Meydan update

[my miss storm cat]

http://www.sportinglife.com/racing/n...NG_Meydan.html

DICKINSON SEALS MEYDAN DEAL


By Martin Kelly, PA Sport

Michael Dickinson has secured the lucrative contract to lay his Tapeta surface at the new Meydan racecourse in Dubai.

Work on the development is well underway ahead of its opening at the Dubai World Cup in 2010, when runners will race on Dickinson's all-weather surface.

Frank Gabriel jnr, chief executive officer of the Dubai Racing Club, said: "Safety of the animal was paramount in our selection and experience points to synthetic training and racing tracks reducing the number of injuries and prolonging the careers of the racehorse.

"We looked at all of the all-weather surfaces around the world and while we recognised that each is very beneficial to the horse, we decided to go with Tapeta.

"We believe it is the best choice for our environment and racing programme."

Dickinson added: "Obviously we are delighted. It is a huge honour for Tapeta and we are very proud that we will be a small part in the most innovative and creative project racing has ever seen.

"We believe that the Tapeta surface will provide international horses and trainers a seamless transition from any other type of training or racing surface."