Najee Al Shahania (Burning Sand x Najda) made a perfect start to his career with a polished victory in the Local Purebred Arabian Maiden Plate for 3YOs over 1400m, Class 6, prevailing by one and a half lengths in a field of 10 runners. The grey colt, carrying the colours of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Thani, prepared by Rudy Nerbonne and partnered by Damien Morin, showed both composure and acceleration to score on debut. Settled towards the rear in the early stages, Najee Al Shahania watched the race unfold as Karar Al Farres (Harran ASF) set a steady tempo throughout, tracked closely by Owair (Al Mamun Monlau). After the first 900m, Ahlem (TM Fred Texas) began to improve from fourth into second and closed sharply on the long-time leader approaching the home turn. Turning into the straight, Ahlem moved up to take the lead and briefly looked poised to score at just his second career start. The final 200m; however, saw several swift changes at the head of affairs. Najee Al Shahania, who had advanced smoothly into midfield earlier, was unleashed with a powerful late run, sweeping past his rivals to strike the front and draw clear for a decisive success. Ghada (No Risk Al Maury), racing for Khalifa bin Sheail Al Kuwari, handled by Zuhair Mohsen and guided by Faleh Bughenaim, finished strongly from midfield to secure second while Ahlem, representing Wathnan Racing, trained by Alban de Mieulle and ridden by Youssef Lachhab, held on for third, a further one and three-quarter lengths back.