlier, the meeting opened with Race 1, where Bare Handed Catch, a three-year-old colt, set the early tone under Rachel King. Trained by Masakazu Ikegami and owned by Yoshiaki Kobayashi, with Fuji Farm listed as breeder, the colt secured victory in 1:27.5, finishing ahead of Nucleotide and Repunit.

Race 2 followed with a test of stamina, as G T Black, a three-year-old colt, delivered a resolute effort to win in 2:14.2. Takeshi Yokoyama rode for trainer Takanori Kikuzawa, guiding the Toshihiko Tabata-owned and bred runner past Takeru Musashi, with Morono Kagayaki filling third.

The third contest brought fillies into focus, with Tilbury, a three-year-old filly, producing a controlled display in Race 3. Mirai Iwata partnered the Keisuke Miyata-trained runner to victory in 1:39.7. Owned by Sunday Racing Co. Ltd. and bred by Shunsuke Yoshida, Tilbury finished clear of Sarasa Chachacha and Kitano Epique Un.

Race 4 saw Stella de Lux, a three-year-old colt, maintain the measured tempo of the day. Takeshi Yokoyama secured his second success, riding for trainer Nobuhiro Suzuki. Owned by West.Forest.Stable Co. Ltd. and bred by Yamaharu Bokujo, Stella de Lux recorded a winning time of 1:39.7, with Gold Player second and Dragon Passer third.

Speed returned to the programme in Race 5, where Mountain Barows, a three-year-old colt, asserted himself under Rachel King. Trained by Hisashi Shimizu and owned by Hirotsugu Inokuma, with Shimokobe Farm as breeder, Mountain Barows stopped the clock at 1:35.1, holding off Shine Alps and With a Twinkle.

Staying power was on display in Race 6, as Rey Historico, a three-year-old colt, delivered a fluent performance over longer ground. Christophe Lemaire doubled his tally for the afternoon, guiding the Yoichi Kuroiwa-trained runner to victory in 2:26.5. Racing for Silk Racing Co. Ltd. and bred by Northern Farm, Rey Historico finished ahead of Ibuki, with Beltracchi third.

Race 7, worth 22,690,000 Yen, went to Teleos Sarah, a five-year-old mare who displayed control and balance throughout. Takeshi Yokoyama added another win, riding for trainer Mizuki Takayanagi. Owned by Mieko Suzuki and bred by Tobino Bokujo, Teleos Sarah prevailed in 1:45.8, ahead of Best Me Ever and Primzahl.

The tempo lifted again in Race 8, valued at 22,690,000 Yen, where Dragon Taylor, a four-year-old colt, delivered a sharp effort in 1:18.4. Keita Tosaki rode for trainer Hideaki Fujiwara, guiding the Yoshiro Kubota-owned runner, bred by Respect the Valleys LLC and Laurel Glen Farm, past Central Valley and April in Paris.

Race 9, the YURIKAMOME SHO, carried a total prize of 21,970,000 Yen and was claimed by Sky Splendor, a three-year-old colt who stayed on strongly to win in 2:28.1. Keita Tosaki completed a double, riding for trainer Yasutoshi Ikee. Owned by Silk Racing Co. Ltd. and bred by Lake Villa Farm, Sky Splendor finished ahead of Arrow Metal and Garofano.

The stakes rose further in Race 10, the HATSUNE STAKES valued at 35,930,000 Yen. Teleos La La, a four-year-old filly, delivered a polished performance under Yutaka Take. Trained by Toshiaki Tajima and owned by Mieko Suzuki, with Northern Farm as breeder, she secured victory in 1:45.7, holding off Rouge Solitaire and Canicule.

The meeting concluded with Race 12, where Kitano Lively, a four-year-old filly, closed the card on a confident note. Hatsuya Kowata rode for trainer Shinobu Homma, guiding the Naoto Kitajo-owned runner, bred by Tobiwatari Bokujo, to victory in 1:19.4. Lightning Zeus finished second, with Piko Red completing the placings.

