Meydan kicked off 2025 with a thrilling Sword of Honour racenight, headlined by Poker Face’s narrow victory in the G2 Zabeel Mile (sponsored by Phi Advertising) and Tuz’s domination in the G3 Dubawi Stakes (sponsored by Binghatti Developers). The night showcased class and drama, setting an exciting tone for the new year in UAE racing.

Poker Face’s Gritty Triumph

The Simon and Ed Crisford-trained Poker Face delivered a heart-stopping performance to clinch the G2 Zabeel Mile, narrowly defeating Holloway Boy by a nose. Making his Meydan debut, the six-year-old was guided expertly by jockey Pat Dobbs, who timed his late challenge to perfection.

Held mid-pack for much of the race, Dobbs found a gap in the closing strides to deny Danny Tudhope and Holloway Boy on the line. “I thought I was beaten!” Dobbs admitted. “I even congratulated Danny [Tudhope] after pulling up. This horse has really improved as a six-year-old, and the way he finished was incredible.”

Tuz’s Sprinting Supremacy

Sprinter extraordinaire Tuz cemented his place as one of UAE racing’s elite with a commanding win in the G3 Dubawi Stakes, his third consecutive victory. Partnered with Tadhg O’Shea, the six-year-old held off Colour Up to win by five lengths, adding another jewel to his stellar career.

For O’Shea, this victory marked a career milestone – his 800th UAE winner. “Tuz is a special horse,” O’Shea said. “It’s a privilege to ride him, especially for such a landmark moment. There was a bit of drama on the way to the start when he spooked, but once the gates opened, he was all business.”

Epic Poet’s International Statement

The night’s final race, the Zoho Conditions Stakes, saw British trainer David O’Meara claim his sixth Dubai winner as Epic Poet triumphed under Danny Tudhope. The gelding took command in the final 200 meters of the 2810-meter contest and held off a spirited challenge from King Of Conquest and Keffaaf.

“He was a bit fresh tonight, which isn’t like him, but he got the job done,” Tudhope said. Looking ahead, connections are eyeing the Red Sea Turf Handicap in Saudi Arabia.

Asaassi’s Dominant Handicap Display

In the opening Zabeel Turf (sponsored by Daman Markets), Asaassi turned heads with a stylish two-length victory over Godolphin runners El Cordobes and Endless Victory. Trained by Michael Costa and ridden by Ray Dawson, the gelding overcame a tough start and a wide draw to lead emphatically in the final 400 meters.

Dawson praised the smooth execution of the race, saying, “Everything went perfectly, especially from a wide draw. This horse has so much class and gears—it made my job easy.”

A Night to Remember

Meydan’s racenight delivered everything fans could hope for—tight finishes, dominant displays, and international flair. With Poker Face and Tuz leading the charge, the UAE’s racing scene promises even more excitement as the season unfolds.