UAE: Shaikh Hamdan clinches crown

Gulf-daily-news.com

February 28, 2010

THE UAE's Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum was the overall winner of the Giants Endurance Challenge held yesterday at Dubai Endurance City (ECN) in Seih Assalam.

Some of the best riders from Bahrain and the UAE competed in the deciding ride of the championship which was over 160km and also a qualifier for next year's World Endurance Games in Kentucky, the US.

It was the third and final round in the challenge which started in Abu Dhabi, then continued in Bahrain. The first three stages of yesterday's ride were hit by a desert storm, which forced the elimination of several riders.

Riding Dean, Shaikh Hamdan completed this six-stage ride on top in five hours, 59 minutes and 53 seconds with a 23.17km per second speed average.

Shaikh Hamdan, the Dubai Crown Prince, was followed by Fredrick Zobairi (6:14:05) of Spain in second place while Majed Al Jahori (6:14:12) of the UAE's Al Ain Stable came third.

Bahrain were spearheaded by three riders, led by Royal Endurance Team captain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who pulled out during the third stage after his horse picked up an injury.

Other Bahraini participants were Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation president and captain of Al Khaldiya Stable Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who also withdrew in the fifth and penultimate stage due to similar circumstances.

Abdulhaq Qadoor (8:34:04), the most experienced rider among the Bahraini participants, was the only local entrant to complete the race in 14th place.

Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, was also out of the race in the fourth stage as his horse Sas Alexis suffered an injury.

It was, however, Shaikh Mohammed who started the ride in style, leading the riders at the end of the stage in one hour, eight minutes and 49 seconds. Not far behind was Jaume Punti Dachs (1:08:52), riding Au De, in second place and Shaikh Hamdan (1:09:58) third.

Shaikh Mohammed maintained his momentum in the second stage to keep his lead with a total ride time of 2:14:43. Dachs (2:16:24) also kept his second position while Shaikh Majed, brother of Shaikh Hamdan, (2:16:55) moved up to third.In the third stage, Shaikh Mohammed stayed third in 3:18:31 and ahead of Shaikh Hamdan (3:25:33) who climbed to second and ahead of third-placer Shaikh Majed (3:25:42).

Shaikh Hamdan took over the lead from Shaikh Mohammed at the end of the fourth stage with a total ride time of 4:38:43.

Mubarak Al Belooshi (4:41:54) improved on his standing to claim second place, then Shaikh Majid (4:47:08) came third.

Since then, Shaikh Hamdan never looked back as he remained on top in the fifth stage, which he completed in 5:24:50 and kept his rhythm in the six and final stage to win the title.

After yesterday's race, the top three riders were honoured at the prize-giving ceremony, which took place at the Dubai Endurance City.

The ceremony was attended by His Majesty King Hamad who presented the prizes to the winners in the presence of Shaikh Mohammed and other senior UAE equestrian federation officials.

Upon arrival, His Majesty was welcomed by Shaikh Mohammed, Shaikh Nasser, Shaikh Khalid, senior officials and race organisers.

On this occasion, His Majesty, Shaikh Nasser and Shaikh Khalid congratulated Shaikh Hamdan on his victory and wishing others success in future competitions.

His Majesty also hailed the efforts of the race organisers, noting that the championship has witnessed a strong brotherly competition between Bahraini and UAE riders, reflecting the strong ties bonding both countries.

Click HERE for photos by Osama Mohammed.

Sport Horse Vet Symposium to Run with WEG

TheHorse.com
February 26 2010, Article # 15892

Promoting peak performance in the equine athlete through proper healthcare will be the focus of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Veterinary Sport Horse Symposium, to be held Sept. 22-24 at the Marriott Griffin Gate Resort in Lexington, Ky. The symposium is presented by Alltech, the American Association of Equine Practitioners, and Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital.

The three-day education meeting is designed for veterinarians who treat horses involved in sport horse disciplines, such as eventing, reining, endurance, show jumping, driving, and dressage. An international roster of veterinary experts will present the latest advances in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions commonly affecting the sport horse. Sessions topics will include orthopedics, diagnostic imaging, nutrition, upper respiratory disease, podiatry, and muscle disease.

"Veterinarians are well served in all disciplines to understand as much as possible about the factors affecting the performance of the competitors in their care," said Alan Ruggles, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, of Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital. "The symposium program brings together the leaders in many facets of equine clinical practice that determine a horse's performance at any given event."

Bayer Health Care--Animal Health, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Intervet Schering-Plough Animal Health, and Luitpold are sponsoring the symposium.

Complete sport horse symposium program and hotel information. Contact Elaine Souers of Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital at esouers@roodandriddle.com or 859/233-0371 for more information.

In addition to this symposium, a one-day seminar for horse owners will be held at the Embassy Suites in Lexington on Friday, Sept. 24.

France: Florac Ride Candidate for European Championship 2011

160florac-lee.com

The French Equestrian Federation has chosen the 35th edition of the 160-km Florac ride to present France's candidacy for the organisation of the European Championship 2011. Subject to the FEI’s acceptance, the Florac 160-km ride in 2010, which will be run over a new course, will be the pre-ride for Florac 2011.

Lozere Endurance Equestre (LEE), the association organising the Florac ride, has specially designed a course for this European Championship made up of a series of point-to-point phases, forming one large loop, in keeping with the traditional values of endurance: stamina, horsemanship, sports ethic, respect for the horse's physical well-being and morale.

We are of course maintaining the usual programme: : 90 km and 130km rides, breed shows, stallion parade as well as THE les 160-km de Florac® ride.
This 2010 edition, 24th July, the pre-ride, will be one of the last qualifier competitions in Europe for the Kentucky WEG.

For more information, and a schedule for this year's ride, see www.160florac-lee.com

Ireland launches new equestrian brand

Horsetalk.co.nz - Full Article

February 26, 2010

Horse Sport Ireland has launched its 'Team Ireland Equestrian' brand, which will be worn by all Irish equestrian riders across all Olympic disciplines up to London 2012.

The logo, which is a shamrock consisting of three horse shoes, was developed by Horse Sport Ireland as part of a major drive to market Ireland's equestrian teams to sponsors and the general public.

Horse Sport Ireland Chairman Joe Walsh said that the new concept had been developed over the past year by HSI to create a single identity for Irish teams across all of the FEI disciplines of show jumping, eventing, dressage, para-equestrian, carriage driving, endurance, reining and vaulting.

The launch was a new beginning for the sport in Ireland. "We have outstanding riders in this country and with top class coaches and structures in place we can take on the world. It is time for people to get behind our riders, our horses and Team Ireland Equestrian," he said.

"Last year we had 480 riders who represented Ireland in international competition with huge success and I believe that our riders, breeders and owners deserve more credit for their achievements on the world stage," he said.

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Dubai: Endurance City hosts weekend rides

Gulfnews.com

Region's best riders to compete in final round of Giants Endurance Challenge

Staff Report
February 26, 2010



Dubai: This will be a busy weekend for endurance riders with two rides scheduled to be held at Dubai International Endurance City (DIEC).

The ECN 90km Endurance Ride for Ladies will take place Friday, and will run over four loops.

Tomorrow, some of the best riders in the UAE will compete in the final round of the Giants Endurance Challenge, a CEI three star ride over 160km. It is the third and final round in the challenge which started in Abu Dhabi, then continued in Bahrain.

Throughout this challenge, the participants have been accumulating points, as the rider and horse with the most will be the overall winner. This ride has a reputation of attracting the region's best, and is restricted to riders whose body weight is 75kgs without a saddle. The ride will consists of six loops: red, blue, yellow, green, pink and white and the first inspection will take place today from 3pm to 5pm.

General Manager of the Dubai Equestrian Club, Ali Mousa Al Khamiri said: "We are very grateful to Abu Dhabi and Bahrain to give us the honour of hosting the final round of the Giants Endurance Challenge here at Dubai International Endurance City, and we would like to thank Abu Dhabi and Bahrain for their participation. We also expect this ride to be a very tough one due to the higher FEI Rating and the longer distance."

"We are truly grateful to His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who has been a key role in supporting all equestrian sports and Endurance in particular through the years.

