Urfa Lion Triumphs in the 97th Gazi Race
Urfa Lion Wins the 97th Edition of the Gazi Race
The prestigious Gazi Race, held annually in honor of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk since 1927, has crowned a new champion. This year, the 97th edition of the race took place at Veliefendi Racecourse, and it was the purebred horse named “Urfa Lion” that emerged victorious.
Owned by Selim Kaya and jockeyed by Mehmet Kaya, Urfa Lion showcased its exceptional racing abilities and crossed the finish line in first place. The race, which covered a distance of 2,400 meters on the grass track, featured 22 thoroughbred horses. It is worth noting that the Gazi Race is a special event for three-year-old English colts, as it allows them to run only once in their racing career.
Clocking in at an impressive time of 2.30.35, Urfa Lion secured the top spot, bringing glory to its owner Selim Kaya. This achievement holds tremendous significance for jockey Mehmet Kaya as well, as it marks his first win in the Gazi Race.
The second-place position was claimed by the purebred horse “Qualizto,” ridden by Ayhan Kurşun and owned by Mehmet Emin Ekenler. With a time of 2.30.61, Qualizto showcased its speed and agility on the racecourse. Following closely behind, in the third place, was the purebred “Chaika,” owned by Fedai Kahraman and ridden by Vedat Abiş, who completed the race in 2.31.14.
Since its inauguration, the Gazi Race has captured the attention and imagination of horse racing enthusiasts throughout Turkey. Often referred to as the “derby of Turkish horse racing,” the event boasts a rich history and tradition. The first-ever Gazi Race, held in 1927, was won by Ali Muhiddin Hacıbekir’s mare named “Neriman,” and the race has continued without interruption ever since.
Apart from the honor and prestige associated with winning the Gazi Race, there are substantial financial rewards for the winning horse’s owner. Selim Kaya, the proud owner of Urfa Lion, received a whopping cash prize of 5 million TL. Additionally, he accumulated a total of 9 million 285 thousand 500 TL, which includes registration amounts, installment fees, horse owner rewards, and breeding premiums.
The monetary prizes for the other top finishers were as follows: 2 million TL for the second-place horse, 1 million TL for the third-place horse, 500 thousand TL for the fourth-place horse, and 250 thousand TL for the fifth-place horse.
The Gazi Race has once again highlighted the excellence and competitiveness of Turkish horse racing. It continues to be a highly anticipated and celebrated event, showcasing the impressive skills of both the horses and the jockeys. Congratulations to Urfa Lion and all the participants of the 97th Gazi Race!
