The Zubair horse track
Historic prestigious racing track to become park for the future
BASRA – The historic horse racing track in Al-Zubair, west of Basra, once a prestigious venue and the only one of its kind in the “Races” international area near the “Al-Tarab” neighborhood, is remembered fondly by locals. In the 1970s, it was a bustling hub of betting activity every Thursday, drawing bettors from the Gulf and commentators like Sheikh Muayyad al-Badri, the first to narrate a race there.
The track hosted equestrian teams from Baghdad, the army’s cavalry, and Muhammad Al-Qasim’s cavalry, offering memorable performances. However, years of neglect have left it as a gathering spot for stray dogs and undesirable activities. The district commissioner of Al-Zubair now confirms plans for a comprehensive rehabilitation into a grand park.
Civil activist Hattab Al-Asadi spoke to 964media about the track’s decline, once the site of the Gulf’s top horse racing championships. He criticized the neglect from local and central authorities and the misuse by some for inappropriate activities or as makeshift storage. Al-Asadi advocates for its transformation into a school or rehabilitation centers for young addicts.
Abbas Maher, Al-Zubair’s district commissioner, emphasized the track’s legacy as the Gulf’s premier horse racing venue in the 1970s, drawing crowds from various provinces. Rehabilitation plans include adding playgrounds and entertainment facilities to counteract negative activities and honor its heritage.
Historian Mohammed Al-Asadi recalled for 964media the track’s 1971 establishment in Al-Dreihmi, with Sheikh Muayyad al-Badri as its inaugural commentator. Betting was a significant draw, though some attended solely for the spectacle.
Historical researcher Adel Ali noted that Al-Races fell under the Central Equestrian Union’s purview, attracting cavalry teams from Baghdad, the army, and Muhammad Al-Qasim’s cavalry under Colonel Hashim Hareeb Al-Maliki. Gulf bettors enhanced the vibrancy of race days, especially near the “Al-Tarab” neighborhood, once a traveller neighborhood.