Statement from Churchill Downs
LOUISVILLE, Ky.– The following is a statement from Churchill Downs Racetrack President Mike Anderson on the passing of prominent Thoroughbred owner and breeder Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid al Maktoum, who has died at the age of 75.
“Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid al Maktoum’s lifelong passion to compete at the highest level on an international stage was epitomized by Invasor, who won the 2006 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Churchill Downs to clinch Horse of the Year honors. His legacy and famed royal blue and white-striped silks will be fondly remembered by Thoroughbred racing and breeding fans around the world. On behalf of the entire Churchill Downs family, we extend our deepest sympathies to Sheikh Hamdan’s family and friends and the entire Shadwell Stable team.”
– Churchill Downs Racetrack President Mike Anderson.
Statement from Keeneland
LEXINGTON, Ky. — The following is a statement from Keeneland President and CEO Shannon Arvin on the death of Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum:
“Sheikh Hamdan was a beloved figure around the world, cherished for his grace, humanity, loyalty, knowledge and sportsmanship. While he achieved great success as a Thoroughbred breeder and owner through his global Shadwell Farm operation, he made innumerable contributions to the sport – many of which were behind the scenes. Keeneland is grateful for his strong support of our sales and racing programs, including Shadwell’s involvement in our philanthropic activities. Sheikh Hamdan’s yearling purchases here include such standouts as Group 1 winner Dayjur and Belmont (G1) winner Jazil, and he also participated significantly in our November Breeding Stock Sale.
On the race track at Keeneland, Shadwell won nine stakes led by the 2008 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup (G1) with Alwajeeha. Because of Shadwell’s encouragement, Keeneland began the Best Turned Out Awards program to recognize hard-working grooms when Shadwell started to sponsor Keeneland’s one-mile turf race during the 1999 Fall Meet. Keeneland is extremely proud of that race, the Shadwell Turf Mile (G1), which became our first million-dollar event in 2014, anchors our Fall Stars Weekend and is a key stop on the road to the Breeders’ Cup.”
Press Releases
Photo: Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum with his award for medical sciences (Facebook)
