Friday, January 30, 2009

Saudi Arabia: More than 400 horses compete in Saudi fest

Kansascity.com - Full Article

Jan. 30, 2009

By DONNA ABU-NASR
Associated Press Writer

At a green oasis in the desert outside Riyadh, a dazzling array of Arabian horses with colors ranging from dark gray, coffee bean black and warm honey have competed all week in an extravaganza designed to celebrate Arabian horses.

The second Al Khalediah Arabian Horse Festival features a beauty show, races and an auction. The popular animal is intrinsic to this region's culture, and one that, according to ancient Bedouin legend, God designated as one of the "glories" of the earth.

The event, which began last Sunday and ends Friday, was hosted by Prince Khaled bin Sultan, the son of Crown Prince Sultan, at his Al Khalediah Farm which has more than 900 Arabian horses. More than 400 horses from 18 countries took part in this year's festival.

"This is one of the biggest such gatherings in the world," Khaled said of the festival.

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Thursday, January 29, 2009

Australia Day Awards - Nagambie

Euroa-gazette.com.au

Wednesday, 28 January 2009

Residents in the Nagambie district gathered in the RSL Park at 9.30am for their welcoming address, flag-raising, National Anthem and Affirmation.

Nagambie's Australia Day Ambassador was Peter “Crackers” Keenan, who delivered an address for the occasion.

Nagambie's Australia Day Awards were presented as follows:

Young Citizen of the Year - Samantha Cubbin

Samantha, or 'Sam' for short, is fifteen years old and attends the Seymour Secondary School. She has been around horses since she was a baby, starting with pony rides on older Pony Club horses with her twin brother, Phillip. However, she did not take up riding seriously until the age of eleven, as she was diagnosed with a tumour in her arm. Numerous operations and treatments kept her away from horses for a few years but the growth is now under control and Sam now only misses a couple of months here and there when she needs another operation.

In 2004 Sam began endurance riding. In the past two years she has dominated the State's junior division with her horse Kimba, and may well have taken out the national junior distance title, too. She recently began endurance riding with Tiawarra Ramy, her pony club horse at Tatura Pony Club.

The State Championships at Stanley in 2006 was Sam’s first 160 kilometre ride. She was so tired when she came in off the fourth leg that she fell asleep sitting up with her soup in her lap. She headed out for the fifth leg with a promise of fish and chips for tea if she got back before the shop shut, and subsequently passed five other riders!

Sam is the third generation of a family that has been endurance riding and horse-training for more than twenty-five years, and her achievements include:

* 2006 - Sam: 1st Vic points rider junior, 2nd Vic distance rider junior, 1st Vic one horse one rider all divisions (fifth junior to ever win this title), 5th Nationals distance rider junior, 5th National points rider junior, 2nd Victorian State championship junior; Kimba: 1st Vic points horse, 1st Vic distance horse, 2nd National distance horse, 2nd National points horse.

* 2007 - Sam: 6th National points rider junior, 4th National distance rider junior, 1st Vic points rider junior, 1st Vic distance rider junior; Kimba: 1st National distance horse, 3rd National points horse, 1st Vic distance horse, 1st Vic points horse.

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India: National Endurance Championship begins

The Telegraph

7 teams feature in meet
OUR CORRESPONDENT
National Endurance

Dibrugarh, Jan. 29: The four-day National Endurance Championship got under way at the Ethelwold Tea Estate here this morning.

Altogether seven teams, comprising 31 horses and 27 riders, are featuring in the meet, organised by the Equestrian Federation of Assam (EFA). The teams are Assam Rifles, EFA, Assam Police, Manipur RVC, Saharanpur RVC (Hempur) and ASC, 33 Corps (Siliguri).

The Assam squad for the 34th National Games to be held in Jharkhand will also be selected after the meet.

Siddhartha Sharma, the secretary general of the association, told mediapersons that competitions would be held in the 60km, 80km and 100km endurance rides.

Dibrugarh had hosted the first CEI International Endurance Championship in the country in February, 2003, and has been a favourite destination of endurance riders.

Monoj Jalan, the adviser and chief patron of the EFA, also a rider, said there was a plan to host an international endurance meet after the nationals, but the plan was cancelled in view of the Jharkhand National Games.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

UAE: Endurance Seminar for Judges, Veterinarians

Khaleej Times
29 January 2009

DUBAI — The Veterinary Department of the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation is conducting an Advanced Endurance Seminar and FEI Refresher Course for Endurance veterinarians and Judges at Abu Dhabi on February 12, a press release said.

The seminar is being held with the cooperation of the Organising Committee of the President’s Cup Endurance ride to coincide with the President’s Cup Endurance Challenge which is scheduled to be held at the Emirates International Endurance Village, Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi on Saturday, February 14.

The seminar will be conducted by Dr. Hallvad Sommerseth, Head of the Veterinary Department at the UAE Equestrian Federation and Mr. Ian Williams, Director of Non Olympics Department.

For details contact the Veterinary Department on (9712)6661800.

Bahrain: Royal team horse tops FEI ranking

Gulf Daily News

ROYAL Endurance Team horse Mexico has been ranked first in the latest International Equestrian Federation (FEI) Horses' World Ranking, issued by the FEI yesterday. The Bahraini horse moved to the top of the list among 2,237 horses from across the world with the highest total of points of 595, beating UAE's Tazoul El Parry (583 points) who is presently second overall.

Third is Qatari horse Lasan (546), followed by Spenda Crest Kanolflage (536) of the UAE in fourth place, Uruguay's Llamarada (471) is fifth and Malaysian horse Texas (465) sixth.

Seventh is Australia's Ferrymaster At Webbs Creek (456), followed by Moolmanshoek Roes (447) of South Africa while Moolmanshek Pula (435), also from the Bahrain Royal Endurance Team, is ninth overall.

Mexico's achievement followed his success in nine different competitions last year, including the World Endurance Championship held in Malaysia two months ago when he was steered by Royal Endurance Team rider Ghazi Al Dossary to a ninth-place finish among the world's best entrants.

The Bahraini horse, presently in France, is being prepared for upcoming international events like the next edition of the World Cup to be held in Italy in September.

