Veteran jockey Chantal Sutherland is set to make her mark in the G1 Dubai Golden Shaheen (1200m) as she reunites with Super Chow, a horse she has ridden to five victories in six starts. The seasoned rider, who overcame a career-threatening injury, is embracing this international challenge at Meydan Racecourse this weekend.
Sutherland, 49, has built a strong partnership with the six-year-old Super Chow, trained by Jorge Delgado. She acknowledges the incredible support from Lea Farms’ Bill and Paula Cosgrove, as well as Delgado’s unwavering loyalty. “It’s a huge opportunity, and I am grateful to Jorge and the owners for believing in me,” Sutherland said. “Super Chow is in top shape—he’s strong, healthy, and really happy. Now, we just have to see how the race unfolds.”
Super Chow, a multiple stakes winner who most recently claimed the Gulfstream Park Sprint, will face stiff competition, including defending champion Tuz and G1 Breeders’ Cup Sprint winner Straight No Chaser. This winter, Sutherland has been based in Dubai, working closely with trainer Bhupat Seemar and his team at Zabeel Stables. “It’s been an amazing experience,” she said. “Dubai is such a beautiful place, and Bhupat is a world-class trainer. The whole team has been fantastic.”
After the Dubai World Cup meet, Sutherland will return to the U.S. to ride as the first-call jockey for Delgado at Monmouth Park in New Jersey.
Beyond his talent, Super Chow has a personality to match. “He is a character. He’s serious when he needs to be but also playful. You have to watch out he’ll try to bite sometimes!” Sutherland laughed. “He loves rolling in the sand, getting massages, and cuddles, but when it’s time to work, he’s all business.”
As the Dubai Golden Shaheen approaches, Sutherland remains focused on making the most of this “super” opportunity. A strong performance from Super Chow would be the perfect send-off to her Dubai stint before returning to full-time racing in the U.S.
