

The Bahrain Turf Club’s (BTC) purpose is to run and promote horseracing in The Kingdom of Bahrain, bringing to the forefront the best horses, jockeys and trainers to participate in one of the most exciting and emerging racing jurisdictions in the sport.
The BTC also acts as a concierge for both horsemen and owners, providing first-class administration to ensure that connections travel into and around Bahrain with ease.
The BTC is the evolving vision of His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Rashid Equestrian & Horseracing Club (REHC). Through his leadership and guidance, the sport of horseracing in The Kingdom of Bahrain has made monumental strides in becoming internationally recognised as a Part 2 Nation of the Blue Book following approval by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA). The club’s flagship race, the Bahrain International Trophy (Gr.2), is now a crucial date in the sport’s global calendar.
HIS HIGHNESS
SHAIKH ISA BIN SALMAN
BIN HAMAD AL KHALIFA Chairman of the Rashid Equestrian & Horseracing Club
The upcoming 2024-25 season marks an exciting new chapter in the evolution and growth of horseracing in Bahrain.
I am pleased to announce both an expansion of the Bahrain Turf Series and the introduction of floodlit racing, a bold initiative that will elevate the spectacle of racing in Bahrain to a new level and enable our season to continue to flourish.
Three years after its launch, we believe the time is right to build on the success of the Bahrain Turf Series and expand the international programme to incorporate our season’s premier races. For the first time, our most prestigious races, including the Crown Prince’s Cup and the King’s Cup will fall within the Bahrain Turf Series calendar. This move, coupled with the new floodlights, provides more flexibility to the race programme, and is intended to make racing in Bahrain an even more attractive and compelling proposition for international visitors.
Last season featured some landmark moments; there was the first $1m running of the Bahrain International Trophy, which resulted in a memorable victory for Spirit Dancer, part-owned by Sir Alex Ferguson, with the race cementing its position as a prestigious event in the international calendar. That was followed by a wonderful season of racing, the highlight of which was the rise of Isle Of Jura, from Bahrain Turf Series runner to King’s Cup winner.
These moments help demonstrate both how far racing in Bahrain has come while also pointing to the future and ambitious vision the Kingdom has for the sport.
All racing in Bahrain is conducted on turf and there are two tracks in use at the REHC Racecourse – Outer and Inner.
The Outer Track is 2300m round with a straight 6 furlong (1200m) chute. There is also an extended chute from the 1600m start. The Outer Track has a long sweeping bend before turning into the long 600m run to the winning post. It is a very fair track where no particular type of running style is favoured.
The Inner Track has recently been renovated and was used for the first time in many years during the 2020/21 season. A slightly shorter round course, 2100m with again a 1200m straight chute, there are extended chutes for the 1600m and 2000m starts.
Both tracks generally ride good to firm and any rain does not tend to have an impact on the going unless it is unlucky enough to fall on race day. There is a base Bermuda grass on both tracks which are then overseeded with Rye grass prior to the start of the season.
The recent introduction of the Inner Track allows a switch between the tracks during the season and therefore reduces wear and tear to the turf, providing optimum ground conditions at all times.
The track is managed and maintained by Clerk of the Course, Andy Waitt, for any further information regarding ground conditions, raceday procedures and training please contact: andrew@rehc.gov.bh
15th November 2024
The introduction of the Bahrain International Trophy (Gr.2) in 2019 began a new chapter in the history of horseracing in The Kingdom of Bahrain.
The quality of runners since, has demonstrated the country’s determination to establish itself as a premier horseracing destination and welcoming the sport’s leading competitors.
1st SPIRIT DANCER (GB)
J: O Orr
T: R Fahey
O: Done, Ferguson, Mason
2nd ISRAR (GB)
J: J Crowley
T: J&T Gosden
O: Shadwell Estate Company Ltd
3rd POINT LONSDALE (IRE)
J: R Moore
T: A P O’Brien
O: D Smith, Mrs J Magnier, M Tabor, Westerberg 2023
1st DUBAI FUTURE (GB)
J: D Tudhope
T: S bin Suroor
O: Godolphin
2nd PASSION AND GLORY (IRE)
J: R Kingscote
T: S bin Suroor
O: Godolphin
3rd RIOCORVO (GER)
J: O Peslier
T: C Laffon-Parias
O: Mme Georgiana Cabrero
1st LORD GLITTERS (FR)
J: J Watson
T: D O’Meara
O: Geoff & Sandra Turnbull
2nd BARNEY ROY (GB)
J: J Doyle
T: C Appleby
O: Godolphin
3rd MAGNY COURS (USA)
J: M Barzalona
T: A Fabre
O: Godolphin
14 ran
Winning time: 2m 6.82s
Going: Good to soft
10 ran
Winning time: 2m 2.12s
Going: Good
13 ran
Winning time: 2m 1.91s
Going: Good
1st SIMSIR (IRE)
J: L Newman
T: F Nass
O: Victorious Racing
2nd GLOBAL GIANT (GB)
J: F Dettori
T: J Gosden
O: Al Adiyat Racing
3rd SOVEREIGN (IRE)
J: R Moore
T: A P O’Brien
O: Mrs John Magnier, Michael Tabor & Derrick Smith 2020
14 ran
Winning time: 2m 0.29s
Going: Good
15th NOVEMBER 2024
FRIDAY 15TH NOVEMBER 2024
• Total Race Value $1,000,000. Distributed in the following order:
- $600,000 to the Winning Horse.
- $200,000 to the Second.
- $100,000 to the Third.
- $60,000 to the Fourth.
- $40,000 to the Fifth.
• 3 years old & up.
THE BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL TROPHY (GROUP 2) 2000M on the turf for horses rated 95 or over by their recognised Racing Authority
TOTAL RACE VALUE:
$1,000,000 USD
Entries by noon on Wednesday 2nd October 2024
• Maximum field size of 14 runners.
• 2000 metres (10f), TURF (Outer Track)
• Enter by noon on Wednesday 2nd October 2024 – NO ENTRY FEE.
• Horses need to be rated 95 or over by their domestic authority at the time of closing.