2010 FEI Horse and Rider Registration

2010 FEI HORSE AND RIDER REGISTRATION
USEF

The FEI has implemented a new procedure for FEI Registration that states any horse or rider that is not registered before they compete will be disqualified. FEI Article 113 will be strictly applied and all Athletes/Horses must be registered prior to taking part in an FEI event. FEI organizers should be checking the FEI registration for horses and riders and should not allow anyone to compete without them. If such registration is not completed, the Athlete/Horse will be disqualified in accordance with the applicable article. If you are renewing an FEI registration you can complete it online at USEF www.usef.org by signing into your USEF Login. NOTE: The FEI considers the Riders/Drivers/Vaulters as the Person Responsible for ensuring that their registration and the registration of their horse is complete prior to competing. The processing of FEI registration can take up to 4 weeks so if you need your number right away there is a RUSH service that you can request for an additional $30.00. If you have any questions or concerns regarding FEI Registration please contact Ashley Sabo at 859-225-6989 or via e-mail at asabo@usef.org.

ATHLETES' AND HORSES' REGISTRATIONS FOR 2010
AND THE VALIDATION OF RESULTS
Referring to the General Regulations Art 113, as per below:

Article 113 - Registration of Athletes and Horses

All Athletes and Horses must be registered with the FEI, unless otherwise specified by the Sport Rules and with their own or, where appropriate, their host NF before they can be permitted to take part in an International Event. (See also Article 119 - Sport Nationality Status of Athletes and Chapter V Horses).
NFs are responsible for registering all Athletes and Horses and shall ensure that such Athletes have the appropriate corresponding sport nationality.
Any Athlete and/or any Horse who is not registered with the FEI shall be automatically disqualified.
The registration system is linked to the results publications.

Australia: Riders and their mounts show skills at testing endurance run

Maitlandmercury.com.au - Full Article
JAMES LAW
24 Feb, 2010 08:26 AM

Horses and their riders were put to the test last weekend in a twilight endurance ride at Glen William, near Clarence Town.

Rachel Haskins from the Williams Valley Endurance Riders Club was impressed with 137 entries, especially because this was the first time a race of this kind had been held in the Dungog Shire in more than 20 years.

The 80km trek through scenic countryside tested the endurance, strength and stamina of both the horses and riders, and attracted participants from as far as Berry, Coffs Harbour and Dubbo.

The race kicked off at 2.30pm on Saturday to ensure the ride was not run in the hottest part of the day.

The highlight of the course was the climb to the top of McDougalls Hill, which presented views to the Stockton sand dunes and across to the Barrington Tops.

The winner completed the circuit in five hours and 52 minutes, while the last horse crossed the line at 1am on Sunday, after 10 hours of riding. Eighty-three per cent of the participants finished the course.

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New Zealand: North Island Endurance Champs

Equinetrader.co.nz
Monday, February 22, 2010

Sue Reid riding Makahiwi Achilles had a great win at the North Island Endurance Champs held at Waiuku earlier this month, winning the CEI3* 160k North Island Championship in a time of 9:04:04.

Endurance will once again make an appearance at New Zealand's premier annual event, the Kelt Capital Horse of the Year Show in March.

This year sees some changes to the Endurance format the organisers are hoping will encourage greater number participation. The introduction of a shorter distance ride and Novice classes means that this year's HOY will cater for all levels of horse and rider.

It's less than a month before HOY gets under way in Hawke's Bay on March 16 and for many combinations it's the culmination of a season of hard work. For those who don't compete, it's a fantastic opportunity to see the best equestrian talent New Zealand (and some overseas competitors) has to offer. The show seems to get bigger and better every year and this year is sure to be no exception, so don’t miss out!

Malaysia: Fiaizzuddeen wins RTES Endurance Ride

NST.com.my

2010/02/23

By Zainuddin Muhammad
TMKN Equestrian rider Mohd Fiaizzuddeen Mohd Yusof, riding nine-year-old gelding Janor Addas, emerged champion in the Royal Terengganu Endurance Stable (RTES) Endurance Ride 2010 at the Terengganu International Endurance Park in Lembah Bidong, Setiu, on Sunday.

He clocked four hours, 19 minutes and 34 seconds in completing the 80km ride, ahead of RTES rider Pailin Sungkit, astride Tora August, who covered the three loops in 4:25:06s.

Third place went to another TMKN Equestrian participant, Rosdan Mohd Nor who crossed the finish line on gelding Nashaar in 4:43:59s.

Raja Tengku Baderulzaman Sultan Mahmud, who is the head of the Terengganu Regency Advisory Council, finished 12th.

A total of 42 riders from nine endurance clubs in the country took part in the tournament and all winners received their prizes from Terengganu State Youth and Sports Committee chairman Datuk Abdul Rahin Mohd Said.

Bahrain: Al Hazza claims endurance ride

Gulf-daily-news.com

February 21, 2010

ISA Abdulla Al Hazza won the Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa Endurance Cup yesterday at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

Al Hazza, riding CR Prince Charming and representing Ahmed Al Fateh Stable, was one of just three competitors to complete the gruelling 100-kilometre four-stage race, which was sponsored by Batelco and held under the patronage of Bahrain Olympic Committee president and Bahrain Royal Endurance Team captain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

Al Hazza completed the ride in four hours 12 minutes and three seconds - finishing over 20 minutes ahead of runner-up Ali Abdulla Al Tamimi.

Al Hazza ended the opening two 30km stages of the event in third place, before moving up to second after the third and penultimate leg, which was over 24 kms.

The Bahraini then did well over the final 16 kms to take the lead and cruise to the finish with a top average speed of 23.80kph. Along with the gleaming winner's trophy, Al Hazza also drove away with a brand new 4x4 jeep.

Al Tamimi was the runner-up in 4:35:03. Riding Khoto and representing Al Asayel Stable, he started strong and held first place after the first three stages. He could not keep up the pace, however, and dropped off significantly in the last leg.

Abdulla Nasser Fahad Al Zabi claimed the final spot on the podium. Riding Al Fahd, the Al Muhqeerat Stable entrant clocked 4:44:30.

Penultimate

After starting off in the top eight, Al Zabi made his way into the leading three by the end of the penultimate stage, and maintained his position from there on.

Forty riders representing stables from across the kingdom took part in the event but only 12 remained by the start of the concluding leg.

Following the race, the top three were presented their respective trophies by Shaikh Nasser, along with Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa and Batelco consumer division general manager Mona Al Hashemi.

See photos by Osama Mohammed here.

Spain: Additional rides part of V Raid Kaliber Al-Andalus

Within the V Kaliber Raid Al-Andalus Lands shall be the following additional tests:
Launching the 10th of April 2010.
Promotion on the 10th of April 2010.
O * CEN on 10 April 2010.
1 * CET on 10 April 2010.
CEN 1 * on 10 April 2010.
FEI 1 * on 10 April 2010.
CEN 2 * on 10 and 11 April 2010.
FEI 2 * on 10 and 11 April 2010.
CEN 3 * Day 10, 11 and 12 April 2010.
FEI 3 * Day 10, 11 and 12 April 2010.
More information at El Raid blog

Bahrain: Shaikh Nasser endurance set

Gulf-daily-news.com

Saturday, February 20, 2010


SHAIKH Nasser bin Hamad's Endurance Ride Championship takes place today at Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

The event, being sponsored by Batelco, will feature senior and junior events. Each ride will be over 100 kilometres. They will both be held over four stages. Leading entries from Bahrain and the GCC are set to compete.

The first and second stages will each cover 30km, while the third will be 24km and the fourth and final stage will be 16km. Racing gets underway at 6am.

The veterinary examination for the horses and the weigh-in of riders were held yesterday at the event premises.

The winner of today's ride will take home a brand new four-wheel-drive along with a glittering new trophy.

The event has been organised by the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation, and is being patronised by Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain Olympic Committee president and Royal Endurance Team captain.

2010 President's Cup - by Paula Nascimento

THE BEST RACE EVER

"The last loop was the cherry on the cake of this historical evidence, what we saw was an unprecedented fight with several changes of position and animals running as if on a great flat race track without fences. The exchanges were constant and less than 14 kilometers to arrive, it was impossible to say who would cross the finish line in front"

by Paula Nascimento - www.endurancebrasil.com.br

The title may sound exaggerated, but for those who are endurance enthusiasts, witness what happened last February 13, 2010 at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, has been elusive, and it is a privilege.

