Sponsored by Sheik Hamdan bin Rashid al Maktoum

Shadwell Arabian Mile in Melbourne - Victoria

21/5/2011

Sydney: M.E.Times Intl: Saturday, April 9, thoroughbred racing patrons witnessed a race for purebred Arabian horses.

The inaugural Shadwell Arabian Mile was held at Victoria’s world class Caulfield racecourse. HH Sheik Hamdan bin Rashid al Maktoum, owner of Shadwell Stud and Deputy Ruler of Dubai, sponsored the $20,000 race won by Franshar Park K Shar.

A delegation from the United Arab Emirates including Mr.Mirza al Sayegh, Director of Finance for Sheikh Hamdan, came to Caulfield to witness the race.

The United Arab Emirates Embassy provided spectacular displays of Arab culture including dancing and wonderful Middle Eastern food which was given to everyone who visited the marquee.

There were gifts for every racegoer, courtesy of HH Sheik Hamdan  and Shadwell Stud.

His Excellency, Mr.Ali Nasser Al Nuaimi, Ambassador for the United Arab Emirates, hosted a committee room luncheon for over a hundred guests including Dr.Denis Napthine, Victorian Minister for Racing and the Board of the Melbourne Racing Club.

The feature race of the day was the Shadwell Arabian Mile won by Franshar Park K Shar - owned by Virginia Dodson, trained by Gary Robertson, ridden by Loretta Beckman

The Melbourne Racing Club has reported that from their perspective the day was a resounding success in showcasing Purebred Arabian racing and further strengthening the relationship between Australia and the United Arab Emirates and look forward to the running of many more Shadwell Arabian Miles.

Mr.Mirza Al Sayegh has announced that HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid al Maktoum will sponsor the race at Caulfield again next February and has expressed his wish to make it an annual event. A series of races will be programmed as a lead up to the final at Caulfield.

(Translation appears in Arabic Section)

HE Ali Nasser Al Nuaimi, UAE Ambassador, Dr.Denis Napthine,

Victorian Minister for Racing and Mr.Mirza Al Sayegh