TAIF, Saudi Arabia – August 7, 2025: The much-anticipated Taif Summer Race Night gallops back to life this Friday, August 8, promising an evening of adrenaline-fueled racing, Arabian elegance, and vibrant local culture. Hosted under the mountain skies of Taif at the iconic King Khalid Racecourse, the event features ten competitive races on dirt, offering a showcase of young talent and established stars in equal measure.
With free general admission from 3:00 PM, visitors will enjoy a full racing card that celebrates the very best of Saudi Arabia’s emerging bloodstock and equestrian infrastructure. From debutant juveniles to seasoned performers, the evening is a true celebration of Arabian horse racing under the lights.
Arabian Talent on Display in Opening Races
The action begins at 4:10 PM with the Arabian Horses Maiden, a 1600m dirt test featuring 18 unraced 3-year-old Arabians. Among the standout entries is MISTER DE FAUST, a French import with blinkers on and powerful connections behind him. He’ll face strong opposition from AGHEIDIRI, also making his debut in blinkers, and local prospects AASI AL QANON and MADD.
Race 2 sees fillies rated 0–2 contest the mile, with SAHAABAT DEEM heading the weights with a 74 rating. Her stablemate SHAAEAH and the regally owned MOTAWATHEBAH offer stiff competition.
At 5:00 PM, the Arabian Open for 3-year-olds (Race 3) steps up in class with ALBARON (rating 82) and SATI QANON expected to lead the charge.
Rising Stars in Local-Bred Maiden Contests
Races 4 and 5 focus on locally bred maidens, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s investment in developing homegrown racing stock. From YUMTER and GHOMD FAISAL to HADEETH and TEWAIQAAN, these contests serve as early indicators for future stars.
Race 6, the maiden for older horses, features MEDD’HAA (rating 90), the top pick to finally break through. Blinkered contenders like MNAWEKH and consistent runners SHAYEKH and MUWAFFAQ offer solid challenges.
Handicaps Bring Experience and Excitement
The pace accelerates in Race 7 with a 0–65 Handicap for local-breds, where LA MAYAKAFEE, WALAD CHROME, and ZMAH headline a field of 19. Gear changes on MANTOOQAT ALJEED and ALMETN could make them dangerous sleepers.
At 7:15 PM, Race 8’s 0–80 Handicap features strong contenders like ALBSHUR, INFRARED, and MOTAWASSI, alongside pace-setter ROCKET MONEY—a likely front-runner to watch.
Race 9, a 1400m test for 3YO imports, includes MUKABER, FOUJ, and newcomers TOM’S TOO and HIPPOCRATIC OATH, both showing promise in early workouts.
AlShafa Cup Prep Caps a Thrilling Night
The night ends with the AlShafa Cup Prep, a 2000m highlight worth SAR 120,000. ALMAAN, the highest-rated horse in the field, dons cheekpieces and returns to dominate, but stablemates DEREVO and IRON LION present tactical threats. WESTERN CITY, NATIONAL GALLERY, and THE GOAT round out a star-studded field with late-run capabilities.
Beyond Racing: Hospitality and Entertainment
Taif Summer Race Night offers more than just racing. With free access to the grandstand, visitors can enjoy live music, food trucks, and interactive games like the Nominations Game. For premium experiences, Private Suites at Nabd Al Nadi start from SAR 375 per person, while Almultaqa Clubhouse packages begin at SAR 10,000 for larger groups.
Corporate sponsors can enhance brand visibility under the lights starting at SAR 15,000, all while supporting an event grounded in heritage, community, and equine excellence.
King Khalid Racecourse: Jewel of Saudi Summer Racing
Located in the elevated beauty of Taif, King Khalid Racecourse stands as the Kingdom’s premier summer racing destination. Administered by the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, the venue offers a combination of cool breezes, majestic mountain views, and world-class racing. It’s a place where the energy of youth, the legacy of Arabian bloodlines, and the rhythm of hooves converge in magical evening settings.
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