Again, it was sure that what happens in the Middle East is a different sport from the rest of the world. The world record was broken again this shows how hard and fought are the competitions in the UAE and this was evident with the top two broke the old record. The record continues with the horse of South African origin, Charlandre el Sharif, 13, from Al Reef Stables.

For the two Brazilian riders the race was short and lasted only one loop, both were eliminated by lameness. But it is inevitable to say that the experience was very worthwhile, since dropping to 106 sets at full speed is something that only happens in big races.

The disappointment of the Brazilians soon became an indescribable feeling. Andre Vidiz and Rafael Salvador, the breeder's Steinbruch Leo and Paul Saliba, and veterinarian Dr. Silvio Arroyo Filho were amazed at the competition as a whole and with the show they were watching. "We must see to believe" talked the whole time Leo Steinbruch, who besides breeder, is one of the most experienced riders in Brazil.

On Friday, the Brazilian squad is to follow the initial inspection. Andre Vidiz needed to change the mount because its not approved in the initial examination. After this time against the two representatives of Brazil were to know the horses they would ride. Rafael Salvador formed together with Amia, a mare of 13 years and Andrew Vidiz mounted Atlas of 12 years.

It was five o'clock in the morning when I, along with the two riders, Leo and Silvinho, we arrive at the competition venue. It was dark and cold, after talking about how it would support the riders with the Al Reefs Stables team, we see the start. 106 horss began to race at full speed and the poor visibility did not stop the riders speed on the track. We follow the Brazilians riders on the track. The number of cars that follow the horses is amazing and the difficulty of driving in soft sand, with low visibility, high speed and with cars and horses through all sides, makes it even more exciting.

In the first stage who arrived in leadership was Tayef Atiq Al Falah, the Wrsan Stables, riding the mare Uruguayan 11 years, Silvina. The group had a mean of 25.52 kilometers per hour, traversing the 34 km in only 1h17min and only 1min57s was already in the vet-check. The Brazilians arrived half an hour ago and were eliminated.

For the second step, unfortunately we received the two as companions in the car. The pace was breakneck speed was maintained and in some places the horses were faster than the cars. Who led this time was the representative of Estonia, Kaja tuisk, who rode the horse Kheops Lozelle, owned by Seeh Al Salam Endurance Stables, averaging 25.47 km / h and recovery time of 1 min27s. The following 33 sets were less than 4 minutes apart in the first place.

In the third step the lead back to the Wrsan Stables, but with another rider: Abdul Rahman Mohd Karam Shirouh, with the animal Nadja Lotoise. The speed was 25.27 kilometers / h and recovery was 1min41s seconds and there were 22 horses that were less than 4 minutes from the leader.

The fourth loop had the feared Tora Bora mountains with a lot of ups and downs, a total of 32. From inside the car, we saw the horses were crossing the Tora Bora with much more ease than the cars themselves, which often came down in reverse, they could not reach the top of the mountain.

The leadership was once again Tayef with teammate Abdul second. Tayef made 23.46 kilometers / h in the loop more difficult. The Tora Bora select who is able to get the victory, so that after this step we can see Ali Khalfan and Sultan Ahmed already in sixth and seventh place respectively, and 12 horses with less than 4 minutes for the first place.

In the fifth step, the leadership was assumed by Majed Mohd Salman Al Sabri, with Armin Zulu, 9 years, representing Sheikh Mohamed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. His speed was of 24.55 km / h and took 1 minute and 29 seconds to enter the vet-check. Nine sets were at 2 minutes apart.

The last loop was the cherry on the cake of this historical evidence, what we saw was an unprecedented fight with several changes of position and animals running as if on a great flat race track without fences. The exchanges were constant and less than 14 kilometers to arrive, it was impossible to say who would cross the finish line in front. After much fighting and less than 10 km to arrive, we saw that the fight would be restricted to the Sultan Ahmed Al Baloushi riding Charlandre El Sharif, who held the world record and Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri riding Kalifa, aged 12. The speed was very high and when they reached the final stretch of 2 kilometers, speeds increased from 50 km / h when the two side by side.But at the end, the experience of small South African horse of only 1, 48m high worth more and this crossed the line ahead of his opponent, breaking his own record.

Now, the Al Reef Stables has the two speed world records, in 160 km and 120 km.

The average speed of the champion in the last step was of 33.22 km / h and the second in 33.06 kilometers per hour, totaling an average speed of 25.18 kilometers per hour Both have completed the 160 km in just 6 hours and 21 minutes.

Describe and express all the emotions of this last Saturday in Presidents Cup 2010 is difficult, but maybe say it was fantastic, is the closest to what you mean. It must see to believe and by luck and a lot of fighting, some Brazilians have been able to witness this spectacle.

Photos by Paula Nascimento here

Guatemala: First International Endurance Competition 2010

Guatemala Times
Tuesday, 16 February 2010 16:54 Barbara Schieber

The event was organized by HARAS El Pino Endurance Guatemala on February 13, 2010. One of the organizers of the event, Sandra de Gonzalez, explained that the first 2010 International Endurance competition was held in Tecpan, Finca Pasajinak in the department of Chimaltenango, Guatemala. The event started at 3 in the morning and ended 10:22 at night when the last riders of the 160 km category passed the finish line.

[More ...]

Qatar: Al Shaqab Endurance team race to victory

The Al Shaqab Endurance Team, member of Qatar Foundation, had an impressive showing at the HH The Heir Apparent Endurance Cup on Saturday in Mesaieed, Qatar. The team took the top six placings in the Junior race and five of the top six in the Senior race.
In the 100km Junior race, Al Shaqab team member Khalid Faleh Fadgoush alSubaey captured the win with a total time of 4:32:29 aboard In Situ.

Khalid Sanad Ali al- Nuaimi came in second, riding Lasan to a total time of 4:32:57. Clocking the exact same overall average speed for the race, Salmeen Sultan Ahmed al-Suaidi came in only three seconds behind his fellow team member to secure third place.

Racing hard to the finish, Saeed Nasser al-Qadhi, Abdulla Khalid Ali al-Khelaifi and Saad Senan Saad al-Kaabi finished fourth through sixth place respectively, separated by only three seconds in between each placing.

The 120km Senior race had Al Shaqab team members successfully take second through tenth place. Mohammed Tahous Saif al- Nuaimi rode Hidalgo as the first Al Shaqb team member to cross the finish line with a time of 4:58:50.
Aboard First Star, Mohammed Sanad al-Nuaimi completed the race in 5:16:42 in third place. Atta Mohammed Beer came from 10th place after the first stage to finish in fourth place on the horse Leonardo.

Fifth place was awarded to Nawab Ali who impressively led the first two stages. Al Shaqab team members Abdulrahman Saad A al-Sulaiteen, Abdulla Towaim Ali al-Marri, Abdulla Mohammed Abdulla al-Amri, Sajid Khan and Hanut Singh Pabu Singh all finished in sixth through tenth place respectively.

Finishing in the top 13, Omaier Saleh N R al-Naimi crossed the finish line for al-Shaqab.

Australia: 2010 Tom Quilty in Manilla, NSW

Manillatomquilty.org.au

The 2010 Tom Quilty will be held 24-27 June in Manilla, New South Wales. The ride base will be the Manilla Showground which is on the banks of the Namoi River, the venue of the NSW 2005 and 2008 State Championship Rides. It will be hosted by the Tamworth and District Endurance Club Inc, and supported by NSWERA and the NSW Department of Sport and Recreation.

The showground will provide camping for approximately 300 horses and crew which will be all very close to the administrative facilities being used including the vetting area and communal strapping area.

WHY MANILLA?

The Tamworth & District Endurance Endurance Club was formed in 1993 and has run 80km endurance rides at Bendemeer and Manilla since that time. In 2005 and 2008 the club hosted the 160km NSW State Championships in Manilla. With the course and organization being so highly praised by the riders, it seemed the only challenge for the club was to run The Quilty in 2009.

With the outbreak of Equine Influenza in late 2007, this was then deferred to June 2010.

For more information, see
Manillatomquilty.org.au

Bahrain: Arab riders for 100km event

Gulf-daily-news.com

Monday, February 15, 2010

A BRAND new four-wheel-drive vehicle will be awarded to the overall winner of Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Endurance Ride Championship on Saturday, Royal Endurance Team captain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa announced yesterday.

