Hamdan Mousa wins President's Cup for Junior and Young Riders

Al Hammadi and Nadja Lotoise on the trail. photo by Steph Teeter, www.endurance.net

Press Release, UAE Equestrian Federation, February 10
Hamdan Mousa Mohammad Al Hammadi won the His Highness The President of the United Arab Emirates Cup for Junior and Young Riders at the Boud Theib Endurance Village in Al Khatem on Saturday, February 9, 2008.

He was riding 11-year-old grey mare Nadja Lotoise, owned by UAE Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to clinch the coveted ride and finished the distance in four hours, 48 minutes and 15 seconds.

The ride which was sponsored by Hydra Properties was flagged off in the early morning at 6.30 am with 44 riders. The 120-km FEI.CEIJY three-star was run in five phases of 30 km, 30km, 24 km, 20 km and 16 km respectively.

Second place went to Rashed Ajmad Al Bloushi from Al Reef Stables. He was riding nine-year-old chestnut gelding Waterlea Tuppence. Khalifa Ganem Al Merri clinched the third place riding 15-year-old grey gelding Little Joe Fox owned by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

"I am very happy to win this prize as this is my first ever win and I have been taking part in competitions for over seven years now. Finally to win in the President's Cup is a great victory and I am very happy," Al Hammadi told the gathered media after his stupendous victory.

Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, CEO of Hydra Properties Dr Sulaiman Al Fahim, Emirates Heritage Club's Mohammad Saif Al Neyadi and Tasweeq Managing Director Lara Sawaya were present during the prize distribution ceremony.

The 160-km The President's Cup will be held on Saturday February 16, 2008, at the Emirates International endurance Village, Al Wathba.

Photos and coverage on Endurance.Net

Al Hammadi on Nadja Lotoise and Al Baloushi on Waterlea Tuppence in a close finish. photo by Steph Teeter, www.endurance.net

Bahrain: Shaikh Nasser champion - Feb 10 2008

Gulf-daily-news.com - Full story

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Endurance.Net Coverage

Photo by Osama

ROYAL Team captain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa was crowned winner of the 160km race in the Endurance Horseride Championship yesterday.

The Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Endurance Horseride Championship, which was held at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir, comprised two races - 160km and 100km - besides two qualifying races for new riders over 85km and 65km.

The 160km race, which was a qualifier for the World Cup in Malaysia next year, was dominated by Royal Team riders as Shaikh Nasser steered Raushkan to a first-place finish in seven hours, 48 minutes and seven seconds.

Behind him was runner-up Ahmed Abdulla in 7:48:10 while Ghazi Al Dossary took the third place, completing the race with a total ride time of 7:48:33.

In the 100km race, Tawfeeq Al Ghattan of Hawar Stables clinched the trophy in four hours, 49 minutes and 56 seconds.

Al Ghattan was followed by Abdulla Al Dossary of Al Asayel Stables in 4:55:54 and head of Al Fateh Stable rider Shaikh Saqer bin Khalid Al Khalifa finished third in 5:00:02.

Meanwhile, His Majesty King Hamad attended part of the championship and was welcomed on arrival by Shaikh Nasser and representatives of the championship sponsors, Durrat Al Bahrain, as well as Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation officials.

Shaikh Nasser presented a briefing to His Majesty on the championship races and their stages.

His Majesty congratulated the winners in each race and wished the others success in future competitions.

His Majesty also lauded the efforts of the federation officials in organising the competition and Durrat Al Bahrain for their sponsorship.

The event was also attended by Durrat Al Bahrain chairman Abdulhakim Al Khayyat and General Organisation for Youth and Sports president Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa who presented trophies to the winners.

Results:

160km: 1 Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalif (Raushkan, 7:48:07); 2 Ahmed Abdulla (Barakah Bar, 7:48:10); 3 Ghazi Al Dossary (Maxico, 7:48:33); 4 Yusuf Tajer (Paula, 7:48:51); 5 Raed Mahmood (Willo Bint Khyberie, 7:48:55); 6 Sh. Daij Al Khalifa (Endrea 765, 7:48:58); 7 Mohmmed Abdulaziz (Hanneliza Baron, 7:51:16); 8 Shaik Khalid Al Khalifa (M K Whiskey, 7:51:49).