• Supplementary entry stage for horses trained outside of The Kingdom of Bahrain, Tuesday 22nd October – $20,000 to enter. Final supplementary stage for horses trained in The Kingdom of Bahrain, Monday 11th November, Noon – $20,000 to enter. Supplementary fee will only be charged subject to the horse declaring.
• Final declaration will be done on Monday 11th November, Noon (Bahrain).
- NO DECLARATION FEE.
- Declarations to be made to racing@rehc.gov.bh
• Post Position Draw to take place on Wednesday 13th November.
• BTC will guarantee at least two slots in the Bahrain International Trophy for locally trained horses.
• NH & SH 4YO = 58kg, Fillies = 56kg
• NH 3YO = 56.5kg, Fillies = 54.5kg
PENALTIES:
• No penalties to carry.
AUTOMATIC INVITATION:
There will be two races which will grant ‘Automatic Invitations’* to the Bahrain International Trophy, even if not originally entered:
• Saturday 24th August, York – The Sky Bet and Symphony Group Strensall Stakes (G3)
– WINNER
• Saturday 14th September, Leopardstown –
The Royal Bahrain Irish Champions Stakes (G1) – 1st, 2nd & 3rd
* Acceptances from winners of the above races must be confirmed within 14 days of the entry closing date on Wednesday 2nd October.
INTERNATIONAL RACING BUREAU: Adrian Beaumont, International Racing Bureau adrian@irbracing.com +44 1638 668881 or +44 7808 903158
LOCAL ENTRIES: REHC Racing Office racing@rehc.gov.bh
Shipment of invited horses will be arranged and paid for by the BTC. The BTC will cover the cost of stable to return stable on designated flights with all runners travelling in a stall and a half.
For countries where there is no direct travel available to Bahrain due to quarantine protocols or flight availability and a charter flight is the best option, a travel subsidy will be provided to the owners to assist with shipment costs for the horse.
A separate travel allowance will be paid for GCC runners invited travelling by road.
In addition, BTC will pay for stables, bedding, hay, water and routine veterinary and farrier fees.
Please note trainers’ staff are not permitted to accompany horses on the flight.
BAHRAIN TEMPORARY IMPORTS REQUIREMENTS
Blood tests within 30 days of export – along with the agreed exporting country’s health certificate for Bahrain.
Bloods:
• Coggins, Dourine, Glanders plus EVA for Colts – taken and tested within 30 days of travel with negative results.
• Designated laboratory determined by the Ministry of exporting country.
Swabs:
• Strangles nasopharyngeal swab taken and tested within 30 days of travel with negative results returned.
• Flu – vaccination booster within 60 days of travel but not within 14 days of travel – must have previously certified primary course of two vaccinations of the same type given 21 to 42 days apart with annual boosters thereafter.
• Nasopharyngeal swab must be taken within 72 hours of departure and tested by the PCR method for Equine Influenza virus and Equine Herpes virus types 1 & 4 for EU horses. Tests must return a negative result.
Horse equipment:
• Limited to 150kg per horse. No personal effects – medication allowed (will require detailed packing list).
For any queries regarding horse shipment,
please contact Luck Greayer Bloodstock Ltd:
James MacEwan
macewan@lgbloodstock.com
+44 7502 990628
Carolyn Harty
carolyn@lgbloodstock.com
+44 7827 403339
AIR TICKETS
The BTC will provide air tickets to and from Bahrain International Airport (BAH) for the connections of international horses participating in the Bahrain International Trophy. Return Business Class air tickets on a carrier designated by the BTC will be sent to the following connections:
• Registered Owner, not exceeding two tickets.
• Trainer, not exceeding two tickets.
• Jockey, one ticket.
Please note the following restrictions:
• In the event a connection fulfils more than one role (i.e. owner/trainer), a maximum of two concessions will be granted – one for the connection and one for their spouse/partner. No additional concessions will be reallocated.
• Owners, trainers and jockeys currently residing in Bahrain, are not eligible for travel subsidies.
• In the event that trainers have more than one horse participating in the Bahrain International Trophy, only one set of concessions will be granted. No additional concessions will be reallocated.
• Any connections who take it upon themselves to book their own travel arrangements will not be reimbursed.
Assistant Trainers, Head Lads, Exercise Riders & Stable Staff
Economy class air tickets will be provided for a maximum of two persons per horse at the BTC’s expense.
All visiting connections will have return airport transfers pre-arranged by the BTC following confirmation of issued air tickets.
Owners, trainers and jockeys will be provided with chauffeured vehicles provided by the BTC for the duration of their stay.
Assistant trainers, head lads, exercise riders and stable staff will be provided with a shuttle mini-bus service to and from their accommodation to the racecourse and any official events.
VISAS – The BTC will assist with all visa considerations following the confirmation of issued air tickets.
Hotel accommodation on a room only basis, will be provided at the BTC’s official hotel. One room for a maximum of two persons will be provided to each of the following connections:
• Registered owner, 4 nights
• Trainer, 4 nights
• Jockey, 3 nights
Owners, trainers and jockeys residing in Bahrain are not eligible for the hotel accommodation subsidies.
Only the above concessions will be granted, and the following restrictions apply:
• Owners, trainers and jockeys wishing to be accommodated for a longer period than the number of nights listed above will cover the cost of any additional nights and associated expenses themselves.
• Please note concessions are not transferable. Connections wishing to stay at hotels other than the official hotel will have to cover the cost and associated expenses.
Assistant Trainers, Head Lads, Exercise Riders & Stable Staff
A maximum of two persons per horse will be provided accommodation at one of the BTC’s official hotels – The Downtown Rotana, Manama, Bahrain.
Food, non-alcoholic beverages, transport, and laundry will all be provided.
Starting Friday 20th December 2024
Bahrain’s horseracing programme continues to evolve and following another successful edition of the Bahrain Turf Series, where 70% of the winners were trained outside of Bahrain, the program welcomes two further handicaps, worth $100,000.
The programme of 12 races is now worth a total of $1,000,000, with the further addition of $80,000 in bonuses.