The decision is part of Shaikh Nasser's approach to add more competitiveness to the upcoming championship, which is one of the major events of endurance season.

The prestigious event, to be held at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir and sponsored by telecommunications company Batelco, will be over 100km and features four stages with top riders from Bahrain and the GCC taking part.

The first and second stages will each cover 30km, 24km for the third and 16 for the fourth and final stage. The veterinary examination is set for Friday between 3pm and 5.30pm.

Meanwhile, Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation's (Breef) president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa gave his directives to the organising committees' members to step up their preparations.

Shaikh Khalid, who was recently crowned winner of the King's Cup ride which headlined a glittering equestrian festival, said the event is featuring men's and women's rides.

"Endurance activities in Bahrain enjoys the whole hearted support of His Majesty King Hamad," said Shaikh Khalid.

The Breef's chef said by visiting the championships regularly and extending full support to the riders, His Majesty inspired them to achieve higher goals.

"Without the extensive support and encouragement of His Majesty, this sport in Bahrain would never have reached to this level of professionalism and worldwide recognition."

Shaikh Khalid added that the present weather conditions will assist the participants in completing their respective categories' races.

He said the championship will be organised at halfway stage of the season as riders and horses should be at peak form. Shaikh Khalid extended his appreciation to Batelco for supporting the season events and urged other companies follow suit through sponsoring the federation's activities.

"Endurance riding is rationally known to be the ultimate challenge in this sport-supreme test of horsemanship for the knowledgeable rider, to bring his horse through a hard day of riding over long distance and variable types of terrain," added Shaikh Khalid.

"Endurance riders not only test the stamina of the horse but also the skills of the rider and the support crew."

Shaikh Khalid highlighted the point that endurance riding is a test of discipline, stamina, fitness, strength and patience.

One of the fastest growing sport in the world is the endurance riding.

Bahrain saw the real birth of this sport in its soil on April 7, 2000.

Inspired by the success of the first international championship, the Kingdom began to organise various types of championships from October to May every year.

President's Cup: PRESIDENT'S CUP - USA, A SUCCESS ONCE MORE - Heather Reynolds

Reynolds Racing - Full Story

Well, the USA did another great trip to the President's Cup 160 km race. Sir Smith was the first overseas completion in a ride time of 8:50 (36 place! so fast here), and SA Belshazzar did great as well completing his first 160 km ride in a time of 9:16. It was a great performance from both horses!

The leaders set yet another world record. I do not know the exact time but it was something like 6:20!!!

At the start Ellen and Zar went ahead of Smitty and disappeared into the heavy fog. Smitty had a slow start to settle him into a calm mind set for the day. Jeremy had to actually run a bit on foot to accomplish this. During the first loop we were last for a long while and the police escort and the ambulance trailer were following us. It felt a bit like buzzards circling. The slow pace worked though. After the first loop the pair was moving well and kept it up nicely.

More...

UAE: Al Beloushi in scintillating win

Photo by ABDUL RAHMAN/Gulf News

Gulfnews.com

By M. Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
February 14, 2010

Beats Al Jahouri of Al Wathba in a nailbiting finish to lift the President's Cup



Abu Dhabi : Twenty-three-year-old Sultan Ahmad Al Beloushi of Al Reef Stables rode Charlandre El Sharif to a scintillating victory in the Dh1.5 million HH The President's Cup, the 13-year-old gelding breaking his own world record for a 160km ride by more than seven minutes.

Al Beloushi denied Al Wathba's Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri, on Kalifa, in a finish that would have done a 1,000-metre sprint proud as there was hardly anything to separate the two horses after 160km of battling at the Emirates International Endurance Village at Al Wathba desert area.

Al Beloushi and Charlandre El Sharif completed the ride in a record time of 6 hours, 21 minutes and 12 seconds, bettering the earlier best of 6:28.28 by the same horse under Omar Hussain Al Beloushi in January 2008 in the HH Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup at the Dubai International Endurance Village.

The Al Reef youngster, riding the horse trained by his elder brother Yousuf Ahmad Al Beloushi, was fourth going out into the final loop of 16km with less than a minute separating the top six riders.

However, Al Beloushi's horse, one of the most consistent performers, managed to get the better of 160km specialist Al Jahouri and shatter his ambition of winning his first President's Cup.

"This is without doubt the greatest win of my career. Charlandre El Sharif is a star and today he proved it," said Al Beloushi.

He, Al Jahouri and the third-placed Majid Salman Al Sabri received a car each for their efforts.

"My elder brother Yousuf just told me to pace my speed to under 25kmph for the first five stages (144km) and then go all out in the final loop, and I did just that," said Al Beloushi, whose average speed on the final 16km loop was 33.22kmph in comparison to his ride average speed of 25.18kmph.

Heart-break

For Al Jahouri, it was a heart-breaking experience as the President's Cup is the only silverware missing in the Al Wathba star's showcase.

"I think it just boils down to bad luck. I have won the National Day Cup thrice, the 160km HH Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup twice. But my best in this ride [before this race] was a third-place finish in 2007," said Al Jahouri.

Earlier, 106 riders started in the event, which was attended by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Shaikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance, and Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, among others.

RESULTS

Results of yesterday's 160km endurance ride:

1. Sultan Ahmad Al Beloushi (Charlandre El Sharif), 6:21.12

2. Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri (Kalifa) 6:21.13

3. Majid Salman Al Sabri (Armin's Zulu) 6:27.33.

Canada: Maura Leahy Named 2009 Equine Canada Volunteer of the Year

Horse-canada.com
February 11, 2010

Ottawa, ON - Equine Canada has named Maura Leahy of Dugald, Manitoba, as the 2009 Volunteer of the Year.

Leahy became involved in the sport of endurance in 1997 and rides at the local level. She organizes and manages two to three endurance rides per year in her home province of Manitoba. Leahy has been involved with the establishment of Endurance Canada since its inception, serving on the board, the Fundraising/Sponsorship Committee, the International Committee, and as the Chair of the Rules Committee. She has also represented Endurance Canada on the Equine Canada Sport Council Rules Committee.

At the international level, Leahy became involved in Federation Equestre International (FEI) in 1999 by volunteering at the Pan Am Championship Ride at Spruce Woods Park in Manitoba, and from there her involvement has progressed from a groom to member of an organizing committee and now to an FEI Steward/Judge (Level 2).

She has also attended the 2006 World Equestrian Games as team manager and groom, and served as chef d'equipe for Canada West at the 2005 CEIO 3* North American Championships and the 2009 Kentucky Cup, and was the Canadian Team chef d'equipe for the 2008 World Endurance Championship in Malaysia, where Canada finished in seventh place out of 21 starting teams. Her attendance at these events is often self-funded and on her own time for the love of the sport of endurance.

"I was so honored to be nominated for this award, everybody in our equestrian organization is a volunteer in one capacity or another, finding out that I was selected was both overwhelming and humbling," said Leahy.

The 'Volunteer of the Year' award, sponsored by BFL Canada, is presented every year to an exceptional volunteer who has contributed to equestrian sport and to Equine Canada. It is presented to someone who has dedicated himself or herself to Equine Canada and it's ideals, who have worked tirelessly for the improvement of the organization, and who has had a noticeable impact on the sport.

At the Equine Canada Annual Awards Gala on Saturday, February 6, in Montreal, QC, Leahy was presented with the 2009 Equine Canada Volunteer of the Year by Sara Runnalls of BFL Canada, and Terre O’Brennan of Endurance Canada.

Pamela Burton’s WEG Endurance Predictions

Discoverhorses.com - Full Article

The U.S. will feel the pressure to stand on the podium as endurance championships return to American soil. The U.S. won an individual gold medal at every World Endurance Championship (WEC) from 1986 until 1998--Cassandra Schuler (1986), Becky Hart (1988,1990,1992), Valarie Kanavy (1994 & 1998) and Danielle Kanavy (1996). But in recent years the team has bowed to competitors from France, Spain and the United Arab Emirates.

