Spirit Dancer, the defending champion of the G2 Bahrain International Trophy, is set to race against 11 competitors in Bahrain on Friday. The race, worth $1 million and spanning 2000 meters, has attracted a diverse field from various parts of the world.
Last year, Spirit Dancer claimed victory in the G2 Bahrain International Trophy for breeders Sir Alex Ferguson, Ged Mason, and Peter Done. The 7-year-old gelding also won the G3 Strensall Stakes before his Bahrain triumph, where he defeated notable horses like Point Lonsdale. In February, he secured the G2 Neom Turf Cup in Saudi Arabia but finished unplaced in the G1 Dubai Sheema Classic at Meydan in March.
Trained by Fahey, Spirit Dancer is described as being in excellent form and a fresh horse heading into the competition. Despite facing a tougher field this year, his team remains confident in his abilities based on his past performances. Barry Mahon, European racing manager for Juddmonte, expressed optimism about Lead Artist’s chances in the race, highlighting the three-year-old’s good form and the challenge of competing against older horses.
Among the competitors in the field are Nations Pride, the 2024 GI Arlington Million winner for Godolphin, and Calif, a German Group 1 victor representing Victorious. Alflaila, a dual G2 York Stakes champion owned by Shadwell, will also be vying for victory. Japan is represented by Killer Ability, the G1 Hopeful Stakes winner, and Andromede, a G3 Prix Bertrand de Tarragon heroine trained by Francis Henri Graffard, aiming to make history as the first filly or mare to win the Bahrain International Trophy.
The race promises to be a thrilling and competitive event, with top horses from around the world showcasing their talent on the turf. Spirit Dancer’s title defense and the presence of formidable opponents ensure an exciting spectacle for racing enthusiasts and fans of the sport alike. Stay tuned for the outcome of this prestigious race in Bahrain.