International Horse Racing Spectacle
Spirit Dancer pulls clear to win the 2023 Bahrain International Trophy - Source: bahrainturfclub.com

The Bahrain International Trophy is back with a stellar lineup of horses from around the world and a host of other family-friendly activities on the sidelines for all to enjoy.

The Kingdom’s pride and joy, the Bahrain International Trophy, returns to the island on November 15 at the Rashid Equestrian & Horseracing Club (REHC), promising an action-packed event for horse racing fans.

Featuring a truly international field with entries from seven countries outside of the Kingdom and a USD1 million prize on the line, this prestigious Group 2 race has drawn a spectacular lineup with 61 entries, including 10 Group 1 winners and 45 Stakes race champions.

Leading the charge is last year’s champion, Spirit Dancer, aiming to become the first horse to win the title twice. The seven-year-old, trained by Richard Fahey with jockey Oisin Orr and co-owned by Sir Alex Ferguson, made his recent comeback at Newmarket (Suffolk, UK) ahead of his Bahrain run.

Spirit Dancer faces stiff competition from top contenders, such as Facteur Cheval, winner of the Dubai Turf at Meydan; Luxembourg, the Coronation Cup winner; Nashwa, a three-time Group 1 winner; Fantastic Moon and Calif, two German Group 1 winners; and Nations Pride, winner of this year’s Arlington Million. This year also marks the event’s first-ever entries from Japan, featuring Group 1 winner, Killer Ability; four-year old Ho O Biscuits; and the year younger Mr G T.

“We are delighted that the Bahrain International Trophy has attracted entries of such quality and it is great to see so many different countries represented,” said Ed Veale, Director of Racing and International Relations for the Bahrain Turf Club. “The event’s status in the racing calendar is growing year on year.”

The Bahrain International Trophy is staged over 2,000m and has a maximum field of 14 chosen runners.

Beyond the races, the event offers plenty for spectators at the Turf Village, including catering by Rue, food trucks, a booth featuring local Bahraini businesses, a mini golf setup and a kids’ activity zone. Families can also unwind in the scenic seating areas, making it a perfect day out for all ages.

Excitement is already building for the event, with more details, including ticket sales and the reveal of a new lounge, to be announced very soon. ✤

GO: VISIT BAHRAINTURFCLUB.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.