Selection of US Horse/Rider Combos for the 2010 WEG is a multi step qualification and selection process. Each country is allowed five horse/riders, four Team and one Individual. The horse/rider combination must meet FEI Qualification for the 2010 WEG, formerly called a Certificate of Capability (COC) . Riders who have applied for WEG and attended one of the June Regional Selection Trials will be able to attend the final Observation Trial in August where 12 horses/riders will be chosen. The 12 horse/riders will travel to the Lexington area and remain in training while the final determination of the Five member Squad and the traveling reserve is made.

The top contender for a gold medal at WEG will be Spain’s Maria Alvarez Ponton, the first rider to hold both world and European titles at the same time on her 13-year-old French-bred gelding Nobby.

More...

Abu Dhabi: Team event introduced in Dh1.5m President's Cup

Gulfnews.com
By M. Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
February 12, 2010

Twenty top riders from around the globe to take part in event



Abu Dhabi : Four cars and a prize fund of Dh1.5 million will be up for grabs in tomorrow's His Highness The President's Cup 160km endurance ride, which also sees the introduction of a team competition at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba.

Addressing a press conference here yesterday, Adnan Sultan Saif Al Nuaimi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club said, "We have invited riders to form teams of four members each and the riding time of the three top finishers in each team will count for the competition.

"Twenty riders, invited from the US, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Hungary, Slovakia, Belgium and Poland will be taking part in the event which will be run in six stages," Al Nuaimi said.

"The Al Wathba Stud Farm, the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, The Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage [ADACH], Bonyan International Investment Group LLC, Invest AD and Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition 2010 are supporting the event and we are thankful to them," he said.

Abdullah Al Qubaisi, Communications Director of ADACH, said, "Endurance riding is part of our heritage and culture and we are glad to be involved in this sport."

Lara Sawaya, Director of Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Global Flat Racing said, "The Al Wathba Stud Farm is supporting this event which is one of the biggest endurance rides in the world. The introduction of the team competition will make it more interesting and lay the emphasis on team work."

2010 WEG: WEG ticket sales grow as international interest increases

Kentucky.com - Full Article

Thursday, Feb. 11, 2010

By Linda B. Blackford - lblackford@herald-leader.com

After a slow start to ticket sales to the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, organizers say they're seeing an uptick, particularly from overseas.

"With the arrival of 2010, we are seeing a steady increase in sales each day as people around the world make their plans and purchase their tickets to the Games," said Jamie Link, CEO of the World Games Foundation, which is putting on the event at the Kentucky Horse Park from Sept. 25 to Oct. 10.

Ticket sales are at the 160,000 mark. That's still a long way from the available 600,000, but organizers say they believe tickets will continue to move as the event gets closer.

Currently, only competition tickets to the eight events are on sale. General admission tickets will go on sale in the spring. Despite the global recession, there is more interest from abroad, particularly Europe, where all previous World Equestrian Games have been held.

"We've really seen sales pick up from countries like Great Britain, France and Germany," said Terry Johnson, the vice-president of marketing. "We've also had a strong push from South Africa." There have also been ticket sales from Canada, Australia and Mexico, 50 countries in all.

Johnson said he wasn't sure exactly why South Africa was well-represented, except they will have athletes at the Games.

Interest in some events is intense. Games spokeswoman Amy Walker said two events — the final rounds of reining and dressage — are almost sold out. There are preliminary rounds for each event.

More...

Mongolia: Mongol Derby seeks jockeys

Eclipsemagazine.co.uk

11 February 2010

The Mongol Derby, the longest horse race in the world still has a few places left for its August 2010 race and is seeking jockeys or ex jockeys who might like to take part.

The Mongol Derby team have also just announced an innovative Veterinary Training Programme that aims to leave a lasting equine legacy in Mongolia.

More than 20 local vets will be trained to become part of the international team of equine experts that will ensure the welfare of the 1000 semi-wild horses taking part in the race across the Mongolian steppe.

Led by four star accredited FEI vet Jenny Weston, the specialist training will also leave a legacy that will benefit other events and races in a country renowned for its love of horses.

"The training will cover exercise physiology and the types of conditions that you see in horses involved in endurance riding and the long-distance horse racing that is a part of Mongolian culture," explains Jenny. "This will benefit not only the horses involved in the Mongol Derby but also the many thousands involved in the annual Nadaam festival."

The training is part of a comprehensive horse welfare program including pre-race training for the riders led by Maggie Pattinson, Chef d'Equipe of the British Home International Endurance Team.

The race format is based on Chinngis Khaan's legendary postal system which could relay messages thousands of miles in a matter of days. Horse stations manned by nomadic families are established at intervals of 40km or less along the course and riders change horses and undergo veterinary inspections at each one.

The Mongol Derby is a joint venture led by British company The Adventurists with Mongolia based Tengri Group and backed by the Mongolian government's Ministry of Agriculture who acclaim the Mongolian Derby as "having great potential to develop our country".

Dr. Orgil, Director of the Ministry of Agriculture's Veterinary Unit and the Chief Equine Vet in Mongolia said the 2009 Mongol Derby was a "huge success...a brand new sport tourism variety".

Applications are open now to adventurous riders from around the world. More information about the world's longest and toughest horse and how to apply can be found on the official website: http://www.mongolderby.com

Fast Facts about the Mongol Derby

* 25 riders started the 2009 race, 23 finished and they raised £71,000 for official charity Mercy Corps' projects in Mongolia
* Aged from 21 to 65, the 2009 riders came from 8 different countries including Argentina, Sweden and South Africa. 12 of the riders were female
* Less than 2% of the 700 horses that took part in 2009 required treatment which was all minor first aid
* The riders averaged 100 km per day at about 10 km/hr in 2009
* On cooler days some riders managed about 140 km in a day on the better days, at an average speed of 14 km/hr
* Horses outnumber the population of Mongolia by 7 to 1!
* Marco Polo wrote that in the 13th century 300,000 horses were posted at horse stations across the great Khaan's empire

The Netherlands: Van Wijk en Romer aan start in Abu Dhabi

Horses.nl

11/02/2010 09:23

Endurance amazones Jannet van Wijk met Zaira Star en Carmen Romer met Eddie trainen op dit moment in de woestijn in Abu Dhabi. Zaterdag 13 februari komen de amazones aan start bij de Presidentcup in de Verenigde Arabische Emiraten.

De 160 kilometer lange wedstrijd begint zaterdag om 6.00 uur lokale tijd (Nederlandse tijd 3.00 uur ’s nachts) bij het 'Emirates International Endurance Village' in Al Wathba. In de wedstrijd is Phase 4 het interessantst omdat de route over zandduinen gaat, het overige parcours gaat over vrij vlakke gedeelten in de woestijn.

Jannet van Wijk heeft de afgelopen maanden getraind op snelheid en haar doel is om deze wedstrijd met een goed gemiddelde te finishen. Het is voor Zaira Star pas haar tweede 160-km-wedstrijd, maar de merrie is in goede conditie. De paarden zijn ondergebracht in koele en luchtige stallen. Er starten slechts dertien ruiters van buiten het Midden-Oosten.


Jannet van Wijk riding Zaira Star, and Carmen Romer riding Eddie R, is currently training in the desert in Abu Dhabi. On Saturday, February 13, the ladies will participate in the Presidents Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

The 160 kilometer long race starts Saturday at 6:00 pm local time (3.00 hours Dutch time at night) at the "Emirates International Endurance Village" in Al Wathba. In Phase 4 the game is interesting because the route goes over sand dunes, the trail takes other relatively flat areas in the desert.

Jannet van Wijk has recently trained in speed and its purpose is to match this with a good average to finish. It was only Zaira Star's second 160-km-race, but the mare is in good condition. The horses were housed in cool and airy stables. It started only thirteen riders from outside the Middle East.

USA: Rapp and Reynolds to Ride for US at Abu Dhabi Al Wathba President’s Cup

USEF.org
Release: February 11 2010
Author: Joanie Morris

Lexington, KY – The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) will be represented by two endurance riders at the 2010 Abu Dhabi Al Wathba President’s Cup in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. This prestigious 160 km race is one of the premier events on the international endurance circuit and takes place on February 13, 2010. Riding for the US will be: Ellyn Rapp on Belshazzar and Jeremy Reynolds on Sir Smith.

