Naseeb Zakhir Dominates to Win Zekreet Cup in Doha

In a remarkable display of skill and speed, Naseeb Zakhir clinched victory at the prestigious Zekreet Cup, a Local Purebred Arabian Handicap for horses aged four and older. The race took place at the Al Rayyan Racecourse on March 15, 2024, where Naseeb Zakhir won decisively by four and a half lengths, marking a significant milestone in his racing career.

Impressive Performance from the Young Colt

Trained and owned by Osama Omer Al-Dafea, the four-year-old grey colt notched his second win out of four starts this season, having previously finished as runner-up in two races. Ridden by jockey Faleh Bughenaim, Naseeb Zakhir demonstrated a strong start, breaking sharply from barrier six in a competitive field of seven runners.

From the outset, he established his presence, initially taking the lead before settling behind early leader Azzam FBR. As the race unfolded, Naseeb Zakhir was accompanied by Al Wasmi and Khaled Al Shahania, maintaining a strategic position. When the race reached its climax, he unleashed a powerful burst of speed down the straight, swiftly asserting his dominance over the competition.

In the final stretch, Al Wasmi, representing Al Wasmiyah Farm, secured second place, while Khaled Al Shahania managed to hold on for third. The triumph at the Zekreet Cup not only showcases Naseeb Zakhir’s growing prowess but also highlights the competitive spirit within the Arabian racing community.

A Day of Exciting Races at Al Rayyan

The Zekreet Cup Day featured a total of eight races, offering a thrilling experience for spectators and participants alike. The opening race saw Aljalta, ridden by Alberto Sanna, achieve a remarkable victory, finishing with a record-breaking lead of 20 lengths.

In the Local Thoroughbred Handicap (0-45), Taimoor, with jockey Saleh Faraj Al-Otaibi, secured a narrow win in a nail-biting finish. Furthermore, both Bint Al Hareth, ridden by Soufiane Saadi, and Kafalat, with jockey Mohammed Hassan Ali Alabdulmalik, displayed impressive late surges to claim victories in their respective races.

The day concluded with strong performances from Prince D’ossau (Tomas Lukasek), Flame Fair (Mohammed Hassan Ali Alabdulmalik), and Nibras Al Marroona (Salman Fahad Al-Hajri), each leaving an indelible mark on the day’s program. The Zekreet Cup not only solidified Naseeb Zakhir’s rising status but also showcased the vibrant culture of horse racing in the region.