100km: 1 Tawfeeq Al Ghattan (Aqaba St Nicholas, 4:49:56); 2 Abdulla Al Dossary (Hard, 4:55:54); 3 Shaikh Saqer bin Khalid Al Khalifa (Prince Charming, 5:00:02); 4 Isa Al Ghattam (Silver, 5:19:00); 5 Muthlaq Al Muhannan (Dirham El Oumzil, 5:31:03); 6 Mohammed Ismail (Reemir, 5:51:58; 7 aqcoob Yousif (Mehboob Taj, 7:38:26; 8 Andrew Scoop (Muniki, 7:52:05); 9 Laura Lewi (Bahrain, 7:52:13).

Abu Dhabi: Sidebottom finishes on top in Ladies' Challenge - Feb 9 2008

Gulfnews.com - Full story

By M. Satya Narayan, Staff Reporter

Abu Dhabi: Sue Sidebottom of Great Britain staved off a stiff challenge in the final loop of 16km to win the second round of the Shaikh Khalifa Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Challenge 100-km ride for Lady Riders sponsored by Sorouh and held at the Al Asayel Endurance Village in Sweihan on Friday.

Sue, who is a key member of the Dubai Equestrian Club's endurance organising committee, notched up her first ever win on Fenwick Cadenza and the pair, who finished 5th in the First Round, are now in contention for the overall championship award.

Sue led in all the loops but in the final loop she was challenged by First Round winner Afra Khalifa Al Suwaidi, fellow Briton Kayleigh Smith and Aliya Ali Mohammad Yousuf Al Marzouqi.

But Sue held on to win the ride with Reem Shaban on Rivendell Sharman finishing just ten seconds behind her and Smith third, a further 29 seconds adrift.

"I'm over the moon. This is my first ever win and I am delighted," said Sue after receiving her trophy and Dh30,000 cash prize for her winning effort.

"On the final loop, I was almost passed by two riders, but Fenwick Cadenza came up with that extra effort," said Sue.

Afra, who won the opening round, also becomes a leading contender with her fourth-place finish yesterday along with Smith, who has a 4th and 3rd place finishes in the two rounds.

Shaikha Hissa Bint Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan on Sabee also did extremely well to finish sixth while another Al Asayel rider, Shamsah Awad Al Otaiba finished 5th while her horse Yaraandoo Jakara Silver was adjudged the 'Best Conditioned Horse.'

Shaikh Mohammad Bin Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Shaikha Fatma Bint Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Shaikh Khalifa Bin Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan along with Tasweeq managing director Lara Sawaya and Sorouh's Azadi gave away the trophies.

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Bahrain: Endurance race stages approved - Feb 8 2008

Gulf-daily-news.com - Full article

STAGES have been announced for the Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Endurance Horseride Championship scheduled for tomorrow.

The event gets underway at 6am at the Bahrain International Endurance Village premises in Sakhir. It consists of four races, including 160km and 100km for seniors besides two qualifying race over 85km and 65km.

The 160-km race consists of six stages, including 30 km for the first three stages, 25 km for the fourth and fifth while 20km is set for the six and last stage.

Four stages were approved for the 100-km race which featured 30km for the first two stages, 25km for the third and 15km for the fourth.

In the qualifying races, which will be organised for new riders and horses, the 85-km event will be split into three stage, including 30km each for the first two stages and 25km for the third.

The 60-km race will be divided into two identical stages of 30km each.

The veterinary examination is set for today at the race venue to be attended by Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation president and event patron Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

Meanwhile, the organising committee announced members of its working committees for the championship.