Rapp was recently second in deluge conditions at the 2009 Kentucky Cup – which served as the test event for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games at the Kentucky Horse Park. She can expect totally different circumstances in Abu Dhabi where the forecast calls for temperatures in the 70s and dry conditions on race day.

Reynolds will ride Sir Smith, an experienced endurance veteran in the United Arab Emirates. Reynolds is also a farrier and is married to fellow endurance rider Heather Reynolds – who has also represented the United States in international competition. Sir Smith has two FEI wins on his record already and looks to add to this tally in Abu Dhabi.

Complete horse and rider information:

Rider/Age/Hometown/Horse/Age/Breed/Sex/Owner

Ellyn Rapp/27/Lamotte, IA/SA Belshazzar/13/Shagya-Arabian/G/Jeremy Olson
Jeremy Reynolds/30/Los Gatos, CA/Sir Smith/11/Arabian/G/Heather and Jeremy Reynolds

For complete information please visit: http://www.endurance.net/international/UAE/2010PresidentsCup/

To follow along with the adventure via the Reynolds’ blog, please visit: http://www.reynoldsracing.us/home.

55th Annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show Begins Today

www.Scottsdaleshow.com

The 55th Annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show begins today at Westworld, Scottsdale, Arizona.

Since 1955 the Annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show has set the pace in the Arabian horse world. The first show was held at the grounds of the Arizona Biltmore Hotel which was a beautiful setting for a horse show. The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show was a first class show from the very first day.

After the show's beginnings at the Arizona Biltmore, Ann McCormick bought 150 acres in Scottsdale and made it into the horse facility known as Paradise Park which served the needs of the show for many years.

Since then, the show has been held at Westworld in Scottsdale. It has grown from 50 horses to nearly 2000 horses bringing top owners, trainers and breeders from around the world competing for a chance at winning. A win at Scottsdale can mean big money in the breeding barns.

The sponsoring organization, the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona, was incorporated in 1955. There were about twelve members when it began and it has grown to over 450 members. As our association has grown so has our annual show. Even though our show is our focal point, our members are active in other ways, representing us on boards and committees at national levels. Many of our members have become judges and stewards and have encouraged our youth to become involved with the horse show as well as other activities. This competition permits them to win Educational Scholarships.

We are very proud of our members and their accomplishments. Through them, as well as other participants and sponsors, our show will continue to grow and offer enjoyment to visitors as well as our own Arizona residents.

The show will run from February 11-21, 2010.

For more information see www.Scottsdaleshow.com

New Zealand: Enduring passion

Stratfordpress.co.nz - Full Article

Leon Gray-Lockhart | 11th February 2010

IT takes a certain kind of horse to go the distance in an endurance ride - so too does it take a certain kind of rider.

So, it's just as well Stratford District has an endurance-riding hero in Toko's Amanda Walton who became North Island Champion last month.

On her grandfather Trevor's horse, Lotus Blue Moon, the 18-year-old undertook a 57km endurance circuit near Waiuku, south of Auckland on Saturday, January 2.

"We started at nine in the morning," says Amanda.

"Travelling through the heat at that time of day was pretty tough, but we managed to get back first."

The following day on her own horse, Sir Cae, Amanda undertook another gruelling 103km trail and came second – ending an extremely successful, but tiring two days of competition.

More...

Great Britain: New Appointment to the International Selection Panel

Endurancegb.co.uk

9th February 2010

The International Committee have appointed Mrs G Payton onto the Selection Panel. Gilly is a well known Endurance GB member who has many years of experience of riding, crewing, organinising and spectating - both at home and internationally.

She will have special responsibility for the Young Rider Squad and the British Endurance Development Squad.

Sue Broughton
Chair of IC

Great Britain: Endurance GB Launches Fundraising Initiatives for 2010 WEG

Endurancegb.co.uk

Endurance GB (EGB) has launched new fundraising initiatives to support the British Team at this yea's World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, USA.

The Kentucky Sponsorship Form

As many of you realise we are looking at methods of raising money to help the costs of our team at the world championships in Kentucky in 2010. If we are sending a team, plus one or two individuals then it is imperative that we send the best team and also the best prepared team as possible.

These members are representing Endurance in Great Britain and we feel it is important that we support them in every way we can, especially with the costs of transport. A figure of GBP20.000 is the calculation to send each member there, so we need to be raising about GBP120,000. Even more important is the exposure that Endurance will get at home if we can achieve this, leading in the future to a greater membership and further sponsorship.

In order to raise funds all E.G.B. members are asked to get themselves sponsored for every kilometre they ride at NCR.s, CR.s, or ER.s during the months of February, March and April.

The form is self explanatory. On the front of the card write down your own details, and then the name, address and telephone number of your sponsors and include how much per km they are sponsoring you for. (either 1p per km, 5p per km or 10p per km). On the back of the card write down the date, venue and distance for each ride you have competed at and get it signed by the ride secretary on completion of the ride.

I feel in these three months the average member will be riding approximately between 100 and 200 kilometers, some maybe a little less and some many more. Aim to get at least 20 sponsors onto your cards and hopefully each member could make between GBP200 and GBP400. Having collected your sponsorship money then send your completed cards back to the EGB Office (address below) with the appropriate money by the end of April. If you complete your card early then extra cards are available from headquarters, or from Robert Blane (01845 526185)

There will be a special prize for the individual who raises the most money and also for the group who does likewise.

Good luck. Keep smiling. And here’s to winning the world championships.


Kentucky Rides For Fun

Endurance GB (EGB) has launched new fundraising initiatives to support the British Team at this year’s World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, USA. The Kentucky Rides Series will provide an opportunity to encourage new members while also raising funds to Well over [number] Kentucky Rides are expected to take place at venues throughout the country between now and August 2010.

Kentucky Rides are a series of Non-Competitive rides organised by regional EGB groups, covering a range of distances to suit all levels of experience from 10 miles to longer rides of 25 miles. The rides are open to non members and offer a fabulous opportunity to ride over beautiful countryside, often over private land not normally open to the public. Riders will take part either for pleasure or as preparation for the competition season ahead.

"We have a really talented pool of riders and hope to be sending a strong team to the WEG in Kentucky. These rides are an excellent way for those interested in endurance riding to get a taste of what is involved, or just enjoy the beautiful countryside while raising valuable funds to support our international squad", says Jo Claridge, EGB Chairman.

Britain has been committed to fielding an international endurance team since the first FEI event in 1984 and British teams have an excellent track record in World and European championships, at one time holding more team and individual medals than all other countries except the USA and France. International teams are largely self funding and rely on fundraising to support their endeavours.


Kentucky - Three Peaks Challenge

A team of your Championship squad members and supporters are coming together to take on the three highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales all in 24 hours.

This gruelling, true endurance challenge will be attempted by riders Rachel Atkinson, Beccy Broughton, Rachel Claridge, Annie Joppe, Sarah Rogerson, Nicky Sherry and crew member Steve Masterson with well known photographer and already once successful 3 Peaks challenger David Saunders. A team of supporters will also be backing up the challengers throughout.

We will begin in Scotland with the ascent and descent of Ben Nevis, drive 7 hours to our next climb, Scafell Pike and then onto Wales with the ascent and descent of Snowdonia all within 24 hours.

Continual updates of the teams plans will be posted on the EGB website and our Team GBR Endurance 3 Peaks facebook page but for the time being please support us and donate here or if anyone can support us in the form of sponsorship to cover the various parts of the challenge or would like to be part of our team please contact us.



Kentucky - Tricia Hirst – Comrades Marathon

Having done the London Marathon and the New York Marathon last year, my entry has been accepted for my next challenge - The Comrades Marathon which is actually an Ultra marathon 56 miles in under 12 hours. This takes place in South Africa every year and you can read all about it at www.comrades.com Runners come from all over the world and out of the 20,000 runners they only accept 5,000 first time novice runners each year. These places were taken up within 27hrs of the opening date.
I have always strongly believed that money should not stop anyone putting their name forward to compete on a British team. So any money you can spare would go towards the team effort to enable anyone who is selected to have the opportunity to go and fly the flag for us. If you would like to help in this way please sponsor me on my endurance challenge. We would be very grateful no matter how little you can afford. Please make your donation here


Kentucky - Chris Yeoman - Bath Half Marathon

Faising Funds for the EGB WEF funda and also to raise money for MS - "as you will all know I have had this now for a lot of years and have had a lot of help from various sources I now feel the need to give something back and to help others with MS achieve their goals in life whatever they may be". To donate to this charity please see my just giving page: http://www.justgiving.com/CHRISTINE-YEOMAN or make your donation to EGB
PLEASE HELP ME KEEP MOTIVATED IN THIS FREEZING WEATHER AND KEEP TRAINING!