Bahrain Royal Endurance Team technical manager Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa expressed pride for the impressive accomplishment which, he said, underlined the abilities of the horse.

It was Shaikh Daij who recommended the horse after he was given the green light by team captain and president of the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

After finishing ninth overall in the World Championship in Akhn, Germany, Shaikh Daij was assigned to monitor a number of good horses competing in different races.

Shaikh Daij followed up Mexico's participation in a race in Namibia which was over 160km. In that race, the horse took a place on the podium by finishing third overall.

According to Shaikh Daij, Mexico's maiden challenge in Bahrain was His Majesty King Hamad's Endurance Championship last year when he came ninth.

Mexico continued to compete in local and international races which were part of his preparations for the Malaysian World Championship.

Shaikh Daij said the horse had competed in nine different races since he joined the Royal Endurance Team and he was never eliminated in any race which underlines his physical strength, stamina and endurance.

Royal Endurance Team manager Dr Khalid Ahmed Hassan said the outstanding result of Mexico has never been achieved by any horse from any Bahraini stable.

Hassan confirmed that the achievement will be a major motive for all Bahraini riders to keep up their momentum in future championships and raise the Bahrain flag high abroad.

He praised the efforts of Shaikh Daij in bringing the horse to the team and also thanked Shaikh Nasser for his continued support to the team in specific and to other endurance stables in general.

[More ...]

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

FEI Endurance Horses' World Ranking 2008

1. Mexico - Bahrain
2. Tazoul El Parry - UAE
3. Lasan - QAT
4. Splenda Crest Kamouflage - UAE
5. Llamarada - URU
6. Texas - MAS
7. Ferrymaster at Webbs Creek - AUS
8. Moolmanshoek Roes - RSA
9. Moolmanshoek Pula - BRN
10. Bebabeloula - UAE
11. Electra BBP Murdoch - AUS
12. Moro Ideal - ARG
13. Omsura Nasrohn - BRN
14. Leonardo - QAT
15. Umag - CZE

Complete Rankings

Australia: Sutton and Best named in Australia Day awards

Mudgee.yourguide.com.au - Full Article

BY DON MAHONEY
27/01/2009

Mudgee endurance rider Mette Sutton was named Mid-Western Regional Council sportsperson of the year at Australia Day ceremonies held in Robertson Park on Monday.

The rider, who may be the first endurance rider to win this prestigious award, capped a fine year in the sport with a second in the state championships and was then selected to be part of the support team for the Australian team at the world championships held in Malaysia in November.

"The trip to Malaysia was probably the highlight as it was the first time I have ever gone overseas," Sutton said.

"I had to nominate to be a part of that team and I enjoyed the experience immensely.

"My focus for the future is to continue riding and I hope we have another great season in 2009."

More...

Mexico: 2009 Endurance season begins



EL COMITÉ MEXICANO DE ENDURANCE ECUESTRE
&


CONVOCA

A LA PRIMERA COMPETENCIA NACIONAL
DE ENDURANCE ECUESTRE
DEL 2009

Info & Schedule

Brazilian horse registers first win in UAE

EnduroOnline.com.br
Al Galyb HCF is the first Brazilian horse to win a ride in the UAE. He finished first place with Ahmad Saeed Al Kamda the HH SH MANSOOR BIN ZAYED AL NAHYAN ENDURANCE CUP on January 24, 2009, in Al Wathba. Al Galyb was bought at Haras Endurance Auction on April 2008.

Before goes to UAE, AL GALYB HCF competed in endurance rides in Brasil, finishing first the CEI*** 120 km in Brasília on December 2007.

[More ... EnduroOnline]

Monday, January 26, 2009

Saudi Arabia: The Prince Khaled's Cup Endurance Challenge 2009 to boost Endurance sport in the Kingdom.

Located at Al Khalediah Farm, Tebrak, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (K.S.A), the Prince Khaled Endurance Cup will be the premier FEI ride on the K.S.A calendar this year.

The event which will take place on January 27th is a joint venture between the Al Khalediah Arabian Horse Festival and Intl. Endurance Equestrian Events.

The event is patronized by His Royal Highness, Prince Khaled bin Sultan bin AbdulAziz Al Saud.

Al Khalediah Farm, Tebrak, which is 90km from Riyadh on the road to Makkah (Holy place), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (K.S.A). provieds excellent facilities and infrastructure, the venue is set to provide excellent facilities suited to overseas and local participants, officials and visitors.

The Prince Khaled‘s Cup Endurance Challenge 2009 will be a door opening event to the FEI World Class Endurance in the K.S.A. In the challenge, riders will have to plot through various terrains, undulating slopes and sandy areas in the subtropical cool air in the morning and night. The Looping will be marked with flags prominently at strategic points to guide the riders for looping distance and direction. Along the trails, there will be designated water points providing drinking water and ice water for cooling at approximately every 5km. Throughout the course, riders will need to go through compulsory stops after each loop called Vet Gate, for cooling their horses, whilst ensuring the safety and welfare of their animal from the checks performed by a highly expert team of endurance veterinarians. Endurance sport is still fairly young in K.S.A. and as part of the state‘s efforts to promote sports tourism, the staging of The Prince Khaled‘s Cup Endurance Challenge 2009 will help boost this sport in the Kingdom.

The managing directors of Intl. Endurance Equestrian Events are two well-known figures in the equestrian world, Ahmed Ali Al-Hammadi and Mohammad Essa Al Adhab both are FEI four-star Grand Jury members along with chief steward and Technical Delegate. They have more than twenty years of working experience in equine industry.

The Timing System from Intl. Endurance Equestrian Events is best in the world due to its handling a heavy load, it can handle unlimited number of horses per race, and it can handle more than 20 horses each 5 seconds on the arrival gates or vet in gates. This system is robust and it has managed successfully Endurance races more than 13 years in U.A.E.

Intl. Endurance Equestrian Events has already conducted endurance rides world wide in countries such as Qatar, Egypt ,Malaysia and now in recently world endurance championship ( WEC) 2008 in Malaysia. Now in K.S.A. it will perform its job in The Prince Khaled‘s Cup Endurance Challenge 2009.

