The eighth race at Meydan Racecourse on 28 March 2026 featured the Group 1 Longines Dubai Sheema Classic at 20:10, conducted over 2410 metres on turf under the auspices of the Dubai Racing Club. This high-value international contest, offering a total prize purse of USD 6,000,000, formed a major segment of the evening’s racing programme and attracted a competitive field of seasoned middle-distance performers from leading racing jurisdictions.
Calandagan (IRE), trained by Francis Henri Graffard and ridden by Mickael Barzalona, produced a composed and tactically sound performance to secure victory. Positioned in a favourable spot during the early and middle stages, the colt travelled fluently before being asked to quicken approaching the final stretch. Responding decisively, he asserted control in the closing strides and completed the journey in a winning time of 2:27.88.
West Wind Blows (IRE), from the Simon & Ed Crisford stable and ridden by Rossa Ryan, finished second following a sustained late challenge. Held up off the early pace, he improved steadily in the straight and narrowed the margin in the final furlong, ultimately finishing just behind the winner in 2:28.01 after a determined effort.
Giavellotto (IRE), trained by Marco Botti and partnered by James Doyle, secured third place with a consistent and disciplined run throughout the contest. Remaining within striking distance for most of the race, he stayed on well in the closing stages to complete the top three in a time of 2:28.61.
The race was run at a controlled and even tempo, allowing the field to settle into rhythm before the contest unfolded into a test of finishing speed and stamina in the straight. Calandagan’s ability to accelerate at a decisive moment proved to be the defining factor, while both West Wind Blows and Giavellotto maintained strong but ultimately second-best finishing efforts against a superior turn of foot.
The meeting was scheduled to conclude with the Race 9 – Dubai World Cup Sponsored by Emirates Airline at 20:45, recognised as the most prominent and valuable race on the card. As the final event of the evening, it was set to attract global attention, featuring elite competitors contesting one of the most prestigious prizes in international horse racing.
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