The Turf Series targets international horses rated between 85-102 to compete against the locally trained horses in Bahrain.
In addition to the 12 valuable Bahrain Turf Series races, for the first time the program will be complemented by incorporating our premier races to fall within the Turf Series calendar.
The Crown Prince’s Cup, HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cup, The Al Methaq Mile & The King’s Cup, along with further valuable races are all open to international competition and the BTC welcome stabling nominations for horses of ratings 85 and above.
All visiting horses are eligible to run in any other domestic races in the 2024-25 imported programme, subject to meeting the race condition requirements.
For all 12 Bahrain Turf Series races, priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe with two spaces in each race reserved for horses from the GCC.
To nominate for stabling, please email Max Pimlott, max @irbracing.com by 7th November 2024.
Prior to nomination, please ensure all import requirements are met and horse vaccinations are up to date. For more information regarding this, please refer to page 36 on Shipping.
Entries for races will be by the Monday of the week of the race, 10am (Bahrain).
Declarations for races will be by the Tuesday of the week of the race, 10am (Bahrain). Declarations to include jockeys and any official request for the stewards.
“It’s
clear that the Bahrain Turf Club is making giant strides. They are committed to improving everything from the training facilities to the race programme.”
HUGO PALMER Trainer
The race series will have a total of $1,000,000 USD prize money fund + $80,000 USD in bonuses.
$80,000 is allocated to 10 series races with the purse distributed as follows:
$48,000 to the Winning Horse
$16,000 to the Second.
$8,000 to the Third.
$4,800 to the Fourth.
$3,200 to the Fifth.
$100,000 is allocated to the final two series races with the purse distributed as follows:
$60,000 to the Winning Horse
$20,000 to the Second.
$10,000 to the Third.
$6,000 to the Fourth.
$4,000 to the Fifth.
The turf series will also have a bonus point system attached depending on where horses finish. Points will be awarded accordingly:
1st - 15pts 2nd - 10pts 3rd - 7pts 4th - 5pts 5th - 3pts
Completed finish - 1pt
$40,000 BONUS FOR POT WINNER
The points will be added together at the end of the series. The owner of the horse with the most points in each pot will get $25,000 and the trainer of the horse with most points will get $15,000
This will mean an extra $80,000 in total prize money. Should there be a tie for 1st place, the winner will be awarded by most wins. Should the results still be tied, the prize will be shared.
Bahrain Turf Series
POT A: 1000M (5F STRAIGHT) HANDICAP for horses rated 84-100 by the REHC handicapper
TOTAL
$80,000 USD
Entries on Monday 16th December 2024, 10am (Bahrain)
Declarations on Tuesday 17th December 2024, 10am (Bahrain) AL MANAMA CUP
• Also open to horses rated 101 and 102 that will be ‘guests’
• For colts, geldings, fillies and mares aged 3 years old and upwards
• Free to enter, free to run
• Top weight carried will be 62kg (9st.10lbs.) excluding ‘guests’. No horse will carry less than 54kg (8st. 7lbs.)
• Priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe
• Two places in the race will be reserved for horses trained in the GCC provided they have won a race at a distance between 1000m and 1400m
• At least four places in the race will be allocated to horses trained in Bahrain
• Elimination will be by the weight to be carried
• An Apprentice Jockey can claim an allowance of 3kg until they gain 20 wins and 2kg until they gain 30 wins. No allowance can be claimed thereafter
• Safety Limit = 18
POT B: 2000M (10F) HANDICAP for horses rated 84-100 by the REHC handicapper
• Also open to horses rated 101 and 102 that will be ‘guests’
• For colts, geldings, fillies and mares aged 3 years old and upwards
Entries on Monday 16th December 2024, 10am (Bahrain)
Declarations on Tuesday 17th December 2024, 10am (Bahrain) AL MUHARRAQ CUP
• Free to enter, free to run
• Top weight carried will be 62kg (9st.10lbs.) excluding ‘guests’. No horse will carry less than 54kg (8st. 7lbs.)
• All horses aged 3 will receive 1kg weight for age allowance
• Priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe
• Two places in the race will be reserved for horses trained in the GCC provided they have won a race at a distance between 1800m and 2200m
• At least four places in the race will be allocated to horses trained in Bahrain
• Elimination will be by the weight to be carried
• An Apprentice Jockey can claim an allowance of 3kg until they gain 20 wins and 2kg until they gain 30 wins. No allowance can be claimed thereafter
• Safety Limit = 16
Bahrain Turf Series
RIFFA
POT A: 1200M (6F STRAIGHT) HANDICAP for horses
rated 80-100 by the REHC handicapper
TOTAL
$80,000 USD
Entries on Monday 30th December 2024, 10am (Bahrain)
Declarations on Tuesday 31st December 2024, 10am (Bahrain)
• Also open to horses rated 101 and 102 that will be ‘guests’
• For colts, geldings, fillies and mares aged 4 years old and upwards
• Free to enter, free to run
• Top weight carried will be 62kg (9st.10lbs.) excluding ‘guests’. No horse will carry less than 54kg (8st. 7lbs.)
• Priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe including ‘guests’
• Two places in the race will be reserved for horses trained in the GCC provided they have won a race at a distance between 1000m and 1400m
• At least six places in the race will be allocated to horses trained in Bahrain
• Elimination will be by the weight to be carried
• An Apprentice Jockey can claim an allowance of 3kg until they gain 20 wins and 2kg until they gain 30 wins. No allowance can be claimed thereafter.
• Safety Limit = 18
Bahrain Turf Series
B: 2000M (10F) HANDICAP for horses
rated 80-100 by the REHC handicapper
TOTAL RACE VALUE:
$80,000 USD
Entries on Monday 30th December 2024, 10am (Bahrain)
Declarations on Tuesday 31st December 2024, 10am (Bahrain)
• Also open to horse rated 101 and 102 that will be ‘guests’
• For colts, geldings, fillies and mares aged 4 years old and upwards
• Free to enter, free to run
• Top weight carried will be 62kg (9st.10lbs.) excluding ‘guests’. No horse will carry less than 54kg (8st. 7lbs.)
