Julio Olascoaga has quickly built a reputation as one of the most promising trainers in UAE racing. The 33-year-old Uruguayan, who started his career as a veterinarian, has been making waves since securing his training license three years ago. His latest challenger, DREW’S GOLD, is set for a high-stakes run in the Group 1 Dubai Golden Shaheen (sponsored by Nakheel), where he will face strong contenders like TUZ and STRAIGHT NO CHASER.
Previously trained by James Chapman in the U.S., DREW’S GOLD was runner-up in the Grade 1 Woody Stephens Stakes before moving to Olascoaga’s stable under the ownership of RRR Racing. His UAE debut was promising, securing third in the Group 3 Al Shindagha Sprint, but he struggled last time in the Mahab Al Shimaal after a poor break.
“Gelson [Ribeiro], one of our work riders, has been working with him in the gate so I’m confident he won’t do that this time,” says Olascoaga. “We were very happy with his first run here, and if he can repeat or improve upon that, then he will be tough.”
Olascoaga’s path to success is an unconventional one. He first worked as a flying groom before joining multiple Brazilian and Uruguayan Champion Trainer Antonio Cintra, who now oversees operations at Grandstand Stables in Dubai.
“I came for one week, then one month, and now it has been nearly five years,” he reflects. His Meydan-based operation has flourished, with 30 stalls and strong support from owners in Uruguay. “The prize money and exposure are key. If the right conditions allow, we will continue to grow.”
His breakthrough moment came with QUALITY BOONE’s Listed Al Bastakiya win in 2022, which shifted perceptions of his ability among local owners. Other notable successes include victories in the National Day Cup with DARAMETHOS and the Listed Entisar with ATLETICO EL CULANO, a fan favorite in Uruguay.
Beyond his wins, Olascoaga is known for revitalizing horses with past issues. “We’ve had good results with horses from other trainers, like DESERT PEACE and MOUNT KOSCIUSZKO,” he says. “Seeing a horse that came with problems return to competitiveness gives me a lot of joy.”
Unlike many young trainers in Dubai, Olascoaga is entirely focused on his craft, living onsite at the stables and using an electric scooter to navigate the tracks in the mornings.
“I believe that in this business, you have to give 120 percent,” he says. “The competition is high, so I’m here 24 hours trying to find that small advantage that makes the difference between winning and losing. My motivation every night is to wake up and be better the next morning.”
His commitment and ability to transform horses have earned him widespread respect in the racing community. A strong performance from DREW’S GOLD in the Dubai Golden Shaheen would further cement his place among the UAE’s top trainers.