The judging committee is headed by Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation general secretary Ghalib Al Alawi and includes Breef second vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Haider Al Zo'bi, Abdulsamad Al Busta, Haider Rafii and Ali Ghuloom. The official steward is Sondra Babo of India who will be assisted by Mohammed Dadulla, Mahmoosd Abdulsaheb and Fahad Al Rumaihi.

Dr Mohammed Al Hammad of Sauid Arabia will head the veterinary committee which consists of members from India, France, Bahrain and the Dominican.

India: Britain wins gold and silver in endurance first for India - Feb 6 2008

Image by Caroline Moorey

Horseandhound.co.uk - Full story

Sophie Montagne, H&H endurance editor

A British endurance team took gold in Rajasthan's inaugural 50km International Invitational Endurance Championship on 28 January, the first of its kind in India.

Britain's Lesley-Ann Parker took individual gold and Fiona Griffiths silver, with Caroline Moorey and Bryony Dickins making up the rest of the team that fought off competition from France, Sri Lanka and India.

Lesley-Ann and Fiona led from the start...

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Salem Rashed and Fakhar show fine form

Gulf News - full article
Photo - Gulf News: Salem Rashed Bin Ghadayer (No 55) and Abdulla Thani Bin Huzaim rejoice during the presentation ceremony at Dubai Endurance Village.
By M. Satya Narayan, Staff Reporter
Published: February 03, 2008, 00:45

Abu Dhabi: Salem Rashed Bin Ghadayer on Dell Hama came up with a stirring final loop to win the Dubai World Challenge 120-km endurance ride at the Dubai International Endurance City in Seih Assalam.

In another ride held at Boudtheib Endurance Village, Fakhar Ahmad on Altimo scored his and Al Asayel Stables' first ever win in a 120-km open ride while winning the Warsan Endurance Challenge.

However, it was Salem Rashed's performance in Dubai which caught the eye as the gutsy rider who suffers from partial blindness started in fifth place on the final loop of 12kms.

Hassan Bin Ali on Stoney Brook Scarab, who led from the second stage onwards, was first out on the final loop with Abdullah Thani Bin Huzaim, Jaume Punti Dachs and Yousuf Abdullah Hammadi ahead of Salem Rashed.

But Salem Rashed, over nine minutes off the leader, urged Dell Hama and the 12-year-old gelding obliged with a speed of 26.37km/h on the final 12-km loop to finish first.

Al Reef Stables Mohammad Jasem Rahimi finished second, but his horse Kentish PK Touchwood was found lame at the vet check leaving Abdullah Thani Bin Huzaim on Spendacrest Kamouflage to take the second spot.

Salem Rashed, who is one of the most popular riders in the UAE, said it was Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, who asked him to ride the winner while Shaikh Hamdan rode Matta Mia Larry which was retired after the third stage.

"This is Shaikh Hamdan's horse and he asked me to ride it," said Salem Rashid.

UAE: Rashid shines

Kaleej Times Online - full article
By Hisham Al Gizouli
3 February 2008

DUBAI - Salem Rashid bin Ghadayer stayed on course to claim the Dubai World Challenge FEI CEI 120km endurance race for Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum here at the Seih Assalam Endurance City yesterday.

Abdullah Thani bin Huzaim was five seconds behind in second place and Mohammed Hilal Salem in third as Dhahi Abdullah Khamis followed in fourth position. Ghadayer finished strongly after completing the first 30km loop in ninth. And dropped to 10th in the next 30 kilometres before he moved to finish eighth by the end of loop three, then fourth by the end of loop four and headed the field on the last 20km loop of the day.

"The field is closely grouped and looks like a wide open race at this stage. For me, it’s a great achievement which I present to Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum," the winner said later.

In the meantime, 89 riders lined up for the prestigious trophy led by Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, astride his 11-year-old Arabian gelding.
Abdullah Thani bin Huzaim led briefly in the early stages before Hassan bin Ali put himself into contention and advanced to lead by the end of the second loop. By the end of loop three, Yousif Abdullah Al Hamadi moved to second and put much pressure on the early leader. But, the experienced rider maintained his first position through loop four and looked like a winner with 17km to go. At that point, Huzaim gave his horse a reminder and settled on the heels of the leaders with only five seconds separating between the first and third. "I think my horse did good work and has been always trotting keenly thanks to the hard work by the trainer and connections," Huzaim added.