• All horses aged 4 will receive 0.5kg weight for age allowance
• Priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe including ‘guests’
• Two places in the race will be reserved for horses trained in the GCC provided they have won a race at a distance between 1800m and 2200m
• At least four places in the race will be allocated to horses trained in Bahrain
• Elimination will be by the weight to be carried
• An Apprentice Jockey can claim an allowance of 3kg until they gain 20 wins and 2kg until they gain 30 wins. No allowance can be claimed thereafter.
• Safety Limit = 16
STRAIGHT)
Domestic
Grade 1, Conditions Race
17th JANUARY 2025
• For colts, geldings, fillies and mares aged 4 years old and upwards
• Free to enter, free to run
• Weights to be carried:
- 5 year olds and upwards 58kg
- 4 year olds 57.5kg
- Fillies and Mares allowed 2kg
• Penalties will be given for a race won after 11th January 2024 for the following Internationally recognised Listed & Group/ Graded races:
- Listed & Group/Grades - 1.5kg
• Priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe
• For colts, geldings, fillies and mares aged 4 years old and upwards
• Free to enter, free to run
• Weights to be carried:
- 5 year olds and upwards 58kg
- 4 year olds 57.5kg
- Fillies and Mares allowed 2kg
Grade 1, Conditions Race
Entries on Monday 13th January 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
Declarations on Tuesday 14th January 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
• Two places in the race will be reserved for horses trained in the GCC provided they have won a race at a distance between 1000m and 1400m
• At least four places in the race will be allocated to horses trained in Bahrain
• Elimination will be by rating
• Apprentices may not claim
• Safety Limit = 18
Entries on Monday 13th January 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
Declarations on Tuesday 14th January 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
• Penalties will be given for a race won after 11th January 2024 for the following Internationally recognised Listed & Group/ Graded races:
- Listed & Group/Grades - 1.5kg
• Priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe
• Two places in the race will be reserved for horses trained in the GCC provided they have won a race at a distance between 1600m and 2000m
• At least four places in the race will be allocated to horses trained in Bahrain
• Elimination will be by rating
• Apprentices may not claim
• Safety Limit = 16
30 th JANUARY 2025
• Also open to horses rated 101 and 102 that will be ‘guests’
• For colts, geldings, fillies and mares aged 4 years old and upwards
HAWAR CUP POT A: 1200M (6F STRAIGHT) HANDICAP for horses rated 80-100 by the REHC handicapper
TOTAL RACE VALUE: $80,000 USD Bahrain Turf Series
Entries on Monday 27th January 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
Declarations on Tuesday 28th January 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
• Free to enter, free to run
• Top weight carried will be 62kg (9st.10lbs.) excluding ‘guests’. No horse will carry less than 54kg (8st. 7lbs.)
• Priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe including ‘guests’
• Two places in the race will be reserved for horses trained in the GCC provided they have won a race at a distance between 1000m and 1400m
• At least six places in the race will be allocated to horses trained in Bahrain
• Elimination will be by the weight to be carried
• An Apprentice Jockey can claim an allowance of 3kg until they gain 20 wins and 2kg until they gain 30 wins. No allowance can be claimed thereafter.
• Safety Limit = 18
Friday 31st JANUARY 2025
CONDITIONS:
ANCHORMAN CUP
POT B: 1800M (9F) HANDICAP for horses rated 80-100 by the REHC handicapper
TOTAL RACE VALUE:
$80,000 USD Bahrain Turf Series
Entries on Monday 27th January 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
Declarations on Tuesday 28th January 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
• Also open to horses rated 101 and 102 that will be ‘guests’
• For colts, geldings, fillies and mares aged 4 years old and upwards
• Free to enter, free to run
• Top weight carried will be 62kg (9st.10lbs.) excluding ‘guests’. No horse will carry less than 54kg (8st. 7lbs.)
• All horses aged 4 will receive 0.5kg weight for age allowance
• Priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe including ‘guests’
• Two places in the race will be reserved for horses trained in the GCC provided they have won a race at a distance between 1600m and 2000m
• At least four places in the race will be allocated to horses trained in Bahrain
• Elimination will be by the weight to be carried
• An Apprentice Jockey can claim an allowance of 3kg until they gain 20 wins and 2kg until they gain 30 wins. No allowance can be claimed thereafter.
• Safety Limit = 16
on turf
TOTAL RACE VALUE: $150,000 USD
Entries on Monday 27th January 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
Declarations on Tuesday 28th January 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
• 4 years old & up
• 2000 metres (10f), TURF
WEIGHTS:
• Weights to be carried:
- 5 year olds and upwards 58kg
- 4 year olds 57.5kg
- Fillies and Mares allowed 2kg
PENALTIES:
• Penalties will be given for a race won after 1st February 2024 for the following Internationally recognised Listed & Group/Graded races:
- Listed - 1.5kg
- Group/Graded - 2.5kg
• Apprentices may not claim
Friday 7th FEBRUARY 2025
CONDITIONS:
HH SH. FAISAL BIN RASHID AL KHALIFA CUP 1600M (8F), Domestic Grade 1, on turf
• 4 years old & up
• 1600m (8f), TURF
WEIGHTS:
Weights to be carried:
- 5 year olds and upwards 58kg
- 4 year olds 57.5kg
Entries on Monday 3rd February 2025, 10am (Bahrain) - $200
Declarations on Tuesday 4th February 2025, 10am (Bahrain) - $200 TOTAL RACE VALUE: $40,000 USD
- Fillies and Mares allowed 2kg
PENALTIES:
• Penalties will be given for a race won after 8th February 2024 for the following Internationally recognised Listed & Group/Graded races:
- Listed & Group/Grades - 1.5kg
• Apprentices may not claim
Friday 21st FEBRUARY 2025
Bahrain Turf Series
AL SAKHIR CUP
POT A: 1000M (5F STRAIGHT) HANDICAP for horses rated 80-100 by the REHC handicapper
TOTAL RACE
$80,000 USD
Entries on Monday 17th February 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
Declarations on Tuesday 18th February 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
• Also open to horses rated 101 and 102 that will be ‘guests’
• For colts, geldings, fillies and mares aged 4 years old and upwards
• Free to enter, free to run
• Top weight carried will be 62kg (9st.10lbs.) excluding ‘guests’. No horse will carry less than 54kg (8st. 7lbs.)
• Priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe including ‘guests’
• Two places in the race will be reserved for horses trained in the GCC provided they have won a race at a distance between 1000m and 1400m
• At least four places in the race will be allocated to horses trained in Bahrain
• Elimination will be by the weight to be carried
• An Apprentice Jockey can claim an allowance of 3kg until they gain 20 wins and 2kg until they gain 30 wins. No allowance can be claimed thereafter.
• Safety Limit = 18
Bahrain Turf Series
VISION 2050 CUP
POT B: 1800M (9F) HANDICAP for horses rated 80-100 by the REHC handicapper
TOTAL RACE VALUE: $80,000 USD
Entries on Monday 17th February 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
Declarations on Tuesday 18th February 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
• Also open to horses rated 101 and 102 that will be ‘guests’
• For colts, geldings, fillies and mares aged 4 years old and upwards
• Free to enter, free to run
• Top weight carried will be 62kg (9st.10lbs.) excluding ‘guests’. No horse will carry less than 54kg (8st. 7lbs.)
• Priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe including ‘guests’
• Two places in the race will be reserved for horses trained in the GCC provided they have won a race at a distance between 1800m and 2200m
• At least four places in the race will be allocated to horses trained in Bahrain
• Elimination will be by the weight to be carried
• An Apprentice Jockey can claim an allowance of 3kg until they gain 20 wins and 2kg until they gain 30 wins. No allowance can be claimed thereafter.
• Safety Limit = 16
Friday 21st FEBRUARY 2025
CONDITIONS:
HH SH. NASSER BIN HAMAD AL KHALIFA CUP
2200M (11F), Listed, on turf
TOTAL RACE VALUE:
$135,000 USD
Entries on Monday 17th February 2025, 10am (Bahrain) - $675
Declarations on Tuesday 18th February 2025, 10am (Bahrain) - $675
• 4 years old & up
• 2200m (11f), TURF
WEIGHTS:
• Weights to be carried:
- 5 year olds and upwards 58kg
- 4 year olds 57.5kg
- Fillies and Mares allowed 2kg
PENALTIES:
• Penalties will be given for a race won on or after 21st February 2024 for the following Internationally recognised Listed & Group/Graded races:
- Listed race = 1.5 kg
- Group race = 2.5 kg
• Apprentices may not claim
Thursday 6th MARCH 2025
Bahrain Turf Series
AL FATEH CUP POT A: 1200M (6F STRAIGHT) HANDICAP for horses rated 80-100 by the REHC handicapper
TOTAL RACE VALUE: $100,000 USD
Entries on Monday 3rd March 2025, 10am (Bahrain) Declarations on Tuesday 4th March 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
• Also open to horses rated 101 and 102 that will be ‘guests’
• For colts, geldings, fillies and mares aged 4 years old and upwards
• Free to enter, free to run
• Top weight carried will be 62kg (9st.10lbs.) excluding ‘guests’. No horse will carry less than 54kg (8st. 7lbs.)
• Priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe including ‘guests’
• Two places in the race will be reserved for horses trained in the GCC provided they have won a race at a distance between 1000m and 1400m
• At least six places in the race will be allocated to horses trained in Bahrain
• Elimination will be by the weight to be carried
• An Apprentice Jockey can claim an allowance of 3kg until they gain 20 wins and 2kg until they gain 30 wins. No allowance can be claimed thereafter.
• Safety Limit = 18
Bahrain Turf Series
POT B: 2000M (10F) HANDICAP for horses rated 80-100 by the REHC handicapper
$100,000 USD
Entries on Monday 3rd March 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
Declarations on Tuesday 4th March 2025, 10am (Bahrain)
• Also open to horses rated 101 and 102 that will be ‘guests’
• For colts, geldings, fillies and mares aged 4 years old and upwards
• Free to enter, free to run
• Top weight carried will be 62kg (9st.10lbs.) excluding ‘guests’. No horse will carry less than 54kg (8st. 7lbs.)
• Priority for inclusion will be given to visiting horses from Europe including ‘guests’
• Two places in the race will be reserved for horses trained in the GCC provided they have won a race at a distance between 1800m and 2200m
• At least four places in the race will be allocated to horses trained in Bahrain
• Elimination will be by the weight to be carried
• An Apprentice Jockey can claim an allowance of 3kg until they gain 20 wins and 2kg until they gain 30 wins. No allowance can be claimed thereafter.
• Safety Limit = 16
Friday 7th MARCH 2025
CONDITIONS:
THE CHAIRMAN’S CUP
1000M (5F STRAIGHT), Domestic Grade 1, on turf
TOTAL RACE VALUE:
$40,000 USD
Entries on Monday
3rd March 2025, 10am (Bahrain) - $200
Declarations on Tuesday 4th March 2025, 10am (Bahrain) - $200
• 4 years old & up
• 1000m (5f), TURF
WEIGHTS:
• Weights to be carried:
- 5 year olds and upwards 58kg
- 4 year olds 57.5kg
- Fillies and Mares allowed 2kg
PENALTIES:
• Penalties will be given for a race won after 7th March 2024 for the following
Internationally recognised Listed & Group/Graded races:
- Listed, Group/Graded - 1.5kg
• Apprentices may not claim
Friday 7th MARCH 2025
CONDITIONS:
AL METHAQ MILE 1600M (8F), Listed, on turf
TOTAL RACE VALUE: $100,000 USD
Entries on Monday 3rd March 2025, 10am (Bahrain) - $500
Declarations on Tuesday 4th March 2025, 10am (Bahrain) - $500
• 4 years old & up
• 1600m (8f), TURF
WEIGHTS:
• Weights to be carried:
- 5 year olds and upwards 58kg - 4 year olds 57.5kg
- Fillies and Mares allowed 2kg
PENALTIES:
• Penalties will be given for a race won after 7th March 2024 for the following Internationally recognised Listed & Group/Graded races:
- Listed - 1.5kg
- Group/Graded - 2.5kg
• Apprentices may not claim
Friday 7th MARCH 2025
THE KING’S CUP
2400M (12F) Group 3, on turf
TOTAL RACE VALUE:
$200,000 USD
Entries on Monday 3rd March 2025, 10am (Bahrain) - $1000
Declarations on Tuesday 4th March 2025, 10am (Bahrain) - $1000
CONDITIONS:
• 4 years old & up
• 2400 metres (12f), TURF
WEIGHTS:
• Weights to be carried:
- 5 year olds and upwards 58kg
- 4 year olds 57.5kg
- Fillies and Mares allowed 2kg
PENALTIES:
• Penalties will be given for a race won on or after 7th March 2024 for the following Internationally recognised Listed & Group/Graded races:
- Group 3 race = 1.5 kg
- Group 2 race = 2.5 kg
- Group 1 race = 3.5 kg
• Apprentices may not claim
“Bahrain really rallied around him. They were all so pleased Isle Of Jura was doing it; he really showcased what a wonderful place it is to race horses.”
