Ta’if, Saudi Arabia, Saturday, 27th September 2025 – The lights will shine bright over Ta’if’s picturesque King Khalid Racecourse as the city gears up for the 20th meeting of the season. This Saturday, racing enthusiasts will witness a thrilling night card with a host of local and international thoroughbreds battling it out under floodlights. Admission is free, giving fans the perfect opportunity to enjoy grandstand views, vibrant food trucks, and the stylish Nabd Al Nadi lounges overlooking the Parade Ring. Gates open at 3:00 pm and racing action begins at 3:55 pm, promising an unforgettable summer night of horse racing.
Race 1: The Local Bred Horses Open – 1400m Dirt (3YO Colts, Geldings & Fillies)
The curtain-raiser at 3:55 pm features 17 promising three-year-olds, each vying for a share of SAR 85,000. Falah Zain (KSA), trained by Thamer Aldaihani and ridden by Muhammad Aldaham, looks to set the pace, while Aela Mahlek (KSA) brings tongue strap support and a slightly lighter 59kg, making her a dangerous contender from gate 13. Young challengers like Aluarf and Motasha’aeb may test the favorites early, but the late runners, including Tamaye and Zhil Alhadb, could exploit the sprint finish on Ta’if’s dirt track.
Race 2: The Local Horses Who Won 1–3 – 1600m Dirt (3YO Colts, Geldings & Fillies)
At 4:25 pm, nine starters line up for SAR 60,000 in a competitive mile. Khaleedo (KSA) carries the top weight of 60kg but looks primed to convert prior winning form into another triumph. Wsm Faisal (KSA), with Alexis Moreno and Min Shan (KSA) will push the pace, but Ashjae Alder’eyah could spring a surprise from mid-pack if allowed to settle and unleash late speed. This race promises a tactical duel as trainers navigate the evening dirt surface under lights.
Race 3: The Local Bred Fillies Open – 1600m Dirt (3YO Fillies)
The filly division opens at 4:50 pm for SAR 85,000 with 13 runners. Dubameen (KSA) and Naflathom (KSA) emerge as key contenders, the latter carrying blinkers and tongue strap, suggesting a strong finish. Shaaeah and Tea’jeb are expected to maintain pressure throughout, while Habibat Alma, wearing cheek pieces, will attempt to close the race from behind. Ta’if’s mile will test stamina and speed in equal measure.
Race 4: The Horses Who Won 0–2 – 2000m Dirt (4YO+)
At 5:15 pm, SAR 50,000 is on offer for the 18-strong field over ten furlongs. Almaqam (KSA), a 6YO, carries the top weight and aims to dominate the early pace, while British import Easy Dancer (GB) and Irish runner Matnookh (IRE) provide experienced challenges. Watch for late closers like Rapid Best (USA) and Rare Ninja (USA), who could exploit any pace meltdown. This race could set the tone for a competitive evening of handicaps.
Race 5: The Local Bred Handicap 0–85 – 2000m Dirt (4YO+)
SAR 95,000 awaits in the 5:40 pm handicap, featuring 18 contenders. Eajabee (KSA) and Wadhahee (KSA) top the weights but have proven consistency. Hadaabah (KSA) and Ibn Laboun (KSA) bring tactical versatility, while Morodan (KSA) and Wafee Al Aez (KSA) could challenge late from off the pace. Expect a tightly contested affair where experience and race tactics will decide the winner.
Race 6: The Arabian Handicap 0–90 – 1600m Dirt (4YO+)
At 6:05 pm, the Arabian handicap of SAR 95,000 features international runners including Adham El Khir (FR) and Hashem (FR). Both carry top ratings and look primed to contest the front, while Tarwa Madison (MAR) may surprise from the back. Kay De Ghazal (FR) and Lafan (FR) bring European experience to the Ta’if track, making this a fascinating tactical battle for the middle-distance crown.
Race 7: The JCSA Challenge Open – 1600m Dirt (2YO)
Two-year-olds take center stage at 6:35 pm with SAR 150,000 at stake. Kanzie (USA) and Newtown Runner (USA) are notable early pace-setters, while Aeb Baad (USA), sporting blinkers, may make all the difference down the stretch. Watch for the lightly weighted Tareekhy (KSA), who could punch above his weight in this juvenile feature.
Race 8: The King Khaled Racecourse Championship (Arabian Horses) Open – 1600m Dirt (4YO+)
The first Group highlight begins at 7:00 pm with SAR 300,000. Mutwakel Alkhalediah (KSA) carries the highest rating at 121, while Angad Al Khalediah (KSA) and Hafedhak Allah Alkhalediah (KSA) are expected to challenge in the final furlongs. International runners like Alhareth (FR) and Anouar (FR) add intrigue, promising a compelling clash between speed, stamina, and tactical awareness under lights.
Race 9: The King Khaled Racecourse Championship (F/M) Open – 1400m Dirt (4YO+ Fillies & Mares)
At 7:30 pm, SAR 300,000 is on the line as elite mares face off. Aeadat (KSA) and Halaa (USA) headline the field with recent consistent form, while Dance Desire (GB) and Snafiya (IRE) provide speed and tactical depth. Expect a fiercely competitive sprint as jockeys navigate positioning on the evening dirt track.
Race 10: The King Khaled Racecourse Championship Open – 1600m Dirt (4YO+)
Closing the night at 8:00 pm, SAR 300,000 attracts a strong field, including Final Destination (GB), Salfan (KSA), and Saudi Neom (USA). Mutwakel Alkhalediah (KSA)’s presence earlier in the evening sets a high bar, and the last race will test stamina, tactical riding, and the ability to adapt to the fast-paced, floodlit Ta’if track. Expect a thrilling finale to crown the meeting’s top performers.
King Khalid Racecourse in Ta’if offers a unique night racing experience, combining picturesque landscapes with modern racing facilities. Spectators will enjoy trackside views, vibrant culinary options, and exclusive lounges. With free general admission, the 20th meeting promises a summer night to remember, blending the thrill of top-tier racing with an atmosphere perfect for family and friends.
Fans are all exciting for 21st meeting at King Khalid Racecourse on 16th October.
For more updates, stay tuned to Racebuzz.com.
