The connection of Al Matafi after Al Judhay Cup victory. PICS: Juhaim/QREC
Al Shaqab Racing’s homebred Al Matafi claimed Al Judhay Cup glory, wrapping up thrilling action at Al Uqda Equestrian Complex where jockey Marco Casamento marked his second successive hat-trick yesterday.
In the 2100m Purebred Arabian Premium Maiden, Eric Lemartinel-trained Al Matafi overcame a tough challenge from Al Zaeem to win the feature by a length-and-a-half under an excellent ride from Jerome Moutard. Jahfal – ridden by JP Guillambert – finished third in the race. Abdulaziz Jassim Al Boenain, Al Uqda Complex Manager, presented the trophies to the winners.
While Casamento, who rode Al Zaeem was denied second consecutive feature triumph, he had already sealed his second hat-trick of wins in as many days during Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club’s (QREC) 10th Al Uqda Meeting yesterday.
Casamento completed his treble when he steered Nasser Saeed Al Eida-owned Mystical Music to win in the Handicap (70-90) for 4YO+ Thoroughbreds by a length-and-three quarters. Mystical Music’s win in 1400m run in penultimate race also completed a quick double for trainer Gassim Ghazali.
Jerome Moutard steers Al Matafi to win yesterday.
Earlier, Meshaal bin Ali Al Attiyah’s Irtiqaa – guided by Casamento – emerged winner in the 1400m Handicap (0-95) for 4YO+ Local Thoroughbreds. The seven-year-old mare, trained by Gassim Ghazali, registered a quarter-of-a-length victory in the exciting race.
Casamento picked up his first victory of the day in yesterday’s opening race, teaming up with Mohammed Ghazali-trained Ashwas to take 1400m Handicap (0-65) for 4YO+ Local Purebred Arabians honours after a half-length win.
Also yesterday, Nayef Batal Al Otibi-owned and trained Meelad – steered by Prakash Akhade – was victorious in 2200m Handicap (75-95) for 4YO+ Purebred Arabians, while Wathnan Racing’s Union bagged title in the 2200m Handicap (65-85) for 4YO+ Thoroughbreds under the ride of Ronan Thomas.
Jassim bin Hamad Al Atteya-owned S K Shaheen also earned a convincing win in the 1400m Handicap (0-65) for 4YO+ Local Thoroughbreds after a thrilling race. Soufiane Saadi rode Mohammed Hamad Al Attiya-trained four-year-old gelding, who won by a head distance.
Riders will compete for top honours during 11th Race meeting at the same venue which features Wadi Al Sail Cup tomorrow.