Tokyo Race Results 10 February reflected clarity across divisions and precision in execution, anchored by a high-quality Grade 3 performance in the Tokyo Shimbun Hai. It stood as a reliable reference point as the Japanese racing season continued to gather momentum.

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

The Saudi Cup meeting moved another step closer on Wednesday morning as several international contenders took to the dirt at King Abdulaziz Racecourse, each camp quietly confident their preparations have fallen into place for one of the world’s most valuable race days.

Among the 9am contingent was David Jacobson’s Banishing (USA), a leading American hope for the Group 1 $20 million Saudi Cup. The six-year-old, winner of the G2 Charles Town Classic, jogged for a lap and a half before breezing a sharp 400 metres, stretching out smoothly under the Riyadh sun.

“He’s as good as he’s ever been, maybe even a little bit better,” Jacobson said, watching his stable star cool down. “I don’t know what happened but he really seems to like it out there. He’s on a roll and we expect a very big race.”

It has been a remarkable rise for Banishing. Purchased for $80,000 at the Fasig-Tipton Sale in 2024, he has since developed into a millionaire on the track. Sharaf Mohammed Al Hariri, also involved with fellow Saudi Cup contender Rattle N Roll (USA), recently bought into the gelding.

“He loves to run,” Jacobson added. “He doesn’t need to do much work in the morning because he’s been doing it all in the afternoon. He’s very fit and I liked running in the Pegasus [where he finished sixth] and this just seems to be setting up perfectly. When a plan comes together, it’s always a good thing.

“I don’t know if he can win the race but I definitely know he’s going to turn in a good performance. I love the one-turn mile and an eighth. It would be an unusual race in the United States and hopefully it’s an advantage.”

For Jacobson, more accustomed to prolific domestic success than global showpieces, the experience carries special meaning.

“It’s a dream,” he said. “I’m living in the dream and I’m just going to keep it going as long as I can.”

Saudi Cup Supporting Races Draw International Firepower

While the Saudi Cup commands global attention, the supporting programme has again attracted formidable depth.

Qatar-based French trainer Alban de Mieulle returns to familiar territory in the $500,000 Saudi International Handicap (2100m), a race that has already provided him with lasting memories. In 2022 he saddled a one-two with Lauderdale (IRE) and King Shalaa (FR), the latter returning in 2024 to gain compensation with a decisive victory.

“We came first and second in the International Handicap in 2022, which was really important for us,” de Mieulle recalled. “Whenever you go abroad it’s important. The Saudi Cup meeting was still young and we wanted to show our support. It was a really good day.”

This year he relies on the Wathnan Racing-owned Supercooled (IRE), a five-year-old who has shaped as though the 2100 metres will suit.

“He is in very good form and worked really well,” de Mieulle said. “Since he finished third in Turkey in September last year, he has run three times in Qatar. The first two runs over 1600 metres were too short for him.

“Last time over 2000 metres he found himself blocked on the rail. He came with a run but the jockey had nowhere to go. He finished sixth but was not ridden out and everyone could see he would have won very easily.

“I’m quite confident but he has to carry 59.5kg and I don’t really know how good his opponents are. It’s a very interesting handicap.”

De Mieulle will also saddle RB Mary Lylah (USA) in the Group 1 $1.5 million Al Mneefah Cup for Purebred Arabians, a race he captured in 2022 with First Classs (USA).

“She is much better than her last race indicates and I think she will run well,” he said. “It’s competitive, but I’m hopeful.”

Tanaka Targets Saudi Derby Glory

Japanese trainer Junji Tanaka has his sights set on the G3 $1.5 million Saudi Derby, a race that has become an important stepping stone on the international three-year-old calendar.

Best Green (JPN), a son of Smart Falcon, has won four in succession and was third in the Zen-Nippon Nisai Yushun at Kawasaki in December. With Ryusei Sakai — successful aboard Forever Young (JPN) in 2024 — again in the saddle, confidence is quietly building.

“He has continued to do well since arriving here,” Tanaka said. “His coat looks excellent and he’s in a condition that gives us confidence.