GEORGE SCOTT Trainer of the 2024 King’s Cup winner Isle Of Jura
Pot A run over 1000m (Straight) and 1200m (Straight).
Pot B run over 1800m and 2000m.
In each race in the Series, two reserves that are trained in Bahrain, will be included at declaration time. If any of the existing field drops out by 5PM the day before the race a reserve will replace it.
International horses are permitted to run across all races in the Imported Program, subject to meeting race condition requirements.
BTC EXPENSES VOUCHER
Connections of each British & European trained horse selected to compete in the series will be entitled to a $15,000 expenses voucher.
At the end of the series the BTC will reimburse connections’ expenses surrounding their trips to Bahrain up to the value of $15,000. Please ensure all receipts are kept and submitted together to Anood Ahmed, anood@rehc.gov.bh
Receipts can be submitted for the following expenses ONLY:
• Hotels
• Airlines (to and from Bahrain only)
• Restaurants/bars/cafés
• Limousine services
• Tourism destinations
• Recreational sports.
For any other expenses to be accepted please confirm with the BTC prior to submission.
Horses will need to compete in a minimum of two series races in order to gain eligibility for this travel subsidy.
For horses trained outside of Bahrain in the GCC region, hotel accommodation will be provided for owners x 2, trainer x 1, stable staff x 2 and jockey x 1. For further information on available travel allowances please contact adrian@irbracing.com
The BTC will provide stable staff with excellent accommodation a short drive from the training facility. Included in the staff accommodation is a gym, swimming pool and WiFi. The accommodation is close to all local amenities. Rental cars will be supplied on the basis of one car to share between two people.
One stable staff flight (economy) per horse will be covered by the BTC, permitting travel is within 72 hours of the horse’s arrival.
The BTC will cover the cost of 1/3 share freight (3 horses on a pallet) for each horse selected to compete in the Bahrain Turf Series to and from its country of origin. The cost covered is permitting the horse travels on the group Turf Series flight outbound and the return journey following the series conclusion Should any horse require to leave prior to the return flight they will be able to use their voucher expenses to contribute towards this.
All horses will travel with a Luck Greayer professional groom.
• Equipment limited to 150kg per horse. No personal effects – medication allowed (will require detailed packing list).
• All veterinary export costs to meet Bahrain Import conditions are covered.
- RCN’s are to be arranged independently.
• For countries outside of GB & EU where there is no direct travel available to Bahrain due to quarantine protocols and a charter flight is the best option, a travel subsidy will be provided to the owners to assist with shipment costs for their horse.
• A separate travel allowance will be paid for GCC runners invited travelling by road as determined by BTC.
• Horses will need to compete in a minimum of two series races in order to gain eligibility for this travel subsidy.
The BTC will arrange and cover the normal shared costs of return transport by road from the home stable to departure airport and return if from an airport outside the country of origin.
Any requested changes from the transport arrangement provided by the BTC which incurs additional cost will be at the owner’s expense.
For runners who travel onto another GCC country / Carnival all BTC subsidies stop on export from Bahrain and consideration by connections need to be considered on their sanitary status in reference to the return to EU/GB from that country.
Travel to a GCC country requires a 40 days residence in Bahrain prior to shipping.
Please note that the following items are NOT permitted to be shipped along with tack:
• Flammables
• Medication
• Batteries
• Supplements
A limited amount of feed can be shipped along with the horse(s) subject to the following:
• Available space on aircraft as advised by LG.
• All bags must be unopened, sealed, labelled and documented according to instructions received by LG.
• A maximum of 3 bags per horse, this is to allow time for feed deliveries to be sourced/ delivered locally.
*Please note the below is for the Bahrain Turf Series, please refer back to page 11 for the Bahrain International, temporary import conditions.
Horses from all countries will need to meet, as a minimum, the Bahrain permanent import conditions appropriate to the country of origin.
Whilst in Bahrain, BTS runners will be stabled in regional groups in a designated quarantine facility separated from local GCC horses. Access to these areas will be restricted to the immediate connections of the horse.
PLEASE NOTE: Horses entering Bahrain which the connections wish to send or upgrade to a local stable for training (non-isolation stables), must meet the Bahrain permanent import conditions and travel with the appropriate permanent import health certification.
Bloods within 30 days of export – along with the agreed exporting countries agreed health certificate for Bahrain.
• Coggins, Dourine, Glanders plus EVA for Colts – taken and tested within 30 days of travel with negative results.
• Designated laboratory determined by the Ministry of exporting country.
• Strangles nasopharyngeal swab taken and tested within 30 days of travel with negative results returned.
• Flu – vaccination booster within 60 days of travel but not within 14 days of travel – must have previously certified primary course of two vaccinations of the same type given 21 to 42 days apart with annual boosters thereafter.