Qatar: International Season Begins for Al Shaqab Endurance Team

Al Khalediah Festival Cup Endurance Challenge Scheduled for Tues, Jan. 27

26/01/09, Doha, Qatar – The Al Shaqab Endurance Team, member of the Qatar Foundation, will begin its international season in the Al Khalediah Festival Cup Endurance Challenge, Tuesday, January 27, Tebrak, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The event marks the first international competition for the Al Shaqab team since representing Qatar to a dramatic silver medal finish in the 2008 World Endurance Championship held in Malaysia.

Al Shaqab entered a team of six riders that will be headed by: Owaida Al Hajeri, general supervisor; Hadi Nasser Al Ramzani, manager and trainer; and Jabr Nasser Al Ramzani, assistant trainer.

Riders competing for Al Shaqab: Atta Mohammed Beer, Faleh Nasser Saleh Bughenaim, Mohammed Tahous Saif Al Naimi, Hassan Tahous Saif Al Naimi, Abdul Rahmen Al Sulaiteen, Khalid Al Malki Al Jehani.

The event is a 120 km FEI sanctioned CEI *** event and the course will include a mix of various terrains, undulating slopes and flat sandy areas. It will be divided into five loops and after each loop the horses are stopped for a mandatory veterinary inspection. They will be checked for heart rate, respiratory and dehydration. Only those horses that pass the veterinary check are allowed to continue the race. Any horse that is determined unfit by the veterinary team, due to fatigue or lameness, is eliminated from the competition.

Saturday, January 24, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Al Kamda registers first win at Shaikh Mansour Cup

Gulfnews.com - Full Article

M. Satya Narayan
January 24, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Ahmad Saeed Al Kamda registered his first career-win riding Al Galyb HCF in the Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Endurance Cup, a 100-kilometre ride restricted to riders and owners of private stables.

It could have been a 1-2 for the Al Kamda family but Rashid Saeed Al Kamda, who finished holding hands with the eventual winner Ahmad Saeed, was eliminated after his horse Jeelan failed the post-ride vet check due to metabolism reasons.

Layla Abdul Aziz Al Redha, who has won such an event for private stables, finished second while the young Aliya Ali Mohammad Al Marzouqi was third.

"I have been involved with horses since a child and have been riding for well over a decade but this is my first win," said the 25-year-old Al Kamda.

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Abu Dhabi: Al Beloushi ends season's drought

Gulfnews.com - Full Article

M. Satya Narayan
January 24, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Yousuf Ahmad Al Beloushi, one of the most consistent performers in the UAE's domestic circuit, finally ended his wait for his first win of the season at the Emirates International Endurance Village on Saturday.

The champion trainer-cum-rider scored an emphatic win, leading from start to finish, in the 120-kilometre Al Wathba Cup.

Yesterday's ride, sponsored by Sorouh Real Estate, China Petroleum Engineering & Construction Corporation and the Breeding Stables of Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs, in Normandy, was attended by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

The Al Reef Stables' star rider Yousuf, who has trained winners in nine of the rides held so far this season, had missed winning on quite a few occasions but when the win did come it was an authoritative one. Riding 11-year-old Roherty Bold, Yousuf set the pace early as he registered a speed of 27.77 kilometres per hour in the opening loop of 32 kilometres and from then on was in control, scoring his fourth win on the bay gelding.

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Malaysia: Tuanku Mizan To Participate In RTES Endurance Ride

Bernama.com


January 24, 2009

SETIU, Jan 24 (Bernama) -- The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin will lead 51 participants in the Royal Terengganu Endurance Stable (RTES) Endurance Ride 2009 that will be held at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong here Sunday.

The General Manager of the RTES, Che Mat Din Ismail, said the King will take part in the 80km category together with 26 others with the start being at 6.30am. The ride is expected to finish at 4.30pm.

"Besides the King, also in the Endurance Ride is the Regent of Terengganu, Tengku Muhammad Ismail, and his sister Tengku Nadhirah Zaharah who will take part in the 40km category," he said at a news conference here Saturday.

For the 40km event which is expected finish at 12.30pm, he said there were 26 entries received but two were rejected as the horses did not pass the health test while another withdrew at the last minute.

According to him, the Endurance Ride is a warm-up event for the sport and beginning this year it will be held every month to have more young talent take part in the sport in the country.

He said beginning this year the competition will be coordinated by the Malaysia Endurance Riders Association (MERA) which was newly set up and each rider who wanted to participate in an endurance horse race abroad must take part in the local endurance ride circuit to collect points before representing the country at the international level.

The international races include the World Junior Championship in Hungary and the European Open Championship in Italy, both to be held in September.

He said the besides the TIEP in Terengganu the local circuit would also include parks in other states including Melaka, Kedah, Pahang, Kelantan and Perlis.

Besides MERA, the endurance races that will be held monthly will also be organised by the Equestrian Association of Malaysia and the Ministry of Youth and Sports through the National Sports Institute.

Friday, January 23, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Ladies endurance day

Gulfnews.com - Full Article

M. Satya Narayan
January 24, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Afra Khalifa Al Suwaidi and Australian ace Margaret Wade drove away with a 4WD car each after finishing first and second in yesterday's Sorouh-sponsored Shaikha Fatima Bint Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Ladies Endurance Challenge 90-km ride at Emirates International Endurance Village.

For Afra, it was a great win as she started the final stage behind the experienced Wade, who has won the Australian National Championship four times and has a lot of experience riding in the World Cup.

But riding Al Reef horse Kassalo, Afra rode the final 16 kms at an average speed of 27.55 kms to finish with almost two minutes to spare. Wade, who finished the first 30-km stage in second place then forged ahead and led for the next two stages of 24kms and 20kms.

However Afra's horse Kassalo, a 14-year-old part Arab trained by champion Yousuf Ahmad Al Beloushi, did well to overturn an 18-second deficit into a comfortable win.

"Last year I won at the Al Asayel Ladies championship series and this is another great win for me. It was really very tough as the pace set by the riders was very high," said the winner, who was given the keys to her car by young Shaikha Fatima Bint Mansour Bin ZayedAl Nahyan.

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Qatar: Al Shaqab team to compete in Heir Apparent Endurance Cup



Thepeninsulaqatar.com

1/23/2009

Doha: The Al Shaqab Endurance Team has entered an impressive roster of 21 riders in the two divisions of the His Highness Heir Apparent Endurance Cup.

