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28 March 2024

2013 Dubai World Cup Countdown: Essential guide to world’s richest horse race

Published
By Ajanta Paul

As the clock ticks down on the Dubai World Cup at Meydan this Saturday, unparalleled racing action and international icons come together to bring you an exceptional race night experience like no other.

The Dubai World Cup has become the home of one of the world’s top racing challenges, and has drawn the attention of millions of enthusiasts around the globe.

Here's the low-down on what to expect on D-Day:

FIREWORKS


A presentation show about Dubai at the Dubai World Cup 2011 in Meydan, Dubai, March 26, 2011. Photo by Ashok Verma

The skies over Meydan will be lit up in the liveliest display ever on the evening of March 30, accompanied by low-flying jets over the race-course. The spectacular fireworks during the opening ceremony have now become a signature of the Dubai World Cup. The synchronised pyrotechnics will be accompanied by giant video screens, in-ground, with special visuals adding to the whole drama.

WIN WITH STYLE


Matthew and Katie win the best dressed couples competition of the Jaguar style stakes during the Dubai World Cup 2011 at Meydan in Dubai, March 26, 2011. Photo by Ashok Verma

Jaguar will once again play proud host to the hotly anticipated Jaguar Style Stakes. Categories for 2013 include 'Best Dressed Lady' (winner and runner-up), 'Best Hat', 'Best Dressed Man', 'Best Dressed Couple'and 'Most Creative Hat'.

The lucky 'Best Dressed Lady' will drive away a brand new Jaguar XK for a year. The winner of 'Most Elegant Lady', sponsored by Longines will also be presented as part of the Jaguar Style Stakes programme.

The Jaguar Style Stakes Arena will be located in the Apron area of Meydan Grandstand. Make sure you are 21 years or above. Entrants can also register in person on March 30. The winner must be a UAE resident and hold a valid UAE driver's license to qualify for the Jaguar for a year prize.

FASHION


Women participate in the Jaguar style stake competition during the Dubai World Cup 2011 at Meydan in Dubai, March 26, 2011. Photo by Ashok Verma


Spectators during the Dubai World Cup at the Meydan race course in Dubai, March 31, 2012. Photo by Patrick Castillo

Inevitably there will be a bevy of ladies dressed impeccably, but if you want to make an impact do it with haute hats. No jeans or shorts, remember to dress smart, not sensational. Most of you might spend the whole evening standing, jumping and screaming so a pair of comfortable shoes will see you through, not necessarily you sacrifice the style quotient. There will be riots of colours; colour blocking, neons, navy blues, pastels and feathers are all trends we expect to see the ladies wearing at this year’s race. But keep the dress simple and let your hat be the show-stopper.

KISS FROM A ROSE


(Reuters)

The Dubai World Cup on Saturday, March 30th, will conclude with a special solo performance by the highly-acclaimed international recording sensation, Seal. Seal has inspired and entertained audiences with album sales of more than 20 million worldwide. His first release, ‘Killer’ was a huge hit in 1990 reaching number 1 in the UK charts, followed by ‘Crazy’ in 1991 which earned him international recognition. So make sure you scream horse for Seal.

RACE OVERVIEW


South African jockey Felix Coetzee leads Rocket Man to victory at the Dubai Golden Shaheen race during the 16th Dubai World Cup at the Meydan race course in Dubai, March 26, 2011. The Dubai World Cup is one of the richest events in the horse racing sporting calendar. Photo by Patrick Castillo

There will be nine races on March 30, beginning at 4.30pm. The last race will take place at 10:05pm and the winner will scoop up Dhs36.7 million ($10m) prize money.

RACE TIMINGS


Jockey Mickael Barzalona of Godolphin stable rides Kassiano to victory during race 1 of the Dubai racing carnival at Meydan racecourse in Dubai, February 28, 2013. Photo by Patrick Castillo

4.30pm: Dubai Kahayla Classic (Group One)

5.10pm: Godolphin Mile (Group Two)

5.45pm: Dubai Gold Cup (Group Three)

6.25pm: UAE Derby (Group Two)

7.05pm: Al Quoz Sprint (Group One)

7.45pm: Dubai Golden Shaheen (Group One)

8.40pm: Dubai Duty Free (Group One)

9.20pm: Dubai Sheema Classic (Group One)

10.05pm: Dubai World Cup

TICKETS

Still haven’t decided whether to attend or not? Think fast. Tickets are from Dh350 (General Admission); Gates open at 1pm, races start at 4:30pm; Saturday 30 March, Meydan Racecourse, Dubai, 04 327 0077, ticketoffice@dubairacingclub.com, www.dubaiworldcup.com.