Dubai World Challenge CEI*** 120km

photo: Dell Hama at Best Condition Judging



Rashed accepting award from Dubai World and Dubai Equestrian Club



Salem Rashed bin Ghadeyer rode Dell Hama to a spectacular 1st place finish at the 2008 Dubai World Challenge. The pair left the final vet gate well behind the leaders and overtook them in the home stretch for a winning time of 4:55:54.

The Dubai World Challenge was held at the Dubai International Endurance City and organized by Dubai Equestrian Club. Sponsored by Dubai World, first prize was a Nissan Patrol car, and total prize money for the ride was AED550,000.

Top 5 Finishers:
Salem Rashed bin Ghadayer - UAE - Dell Hama : 4:55:54
Abdullah Thani bin Huzain - UAE - Spendacrest Kamaflouge: 4:59:01
Mohd Hilal salim Obaid Al Balarti - UAE - Miro Stilz: 5:02:09
Dhahi Abdulah Khamis Al Dhahi - UAE - Dunwinger Maakhal: 5:04:47
Jaume Punti Dachs - ESP - Antares Sauveterre: 5:06:48


For photo galleries and results at Endurance.Net

For Dubai International Endurance City and official results

UAE: Strong field all set for battle in Dubai World ride - Feb 2 2008

Gulfnews.com - Full story

Staff Report
Published: February 02, 2008, 01:39

Dubai: Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council and Shaikh Mayed Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum are likely to be part of a strong line-up for Saturday's Dubai World Challenge FEI CEI*** 120 km endurance ride to be held at Dubai International Endurance City (DIEC).

A total of 89 riders had their horses cleared at yesterday's pre-ride veterinary check for the Dh 550,000 ride which is being sponsored by Dubai World.

Apart from Shaikh Hamdan and Shaikh Mayed, consistent performers this season like Hassan Bin Ali, Yousuf Ahmad Al Beloushi and many other UAE and international riders complete the line-up.

Sultan Ahmad Bin Sulayem, Chairman, Dubai World and also a top endurance rider who won the bronze at the last Asian Games in Doha said: "Dubai World attaches great importance to this sport because it stems from our national heritage and is a hobby that has been popular with our forefathers for hundreds of years."

Fantastic occasion

"It is of vital importance to support the efforts aiming at preserving this traditional sport through organising endurance races.

"Dubai World will always support social and sports activities in the UAE in general and in Dubai in particular in line with its vision of realising the integration of all economic, social, cultural and sports sectors." General Manager of the Dubai Equestrian Club, Ali Moosa Al Khamiri said, "It is wonderful Dubai World is sponsoring what will be a fantastic occasion.

"We are in the heart of the endurance season, and standards within the UAE are at an all time high right now.

Warsan Challenge

"Due to the increasingly high speeds of these races, leading riders will be hoping to set new world records, which should make for exciting viewing.

"The Dubai Equestrian Club wishes its partners Dubai World, and the competitors and spectators alike an extremely enjoyable and successful day."

Today's ride comprises of five loops of 31km, 32km, 27km, 18km and 12km, and is the sixth of eight contests to be held at DIEC this 2007-08 season.

Another FEI CEI*** 120 km endurance, the Warsan Endurance Challenge, will also be held today at the Boudtheib Endurance Village in Al Khatem, Abu Dhabi. Two Qualifier rides will also be held along with the 120-km open ride and over 70 riders including 20 for the Warsan Challenge will be in the fray.

Consistent performers this season like Hassan Bin Ali, Yousef Ahmad Al Beloushi and many other UAE and international riders complete the line-up.

