Source:  Various

On Saturday, June 18th, a different breed of horse took to the track at Churchill Downs. 

Arabian horse racing is a popular attraction both in the United States and around the world.  However, this was the first time that a race for Arabian horses was held at the exclusively Thoroughbred track at Churchill Downs.  The exception was made for a special race sponsored by the United Arab Emirates exclusively for Arabian horses.

The UAE President's Cup Race consists of an international series of races specifically for purebred Arabian horses.  The series was initiated in 1994 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates to promote the Arabian breed and horse racing.  

The series consists of approximately eight races per year and they have been been hosted by top racetracks around the world including The Curragh in Ireland, Newmarket and Ascot in Britain, as well as tracks in France, Germany, Russia, and Abu Dhabi. 

Last year was the first time one of the series was held at Keeneland in Lexington, Kentucky.  This year, it was held at Churchill Downs, world renowned as the home of the Kentucky Derby. 

The race produced an exciting upset when T M Fred Texas defeated the favorite, Grilla.  For a full account of the race, visit  www.arabianhorseglobal.com/.

For background on the series, check out  www.presidentscup.ae/en/.