The competition will be held on Saturday (January 24), 5:30am at the Qatar Endurance Village near Sea Line.

The Al Shaqab Team is headed by Owaida Al Hajeri, general supervisor; Hadi Nasser Al Ramzani, manager and trainer; and Jabr Nasser Al Ramzani, assistant manager.

Al Shaqab, member of the Qatar Foundation, will be represented by 13 riders in the 119 km Senior Division with a strong group of eight riders set to compete in the 100 km Junior Division.

Leading riders for the Al Shaqab team include: Atta Mohammed Beer, winner of the 2008 H H Heir Apparent senior division; and Faleh Nasser Saleh Bughenaim, winner of last year's junior division.

In addition to training the team, Hadi Nasser Al Ramzani will also compete as a rider.

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Top riders set to return to action

Gulfnews.com - Full Article

M. Satya Narayan
January 22, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Some of the top riders in the UAE will be seen in action in tomorrow's 120-km Al Wathba Cup and the 100-km Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Endurance Cup for Privately-owned horses to be held at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba.

The China Petroleum Engineering & Construction Corporation (CPECC), the breeding stables of Shaikh Mansour based in Normandy, France along with Sorouh Real Estate PJSC are sponsoring the two rides.

"The management of CPECC thanks Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister for Presidential Affairs and President of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, for giving us the opportunity to be involved in the two prestigious endurance events on January 24," said Liu Xihui, Vice President of CPECC.

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FEI Announces 2009 Championships qualifications

2009 CHAMPIONSHIPS

FEI Juniors & Young Riders World Endurance Championship 2009 - Bábolna (HUN)

* Qualification criteria

FEI European Open Endurance Championship 2009 - Assisi (ITA)

* Qualification criteria

FEI Pan American Endurance Championship 2009 - Costa Azul (URU)

* Qualification criteria

CHAMPIONSHIPS 2010 ONWARDS

* Qualification criteria for Juniors/Young Riders 4* Championships

* Qualification criteria for Seniors 4* Championships

FEI



[More ...]

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Busy weekend for equestrian sport

Gulfnews.com - Full Article

By M. Satya Narayan
January 21, 2009

Abu Dhabi: The Emirates International Endurance Village (EIEV) in Al Wathba will stage two endurance rides on Saturday, and in the process, making it three rides in two days over the weekend.

After announcing Friday's Ladies ride on Tuesday, Adnan Sultan, the Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club said the 120km Al Wathba Cup and the 100km Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Endurance Cup for Privately-owned horses would be held at the EIEV on Saturday.

"The breeding stables of Shaikh Mansour based in Normandy, France along with Sorouh Real Estate PJSC and China Petroleum Engineering & Construction Corporation (CPECC) are sponsoring the two rides," he said.

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UAE: SOROUH CONTINUES ITS SUPPORT OF EQUESTRIAN SPORT

EyeOfDubai.com

HH Sheikh Mansoor Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Endurance Cup and the Al Wathba Cup to take place on 24 January at the Emirates International Endurance Village


Sorouh Real Estate PJSC, one of Abu Dhabi’s leading real estate developers, today announced its sponsorship of the 100km HH Sheikh Mansoor Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Endurance Cup for privately owned horses and the 120km Al Wathba Cup. These two exciting races are to be held at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba on Saturday 24 January.

The 120-km Al Wathba Cup is an important event which Sorouh is delighted to be part of alongside the Breeding Stables of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Normandy, France.

The His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Endurance Cup for privately-owned horses is a prestigious endurance event aiming to encourage the participation of private stable owners, a goal which, as a strong supporter of equestrian sport in the region, is shared by Sorouh. The event gives the best riders from privately owned stables in the UAE an opportunity to compete with one another, encouraging them to further develop their skills at world class competition level.

In a statement released by Sorouh, the company stated:
“Sorouh would like thank His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister for Presidential Affairs and Chairman of the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba, for giving Sorouh an opportunity to support these important events in the Abu Dhabi equestrian calendar.“

Sorouh has been a strong supporter of equestrian sport since the company was established in 2005. This announcement follows Sorouh’s sponsorship of the UAE’s First Ladies Endurance Cup will be held at the Emirates Endurance Village on 23 January 2009 and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Show Jumping Championship held at the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club from 15 - 17 January 2009.

Sorouh’s support of UAE horse racing is part of an extensive social, cultural and educational sponsorship programme, which recognizes the company’s responsibility not only to its employees, customers and tenants, but to the residents of the entire United Arab Emirates.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Abu Dhabi: First-ever ladies-only equestrian endurance ride becomes a reality

Gulfnews.com - Full article

By M. Satya Narayan
January 20, 2009

Abu Dhabi: The Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba will be breaking new ground when they stage their first-ever ladies only ride on Friday.

"Friday's Shaikha Fatima Bint Mansoor Al Nahyan Ladies Endurance Cup will be the first ever ride only for ladies and the event is being held under the patronage of Shaikh Mansoor Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister for Presidential Affairs," said Adnan Sultan Al Nuaimi, the Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian club during a press conference here yesterday.

"A total amount of Dh500,000 including two four-wheel-drive cars for the riders taking the first two places, will be up for grabs.

"All riders who finish will the 90km ride will be given cash awards," Al Nuaimi said.

More...

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Al Jahouri wins Endurance Cup

Gulfnews.com - Full Article

By M. Satya Narayan
2009 January 17

Abu Dhabi: Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri, riding nine-year-old gelding EO Jaras, won the prestigious 160-km His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup 160-km ride on Saturday at the Dubai International Endurance City in Seih Assalam.

The Al Wathba Stables' trainer-cum-rider, who finished second in this ride last year, unleashed a terrific pace on the final loop of 19km to win from Dalpat Singh Ganpat Singh and Indian work rider with another Abu Dhabi-based stable ­- Al Reef.

Al Jahouri, who was fifth going into the final loop, whipped up a 30.87kmph speed on the grey Purebred Arabian gelding, and that effort saw him win the Omega-sponsored event.

"This is the second outing for this horse after he was eliminated despite finishing first in a junior ride. But today he was just classy and I always knew he would run a big race," said Al Jahouri, who holds the world record for a 120-km ride.