• Nasopharyngeal swab must be taken within 72 hours of departure and tested by the PCR method for Equine Influenza virus and Equine Herpes virus types 1 & 4. Tests must return a negative result.
• Vaccination for Equine Influenza is mandatory in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
• All horses must have received a primary course of two vaccinations (same manufacturer) 21 to 42 days apart, followed by booster injections at no greater than 6 month intervals.
• The last booster injection must be within 60 days of travel but not within 14 days of travel.
• If travelling on a primary course alone both vaccinations must be within 60 days of travel but not within 14 days of travel.
If you are considering travelling your horse to the Bahrain Turf Series please send a colour scan of the passport vaccination pages to macewan@lgbloodstock.com or carolyn@lgbloodstock.com so advice can be given if there is any action to take.
Further information in regard to pre-export health requirements can be provided on request directly from Luck Greayer Bloodstock Shipping Ltd – James MacEwan.
PLEASE NOTE: If a horse is transferred from the quarantine area to a local stable for training then prior to an entry being accepted for the horse to run it will need to meet the compulsory vaccination requirements for Equine Herpes Type 1 and 4 that exist in the Kingdom of Bahrain – further information can be found in the rules of racing.
International horses competing in the BTS will be stabled at the state-of-the-art quarantine facility within the REHC training campus. The complex is approximately 30 minutes’ drive from Bahrain International Airport and has immediate access to the racetrack and its extensive communal training facilities.
The BTC will provide both grooms and cleaners to carry out regular yard work at no cost to the trainer (please note each horse does not have their own groom).
The BTC will cover all water (bottled provided), electricity and general maintenance cover throughout the series.
It is the trainer’s responsibility to arrange feed independently via the suppliers listed below. These costs will NOT be covered by the BTC and must be payable by connections.
Please contact nasser.f@rehc.gov.bh or andrew@rehc.gov.bh for any assistance.
Hay and bedding is available to purchase through the quarantine facility directly.
Initial feed orders must be arranged prior to horses travel. To preorder, please contact the respective agents using the following contacts:
Blue Dawn (on club premises):
Tel: +973 17 612852
Fax: +973 17 612842
Email: info@bluedawnvet.com
The Arabian Horse (on club premises):
Hassan Ali Almadhoob
Tel: +973 17 594549
Mobile: +973 39 467460
Fax: +973 17 590950
Email: horse@batelco.com.bh
Wadi Al Khayl:
A.Raoof Ashkanany
Mobile: +973 36 6854 44
“The facilities for the horses are excellent, the barns are great and the training tracks have got better and better, you can use the grass or the synthetics. It’s a great place to train”.
GEORGE SCOTT Trainer
Access to Barn areas and secure areas are strictly monitored. All personnel will need to carry a security badge that will be issued upon arrival and will detail areas to which personnel are permitted access. Trainers, their staff and their pre-authorised work riders will have the right of entry. Quarantine access for other persons, must seek prior approval from the REHC and Horse Welfare Authority.
BIOSECURITY PROCEDURES FOR BAHRAIN QUARANTINE FACILITIES
1. Only accredited visiting international stable personnel and essential REHC employees will be allowed access to the quarantine facility. No children under 12 years old are permitted without permission.
2. No animals, other than quarantine horses, may be brought into the facility.
3. No media, with the exception of REHC nominated official media (private photography of own horses allowed).
4. A maximum of two registered owners per trainer permitted during visiting.
5. Only trainers, their representative/ staff, will be permitted access to horses in quarantine.
6. At every visit hands must be washed/ sanitised on entering the barn and again before exiting. The visitors’ record forms must be signed and completed.
7. Only medications and treatments issued and / or approved by REHC are permitted. Only REHC approved vets and therapists are allowed to treat horses.
8. Safety vests and safety helmets to be worn at all times when mounted in the quarantine.
9. Any suspected contagious or infectious disease of people or horses must be reported immediately to quarantine management.
10. No alcohol is permitted in barns or public areas. No smoking is permitted in the barns.
11. All persons attending horses in the facility are subject to the Rules and Regulations of REHC.
12. Staff must be in attendance for the arrival and departure of their horses into and leaving Bahrain.
The BTC have engaged internationally renowned veterinary team, Baker McVeigh to provide veterinary services to both the horses within the club and those visiting from abroad.
The established practice within the club’s grounds, offers a fully-equipped ambulatory service, including digital radiography, endoscopy and high-quality ultrasound technology. Onsite veterinarians also attend weekly race meetings and maintain high levels of safety and equine welfare throughout the racing season.
For further information please contact: bahrain@baker-mcveigh.co.uk +973 35643528
All horses training and competing in the Kingdom of Bahrain will be subject to the following:
• A Welfare and Integrity examination within 48 hours of the race. This examination will be conducted by our Chief Regulatory Veterinary Officer. This examination consists of a visual inspection of all four aspects of the horse, then a trot in hand (away from and toward) on a firm level surface.
• If your horse has a questionable action at the trot, then it is advised that you request your home veterinary surgeon to write a report detailing the horse’s action and forward this with an accompanying video (front, back and sides, 25 metre trot in hand) to our Chief Regulatory Veterinary Officer, Dr Rob van Pelt (rob@rehc.gov.bh). All information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
• Horses will be monitored during routine exercise.
• All horses will be subjected to a pre-race TCO2 blood test, within 45 minutes of racing. If they return a result higher than the accepted REHC level on serial samples then the horse will be withdrawn from the race, and the matter referred to the stewards.
• It is advised that all trainers make themselves aware of the anti-doping policies that exist in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
TRAINING (International Horses)
Times
Quarantine Training Track: 07:00 - 09:30
Sand & Fibre Main Track: 08:05 - 09:30
Turf Track: Will be available on the Tuesday when a horse is declared for that week’s racing. The turf will be available from 08:00 - 09:30.
Times may be subject to change due to conditions, at the discretion of the Clerk of the Course.
*Please note for runners in the Bahrain International Trophy access to the turf will be available more frequently.
Any person who rides a horse on REHC property must wear an approved skull cap and safety vest, which are in good condition.