“Sakai rode him in his workout this morning and I believe he was able to grab a good feel for the horse. He wasn’t asked for anything and it was a pleasing piece of work.”

Hong Kong Sprint Star Seeks Riyadh Success

Hong Kong trainer Manfred Man is no stranger to big-race occasions, yet even he acknowledged the sense of occasion as Self Improvement (AUS) stretched out on Wednesday ahead of the G2 $2 million Riyadh Dirt Sprint.

Winner of the G3 Korea Sprint in Seoul last September, the Australian-bred sprinter travelled well and pleased his trainer with a light gallop.

“The horse is good, everything is fine,” Man said. “He was moving very well and he satisfied me. There is no need for any more fast work with the race on Saturday.

“The race is quite strong, stronger than Seoul, but all we can do is try our best. It is exciting as it is our first time in a Saudi Cup race. We feel very happy to represent Hong Kong.”

As the days tick down, optimism hums through the barns. From seasoned American campaigners to ambitious challengers from Japan, Qatar and Hong Kong, the Saudi Cup meeting once again promises a compelling blend of stories, styles and international ambition.

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

An eight-race all-weather programme will take place at Dundalk Stadium on Wednesday, with maidens and handicaps scheduled across sprint and middle-distance trips as the winter season continues at the County Louth venue.

Racing will begin at 13:38 and will continue through to 17:12, with runners set to compete over trips ranging from 6f to extended middle-distance contests under Dundalk’s reliable winter surface conditions.

The meeting will open at 13:38 with Race 1 – The Group Deals Available At Dundalk Stadium Maiden, a 6f contest carrying €12,000, where Jazzit, Oxford Circus, Sedro Woolley, and Bye Bye Now are expected runners seeking early success. Sprint action will continue at 14:08 in Race 2 – The Put The Fun In Fundraising At Dundalk Handicap, also over 6f for €10,000, with Hero Of The Hour, Masked Angel, Never Shout Never, and Si Senior set to contest the handicap.

Stamina will come into focus at 14:38 in Race 3 – The Dundalk Winter Series Leading Trainer & Jockey Championship Handicap, staged over 2m for €13,000, where Tatateo, Minella Mate, Ehteyat, and Sign From Above are scheduled to line up. Attention will then turn to fillies at 15:08 in Race 4 – The Irishinjuredjockeys.com Fillies Maiden, run over 7f with €12,000 on offer, where Annestown, Double Clutching, Electric Night, and Ellens Bay are expected runners.

Handicap action over 7f will follow at 15:38 in Race 5 – The DundalkStadium.com Handicap, worth €11,500, with Boston Benjamin, Tenacious, Princess Sioux, and Salacious due to compete. Emerging middle-distance runners will then feature at 16:08 in Race 6 – The Book Online @ DundalkStadium.com Maiden, staged over 1m for €11,000, where Battle Borne, Ben Lawers, Gonirianbotharleat, and Jallaaf are set to line up.

Staying performers will return at 16:38 in Race 7 – The Floodlit Fridays At Dundalk Handicap, contested over 1m4f for €10,000, with Beat The Devil, Timandi, Jawhary, and Baila Conmigo expected to compete. The evening will conclude at 17:12 with Race 8 – The View Restaurant At Dundalk Stadium Handicap, run over 1m2f150yds and carrying the card’s highest prize of €16,000, where Take Heart, Penzance, The Real Screamer, and Walhaan are due to close the meeting.

The Dundalk Race Cards 11 February meeting will provide a varied eight-race programme at Dundalk Stadium featuring maidens and handicaps across sprint and middle-distance contests. With varied race conditions and competitive prize values spread across the programme, the fixture will offer opportunities for developing horses while maintaining Dundalk Stadium’s busy winter schedule.

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

The Inglis Classic Yearling Sale closed in emphatic fashion at Riverside on Wednesday, as a powerful Ghaiyyath colt from Wentwood Grange brought the curtain down on three buoyant days of trade with a sale-topping $625,000 price tag.

