'We are very proud': Sheikh Salman hails success of Bahrain Turf Series

Bahrain’s strategic move to raise its international profile as a sporting destination has taken a significant step forward with the successful conclusion of the Kingdom’s inaugural horse racing Turf Series.

The 10-race event which began in December and ended on Friday offered more than $700,000 in prize money and attracted significant international participation as well as acclaim from trainers, owners and jockeys.

Charlie Appleby, one of the world’s leading trainers, prevented a clean sweep by local horses in the series when Godolphin’s Silent Film ridden by James Doyle took the ninth leg, the seven furlong Al Sakhir Cup.

But the ultimate winner has undoubtedly been the Kingdom itself as it seeks to establish its international racing credentials in the slip stream of its more illustrious regional neighbours such as Dubai. The Turf Series confirms the Kingdom’s status as a rapidly emerging force in world racing.

“Racing in Bahrain has been closed for years and it is being exposed for the first time to the international racing community,” said Sheikh Salman bin Rashed Al Khalifa, the executive director of the Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club.

“I am extremely happy with the results. It has been a huge success. We have had very big support from European trainers and owners and it is very encouraging. The interest is there. They want to have more options [for their horses] at this time of year. You need to gain the confidence of the racing community and they will come back. I have no doubt.”

Appleby will certainly be among them. “It’s been a great series in Bahrain and we’re delighted we found the right horse to come over. Hopefully we’ll be part of it in the future as well.”

Doyle himself is becoming something of a