A Trainer is responsible for ensuring that any Apprentice Jockey, groom, or another person who rides a horse under their care wears an approved skull cap and safety vest, which are in good condition. Skull caps must be correctly fastened and adjusted.
Connections will run under their own national licences and Jockeys will need clearances from their national governing body. Email clearance to be sent to Hussain Ali, hussain.ali@rehc.gov.bh
Jockeys not licensed by the Authority and who intend to ride in a Race must submit a clearance certificate to the Clerk of the Scales from the recognised racing authority where they last rode.
In the absence of a clearance certificate, a foreign Jockey may be granted a licence by the Stewards on the submission of an affidavit. It is the Jockey’s responsibility to be familiar with the REHC Rules of Racing.
All grooms and handlers must wear suitable footwear when trotting horses up for inspection and when leading horses in the paddock.
All horses must be fully shod with approved racing plates when entering the parade ring.
If you wish to check or use any other form of shoe/ shoeing, please contact the Racecourse Veterinary Surgeon (RVO).
The Trainer, or their representative, must state on the declaration form whether their horse is to run in a hood, blinkers, visor, eye shield or eye cover at declaration stage. If headgear has not been declared, it may be added or changed on the payment of a fine; changes can only be made up to 45 minutes before the Race time.
Horses declared to run in a hood, blinkers, visor, eye shield, eye cover or any combination thereof, must enter the parade ring or proceed to the start wearing the correct equipment. The Starter has the power to withdraw a horse with the incorrect declared equipment.
A Trainer may request permission for a horse to wear a red hood on the way to the start, but it must be removed before the horse is loaded into the stalls; or before the Starter calls in the horses. It must not be worn during the race.
The Trainer, or their representative, is responsible for declaring the use of a tongue-tie in a race on the declaration form, and this must be shown to the RVO for approval.
Lip chains must be covered when worn on racecourse property and shown to the RVO for approval.
The Stewards must be informed if ear plugs are to be worn either on the way to the start, or in the race.
Ear plugs must not be removed during the race.
For the full rules of racing please visit the Bahrain Turf Club Website: bahrainturfclub.com
In addition to hosting high class international racing in Bahrain, The Bahrain Turf Club are extremely proud to sponsor and be associated with the sport’s leading races abroad.
Through partnerships with Newmarket and Leopardstown, the BTC sponsor across seven days, highlighted by three Group races on the opening day of The July Festival at Newmarket and The Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown.
Bahrain Turf Club Office
+973 17 440330
Yusuf Buheji
CEO, REHC ybuheji@rehc.gov.bh
Edward Veale
Director of Racing & International Relations, REHC
edward@rehc.gov.bh
+973 66733311
Anood Ahmed
Head of International Racing Relations, REHC anood@rehc.gov.bh
+973 33099190
Nasser Faisal
International Racing Executive, REHC nasser.f@rehc.gov.bh +973 38499894
Andy Waitt
Clerk of the Course, REHC andrew@rehc.gov.bh +973 38449548
Rob Van Pelt
Chief Regulatory Veterinary Officer, REHC rob@rehc.gov.bh +973 66733300
Paul Barton
Chief Steward, REHC paul@rehc.gov.bh
+44 7990 550542
Mohamed Alnemah
Chief of International Racing Development & Communications, REHC alnemah@rehc.gov.bh
+973 33099190
Phil Smith
Racing Consultant and Handicapper, REHC phil@phillipsmithconsulting.com
+44 7785 293802
Hussain Ali
REHC Studbook hussain.ali@rehc.gov.bh +973 33995577
REHC Racing Office racing@rehc.gov.bh
Baker McVeigh Bahrain
bahrain@baker-mcveigh.co.uk
+973 35643528
James MacEwan
LG Bloodstock (Official Shipping Agents) macewan@lgbloodstock.com
+44 7502 990628
Adrian Beaumont
International Racing Bureau, UK and Ireland adrian@irbracing.co.uk
+44 1638 668881 or +44 7808 903158
Max Pimlott
International Racing Bureau max@irbracing.com
+44 7950 861939
Chantal Chappuis
International Racing Bureau, France chantalchappuis@orange.fr
+33 (6) 07 76 32 34
Elena Delor
International Racing Bureau delor@besitzervereinigung.de +49 (1578) 7024 598
Franca Vittadini
International Racing Bureau, Italy f.vittadini@gmail.com
+39 335 207883
Arabian Horse
Tack & Feed Shop, REHC Premises horse@batelco.com.bh
+973 17594549
Blue Dawn
Feed Shop, REHC Premises info@bluedawnvet.com +973 17612852
Wadi Al Khayl
Feed Shop accounts@wadialkhayl.com +973 36685444
Dates to note:
BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL TROPHY
Entries Close
Wednesday 2nd October 2024
International Supplementary Date
Wednesday 22nd October 2024
Proposed Shipping Date*
Saturday 9th November 2024
Locally Trained Horses Supplementary Date
Monday 11th November 2024
Declaration
Monday 11th November 2024
Post Position Draw
Wednesday 13th November 2024
Race
Friday 15th November 2024
ENTRIES
For international entries for the Bahrain International (Gr.2) please enter via your International Racing Bureau representative, contacts can be found on page 44.
For local entries please email racing@rehc.gov.bh
BAHRAIN TURF SERIES
Stabling Nomination Date
Thursday 7th November 2024
Proposed Shipping Date*
Saturday 14th December 2024
First Series Races Entry
Monday 16th December 2024
First Series Declaration
Tuesday 17th December 2024
First Series Race Day
Friday 20th December 2024
Final Series Race Day
Thursday 6th March 2025
King’s Cup Race Day
Friday 7th March 2025
Proposed Shipping Date Return*
Sunday 9th March 2025
STABLING NOMINATION
In order to nominate a horse for The Bahrain Turf Series, please email max@irbracing.com Prior to nomination please ensure all import requirements are met and horse vaccinations are up to date.
Please provide the following details:
Horse name, DOB, Sex, Trainer, Owner, Current rating, Pot A or B (distance).
* Please note the proposed shipping date is only a guide and may change depending on aircraft schedules and availability.