The Dubai Golden Shaheen (G1) is the shortest race on World Cup day, a 1200 meter (6 furlong) dash on the straight dirt course at Nad al Sheba. Sixteen went to post in this $2 million event with Thor's Echo sent off as the lukewarm 7-2 favorite over 5-1 second choice National Colour. Todd Pletcher trainee Friendly Island was the 7-1 third choice.
Kelly’s Landing broke well from post 3 and was placed on the rail behind Bishop Court Hill, who took the lead followed by the French horse Marchand d’Or and Thor’s Echo, while Friendly Island raced in sixth. At the 1/4 pole Kelly’s Landing attacked Bishop Court Hill on the inside and took the advantage while Friendly Island made late progress on his outside but had to settle for second beaten only 1/2 a length. Kelly’s Landing trained by Eddie Kenneally won in the time of 1:10:34. It was another 1 1/4 lengths back to Salaam Dubai who held on for third. Favored Thor's Echo faded inside the 1/4 pole to finish sixth.
Garrett Gomez aboard runner-up Friendly Island said, "He was making up ground on the winner in the final furlong. My horse missed the break a little bit. He is not used to not having anybody in the gate with him. So overall he ran a really good race."
