Dubai World Cup glory
Matisse-inspired creation from Dubai artist is the fashion headliner at Dubai World Cup. Nawal Al Ramahi reports
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, does an impromptu dance on stage after Thunder Snow from the Godolphin stables, ridden by Christophe Soumillon, won the Dubai World Cup at Meydan Race Course yesterday. Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid, Crown Prince of Dubai, is seen with the trophy,
The style and fashion stakes have become almost as important at the Dubai World Cup as the US$30 million event.
Tens of thousands of racegoers yesterday gathered in their stylish dresses and elegant suits to be part of the world’s richest night of horse racing.
Enthusiasts set off for the evening event from their homes as early as 10am to enjoy the races, fashion competitions and other entertainment.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, opened this year’s event in which 118 horses competed in the cup’s nine races.
“This is the second time I and my husband have come to this remarkable event,” said Tatiana Shiref, 29, a resident from Lebanon who was joined at the Meydan Racecourse by two of her friends.
“It is always a challenge for the ladies to choose the best outfit and hat for the horseracing event.”
Ms Shiref – wearing a long, black dress, red high-heeled shoes and a hat with red flowers – said she enjoyed the horse racing as well as dressing up for the social occasion.
“I, along with my friends, enjoy the horse race. But it is also a great opportunity to socialise and there are bands that perform traditional dances,” she said.
Saif Mahmoud, 31, from Saudi Arabia, said: “My flight landed last night and I came to enjoy the richest night in horse racing. The atmosphere here is indescribable.
“It’s all about wearing the best outfit and enjoying a sense of competition among the racers and the audience. Dubai’s race brings people from all over the world.
“This is around the eighth time I have come to this event and I am always excited about it.”
Mr Mahmoud was wearing a 1960s-style navy blue suit.
Activities and awards also took place at this year’s Dubai World Cup, including the best hat award for the ladies and fun things to do for children.
Charlotte Coddis, a Dubai artist, was the winner of this year’s most creative hat. Ms Coddis made the hat, which was inspired by the artist Henri Mattise.
Layla Aboud, who stood out from the crowd in an offwhite dress and a hat, said it was her first time at the Dubai World Cup.
“I came to the event with a group of friends and family members,” Ms Al Aboud said. “I bought the dress and the hat to dress up for the occasion. I am impressed by how much effort people put in. It is really impressive. There are so many outrageous hats and dresses.”
Ms Aboud said the yearly event was a winning combination of horses, fashion, luxury and race.