London, July 30 (QNA) - Al Ghadeer, owned by Al Shaqab Racing, retained his title in the Group 1 Qatar International Stakes for Purebred Arabian horses for the third consecutive year after clinching first place in the race held during the second day of the Qatar Goodwood Festival in England, sponsored by the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club.

The race trophy was presented by HE President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, and HE Sheikh Hamad bin Joaan Al-Thani, as they received it from HE Chairman of Qatar Tourism Saad bin Ali bin Saad Al Kharji.

HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani also crowned the winners of the Group 1 "Visit Qatar Sussex Stakes," where the title was claimed by the horse "Qirat," owned by Juddmonte, trained by Ralph Beckett, and ridden by jockey Richard Kingscote.

Al Ghadeer's victory came under the supervision of trainer Francois Rohaut and the ride of world-renowned jockey Christophe Soumillon. The legendary horse added his tenth win in Group 1 races to his record, further cementing his status among the elite purebred Arabian horses worldwide.

Despite starting from a late position in the 1600-meter race, Al Ghadeer displayed balanced and strong performance, successfully regaining momentum during the final stretch and surging ahead to the lead, overtaking the horse Ch'ezza, which came second under jockey Lukas Delouzier, while Djiva finished third under jockey Silvestre de Sousa. Notably, all top-three finishing horses were under the winning trainer Francois Rohaut.

In a statement following the victory, trainer Francois Rohaut acknowledged the race was not easy, but Al Ghadeer once again proved his excellence and high capability despite his advancing age.

He indicated the possibility of the horse’s next appearance in the Dragon Trophy race, in preparation for the Qatar World Cup in the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe race, and possibly considering future participation in HH the Amir Sword before making a decision regarding the horse’s retirement and transition to stud duties.

With this win, Al Ghadeer continues his journey to maintain the Doha Triple Crown for the third consecutive year, marking a unique achievement that reflects his leading status in purebred Arabian horse racing. (QNA)