Dubai, arguably the best known of the seven emirates of the UAE, has announced its sponsorship of the Group One Dewhurst Stakes to be held at Newmarket (UK) on Saturday 16th October. The race is considered to be the most prestigious Group One flat race on the UK two-year-old calendar and typically produces a host of stars, often including the winter favourite for the following season’s Classic Races.

Dubai has a strong association with horseracing and is well known for hosting the world’s richest Group One horse race, the Dubai World Cup, which is now worth US$10 million and takes place in Dubai annually in March.

“The Dewhurst Stakes is traditionally the single most significant two-year-old race in Europe and is therefore a unique opportunity to showcase Dubai’s passion for horseracing,” said John Ferguson, bloodstock advisor to Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

In addition to his role as an equine advisor, Mr Ferguson serves as Vice Chairman of Dubai-based Falcon and Associates, which is supporting Dubai’s sponsorship of the race. Falcon and Associates will be using the Dubai Dewhurst Stakes as a platform to launch a promotional campaign that will market Dubai’s highlights and advantages to audiences around the world. “Dubai: Every Day is an Opportunity” will personalise the Dubai experience for those who might be considering visiting, living and working there.

Stephen Wallis, Managing Director of Newmarket Racecourses said, “Dubai has already proven itself as a land of opportunity for horseracing and we are very pleased to welcome Dubai as our sponsor for the Dewhurst Stakes. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed has had a long and successful relationship with Newmarket Racecourses and we’re delighted that he, and Dubai, have decided to lend their support to this highly significant and world class race.”

Adding excitement to the event, there will be a special prize awarded to the “Best Dressed Racegoer.” The prize will offer two people the chance to visit Dubai during the Dubai International Racing Carnival in February 2011, with flights provided and accommodation at Jumeirah The Meydan Hotel.