Qatar, a racing centre that is visited mostly by riders from Europe, got its first taste of the Indian saddle artistry when Malesh Narredu, India's ace rider, steered Musheeb to victory during the night racing card slated at the Racing & Equestrian Club in Doha, Qatar, on Thursday, October 30.

Musheeb, trained by Mohd Riyaz and owned by S H Mohd bin Mishal bin Hamad Al Rathani from the royal family of Qatar, won the Thoroughbred Graduation Plate run over a mile.

When Indiarace asked Malesh about his first experience with night racing, Malesh said: "It was exciting, and I am happy I did well. But I must thank the local racing crowd who gave me a very warm welcome in Qatar."

Malesh, who had gone to Qatar to ride for trainer Mohd Riyaz, rode four horses on the Thursday night card, and did very well for a first-timer with night racing. He won with Musheeb, finished second with two others, losing by an unfortunate neck on both occasions, and finishing third with the remaining mount.

Narredu will be once again flying into Qatar to ride more horses for trainer Mohd Riyaz on another night racing card slated for Nov 18 & 19, 2008.