Racing of 55th Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Cup is highlight of weekend’s contests

RIYADH: The 55th Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Cup is set to take place this weekend at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Janadriyah, with total prize money of over $1.86 million (SAR7 million) up for grabs.

The Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia launched the first Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Cup in 1967 after opening the club’s headquarters in Al-Malaz, and continues to organize races under the reign of King Salman.

This year’s event is of particular importance as it grants the winner direct qualification for the most valuable race in the world, the Saudi Cup, which takes place at the end of February.

With 20 races in total, it will also allow horses from the GCC to participate in the most prestigious tournaments with the aim of encouraging regional involvement.

The qualifying races for the Saudi Cup will be held on Friday, including for the 1351 Turf Sprint, NEOM Cup, Manifa Cup, Riyadh Sprint Cup and the Saudi Derby.

The races continue on Saturday with the Diriyah Cup, with the winner qualifying for one of the races that is part of the Saudi Cup.