"I started well and finished the first 32kms in 5th place but later paced the ride and dropped to 11th and 10th positions in the next two loops of 32kms and 29kms," he said.

"When I went out on the final loop some of the best riders were ahead of me including last year's winner Omair Hussein. I am greatly satisfied with this win," he said.

Al Jahouri completed the 160-km ride in a timing of six hours 39 minutes and 11 seconds at a ride average speed of 24.05 kmph.

More...

Poland: Polish endurance horses in Abu Dhabi



Polskiearaby.com

2009-01-09

As KJ Champion informs, two horses, Cyryl 1995 and Cert 1997, are leaving on February 1st for the United Arab Emirates, to take part in one of the major endurance competitions of the world – HH The Presidents Cup, called Emirates International Endurance Village, held at Abu Dhabi on February 14th. Cyryl is going to be ridden by Beata Dzikowska, whereas Cert will be mounted by the current Polish Senior Riders` Champion, Kamila Kart. It should be pointed out that only the best horses are invited by the organizers, who analyzed their former endurance career and results. The KJ Champion team feels honored by the invitation.

Last year the competition was won by the Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, riding the 12-year-old gelding Kaysand Farrazah, in a time of 6:52:29, capturing also the Best Condition title.

Friday, January 16, 2009

Dubai: Hamdan leads UAE challenge today

Gulfnews.com - Full Article

By Alaric Gomes
January 16, 2009

Dubai: Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, heads a strong UAE field at today's second running of the His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup to be held at the Dubai International Endurance City.

The FEI CEI*** 160km ride, to be held over six loops from 6am today, is being organised by the Dubai Equestrian Club with sponsorship from Omega for the second year.

The ride has attracted a strong field of riders from all over the world, with the UAE squad led by Shaikh Hamdan the favourite to win the title.

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Great Britain: Maggie Maguire awarded the BEF's Medal of Honour

Endurancegb.co.uk

6th January 2009

Well-deserved international acclaim for Endurance Great Britain's Maggie Maguire who has been awarded the BEFs Medal of Honour. The Medal of Honour is primarily an award designed to recognise activities connected with international endeavour. It is awarded for outstanding services to the Federation with any one or more of its constituent sporting members.

Maggie retired from the EGB Board of Directors at the AGM in November 2008.. She had been the chairman of the International Committee for some years, providing huge support to our international teams.

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Dubai: Hamdan-led team holds advantage

Gulfnews.com - Full Article

By Alaric Gomes
January 15, 2009

Dubai: Defending champion Omair Hussain Al Baloushi and last year's runner-up Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri believe a strong presence of UAE riders led by Dubai Crown Prince Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum holds a distinct advantage going into this weekend's His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup.

The CEI*** 160km ride to be held at the Dubai International Endurance City on Saturday, has attracted a field of some of the top endurance riders from across the globe.

And though the field includes the top three on the 2008 FEI World Rankings, Al Baloushi still believes the title will stay back in the UAE, given the home advatange.

"Every rider out there will be a threat," predicted defending champion Al Baloushi.

"There are a lot of good riders and superb horses in the ride, but the competition will be among the local riders," added last year's runner-up Al Jahouri, the trainer-cum-rider from Al Wathba Stables.

More...

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Saudi Arabia: The Al Khalediah Festival Cup



On 27th January 2009, the FEI CEI *** 120 KM Prince Khaled‘s Cup Endurance Challenge 2009 will be a door opening event to the FEI World Class Endurance in the K.S.A.

In the challenge, riders will have to plot through various terrains, undulating slopes and sandy areas in the subtropical cool air in the morning and night. The Looping will be marked with flags prominently at strategic points to guide the riders for looping distance and direction. Along the trails, there will be designated water points providing drinking water and ice water for cooling at approximately every 5km. Throughout the course, riders will need to go through compulsory stops after each loop called Vet Gate, for cooling their horses, whilst ensuring the safety and welfare of their animal from the checks performed by a highly expert team of endurance veterinarians.

This is a joint adventure between the Al Khalediah Arabian Horse Festival and Intl. Endurance Equestrian Events. It will take place at Al Khalediah Farm, Tebrak, which is 90km from Riyadh on the road to Makkah (Holy place), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (K.S.A). With its excellent facilities and infrastructure, the venue is set to provide excellent facilities suited to overseas and local participants, officials and visitors.

Endurance sport is still fairly young in K.S.A. and as part of the state‘s efforts to promote sports tourism, the staging of The Prince Khaled‘s Cup Endurance Challenge 2009 will help boost this sport in the Kingdom.

More information at Alkhalediah Festival

Bahrain: Breef endurance race for women

Gulf-daily-news.com

15th January 2009

THE Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) is organising the first Women's Endurance Horseride Championship on January 31 at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

Breef general secretary Ghalib Al Alawi said the race is a CEI 2 event, over 120km and is only open to women of all ages and nationalities.

Al Alawi said registration for this championship will be open from Sunday while the last day for accepting forms is January 29.

He added that the participants must be registered at the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) with their horses having an international passport.

Al Alawi said the passport is being issued by the FEI in order to allow each horse to participate in either any CEI or FEI-level events.

He thanked Breef president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa for giving his directives to organise this event for the first time this season.

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Endurance challenge for women

Gulfnews.com

Staff Report
Published: January 13, 2009

Abu Dhabi: The inaugural Shaikha Fatima Bint Mansour Al Nahyan Ladies Endurance Challenge, a ride exclusively featuring lady riders from the UAE and outside, will be held on Friday, January 23, at the Emirates International Endurance Village (EIEV) in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi.

The CEN 90-kilometre ride is open not only to all lady endurance riders having a valid endurance riding license issued by the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation but also for any non-resident foreign riders nominated by their respective National Federations.

This is the first time an endurance ride exclusively featuring lady riders is being held at Al Wathba, thanks to the keen support for such events from Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister for Presidential Affairs and Chairman of EIEV.

Shaikh Mansour, who is currently competing in the Body Weight ride series, provides a substantial boost to equestrian activities in the country. In fact, he was the architect behind a long-distance horse race for persons with special needs, which was held at the EIEV in Al Wathba in February last year.

