Aeon’s Aegis Triumphs in Thoroughbred Derby Trial at Al Uqda

In an impressive show of speed and skill, Aeon’s Aegis won the Thoroughbred Derby Trial for three-year-olds over 2100 meters at Al Uqda Racecourse in Doha, Qatar on March 14, 2024. This victory marks the gelding’s second win in three starts this season, reinforcing his status as a contender in his category.

Owned by Sheikh Abdul Rahman bin Rashid Al-Thani and trained by Mohammed Al Ghazali, Aeon’s Aegis was strategically positioned throughout the race. Jockey Soufiane Saadi waited patiently before making his move in the home straight. With a powerful surge, Aeon’s Aegis overtook his competitors, drawing ahead in the final 100 meters to win by an impressive five lengths, giving Saadi a quick double on the evening.

Notable Performances from Other Races

In the Purebred Arabian Derby Trial for four-year-olds, Mureb delivered a hard-fought victory, making the most of his second start this season. Owned by Wathnan Racing and trained by Alban de Mieulle, Mureb outpaced his rivals under Saadi’s guidance, clinching the win by the narrowest of margins.

Another standout was Zah’ran Al Shahania, who maintained his unbeaten record by winning the National Derby Trial for four-year-old local purebred Arabians. Showing impressive form, the bay gelding quickened in the final 300 meters to secure victory by one and a half lengths, marking a successful follow-up to his debut win last week.

The evening also saw Blessed Star break her maiden in the Thoroughbred Oaks Trial for three-year-old fillies. Representing Al Falah Stud, the bay filly emerged victorious by one and a quarter lengths after a spirited battle in the final stretch, continuing trainer Hamad Al-Jehani’s success in the Oaks category.

Impressive Wins and Series of Victories

In the Purebred Arabian Oaks Trial for four-year-old fillies, Chdia showcased her talent, finishing three lengths ahead of the competition. This victory continued the successful run for her connections, preserving their hold on the title following last year’s success with Divana Chica.

Debuting with confidence, Best Way retained the title in the 3YO Local Thoroughbred Trial, mirroring last year’s performance by the same owner-trainer-jockey combination. Despite a slow start in the 1400-meter race, the colt surged forward to win by two lengths under a measured ride from James Doyle.

Meanwhile, Keheilah Al Sakab demonstrated her strength in the Local Purebred Arabian Oaks Trial, winning by three and a half lengths, while Dhariya extended her perfect record in the Purebred Arabian Derby Trial for three-year-olds, finishing half a length ahead of the competition.

Lastly, Hay’er Al Shahania showcased consistency, winning the Local Purebred Arabian Derby Trial for three-year-olds by three-quarters of a length, confirming his potential with two career wins out of six starts.

The evening at Al Uqda Racecourse highlighted the depth of talent in the racing community, with several horses and their teams celebrating remarkable achievements.