For more information, forms, donations, and list of rides, see http://www.endurancegb.co.uk/html/fundraising.html.

Canada: Alberta - Endurance Riding Celebrate 30 Years

Horsesall.com

Endurance riding has come a long way during its 30 year history in Alberta - from a handful of riders located in western Alberta to more than 100 riders province wide today. Among the internationally recognized disciplines governed by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) - endurance, jumping, dressage, driving, vaulting and reining - endurance stands out as one of the fastest growing disciplines.

The first world endurance competition took place in Virginia in 1988, with one member from Alberta, Joan Harris, nominated to enter. Without any support, she helped bring home a team silver medal. Now, for every rider heading to international events there is a support team of no less than three people per rider. Grooms, crews, coaches, team vets and chef d’equipes give their time and money to help our dedicated riders succeed.

And as interest in endurance riding grows, the qualifying process becomes more refined. In 1988 riders were chosen based on the number of rides they did locally. Having completed at least one, 100-mile event assured you of a placing. Now, there is a qualifying process in place. To be considered as a competitor, riders and horses must have competed in a number of FEI-sanctioned rides at a certain speed and in a certain length of time. The youth are also being included now with championship events being held for them.

All international competitions, whether championships or qualifiers are governed by the FEI with its head office in Lausanne, Switzerland. This assures riders that everyone competes on a level playing field.

In the past, FEI qualifying endurance rides in Canada were few and far between. Now, Alberta has a venue for a competition of this calibre, at Horseshoe Lake north of Edmonton and hosted on the Long Island Light Horse Associat ion’s grounds. The first FEI qualifer was held here last May. The event was such a success that many western Canadians have inquired if there will be another. There is a need, not only for riders but for people wishing to become FEI officials, to have a dedicated venue in the province where they can train and learn.

To become an official, one must go through qualifying stages, much like riders. Up until recently, Keith Thorne was the only official in Alberta. Now we have three more in training— Dr. Roxy Bell, Dr. Deanna Spiker and Joan Harris, along with others from the west. Having a regular FEI ride with the necessary courses taught here will put Alberta on the endurance map.

Last year, five riders trained and qualified in Alberta for a place on the Canada Endurance Team. They are chosen on a point-for-miles-completed basis. Tara MacLeod and her daughter, Ariel, were on the Canada West team that attended the pre-world competition in Kentucky last October. Kathy Irvine came in second overall on a grueling five-day, 250-mile ride in Idaho last September and Caroline Williams and Leanne Marchant travelled to eastern Canada to compete.

The date for the next FEI ride is May 22 and 23, 2010. It will be a two-day ride with open and FEI divisions. Visit our website at www.enduranceridersofalberta.com for more information.

President's Cup: Entries

The following foreign riders have been invited to participate in the CEI *** 160 km Presidents Cup, to be held on February 14 2010 in Abu Dhabi:

Pietro Di Geronimo - Belgium

Andre Vidiz - Brazil
Rafael Salvador - Brazil

Caroline Denayer Gad - France
Santisteva Benedicte - France

Belinda Hitzker - Germany
Sabrina Arnold - Germany

Valentin Kun - Hungary
Eniko Odor - Hungary

Jannet Van Wijk - Netherlands
Carmen Roemer - Netherlands

Beata Dzikowska - Poland
Ola Ciesielska - Poland

Boulbol Feras - Slovakia
Silvia Potocna - Slovakia

Ellen Rapp - USA
Jeremy Reynolds - USA

Bahrain: Princess Lalla Amina participates in King Hamad's Horse Racing Cup

Magreb Daily

Manama - Princess Lalla Amina, President of the Moroccan Federation of equestrian sports and of Special Olympics Morocco, participated in king Hamad's Horce Racing Cup, which took place on Saturday.

Princess Lalla Amina completed the 20-km distance in two hours.

The Princess was greeted at the end of the competition by King of Bahrain, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

President of the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (BREEF), Sheikh Khalid Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, handed over a special prize of the Federation to Lalla Amina, in recognition of her remarkable participation in this competition.

Bahrain: Shaikh Khalid races to victory

Gulf-daily-news.com

February 07, 2010

THE Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa yesterday won His Majesty the King's Endurance Ride Championship, which headlined a glittering equestrian festival at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

His Majesty King Hamad attended the event, alongside National Guard commander Major General Shaikh Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa.

Shaikh Mohammed later awarded the winners their prizes on behalf of His Majesty the King, in the presence of Royal Endurance Team captain and Bahrain Olympic Committee president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and Shaikh Khalid.

Also present were Jordanian Equestrian Federation president Princess Alia bint Al Hussain and chairwoman of both the Royal Moroccan Equestrian Federation and Special Olympics Morocco Princess Lella Amina, who were in Bahrain especially for the event, which was organised by Breef and sponsored by Marsa Al Seef.

Riding Liqourice, Shaikh Khalid took first place after completing the five-stage, 120-kilometre ride in a total time of five hours, 43 minutes and 50 seconds. He registered an average speed of 20.94kph.

Shaikh Khalid ended the 30-km first stage in fourth place, but then fell to fifth after the 29-km second leg.

Powered

The Breef chief and Royal Endurance Team member returned to fourth after the 25-km third stage, but then powered to the lead after the 20-km fourth stage by when a majority of the participants were already out of the ride. One of them was Shaikh Nasser, who unfortunately had to retire due to health concerns for his horse Fabio.

Shaikh Khalid then capped his impressive performance by storming to victory in the 16-km final stage, earning him the right to lift His Majesty the King's Cup.

Fellow-Royal Endurance Team members Bagat Singh and Abdulhak Kaddouri claimed second and third places, respectively.

Singh, riding Jhelam, finished the ride in 5:44:02, while having an average speed of 20.03kph. Kaddouri completed the distance in 5:47:41, with an average speed of 20.71kph.

The juniors endurance ride, which was also held over 120 kms, was won by Mohammed Hilal Al Khatri of Al Asayel Stable, riding his horse Dixie Love.

In second place was Royal Endurance Team member Ahmed Adel Al Gaoud on Moondara Merlin, while Nasser Awad Ahmed of Al Muhqeerat Stable riding Al Fahd was third.

Meanwhile, other competitions were held yesterday as part of the equestrian festival. A showjumping event for Grand Prix-level riders took place and it saw the participation of a large number of Bahrain national showjumping team members.

Shaikh Hassan bin Rashid Al Khalifa won first place while Sami Ghazwan came second. Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa was third.

In the Arabian horse beauty contest, Ghazal Gulf owned by Sami Hassan Abdulla Abdulaziz took first place, while the Cowboy competition was won by Yahya Ahmed Jawad.

Photo Gallery by Osama Mohammed

Bahrain: Jordanian horse riders take part in Bahraini King Endurance Cup

Petra.gov.jo

Manama, Feb.6, 2010

Jordanian equestrians take part in King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa Endurance Cup which kicked off Saturday in presence of HRH Highness Princess Alia bent Al Hussein, President of Jordan's Royal Equestrian Federation.

Taking part in the 120-km horse riding competition, organized at Bahrain International Endurance Village, are horse riders from Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Ajman.

The championship includes competitions in hurdle jumping, a beauty competition for the purebred Arabian horses and cowboy performances.

Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation and other Bahraini officials welcomed Princess Alia and commended Jordan's participation in the Championship.

Mongolia: Specialist endurance training for Mongolian vets announced

Theadventurists.com

27th Jan 2010

An innovative veterinary training programme has been launched by the organisers of the Mongol Derby. More than 20 local vets will be trained to become part of the international team of equine experts that will ensure the welfare of the 1000 semi-wild horses taking part in the race across the Mongolian steppe in August.

vetinspectionmongolderby1Led by four star accredited FEI vet Jenny Weston, the specialist training will also leave a legacy that will benefit other events and races in a country renowned for its love of horses.