Taleb Dhaher Al Muhairi, Secretary General, UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, stated: "Endurance riding is a reflection of our country's deep-rooted history and tradition and love for the horses. If highly successful, this will be an annual event henceforth. We thank Shaikh Mansour for supporting this event".

Mexico: February 20,21 Valley de Tlacolula, Oaxaca




Endurance Mexico website




Bahrain: Royal Victory

Gulf Daily News


By RAMI Hulayyel

SHAIKH Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum raced to victory in yesterday's 120-km endurance horseride, the second round of the Endurance Grand Prix staged at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.The UAE Vice-President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai steered his horse Tahhan to top place in four hours, 53 minutes and 14 seconds following a fierce battle with Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa (4:53:53) and Dubai Crown Prince Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum (5:00:15) who finished second and third respectively.

Shaikh Nasser, the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation president, rode Farhoz De Paute while Shaikh Hamdan was astride Eo Fawati.

Top riders from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the UAE competed in this challenging event.

The five-stage race started with 30 kms for each of the first two stages and was followed by a 25-km third stage. The fourth stage was over 20 kms while the fifth and concluding stage consisted of 15 kms.

Shaikh Nasser, who led the Bahraini riders, kicked off the race on a high note by finishing the first stage first in one hour, nine minutes and 43 seconds.

Having finished fourth overall in the first round held in Abu Dhabi, Shaikh Nasser completed this stage ahead of Shaikh Hamdan (1:11:16) who came second while Shaikh Mohammed (1:12:15) was third.

In the second stage, Shaikh Mohammed leapfrogged Shaikh Nasser to steal the lead in 2:25:22. Shaikh Hamdan was second in 2:25:11 while Shaikh Nasser went down to third in 2:25:22.

Shaikh Mohammed maintained his lead after the third stage which ended in his favour with a total time of 3:28:05 while Shaikh Nasser (3:29:31) moved up to second while Shaikh Hamdan (3:29:44) was third.

In the fourth stage, Shaikh Hamdan came back strongly to lead in 4:20:31, just four seconds ahead of his father Shaikh Mohammed who dropped to second while Shaikh Nasser (4:20:46) went down to third.

Shaikh Mohammed regained his lead in the fifth stage and cruised to victory.

Honoured

Joining Shaikh Nasser in this five-stage race was Breef first vice-president and Al Khaldiya Stable leader Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa and other prominent Bahraini riders.

The winners were honoured at an awarding ceremony held right after the race which was attended by His Majesty King Hamad. His Majesty, who witnessed the race, congratulated the winners and wished others success in future races.

Earlier, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and National Guard Commander Shaikh Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa attended the flag-off along with His Majesty.

Yesterday's race was sponsored by Unicorn Investment Bank and telecast live on Bahrain Sports Channel.

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Australia: Horse Flu Free State a Winner



Qt.com.au - Full Article

Felicity Caldwell | 11th January 2009

THE Toft family received a belated Christmas present recently when the world officially acknowledged Australia was equine influenza (EI) free.

The official recognition from the World Organisation for Animal Health follows a sustained surveillance and compliance effort in the 12 months since the last notified case of equine influenza on Christmas Day, 2007.

Tallegalla endurance horse breeder Peter Toft said the most significant announcement for the industry was when people were allowed to move their horses and go about their normal activities.

But the official recognition was great news for Australia, as it would reassure international industry members.

"That can help put a bit more confidence in the international market for our horses," Mr Toft said.

More...

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Mohammad scores giant victory

Gulfnews.com - Full Article

By M Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
January 10, 2009

Abu Dhabi: His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, won the second round of the 120-km Giants Endurance Challenge (Body Weight) Ride series in Bahrain on Saturday to emerge as the overall leader with the final round left.

Riding Tahhan, Shaikh Mohammad completed the gruelling 120-km distance in a time of four hours 53 minutes and 14 seconds to finish ahead of Bahrain's Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa on Firhos de Paute.

Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, came third aboard EO Fawati and Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs, fourth on Carrallio.

More...

Friday, January 09, 2009

Bahrain: Mohammad leads UAE challenge at Giants Endurance

Gulf News
photo:Shaikh Mohammad and Shaikh Hamdan practise for today's Giants Endurance Challenge (Body Weight) Ride series in Bahrain.

By M Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
Published: January 09, 2009, 23:48

Abu Dhabi: His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs and Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai are part of the 22-strong UAE line-up for today's second round of the Giants Endurance Challenge (Body Weight) Ride series in Bahrain.

Shaikh Mohammad is expected to ride Tahhan while Shaikh Mansour, who finished second behind Abdullah Bin Huzaim in the first round in Abu Dhabi, will be riding Carrallio. Shaikh Hamdan is expected to be on EO Fawati while Bin Huzaim will be riding Shahab.

A total of 39 riders are expected to battle for honours in today second round that will be run over 120-kms at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir. Today's ride gets off to a mass start at 6.00 am and all participating riders must weigh at least 75 kilogrammes without riding equipment. The final leg will be held in Dubai and points accumulated over the three rounds will decide the overall champion.

Bahrain: Royal Welcome

Gulf-daily-news.com

9th JANUARY 2009

HIS Majesty King Hamad yesterday welcomed the UAE Vice-President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum who arrived in Bahrain to participate in the 120-kilometre Endurance Horseride Grand Prix.

This five-stage event will be held tomorrow at the Bahrain International Endurance Village.

Shaikh Mohammed was also given a warm welcome on arrival by Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and other federation officials.

Shaikh Nasser, who is also captain of the Bahrain Royal Endurance Team, will lead Bahrain along with Al Khaldiya Stables captain Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

Shaikh Hamdan and Shaikh Majid, sons of Shaikh Mohammed, are also be in the fray along with the UAE's presidential affairs minister Shaikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Ahmed Harmash, who finished second and third respectively in last month's first race of the series at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Abu Dhabi.

The Bahrain race, divided into five stages and the second of a three-race series, is sponsored by Unicorn Investment Bank and top riders from Bahrain and the UAE are in the fray.

