Endurance ride at Boudthib today

By A Correspondent

2 March 2006


DUBAI ? The UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, in cooperation with the Boudthib Endurance Village, is organising Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan Al Nahyan Challenge Cup for Juniors and Young Riders at Boudthib Endurance Village, Al Khatem, Abu Dhabi, on Thursday, March 2, 2006.

The CEI, Two-star, 100-km ride, which will be run in four phases of 30 km, 30 km, 24 km and 16 km respectively, has so far attracted over 30 riders. The ride is scheduled to have a mass start at 6.30 am.

The Federation is also organising two Federation Qualifiers on the same day at the same venue. The 84 ?km Qualifier, which will be run in three phases of 30 km, 30 km and 24 km respectively, will feature around 50 riders and will start at 6.45 am. As many as another 50 riders will vie for qualification in the 46-km ride which will be run in two phases of 30 km and 16 km respectively and will be flagged off at 7 a.m.

The UAE Equestrian Federation organizes Federation Qualifiers at regular intervals to help riders and horses to qualify themselves to ride in higher category rides.

The rides are held under the patronage of Shaikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Emirates Heritage Club. The Boudthib Endurance Village is part of the Emirates Heritage Club.

The Emirates Heritage Club is closely involved in the development of several traditional and cultural activities and sports in the country, including endurance riding. The club also provides vital training facilities for children in the UAE and its modern and excellently planned endurance village has become a training ground for several aspiring young endurance riders.

Boudthib is located past Al Wathba on the left side of the Abu Dhabi-Al Ain highway. One can also reach the Boudthib endurance Village from different emirates by following these directions: From Abu Dhabi ? On Al Ain Road at exit for Zayed Military City, turn left and follow signs.

From Dubai- On Abu Dhabi Road at Al Mafraq bridge take exit to Al Ain Road and continue up to exit for Zayed Military City, turn left and follow signs.

From Al Ain ? On Abu Dhabi Road at Al Khatem Bridge exit right and follow signs.