Meydan’s Super Saturday card goes ahead despite Iranian missile attacks on United Arab Emirates
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Meydan’s Super Saturday card has gone ahead despite the latest round of military conflict in the Gulf region.
Reports on Saturday suggested that Iranian missiles have been intercepted by US forces within the airspace of the United Arab Emirates, but officials stressed that “Dubai continues to operate normally”.
A statement from Dubai’s government information office read: “In light of ongoing regional developments, Dubai continues to operate normally, with the safety of citizens, residents, and visitors remaining our top priority.
“The UAE has a comprehensive and effective crisis response system in place, ensuring high readiness and rapid response to any emerging developments. The relevant authorities are closely monitoring the situation around the clock, in full coordination with their partners, and will keep the public informed of any new developments as they arise.
“We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to maintaining security and stability, and ensuring the continued smooth operation of all essential services.”
The US and Israel launched a wave of aerial attacks against Iran overnight and the threat of the conflict widening has increased with retaliatory missile strikes being directed at targets across the region.
Just after midday UK time (4pm local time) Dubai Airports confirmed the cancellation of all flights at both Dubai International and Dubai World Central “until further notice”.
The UK government has advised all British nationals in Bahrain, Kuwait, Dubai and UAE to “immediately shelter in place” and to “remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel, monitor official updates, and follow local authorities’ instructions.”
The card featuring eight thoroughbred races as well as one for Purebred Arabians got under way at 1.30 GMT, with Falaah landing the opening Al Maktoum Challenge. A host of high-profile horses are bidding to put the finishing touches to their preparation ahead of the $30.5 million Dubai World Cup meeting on March 28.
Godolphin’s dual Dubai Sheema Classic winner Rebel’s Romance tops the bill in the Group 2 Dubai City of Gold (5.10), while the Aga Khan Studs are represented by the Johnny Murtagh-trained Alakazi in the Group 2 Singspiel Stakes (4.00) and Rayevka for Francis Graffard in the Group 3 Nad Al Sheba Turf (2.50).
Heart Of Honor will have a new jockey as he bids to enhance his Dubai World Cup credentials in the Group 2 Al Maktoum Classic, with Adrie de Vries replacing the sidelined Saffie Osborne.
Saffie Osborne: misses the ride aboard Heart Of Honor at MeydanCredit: Edward Whitaker
“I’ve been feeling unwell and have been in hospital for the last couple of days,” Osborne told the Racing Post. “By the looks of things I wouldn’t have got to the Middle East as they have shut a lot of the airports.
“I’m hoping to be back riding in the UK next week.”
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