Thursday, January 08, 2009

FEI Online Rankings as of 19/12/2008

FEI.org - Complete List















RankRider NameNFPoints
1Jack BegaudFRA1977
2Pio Juan Olascoaga AmayaURU1631
3Laurent MostiFR1338
4Mohd Ahmed Ali Al SuboseUAE1140
5Abdulla Thanki Bin HuzainUAE1136
6Meg WadeAUS1032
7Majid bin Mohd Al MaktoumUAE989
8Vincent DupontFR939
9Ghazi Mohammed Al DoseriBRN873
10Sh Rashid Dalmook Al MaktoumUAE816

Wednesday, January 07, 2009

New Zealand: NORTH ISLAND ENDURANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2009


NZ NORTH ISLAND ENDURANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2009
Hosted by Taumarunui Endurance Club at Aria
Photos and Results

Bahrain: UAE riders for Grand Prix

Gulf Daily News

UAE vice-president, Prime Minister and the ruler of Dubai Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum will lead a strong field of UAE riders in the 120-kilometre Endurance Horseride Grand Prix. Eighteen of the UAE's best riders have confirmed their participation in this race which is the second round of the series and takes place on Saturday at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir. Shaikh Hamdan and Shaikh Majid, sons of Shaikh Mohammed, will also be in the fray.

Prominent UAE entrants include UAE's presidential affairs Minister Shaikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Ahmed Harmash, who came second and third, respectively, in last month's first race of the series at Emirates International Endurance Village in Abu Dhabi.

Other participants are Tahnon Al Beloshi, Mubarak Khalifa, Hassan Al Beloshi, Buti Al Mazrooi, Salem Al Sabosi, UAE-based South African Gerardson Foslo, Joseph Tick of Astonia, Ahmed Al Mirri, Khalifa bin Galatya, Abdulla Saeed, Ali Al Sabri and Hamad Al Ghuwais.

A delegation from Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's Media Office yesterday arrived in Bahrain and inspected the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

The UAE officials praised the preparations of the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) to host this round of the championship.

The race will be telecast live on Bahrain Sports Channel. Officials from the channel also toured the race venue by Shaikh Nasser's Media Office director Tawfeeq Salehi who explained the latest preparations at the village.

The organising committee has finalised its preparations through arranging the facilities inside the village besides preparing the race route.

Meanwhile, the Bahraini riders continued to gear up for the Bahrain event, to be sponsored by Unicorn Investment Bank.

Breef president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and his brother Shaikh Khalid will lead the Bahraini hopes in this race which will be divided into five stages.

The first and second stages will each cover 30km, the third will be over 25km, 20km for the fourth besides 15km for the fifth and final stage.

Shaikh Nasser steered Omsura Nasrohn to a fourth-place finish in the first round while Shaikh Khalid, who was unable to complete the race, said he is determined to make a strong comeback on Saturday.

Both Shaikh Nasser and Shaikh Khalid are looking to take a place on the podium before heading for the third and final round, scheduled for February 28, at Dubai International Endurance City in Seih Assalem.

After the deciding race, the rider with the highest number of points will be crowned overall champion. The top 10 in each race of the series are gaining points.

Among a race's top finishers, the winner earns 100 points, while second gets 80, third 70, fourth 60, and fifth 50 points. Riders classified sixth through 10th will also come away with points.

Each participating rider must weigh at least 75 kilograms without riding equipment, and must be registered with the International Equestrian Federation.

Tuesday, January 06, 2009

UAE: Top UAE riders for Bahrain event Mohammad leads UAE's charge

Gulfnews.com - Full Article

By M. Satya Narayan
January 06, 2009

Abu Dhabi: UAE riders led by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, along with Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs, are likely to dominate the second leg of the FEI Three-Star Giants Endurance Challenge (Body Weight) Ride Series to be held in Bahrain on Saturday.

The ride is being organised at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

The Bahrain Royal Endurance and Equestrian Federation (Breef) will see the UAE's top riders take on some of Bahrain's best and many others from around the world.

More...

Bahrain: Five stages for endurance race

Gulf Daily News

ORGANISERS of the 120-kilometre Endurance Horseride Grand Prix, scheduled for Saturday, yesterday approved five stages for the race.

The Bahrain event, which is the second of a three-leg series and will be organised by the Bahrain Royal Endurance and Equestrian Federation (Breef), is taking place at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

The Breef decided to have 30km for each of Saturday's first two stages, 25km for the third, 20km for the fourth besides 15km for the fifth and final stage.

In the first round of the 120-km Endurance Horseride Grand Prix, held at Emirates International Endurance Village, Al Wathba in Abu Dhabi, Royal Endurance Team captain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa steered Omsura Nasrohn to a fourth-place finish.

The hosts dominated the podium yesterday when Abdulla bin Hazim was the first to complete the race, followed by UAE's Presidential Affairs Minister Shaikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan in second place with compatriot Ahmed bin Harmash third.

The third and final round is scheduled for February 28 at Dubai International Endurance City in Seih Assalem where the rider with the highest number of points will be honoured. The top 10 riders in each race of the series are gaining points.

Among a race's top finishers, the winner earns 100 points, while second gets 80, third 70, fourth 60, and fifth 50 points. Riders classified sixth through 10th will also come away with points.

Each participating rider must weigh at least 75 kilograms without riding equipment, and must be registered with the International Equestrian Federation.

Meanwhile, Bahrain's Royal Endurance Team manager Dr Khalid Ahmed Hassan said the team is training on daily basis ahead of this event, adding that he is confident to see his riders among the top finishers.

On his part, route committee head Fahad Al Rumaihi said the committee has finalised its preparations for this event which started last week.

Al Rumaihi said the committee's has succeeded in its mission thanks to directives from Shaikh Nasser and Breef first vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

Breef general secretary and ground jury committee head Ghalib Al Alawi confirmed that his committee members are ready to receive the participants from Bahrain the UAE.

Al Alawi said this race promises to feature stronger competition than in the first round in Abu Dhabi as more riders from both countries have approved their participation for the second leg.

Shaikh Nasser, the Breef president, expressed his appreciation for race sponsors Unicorn Investment Bank, especially its chief executive officer Majid Al Rifaee.

Shaikh Nasser also said he was proud that Bahrain is hosting such a prestigious race, which has been approved by the International Equestrian Federation.

