Dubai: Each summer during the last week of July, a unique buzz has consumed Newbury Racecourse, a century old racing enclave in the South of England. that skilfully blends tradition with innovation.

It is here at this historic venue, that the planet’s most anticipated, and prestigious, Purebred Arabian race meeting is held before a mixed crowd of horse enthusiasts, curious onlookers and plain, fun seekers.

But more importantly, it is here, that some of the world’s best Arabian racehorses compete for the significant prize money on offer, and a place in history.

No doubt, it is a special day. Unlike no other in Arabian racing, which unlike the more prosperous, and perhaps overcooked thoroughbred version, has had to fight for its place in the international racing spotlight. It has been a long battle, but the resilient Arabian has prevailed.

Thanks in the main to the support and commitment of promoters like Shaikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance, who conceived the Dubai International Arabian Races (DIAR), an event that has dramatically helped change the landscape for the Arabian racehorse.

Now in its 35th year, the DIAR has carved its permanent niche in the annual Purebred Arabian racing calendar, and has become the most awaited race day for owners, breeders and trainers of the Arabian racehorse.

One pivotal role in the event’s organising committee that cannot be overstated, or overlooked, is that of Mirza Al Sayegh, Director of the Office of Shaikh Hamdan.

For over three decades, Al Sayegh has masterminded the implementation of Shaikh Hamdan’s vision for the Purebred Arabian horse, primarily through the DIAR and it’s supporting events around the globe. Events that are have provided a significant boost to the sport in Australia, Italy, France, Holland, the USA and the UK.

Together with his core team that comprises Abdulla Al Ansari and Masoud Saleh and with the support of Richard Lancaster, Director of Shaikh Hamdan’s Shadwell Stud, Al Sayegh has toiled vigorously to bring to fruition Shaikh Hamdan’s goal of strengthening the profile of the Arabian horse around the world.

It is challenge that Al Sayegh relishes as evidenced by his commitment to helping the Arabian racehorse gain momentum and to also use the opportunity to help foster relationships with countries around the world.

Al Sayegh is known to work closely with the UAE Embassies around the world, in the commercial sector and in tourism, by inviting guests from different racing jurisdictions to attend the DIAR races that bear Shaikh Hamdan’s named and that of the UAE.

Guests come from all walks of life. From Ambassadors and Mayors to officials and horse racing enthusiasts, they come together to appreciate what the DIAR stands for and how it has benefited Purebred Arabian racing in general.

Planning for race meetings go beyond the action on the track and aim to provide a variety of attractions and entertainment for visitors, both the old and the young.

Next Sunday’s Newbury meeting will again feature a valuable and exciting line-up of competitions, prize draws and themed activities.

Newbury Racecourse, which is recognised as the home of Purebred Arabian racing in the UK, has played a vital role in helping Shaikh Hamdan’s vision and Al Sayegh’s cause to give the sport its best chance to further develop and gain popularity.

The Arabian Racing Organisation, who organise the races, have played also played a fine supporting role.

But it is Al Sayegh’s fine touches, like the Colourful Camel Painting Competition and the Best Children’s Hat event that has helped make the DIAR so very special.