For Dean Hawkins, who runs Wentwood Grange alongside his brother Sean and Leigh, the moment was almost surreal. As bidding climbed well beyond expectations for Lot 668, disbelief gave way to delight. It was not only the highest-priced yearling of the 2026 Classic auction, but also the most expensive ever sold by the respected nursery.

“He was on the market at $150,000 – he’s not here to go home,” Hawkins said afterwards, still absorbing the scale of the result. “You always get nervous beforehand but I was absolutely stoked with the result because if he’d have made $200,000 we would have been chuffed. This really is an unbelievable result.”

The athletic colt, a son of European star Ghaiyyath, had caught the eye throughout inspections, praised for his fluent walk and balanced physique. Hawkins credited the farm team for presenting him in immaculate order across the week, adding that the family would “keep coming back” to a sale they have supported for more than a decade.

Strong Competition for Standout Colt at Inglis Classic Yearling Sale

The colt was secured by Tony and Calvin McEvoy in partnership with Damon Gabbedy’s Belmont Bloodstock, with Calvin McEvoy making no secret of his determination.

“We loved him from the first time we saw him, which you really need to when you spend that sort of money,” McEvoy said. “Every time we went back to look for something wrong with him, we couldn’t find it. I thought he was the standout in the sale.”

McEvoy suggested he anticipated a strong figure but admitted the final price may have gone a bid or two beyond projections. Knowledge that an astute underbidder was involved only strengthened his confidence in the purchase. The stable has enjoyed notable success sourcing top-level performers from this sale in recent seasons, reinforcing their belief in its depth and value.

The second-highest lot of the day was a Home Affairs filly out of You Rang, offered by Mullaglass Stud and purchased by trainer Bryce Heys and Ellerslie Lodge for $380,000.

For Dr Richard and Kim McClenahan of Mullaglass, it capped an outstanding week. Sixteen of their 17 yearlings found new homes for a combined return exceeding $1.9 million.

“We’ve had a fantastic sale, definitely well above what we expected,” Dr McClenahan said. “She was very, very busy, the busiest horse we’ve ever had at this sale. Everything after $250,000 was a great result.”

Heys praised the filly’s physical quality and overall presence, noting that the Classic marketplace consistently provides opportunities for discerning buyers prepared to do their homework.

By the close of trade on Day 3, the Inglis Classic Yearling Sale had posted a gross of $57,573,500, representing a $3.47 million rise on last year. The clearance rate improved to 84 per cent, up from 80 per cent in 2025, while both average and median prices also climbed.

Arrowfield Stud finished as leading vendor for the second consecutive year, selling 32 yearlings for $3.72 million. On the buyers’ list, Mick Price and Michael Kent Jr (with partners) topped the spenders at $1,470,000, while John Foote (with partners) purchased the most lots, securing 11 yearlings.

Inglis Bloodstock CEO Sebastian Hutch described the sale as spirited and satisfying.

“The sale has had a good feel to it since inspections began last week and ultimately we have had a strong sale, with a lot of vendors and buyers going home happy,” Hutch said.

He pointed to broad international participation and a diverse group of stallions, vendors and buyers contributing to the headline results, while acknowledging wider market pressures at the lower end. Even so, the upward movement in gross and clearance suggested resilience and confidence at the middle and upper tiers of the market.

Attention now shifts to the February (Late) Online Sale, followed by the Premier Yearling Sale at Oaklands in Melbourne from March 1–3, where progeny of Extreme Choice, Ghaiyyath, Harry Angel, Home Affairs, Too Darn Hot and Toronado will headline the catalogue.

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

Racing returns to Nottinghamshire on Wednesday, 11 February, with seven scheduled contests at Southwell Racecourse running from 1:44 PM through to 4:44 PM. The programme will feature a variety of handicap and novice stakes, giving trainers and jockeys opportunities to showcase both emerging horses and established performers.

The opening contest, THE CREATE YOUR BUILDERS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) over 4f 214y at 1:44 PM, will feature seven runners competing for a prize of £6,000. Howzak (Billy Garritty), Papa Don’t Preach (Alec Voikhansky), Shalaa Asker (Rob Hornby), and Wedgewood (Marco Ghiani) complete the likely starters for the afternoon opener.