UAE: Riders eye world record at Dubai World Challenge

Photo: Mr. Farid Mohammed Ahmed, Secretary General Dubai World, and Mr. Ali Moosa Al Kamiri, General Manager Dubai Equestrian Club

Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Endurance.Net

The Dubai Equestrian Club is delighted to announce details of the Dubai World Challenge FEI CEI*** 120 km endurance ride to be held at Dubai International Endurance City (DIEC) on Saturday, February 2, 2008.

Total prize money for the ride is AED 550,000 and General Manager of the Dubai Equestrian Club, Mr Ali Moosa Al Khamiri said: “It is wonderful Dubai World is sponsoring what will be a fantastic occasion on Saturday.

“We are in the heart of the endurance season, and standards within the UAE are at an all time high right now.

“We expect some quality entries and due to the increasingly high speeds of these races, leading riders will be hoping to set new world records, which should make for exciting viewing.

“The Dubai Equestrian Club wishes its partners Dubai World, and the competitors and spectators alike an extremely enjoyable and successful day.”

HE Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman, Dubai World said: “Dubai World attaches great importance to this sport because it stems from our national heritage and is a hobby that has been popular with our forefathers for hundreds of years."

“Dubai World has always been known for sponsoring equestrian events, out of its belief of the necessity to preserve all initiatives contributing towards the safekeeping of heritage symbols that are particular to our society and culture.

“It is of vital importance to support the efforts aiming at preserving this traditional sport through organizing endurance races.

“Dubai World will always support social and sports activities in the UAE in general and in Dubai in particular in line with its vision of realizing the integration of all economic, social, cultural and sports sectors.”

The ride comprises of five loops of 31km, 32km, 27km, 18km and 12km, and is the sixth of eight contests to be held at DIEC this 2007-08 season.

Bahrain: Royal victory! - January 27 2008

Gulf-daily-news.com - Full Story

BAHRAIN Royal Endurance team captain Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa raced to victory atop Shar Rushkin yesterday in the Batelco Endurance Horseride Championship at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

Shaikh Nasser, the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) president, crossed the line in five hours, 51 minutes and 34 seconds with an average speed of 20.38 kms per hour. The race was held over 120 kms.

The Royal Endurance Team riders dominated the event taking nine of the top 10 positions among more than 50 riders in the fray.

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Great Britain: Double win for Hannah - Jan 25 2008

Hexham-courant.co.uk - Full Story

A TEENAGE endurance rider has won a prestigious riding award for the second year running.

Hannah Shotton (15), of Hexham, was presented with the Four for the North Bedmax Trophy for 2007, a trophy which she also bagged in 2006.

And the talented youngster was also named National Reserve Junior Champion at the National Endurance GB Awards dinner in December.

The Bedmax Trophy contest is open...

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Bahrain: HM Receives BREEF President and Triumphant Team - Jan 22 2008

Bahrain News Agency
Manama, Jan. 22 (BNA) -- His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa received here on Tuesday President of Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (BREEF) Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

Shaikh Nasser introduced Bahrain team which came first in Europe Endurance Open Championship in which he personally came in the 7th place on the individual level. HM The King welcomed them and praised their honorable achievements in the world contest, recently held in Portugal. He also hailed BREEF President key role and that of his colleagues in paving the way for such success in terms of members rehabilitation and moral and material support which were behind BREEF excellence in regional, Arab and global events. HM The King encouraged the team to exert further efforts in future contests to keep Bahrains reputation shining in all fields. During the meeting which was also attended by the royal court minister, Shaikh Nasser was honored to present the medals to HM The King in recognition of his royal support. Shaikh Nasser also expressed thanks and appreciation to HM The King for his continued support, saying it would further prod BREEF to make more achievements. Shaikh Nasser praised the performance of the Bahraini team, attributing their accomplishment to the teams resolution to succeed and to the strong cooperation and dedication of all members, wishing them further success in the prosperous era of HM The King. MTQ .