"The training will cover exercise physiology and the types of conditions that you see in horses involved in endurance riding and the long-distance horse racing that is a part of Mongolian culture," explained Jenny. "This will benefit not only the horses involved in the Mongol Derby but also the many thousands involved in the annual Nadaam festival.

"There were very few veterinary issues with the horses involved in the Mongol Derby in 2009 and I am confident that will also be the case in 2010 but it is important to be prepared when you are working with a combination of semi-wild horses, remote and difficult terrrain, and warm summer weather."

The training is part of a comprehensive horse welfare program including pre-race training for the riders led by Maggie Pattinson, Chef d'Equipe of the British Home International Endurance Team since 2007.

"Taking my passion for fitness to a ride in Mongolia is beyond the imagination," said Maggie. "I can't wait to get my hands on the successful applicants. I want their enthuasiasm for adventure and winning matched only with their knowledge of what it takes to keep their Mongolian Mounts fresh and happy."

The race format is based on Chinngis Khaan's legendary postal system which could relay messages thousands of miles in a matter of days. Horse stations (Morin Urtuu in Mongolian) manned by nomadic families will be established at intervals of 40km or less along the course and riders will change horses and undergo veterinary inspections at each one.

The Mongol Derby is a joint venture led by British company The Adventurists with Mongolia based Tengri Group and backed by the Mongolian government's Ministry of Agriculture.

Applications are open now to adventurous riders from around the world. More information about the world's longest and toughest horse and how to apply can be found on the official website: http://www.mongolderby.com

Fast Facts about the Mongol Derby

25 riders started the 2009 race, 23 finished and they raised GBP 71,000 for official charity Mercy Corps' projects in Mongolia.
Aged from 19 to 50, the 2009 riders came from 8 different countries including Argentina, Sweden and South Africa. 12 of the riders were female.
Two riders had to withdraw on the second day after serious falls with concussion and back injuries.
Less than 2% of the 700 horses that took part in 2009 required treatment which was all minor first aid.
The riders averaged 100 km per day at about 10 km/hr in 2009.
On cooler days last year some riders managed about 140 km in a day on the better days, at an average speed of 14 km/hr
Horses outnumber the population of Mongolia by 7 to 1!
Marco Polo wrote that in the 13th century 300,000 horses were posted at horse stations across the Great Khaan's empire

New Zealand: Perfect conditions for southern endurance ride

Horsetalk.co.nz - Full Article

February 5, 2010

An early drizzle cleared to make way for a sunny day with perfect riding conditions for endurance riders at the latest Mount Linton ride in Southland.

The well-marked track set out from the equestrian centre at Sandy Point last Saturday and took riders through varied territory including a 10km scenic stretch along the beach, to tree-lined forest tracks, and long, grassy gallop areas.

The 80km Open ride was won by Gore's Angela Head, riding CD Fred. In second place was Trevor Copland on Dell Dancer...

More...

Bahrain: Top riders set for endurance race

Gulf Daily News
Friday, February 05, 2010

PROMINENT riders from the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Jordan have confirmed their participation in the seniors race of His Majesty the King's Endurance Ride Championships tomorrow at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

Spearheading the UAE for tomorrow's prestigious event, to be sponsored by Marsa Al Seef, are Shaikh Ahmed bin Humaid Al Nuaimi and Masaud Al Marzooqi.

From Saudi Arabia, Mohammed Al Malhasi will take part on his horse Al Yarmook, while Hussain Abul Shabab and Waleed Muhareb are set to represent Jordan.

Also in the fray are a group of Bahrain's top riders, led by captain of the Royal Endurance Team Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and president of the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

Six other riders will be representing the Royal Endurance Team and they are Ahmed Abdulla, Abdulrahman Al Saad, Abdulrahman Al Zayed, Mohammed Al Thawadi, Yousef Taher and Abdulhaq Qadoori.

Other Bahraini participants will represent different stables from across the kingdom, including Al Taliya, Al Muntaser, Awal, Hawar and Jaffer Al Alawi Stable.

A junior ride is also set to take place tomorrow with more than 30 riders in the fray, including three entries from Qatar - Khalid Al Kuwari, Abdulla Al Mannai and Fahad Abdulsalam from Al Shamal Stable.

From Bahrain, Ahmed Al Qaud, Abdulrahman Al Zayed and girl rider Shereen Fayez will spearhead favourites the Royal Endurance Team.

Other participants will represent Al Wadi, Al Mughairat, Al Ruwaie, Al Shuwamekh, Al Asayel, Al Ajyal and Abdulaziz Taher stables

A qualifying ride, which is open to new riders, will also take place with 10 riders in the fray.

The event will be part of a one-day Equestrian Festival under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad.

Meanwhile, Shaikh Khalid yesterday received Jordanian Equestrian Federation's president Princess Alia bint Al Hussain who arrived in Bahrain to attend tomorrow's championships.

The Breef's chief also welcomed the President of the Moroccan Royal Equestrian and Endurance University and the Moroccan Olympic Committee for the Disabled Princess Lala Amina who will also witness the event.

New Zealand: 2010 Endurance National Championships

Hosted by The Canterbury Endurance and Trail Riding Club in conjunction with Endurance NZ, the 2010 NZ National Endurance Championship & Trail Riding Championship Event will be held 1st - 4th April, 2010 at Culverden. Base camp will be at the Culverden Rugby Grounds.

The following rides will take place:

CEI*** 160 km; CEIJY** 120 km; CEI* 100 km & CEIJY* 100 km; CEN 80 $ 40 km Open, Novice & Junior; CTR Open 60 km, Intermediate 30 km, Junior 30 km.

Entries close 28th February.

For more information and entry forms, see www.nzequestrian.org.nz

New Zealand: 2010 Kelt Capital Horse of the Year Endurance

HOY.co.nz

HOY Endurance 2010

19th - 21stMarch

This year sees a change in the rides being held. A shorter distance and Novice classes
have been introduced at HOY to cater for all levels of horse and rider.

Based at the Equestrian Centre, the track will once again be a relatively flat track
through some of Hawke's Bay's scenic farmland and vineyards finishing at the
Equestrian Centre where the 3 Day Event will also be taking place.

There will be a 90 km CEN Open and Novice and Teams Events, and a 40 km CEN Open and Novice.

Vetting in will begin on Friday March 19th; the rides will be held on Saturday March 20th; Best Condition Judging and Presentation of Awards will take place on Sunday March 21st.

Entries close on February 12th.

For entry forms go to the ESNZ website: www.nzequestrian.org.nz
or contact
Beth Guest - guest.ron.beth@xtra.co.nz
Jo Lanko - m.lankow@extra.co.nz

More information on Kelt Capital Horse of the Year 2010 at www.hoy.co.nz/Endurance_126.aspx

The Kelt Capital Horse of the Year Show continues to grow in prestige and stature not only within New Zealand, where it is now recognised as one of the main annual sporting events, but also on the World Equestrian Stage where it has now become one of the premier events. Although dominated by Showjumping and Dressage, the Show is now home to 17 different Equestrian Disciplines all competing on the beautiful 100 acres of the Hawke’s Bay Showgrounds. The Showgrounds are on the outskirts of Hastings City, situated on the Eastern Coast of the North Island of New Zealand.

Spain: Salvador Garrido Ganador del II Trofeo Iberico

El Raid Blog

31 January 2010

by Gabriel Gamiz Gomez

Spanish Jinete Salvador Garrido Cabral ha sido el ganador del II trofeo Iberico y del CEI una estrella con la yegua "Shakyra" de la ganaderia "Andalusi" en un tiempo de 3 h, 25' 30'' a una media de 23'358 Km por hora. En la ciudad portuguesa de Elvas.
Nuevo triunfo de un jinete andaluz fuera de nuestras fronteras.
Enhorabuena a Salvador y a la ganaderia Andalusi por el triunfo conseguido.
Saludos de Gabriel.


Spanish Rider Salvador Garrido Campbell was the winner of the II Iberian and the CIS trophy 1* with the mare "Shakyra" of livestock "Andalusi" in a time of 3 h, 25 '30''to an average of 23'358 km per hour. In the Portuguese town of Elvas, it was a new triumph of an Andalusian rider outside our borders.
Congratulations to Salvador and livestock Andalusi for the victory achieved.