Ascot gears up to host DDF Shergar Cup on Saturday
ascot — Colourful and competitive, the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup which returns to Ascot on Saturday, has become one of the most eagerly awaited highlights of the British summer sporting and social season.
The world’s premier international jockeys’ competition draws top riders from all corners of the globe to the world’s most famous racecourse and also attracts Ascot’s biggest crowd outside of the Royal meeting and once again is a sell-out occasion.
The points-based competition is played out between four teams each comprising three top riders representing Europe, Great Britain and Ireland, Rest of the World and The Girls, in a six-race showdown.
Last year the competition was set alight by South African sensation Gavin Lerena, who rode two winners en-route to leading the Rest of the World team to victory.
The DDF Shergar Cup provides racegoers with an opportunity to see the world’s top riders Colm McLoughli
The 2017 renewal promises to produce another thrilling contest after the announcement of a stellar line-up of riders. Andre De Vries, Jamie Spencer, Kerrin McEvoy and Emma-Jayne Wilson, a quartet of the world’s finest jockeys, will captain the four teams for this weekend’s showpiece.
Kerrin McEvoy is making his second appearance at the DDF Shergar Cup and will captain the Rest of The World Team. Formerly a Godolphin stable jockey, the Australian guided Rule Of Law to victory in the 2004 St Leger at Doncaster and has ridden three winners at Royal Ascot. The 36-year-old captured the Melbourne Cup for the second time in November.
Anthony Delpech and Japan’s Keita Tosaki are both making their Shergar Cup and British debuts. Delpech, 48, was crowned champion jockey in South Africa last season and adds to his titles in 1998/1999 and 2002/03.
Dubai Duty Free Executive Vice Chairman & CEO, Colm McLoughlin, said, “The line-up looks as strong as in any previous year. We are particularly looking forward to welcoming those making their DDF Shergar Cup debuts and creating new ambassadors for this truly international event.
“The DDF Shergar Cup provides racegoers with a unique opportunity to see some of the world’s most accomplished riders.”