European endurance champion loses title for medication offence

Horse & Hound - Full Article

Charlotte White, H&H deputy news editor Horse & Hound
22 January, 2008

Open European endurance champion Mubarak Khalifa bin Shafya has been stripped of his title after his horse Zakah Zahara tested positive for a banned substance at the championships in Portugal last September.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) pairing had been promoted to first place in the Open Qatar Challenge after first rider over the line Sultan Bin Sulayem and Nashmi did not pass the final vetting.

But Zakah Zahara tested positive for a medication offence. French rider Jean Phillipe Frances and Hanana Du Bois have been promoted to first place.

There is no suggestion that Zakah Zahara was doped to gain an advantage.

An International Equestrian Federation spokesman said: "In these fast track cases as long as the rider pays a fine plus costs there is no further sanction, other than their withdrawal from the competition.

"Competition horses should not be taking any medication and this rule is in place to stop horses competing while ill or recovering from illness. In this case there was still some medicine in the horse's system."

Mubarak Khalifa Al Shafya is the manager and trainer of the Al Asaafa Endurance Stables, owned by Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice-president and prime minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai

Abu Dhabi: Fine show in Al Nahyan ladies Challenge - Jan 19 2008

Zawya.com - Full story

Saturday, Jan 19, 2008

Gulf News

Abu Dhabi: Afra Khalifa Al Suwaidi, on Jen A Dale Zamarah, came up with a consistent performance to win the Hydra Properties-sponsored 100km first round of the Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Challenge ladies' endurance event at the Al Asayel Endurance Village here on Friday.

Afra, riding the 13-year-old chestnut Jen A Dale Zamarah from Al Reef Stables, recorded a steady average speed of just over 25 kmph throughout the 4-loop ride to top the 31-strong field with a timing of 3 hrs 64 mins 36 secs.

Aliya Ali Mohammad Yousuf Al Marzouqi on Wadhnan finished second while Bayan Abdullah Abbas Ahmad on Reesville Saban completed a sweep for UAE women riders.

Behind them were two British riders, Kayleigh Smith and Sue Sidebottom and the top five gained valuable First Round points and will be taking a shot at the overall title after two more rounds.

Impressive response

Yesterday's ride, sponsored by Hydra Properties, saw a total of 31 lady riders from many countries taking part at this venue in Sweihan, Abu Dhabi.

Shaikh Mohammad Bin Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan gave away the prizes to the winners. "We thank our father for his support which has made it possible for the lady riders to compete and enhance their abilities," said Shaikh Mohammad.

Shaikha Aliyazia Bint Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, the winner of last year's challenge, said the support of Hydra Properties was a big boost for the competition.

"When we have strong sponsors it will help more stables to take part and enhance the quality of competitions," she said.

"I could not take part in the opening round as I was tied up with the organising of the event.

"This year, it was a bigger event. I will be taking part in the second round," said Shaikha Aliyazia.

"We now have stabling facilities for 40 horses which will allow the competitors to come here the night before and base their horses ahead of the ride," she said.

'Conducive for riding'

"Apart from this, the recent rain has settled the terrain and the loops were in very good condition and conducive for riding," Shaikha Aliyazia added.

"We are also working towards inviting lady riders from other GCC countries," she said.

Friday's 100-km ride was run in four loops of 30kms, 30kms, 24kms and 16kms.

© Gulf News 2008. All rights reserved.

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Abu Dhabi: Hassan clinches Book Fair-Sorouh Cup - Jan 19 2007

Gulfnews.com - Full story

By M. Satya Narayan, Staff Reporter
Published: January 19, 2008

Abu Dhabi: Hassan Bin Ali, on Blackheath Kira, finished ahead of Shaikh Mayed Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, on Omani Iman, to win the 120-km Abu Dhabi International Book Fair-Sorouh Cup endurance championship held at the Emirates International Endurance Village here on Saturday.

In a ride which saw a fast pace being set early by the two Beloushis, Omair and Yousuf, Hassan and Shaikh Mayed did well to finish just three minutes of each other in the five-loop 120-km event sponsored by Sorouh and Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.