At 2:14 PM, THE JOIN THE MOVEMENT HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) over 1m 6f 21y will feature seven runners competing for £6,000. Moab (Donagh Murphy), Skycutter (Stevie Donohoe), Fleur de Mer (David Nolan), and Billy Bathgate (Rowan Scott). This longer distance race will test stamina and consistency over an extended trip.

The THE RESPONSIBLY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) over 1m 13y will follow at 2:44 PM, with eleven entries vying for £9,000. Mercurius Power (George Wood), Liberty Bird (Kieran O’Neill), Dream Illusion (Dylan Hogan), and Imola (Callum Rodriguez) are expected to feature prominently in this mid-distance contest.

At 3:14 PM, THE FILLIES’ RESTRICTED NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) will feature eight fillies over 1m 13y, competing for £8,000. Si Grass (Sean Dylan Bowen) Forever Twenty (Barry McHugh), Naana’s Crystal (Marco Ghiani), and Whisky Dreams (Jason Hart). This race will feature promising fillies looking to establish their credentials early in the season.

The THE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) at 3:44 PM over 7f 14y will include eleven runners, with £6,000 on offer. Impulse Buy (Marco Ghiani), The Spotlight Kid (John Egan), Gundogan (William Carson), and Hint of The Jungle (Rob Hornby) are expected to contest this mid-length handicap, which will feature a competitive mix of sprinters and milers.

The penultimate race, THE FUTURE OF HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) over 6f 16y at 4:14 PM, will feature twelve runners competing for £7,100. Azure Zain (Jack Garritty), Blue Lakota (Jack Nicholls), Fan Mail (Sean Kirrane), and Lequinto (William Carson) will be prominent in this sprint event, which promises to feature a high-tempo contest.

The card concludes with THE GOLDEN GOALS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) over 6f 16y at 4:44 PM. Six runners will compete for £7,100, including King of Chaos (Callum Rodriguez), Welcome Retreat (Pat Cosgrave), Nala’s Dream (David Nolan), and Grey Horizon (Kieran O’Neill). This closing contest will feature a small but competitive field to round off the afternoon.

The Southwell Racecourse on 11 February promises a feature afternoon of flat racing, with varied distances and conditions testing both speed and stamina. Trainers and jockeys will look to make the most of opportunities across the seven contests scheduled.

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

Few fixtures on the regional calendar command the same reverence as the HH The Amir Sword Festival, and this week Al Rayyan Racecourse will once again assume centre stage. From Wednesday to Saturday, the Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC)will present its flagship event, with preparations complete for a meeting that consistently showcases the pinnacle of Arabian and Thoroughbred racing.

Speaking at a press conference on the eve of the Festival, Acting CEO Mr Bader bin Mohammed Al Darwish assured that the venue and infrastructure are fully prepared to welcome connections, officials and racegoers for four days of top-class sport. He was joined by Deputy CEO Mr Ahmed Al Sheebani and Racing Manager Mr Abdulla Al Kubaisi, alongside representatives of supporting organisations.

This year’s HH The Amir Sword Festival will feature 32 races in total. The first two days will be staged on the sand track, bringing together leading Purebred Arabians and Thoroughbreds, before attention switches to the turf for the final two days. The third day includes a key race dedicated to local breeders, underlining Qatar’s commitment to its domestic programme.

The meeting will culminate on Saturday with its two showpieces — the HH The Amir Sword for Purebred Arabians and the HH The Amir Trophy for Thoroughbreds — each carrying prize money of USD 2.5 million. In a notable development, the Trophy has been upgraded to International Group 2 status this year. Both features will be run as Races 3 and 4 on the closing card.

There is added interest surrounding Al Ghadeer, owned by Al Shaqab Racing, who bids to secure a third consecutive victory in the Sword. Should he succeed, he would complete the Doha Triple Crown for the third time — an achievement never before accomplished.

New additions to the programme include the Middle-Distance Cup (1700m, Local Purebred Arabian Handicap 85–105), the Sand Sprint Cup (1200m, Thoroughbred Handicap 85–105) and the Qatar International Thoroughbred Handicap Cup (2400m, 90–110), further strengthening an already competitive schedule.

