Latest news with #MichaelForest


Observer
23-06-2025
- Sport
- Observer
‘Al Marjanah' shines in Toulouse with runner-up finish
MUSCAT: The Royal Court Affairs, represented by the Royal Cavalry continued to showcase their excellence on the international stage, as their purebred Arabian mare 'Al Marjanah' secured a commendable second place in the sixth race held at the Toulouse Racecourse in France. The 2,100-metre race, which took place on Sunday evening, featured top-tier contenders from prestigious stables across Europe and the Gulf region. 'Al Marjanah' ridden by jockey Michael Forest and trained by the seasoned French trainer Élisabeth Bernard, delivered a strong performance and remained competitive throughout the race. 'Al Marjanah' claimed the runner-up position behind 'Makhzoom Al Shahania', owned by HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa al Thani, trained by Rohit, and ridden by Jean Bernard. While third place went to 'Majaz', owned by Al Shaqab Racing and ridden by Alexandre Gavilan. The Toulouse race attracted entries from several countries, including Oman, Qatar, France and Spain, reflecting the growing prominence of Arabian horse racing in Europe. The event was marked by high-level competition and tactical brilliance from jockeys and trainers alike, affirming the international stature of the racecourse and its importance as a platform for elite-level racing. This latest success adds to a series of notable achievements by the Royal Cavalry in France. Where recently the mare 'Al Rasha' clinched first place in the eighth race over 1,600 metres at Bordeaux Racecourse, also under the guidance of Michael Forest and trainer Élisabeth Bernard. Similarly, Royal Cavalry's horse 'Al Ghanim' triumphed in the seventh race at Montauban Racecourse, covering a distance of 2,250 metres. The victory was secured under jockey Sami Lecoleus, with training again led by Bernard. These accomplishments underscore the Royal Cavalry's growing competitiveness in European circuits and highlight Oman's strategic investment in showcasing its equestrian heritage on the global stage. Through disciplined training, expert handling, and selective international participation, the Royal Cavalry continues to raise the profile of Omani purebred Arabian horses in premier racing events.


Observer
13-06-2025
- Sport
- Observer
Royal Cavalry claims victory at Bordeaux Racecourse
MUSCAT: In a proud moment for Oman equestrian sport, 'Al Rasha' owned by Royal Cavalry, clinched first place in the eighth race held at Bordeaux Racecourse in France. The race, spanning a distance of 1,600 metres, which was dedicated to purebred Arabian horses and drew participation from top international contenders. Guided by experienced jockey Michael Forest and trained by renowned French trainer Elisabeth Bernard, 'Al Rasha' delivered a commanding performance, surging ahead in the final stages of the race to secure a decisive win. The victory was met with widespread acclaim from equestrian observers and experts who praised the mare's power, poise, and well-executed race strategy. This race formed part of an esteemed international series organised under the umbrella of the European Horse Racing Association in cooperation with French equestrian authorities. The 2025 edition of the event featured strong representation from leading countries in Arabian horse breeding and racing, including France, United Kingdom, Spain, Belgium and Gulf nations such as Oman, Saudi Arabia and UAE. 'Al Rasha' crosses the finish line Bordeaux Racecourse is recognised as one of France's premier flat-racing venues, making 'Al Rasha' triumph a significant milestone for the Royal Cavalry and a highlight in Oman's international sporting calendar. 'Al Rasha' win adds to the growing list of international successes for the Royal Cavalry, showcasing the excellence of Omani-bred Arabian horses and the investment made in nurturing top-class equestrian talent. Trainer Elisabeth Bernard expressed her satisfaction with the outcome, noting the horse's maturity and adaptability on the track. Jockey Michael Forest also commended 'Al Rasha' responsiveness and strong finish, emphasising that showed exceptional character in a field filled with high-calibre competitors. The victory reflects the Royal Cavalry's strategic focus on elevating Oman's profile in global equestrian sport and underlines the Sultanate of Oman's ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting the heritage of purebred Arabian horses on the world stage.


Times of Oman
12-06-2025
- Sport
- Times of Oman
Al Rasha of Royal Cavalry wins first place at Bordeaux Racecourse in France
Bordeaux— Al Rasha, a horse from the Royal Cavalry, secured first place in the eighth race held at the Bordeaux racecourse in France, dedicated to purebred Arabian horses over a distance of 1,600 meters. Ridden by jockey Michael Forest and under the supervision of trainer Elisabeth Bernard, Al Rasha decisively claimed victory in the race.