Both Hassan and Shaikh Mayed were on the same horses in the National Day Cup ride, held at this very venue. Shaikh Mayed was third and Hassan Bin Ali was fifth in that ride held on December 15. While Omair Hussain Abdullah Al Beloushi retired his horse after the first stage, Yousuf Ahmad Al Beloushi's Estaban failed the vet check in the second stage.

Convincing winner

That left Hassan as the leader and he finished first in each of the four remaining loops to emerge a convincing winner. They recorded an average speed of just under 26km/h to complete the 120-km ride in 4 hours 37 minutes and 04 seconds. It was Hassan's second win this season. "It was a fast race and a tough one. The climate was good so it was helpful," said the winner.

Shaikh Mayed, who was seventh after the first stage, gradually moved up. Omani Iman has been a good partner for the Asian Games gold medallist as he won the Pan Arab Games individual gold in Cairo on the same horse.

Spanish star Jaume Punti Dachs, better known as Juma in the UAE, came in third. The silver medallist at last year's European Open Championship, Juma and his horse Don Sala finished third.

Shaikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance and Industry, and Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended yesterday's ride.

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Malaysia's King finishes HH Shk Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup

photo: His Majesty riding Ibrahim Pascha Larzac (left) and Halim riding Ismayla D'Escailine crossing the finish at the HH Shk. Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Cup.

January 13, 2008
Endurance.Net

His Majesty Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, King of Malaysia, crossed the finish line of the 160km (100 mile) Endurance race at 8:16 PM for a total ride time of 11:07:01. His Majesty and Malaysian rider Abdul Halim Ali Han both completed the race after dark for 29th and 30th place finishes, out of a starting field of 137 riders.

The event, named in honor of HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, rule of Dubai and Prime Minister and Vice President of the United Arab Emirates, was one of the world's premier Endurance Events, held at the Emirates International Endurance City in Dubai, UAE. In addition to a large field of UAE riders, there was a large field of top foreign riders in attendance at the invitation of the Organizing Committee.

The race was won by UAE rider Omair Husain Al Bloushi riding Charlandre El Shari in 6:28:28 - a record breaking time for a 160km course. Top placing foreign rider was Laurent Mosti from France, riding Khandela des Vialette to a 9th place finish with a time of 7:55.

Official results can be found at Dubai International Endurance City website.

Photos and event coverage can be seen at Endurance.Net coverage website.

UAE: Omair's World Record

Gulf News: Full Article and more photos




photo Gulf News: Omair Hussain Al Beloushi canters home holding the UAE flag as he celebrates his victory in the 160-km Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup 2008 at Dubai International Endurance City at Seih Assalem in Dubai on Saturday.

Omair's world record

By M. Satya Narayan, Staff Reporter
Published: January 12, 2008, 23:29

Dubai: Some of the world's top riders were awestruck when the UAE's Omair Hussain Al Beloushi on 11-year-old Charlandre El Sharif chose the world's richest-ever endurance ride to set a world record, which will take some beating.

The inaugural Omega-sponsored His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup, which was billed as the most valuable endurance ride in the world, will now go down in history for also attracting the most number of riders for a non-championship ride (137) and also for the world record as Omair and Charlandre El Sharif shaved off over 13 minutes from the existing record.

The 22-year-old rider from Abu Dhabi's Al Reef Stables looked supremely confident as he finished first in five of the six loops in yesterday's 160-km event, which had attracted some of the world's most prominent riders.

Omair and Charlandre El Sharif revelled under ideal conditions to complete the 160-km ride in 6 hours 28 minutes and 28 seconds - an effort which was impossible a few years back.

It certainly was an amazing display by a promising rider on a champion horse from the all-conquering Al Reef Stables. In 2005, this venue witnessed a new record for a 160-km event when Barbara Lissarrague and Georgat did 7 hrs 04 mins 14 secs. The 7-hour barrier was broken by Shaikh Khalid Bin Sultan Al Nahyan on ZT Faraventure (6:41:33) in the His Highness The President's Cup ride in February last year.