With prestige, prize money and history on the line, the HH The Amir Sword Festival once again stands as the centrepiece of Qatar’s racing calendar.

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

American Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert made a striking appearance at King Abdulaziz Racecourse on Tuesday as the countdown to the 2026 Saudi Cup continued. The legendary conditioner oversaw the final breezes for his top contenders, offering a glimpse of the form and readiness of his horses ahead of the world’s richest dirt race.

First on the track was Nysos (USA), who completed a smooth workout under exercise rider Beto Gomez. The son of Nyquist appeared relaxed and confident, gradually picking up pace around the turn and finishing with authority down the stretch. Minutes later, Gomez mounted Nevada Beach (USA), last seen a head second to Nysos in the G2 Laffit Pincay Jr. Stakes. Baffert was pleased with the pair. “Just a little leg-stretcher. Looking forward to Saturday,” he said. “Nevada Beach, if he runs well, will head to the Dubai World Cup.”

Across the track, Luxor Cafe (USA) impressed in his latest venture under the guidance of trainer Noriyuki Hori. The American Pharoah full-brother to Cafe Pharoah has quickly adapted to the Riyadh conditions. He shared the dirt track with stablemate Struve (JPN) ahead of Saturday’s $20 million Group 1 Saudi Cup. Assistant trainer Naoto Suzuki highlighted his adaptability and strong conditioning, noting that the American star is in prime shape for the big day.

Meanwhile, Shin Emperor (FR), trained by Yoshito Yahagi, breezed eight furlongs under Ryusei Sakai. The five-year-old, a multiple Group 1-placed horse including a memorable run in the 2024 Japan Cup, responded well to the workout. Sakai emphasized that Shin Emperor remains in top form, aiming for another Group 1 triumph.

On the sprint side, Lovesick Blues (USA) prepared for the G2 Riyadh Dirt Sprint. Trainer Librado Barocio reported that the grey was sharp and full of energy after a recent “leg-stretcher” exercise. Under jockey Danny Ramsey, the star of the 2025 G1 Bing Crosby Stakes appeared ready to challenge rivals such as Imagination (USA) over the longer Riyadh stretch. Barocio was confident, highlighting the horse’s agility and mental readiness ahead of the race.

As the 2026 Saudi Cup approaches, King Abdulaziz Racecourse is alive with anticipation, hosting a blend of seasoned international champions and emerging talents. Trainers and jockeys alike are putting final touches on their runners, promising thrilling contests in both the dirt and turf divisions.

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

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Buzz Brief

Ka Ying Rising delivered another flawless Sha Tin trial as he builds toward the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup, showing speed,
The HH The Amir Sword Festival returns with 32 races over four days at Al Rayyan, headlined by Al Ghadeer’s

Tokyo Racecourse staged a full and finely balanced Tuesday of racing on February 10, as 12 contests were run between

Saudi Cup contenders from the USA, Japan, Qatar and Hong Kong impressed during morning trackwork at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in
Dundalk Race Cards 11 February will feature an eight-race all-weather meeting at Dundalk Stadium with maidens and handicaps across varied
Inglis Classic Yearling Sale concluded at Riverside with a $625,000 Ghaiyyath colt leading improved figures across gross, average and clearance
Full preview of seven standout contests at Southwell Race Cards 11 February, featuring runners, prizes, and race details.
The HH The Amir Sword Festival begins at Al Rayyan with 32 races over four days, highlighted by the USD
Final breezes at King Abdulaziz set the stage for the 2026 Saudi Cup as global contenders showcase their readiness for
Full preview of Hereford Race Cards 11 February races including runners, distances, times, and prize money across hurdles and steeplechases.
Philippine Racecards 11 February preview a seven-race midweek meeting at the Philippine Jockey Club, featuring uniform ₱300,000 prize money and
The Asian Racing Conference 2026 kicked off in Riyadh with leaders discussing global horse racing trends, collaboration, and strategies to
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