Al Zeer Triumphs in Gr.3 UAE President Cup in Belgium

Al Zeer, a determined five-year-old Purebred Arabian, claimed victory in the Gr.3 (PA) UAE President Cup on March 12, 2024, at Waregem, Belgium. This race marked the 11th leg of the Arabian Purebred Classic Series and featured a competitive field of 12 horses aged four and older, racing over a distance of 2,170 meters.

Trained by François Rohaut and ridden by jockey Luka Delozier, Al Zeer arrived in Belgium following an impressive second-place finish in a Gr.3 (PA) event over 2,150 meters at Duindigt. With a previous record as a Gr.2 (PA) winner last season, he added another significant title to his achievements with this latest performance.

Race Dynamics and Key Moments

From the outset, Al Zeer displayed a strategic approach. He started smartly and settled into a comfortable fourth position, though initially found himself three wide without cover. The pace was set by Joe Star (Al Mourtajez), with Norma Al Maury (Azadi) trailing closely in second.

As the race progressed and the horses passed the stands with one circuit remaining, Al Zeer moved into third place, maintaining his position on the outside. The dynamics of the race shifted as Joe Star increased the tempo, closely pursued by Norma Al Maury, while Al Zeer shadowed the leaders from the outside.

Entering the final bend, Joe Star pulled a length ahead, but Al Zeer surged forward, setting the stage for an exhilarating final furlong. In a gripping contest, Al Zeer showcased remarkable resilience, ultimately overpowering Joe Star to secure the victory. Nabucco Al Maury (Assy) finished strong to take third place.

Pedigree and Background

Al Zeer was bred by MBF and is the progeny of Assma Al Khalediah (Amer), who herself is a three-time winner over distances ranging from 1,900 to 2,100 meters and was a runner-up in a Gr.2 (PA) race over 2,200 meters. Additionally, Al Zeer is a half-brother to Fazza Al Khalediah (Jalnar Al Khalidiah), a dual Gr.1 (PA) winner at the ages of four and six, and has multiple Group 1 placings to his name. Assma Al Khalediah is also related to Ocyrrhoe (Al Nasr), a Gr.1 (PA) winner over 2,000 meters at four.

The victory at the UAE President Cup not only highlights Al Zeer’s tenacity but also underscores the strength of his breeding lineage, further solidifying his status in the world of Arabian horse racing.