By Kent Gray
Golf Saudi are gratefully riding the coattails of horse-racing’s most valuable race by teaming up with the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia (JCSA) for a special activation at this month’s $20 million Saudi Cup.

A special floating green will be set up in the centre of the King Abdulaziz Racetrack in Riyadh during the Feb. 25-26 meeting as part of Golf Saudi’s mass activation mandate. 

With a teeing ground trackside, Saudi Arabian national team amateurs and Golf Saudi staff will take on team members from the JCSA, as well as world-renowned jockeys such as Frankie Dettori, in special competitions. 

A miniature golf course and simulator will also be set-up for all spectators to enjoy. 

It comes after last year’s Saudi Cup-winning jockey, David Egan, teamed with Lee Westwood, Jason Kokrak and Jhonattan Vegas at Royal Greens Golf & Country Club during the PIF Saudi International Powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers to help promote both the golf and horse racing. 

Arriving at the iconic 16th tee on a racehorse, Egan then took on the hole in preparation for his first ever appearance in a Pro-Am.

Westwood, who has had plenty of success as a racehorse owner, said: “Horse racing has always been a huge passion of mine. I love horses, and spending time with family and friends during race days, both flat and jumps.

 

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“It was great to meet David Egan. To win a race as big as The Saudi Cup at just 21-years-old is an amazing achievement, a bit like winning a Major. Hopefully Mishriff can do it again.

As part of Vision 2030, the Kingdom is  introducing sports to new audiences, and the PIF Saudi International and The Saudi Cup create the perfect opportunity to watch international champions compete in their own country.”

Egan, a regular golfer, was understandably delighted to get the chance to play alongside three renowned names in the game: “I’m a massive golf fan, so getting the chance to meet and play a hole with Lee Westwood, Jason Kokrak and Jhonattan Vegas at the PIF Saudi International was a dream come true.

“It’s a beautiful course and with so many of the world’s best players travelling to play the tournament, it’s clear that Saudi Arabia is becoming a real hub for top class sport.”

The Irish jockey won the world’s most valuable horse race last year aboard Mishriff and he is excited to be jumping back aboard the John & Thady Gosden-trained five-year-old at the end of the month.

“Winning last year’s Saudi Cup for His Royal Highness Prince Faisal was such a special moment – it really made my career. I can’t wait to get back on Mishriff again and try to win it for a second time.

“The Saudi Cup has been a great addition to the racing calendar and the eyes of the world will be on Riyadh again later this month.”

golfsaudi.com

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