On target

Omair, who created a world record for the 100-km distance with the same Charlandre El Sharif last year, said he went for the record. His uncle and trainer Yousuf Ahmad Al Beloushi, who was also a favourite in yesterday's ride, had predicted a record when speaking to Gulf News on the eve of the ride, and his nephew delivered on that promise. "Right from the word go we wanted to go for the record. The weather was ideal and my horse is a great champion," said Omair, who registered his third win with Charlandre and eight of his career.

Omair received a standing ovation as he cantered home holding the UAE flag and his effort earned him the fabulous trophy, a Nissan 4x4 vehicle, Dh250,000 and a prestigious watch from sponsors Omega.

Al Wathba Stables' Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri on Leblond finished second to carry home Dh200,000 and a Nissan 4x4 vehicle, while Mohammad Rashid Saeed Al Subosi on Genio II finished third and also drove away with a Nissan 4x4 vehicle and Dh150,000.

Results

Top five: 1. Omair Hussain Al Beloushi (Charlandre El Sharif) 6hrs 28 mins 28 secs - New world record for a 160-km ride. Old record: Shaikh Khalid Bin Sultan Al Nahyan on ZT Faraventure (6:41:33)

2. Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri (Leblond) 6:51.44;

3. Mohammad Rashid Saeed Al Subosi (Genio II) 7:15.04;

4. Thani Mohammad Al Muhairi (Macquarie Park Sedition) 7:18.31;

5. Shaikh Juma Dalmook Juma Al Maktoum (Kheops de Lozelle) 7:33.49.

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Al Bloushi wins HHSM Endurance Cup in 6:28:28 Run

Omain Hussain Al Bloushi
Riding Chalandre El Sharif
Image by Cidinha Franzão

Omair Hussain Al Bloushi, on Charlandre El Sharif, clipped over 13 minutes from the existing world record to win the AED 1.5 million 160-km HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup at the Dubai International Endurance City on Saturday.

The 22-year-old Al Reef Stables rider and his 11-year-old chestnut gelding dominated most of the six-loop ride and coped best with the wet and chilly weather to finish the 160-km distance in a time of 6 hours 28 minutes 28 seconds.

The previous record for a 160-km event was held by Sheikh Khaled Bin Sultan Al Nahyan on ZT Faraventure (6:41:33) which was created at the HH The President’s Cup ride in February last year.

"I was determined to go for the record as the conditions were perfect. My horse is a champion and this is the second record we have together. Last year we created a new record for a 100-km ride," said Al Bloushi, who finished with the UAE flag flying high in his hands.

The Al Reef youngster has so far won eight rides and dedicated his success to Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the driving force behind the Al Reef Stables.

Al Wathba Stables rider Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri on Leblond finished second in a timing of 6hrs 51 mins 44 seconds.

The pace set by the UAE riders was too hot to handle. European Open champion Jean Phillipe Frances, whose horse was eliminated for lameness in the second loop, said: "It is amazing, the speed set by the winner. The UAE riders are virtually unbeatable at home."

Earlier at 6.00 am in the morning, with overnight rain still falling, 137 riders got off to a mass start in the inaugural HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup, organized by the Dubai Equestrian Club.

It was a record field for a non-championship ride and truly complemented the Omega-sponsored event which carried the biggest ever purse of AED1.5 million, four 4x4 vehicles and a prestigious watch from Omega.

"It has been a great day of racing. The field was not only one of the biggest but the best horses and riders took part and it was not a surprise that a world record was created," said Ali Moosa Al Khamiri, General Manager of Dubai Equestrian Club.

Complete Results at Endurance.Net and EnduranceEurope.net

Al Maktoum Cup: 24.47 km/hr Pace for 120km

Riders are maintaining a fast 24.47km/hr race through the first 120km of this 160km event. 23 riders have entered Gate 4, with only 40km to go in the CEI*** event. 48 are eliminated!

Complete Coverage at Endurance.Net and EnduranceEurope.net