This Friday (1^st November) sees the start of a new season of racing in Bahrain with the opening fixture at the Rashid Equestrian & Horseracing Club. It will be the first time that horse racing in the Kingdom of Bahrain has been staged under floodlights. In addition to the floodlights, a range of other initiatives are being introduced, including enhanced customer facilities.

The eight -race card on Friday gets underway at 3.30pm with the final five events run under floodlights. The 2024-25 season runs from November through to the middle of April and comprises 30 race meetings, including 11 night meetings and 19 twilight fixtures.

On course, a range of new facilities has been developed for racegoers. The grandstand now features ‘The Q Paddock,’ a dedicated hospitality area offering high-quality food, beverages, and an impressive view of the racecourse. Adjacent to the parade ring, the popular Turf Village has been expanded, thanks to an exciting partnership with Rue. In addition to family activities like the kids’ activity zone and mini-golf, there will be a new booth for local Bahraini businesses through a partnership with the Ministry of Youth, further enriching the Turf Village experience.

Among the racing highlights in the upcoming season are the Bahrain International Trophy on 15^thNovember, The Crown Prince’s Cup on 31^st January and The King’s Cup, recently upgraded to international Group 3 status, on 7^th March.

Meanwhile, the Bahrain Turf Series has been expanded to include twelve races, worth a total of $1million. The programme starts on 20^th December and concludes on 6^th March. The extension means that all the premier races in the second half of the season fall within the dates of the international programme. This makes it easier for horses to follow the path taken by last season’s break-out star, Isle Of Jura, who graduated from Bahrain Turf Series handicaps to winning The Crown Prince’s Cup and The King’s Cup.

For more information and details of all the upcoming dates in the season click here for the Bahrain Turf Club website.

Tuesday 29 October 2024