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Emirates' horse race

Record entries of top thoroughbreds have ensured that Dubai will be the focus of attention world-wide when the world's richest horse race Ñ the Emirates sponsored Dubai World Cup Ñ takes place at Nad Al Sheba race-track on March 25.

The race, carrying a purse of $6 million, is the thrilling finale of a programme of seven races carrying a total purse of $12 million in prize money. It will also set in motion the second round of the Emirates World Cup Racing Championship.

Starting with the Dubai World Cup and ending with the Hong Kong Cup in December, the Dubai World Series links 11 top international races in a bid to find the world champion thoroughbred. Also sponsored by Emirates, it has been called the Formula One of horse racing.