Monday, January 05, 2009

World Games 2010 Foundation Names New Chief Executive Officer








DATE: January 5, 2009

LEXINGTON, KY - The World Games 2010 Foundation today announced that it has selected Jamie Link as the new Chief Executive Officer of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

Link has been serving as Deputy Secretary of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet since December 2007 and prior to that spent several months as the Deputy Executive Director of the Kentucky Horse Park. In his current role, he has served as an ex officio member of the World Games 2010 Foundation board of directors and has been actively involved in the ongoing construction projects at the Kentucky Horse Park and major vendor selections related to the Games.

"I am honored to be selected as CEO of the World Games 2010 Foundation and look forward to working with the wonderful staffs of the Foundation and the Kentucky Horse Park," Link said. "It is going to take all of us working together and we are committed to showcasing to our visitors not only the world’s finest equestrian venue that is the Kentucky Horse Park, but also the many amazing attractions we have throughout the Commonwealth of Kentucky."

"I have watched Jamie participate in many of the meetings and was impressed with his ability to get things done. The planning for the Games is at a critical juncture and we need to have a full time CEO to manage the process for the next 21 months," said John Long, board chairman and acting CEO. "Jamie’s familiarity with the Games planning means he will be able to jump in immediately and make an impact."
Long also added that the Games proactively recruited Mr. Link. There was no pressure from the state. In fact, Long said that Secretary Marcheta Sparrow - also a board member - politely reprimanded him for stealing Link.
Secretary Sparrow added "although I am sorry to lose Jamie as my co-worker in state government I am confident in his abilities to lead the Games at this critical time. His knowledge of the Kentucky Horse Park and the importance of this event to our state’s image throughout the world is tremendous."

John Nicholson, Executive Director of the Kentucky Horse Park said "having known and worked with Jamie Link for a number of years, I can state with confidence that he is uniquely qualified for this position and I am delighted that he has accepted the Board's offer. Everyone at the Kentucky Horse Park has witnessed firsthand Jamie's uncommon talent, integrity and dedication during his time as Deputy Director. He understands the Park’s day-to-day operations and the special needs of the Park for the 16 days of high level championship competition. In addition, it is helpful to have someone familiar with all of our key community and state leaders involved in this project to help streamline our efforts. I look forward to once again having the pleasure of working with him as we build toward, not only this epoch moment in our history, but for the great legacy it will provide."

Link will officially begin serving as CEO on January 12, but has already begun the transition and attending meetings as needed to be up-to-date on all operations when he joins the staff full-time.

The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines competed at a single site—both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park.
The Games will be broadcast on NBC Sports, which has marked the largest commitment to network coverage of equestrian sport in U.S. television history. The 2010 Games are expected to have a statewide economic impact of $150 million, and other current sponsors include Alltech, Rolex, John Deere and Ariat International, Inc. For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit www.feigames2010.org.

Media Contacts:

World Games 2010 Foundation
Amy Walker
859-255-2010 ext. 235 or 859-699-0443 (cell)
awalker@feigames2010.org

Ellen Gregory
Preston-Osborne
859-231-7711 ext 234 or 859-338-1775 (cell)
elgregory@preston-osborne.com

Sunday, January 04, 2009

Bahrain: Unicorn support for Grand Prix

Gulf-daily-news.com - Full Article

5th January 2009

UNICORN Investment Bank will sponsor the Bahrain round of the 120-kilometre Endurance Horseride Grand Prix, organisers the Bahrain Royal Endurance and Equestrian Federation (Breef) announced yesterday. The race, which will be the second of the three-leg event, is set to take place on Saturday at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

Breef president and Bahrain Royal Endurance Team captain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa expressed his appreciation for Unicorn's support of the leg. Shaikh Nasser also said he was proud that Bahrain is hosting such a prestigious race, which has been approved by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI).

Breef officials, under the guidance of Shaikh Nasser, yesterday continued to intensify their preparations for the ride, which follows the opener held last month at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi.

Coverage on Endurance.net
More...

Saturday, January 03, 2009

Bahrain: Raring to Go!

Gulf-daily-news.com - Full Article

4th January 2009

BAHRAIN'S Royal Endurance team, led by captain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, is gearing up for the second leg of the 120-kilometre Endurance Horseride Grand Prix, which will take place on Saturday at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

The round follows the opener held last month at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi.

Shaikh Nasser, who is the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) president, finished an impressive fourth riding his horse Omsura Nasrohn in that race, which was divided into five stages.

Shaikh Nasser is once again expected to be at the forefront of the Bahraini contingent taking part as hosts in the kingdom's leg. The others set to take to the saddle are Breef first vice-president and Al Khaldiya Stables captain Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, and Shaikh Salman bin Saqer Al Khalifa, Ghazi Al Dossary, and Abdulhaq Qadoori.

More...

Emirates Heritage Club calls off endurance festival

Published: January 03, 2009, 12:34

Abu Dhabi: The Emirates Heritage Club has called off the third Shaikh Sultan Bin Zayed International Endurance Festival, which was in progress at the Bou Theib Endurance Village in Al Khatam.

The decision is part of the official mourning declared in the country to mourn the death of Shaikh Rashid Bin Ahmad Al Mualla, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, who passed away Friday morning in London.

In a statement, the higher organising committee said that the death of Shaikh Rashid is “a great national loss that plunged us to deep grief.”

Thursday, January 01, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Al Reef bag top two places on day one

Gulfnews.com - Full Article

By M Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
January 01, 2009

Abu Dhabi: Al Reef Stables rider Ahmad Salem Al Beloushi, riding Spoutnik, emerged as day one leader in the three-day 240 kilometre Shaikh Sultan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Cup here yesterday.

The Al Reef rider managed to finish marginally ahead of Mohammad Jasem Rahimi on Tonki Dee Boo Kentucky, out of 64 riders who started in this important ride which is part of the Endurance Festival being held under the patronage of Shaikh Sultan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, at the Boutheib Endurance Villagein Al Khatem, Abu Dhabi.

Riders are required to cover 80 kms each day in the 240 kms ride.

More...

Australia: Queensland endurance riding season off to a ’stirling’ start

NoosaToday.com.au - Full Article 16/03/2024 Erle Levey It was like the first day back at school as Queensland endurance horse riders st...