New Straits Times
2008/11/07
FORMER world champions Italy have written off their chances of mounting a serious challenge in the FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC) as they will be without two riders for today's race.
Italy, who lifted the team title at the 2004 edition in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, had initially lost Cinzia Lachelli, after failing to present her horse -- Missouri -- for the compulsory veterinary inspection yesterday.
Simona Di Battista's mount Lara was eliminated by the veterinarians as the horse was limping.
Italian team leader Vergemino Testa said realistically, their chances of a podium finish in the team event is over as only four riders are left in the squad.
"It is very unfortunate that two of our riders cannot start tomorrow (today) but this is part and parcel of the sport," he said at TIEP yesterday.
However, he felt that Gianluca Laliscia, who was part of the winning team in 2004, will be a good bet for the individual title. Laliscia will be riding Kohl today.
The other riders are Vincenzo Catalano (Parytet), Simona Garatti (Z'tadore Al Maury) and Patricia Giacchro (Locace).
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/07/2008 02:56:00 AM
Thursday, November 06, 2008
[WEC Reports] Italy doubtful of podium finish
New Straits Times
2008/11/07
FORMER world champions Italy have written off their chances of mounting a serious challenge in the FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC) as they will be without two riders for today's race.
Italy, who lifted the team title at the 2004 edition in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, had initially lost Cinzia Lachelli, after failing to present her horse -- Missouri -- for the compulsory veterinary inspection yesterday.
Simona Di Battista's mount Lara was eliminated by the veterinarians as the horse was limping.
Italian team leader Vergemino Testa said realistically, their chances of a podium finish in the team event is over as only four riders are left in the squad.
"It is very unfortunate that two of our riders cannot start tomorrow (today) but this is part and parcel of the sport," he said at TIEP yesterday.
However, he felt that Gianluca Laliscia, who was part of the winning team in 2004, will be a good bet for the individual title. Laliscia will be riding Kohl today.
The other riders are Vincenzo Catalano (Parytet), Simona Garatti (Z'tadore Al Maury) and Patricia Giacchro (Locace).
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/07/2008 02:50:00 AM
2008/11/07
FORMER world champions Italy have written off their chances of mounting a serious challenge in the FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC) as they will be without two riders for today's race.
Italy, who lifted the team title at the 2004 edition in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, had initially lost Cinzia Lachelli, after failing to present her horse -- Missouri -- for the compulsory veterinary inspection yesterday.
Simona Di Battista's mount Lara was eliminated by the veterinarians as the horse was limping.
Italian team leader Vergemino Testa said realistically, their chances of a podium finish in the team event is over as only four riders are left in the squad.
"It is very unfortunate that two of our riders cannot start tomorrow (today) but this is part and parcel of the sport," he said at TIEP yesterday.
However, he felt that Gianluca Laliscia, who was part of the winning team in 2004, will be a good bet for the individual title. Laliscia will be riding Kohl today.
The other riders are Vincenzo Catalano (Parytet), Simona Garatti (Z'tadore Al Maury) and Patricia Giacchro (Locace).
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/07/2008 02:50:00 AM
[WEC Reports] Equestrian Kamaruddin fancies his chances
New Straits Times
2008/11/07
FORMER World No 1 Datuk Kamaruddin Abdul Ghani is the only Malaysian rider good enough to outshine the world's best in the FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC) at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Setiu, today.
Kamaruddin, who ended 2001 as World No 1 and is currently 93, is a fearless rider and foreign participants here have spoken many times about the threat he could bring to them.
The 63-year-old rider rates the TIEP as not very tough and has planned out strategies to make an impression in the event.
"I have raced in many countries and I must say the track here is not as tough as compared to those in Australia and France. It's going to be a tactical race and those who pace themselves accordingly will do well," said Kamaruddin yesterday.
"I don't want to predict my chances. It will depend on the weather and track conditions tomorrow (today)." Kamaruddin made his world championships debut in the 1998 Dubai edition but failed to start the race as his horse failed the first inspection. History repeated itself in the following edition in France (2000).
In the 2002 edition in Spain, Kamaruddin was eliminated prior to the last loop as his horse failed the veterinary check. He only completed two loops in the 2004 Dubai edition.
Kamaruddin, a gold medalist in the 2001 Kuala Lumpur Sea Games, decided to retire in 2005 due to a prostate problem.
"I bled whenever I rode and doctors advised me to quit. It was sad as I was among the top-10 ranked riders in the world.
"However, I was coaxed into returning in late 2006 when Terengganu won the bid to host the world meet."
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/07/2008 02:48:00 AM
2008/11/07
FORMER World No 1 Datuk Kamaruddin Abdul Ghani is the only Malaysian rider good enough to outshine the world's best in the FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC) at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Setiu, today.
Kamaruddin, who ended 2001 as World No 1 and is currently 93, is a fearless rider and foreign participants here have spoken many times about the threat he could bring to them.
The 63-year-old rider rates the TIEP as not very tough and has planned out strategies to make an impression in the event.
"I have raced in many countries and I must say the track here is not as tough as compared to those in Australia and France. It's going to be a tactical race and those who pace themselves accordingly will do well," said Kamaruddin yesterday.
"I don't want to predict my chances. It will depend on the weather and track conditions tomorrow (today)." Kamaruddin made his world championships debut in the 1998 Dubai edition but failed to start the race as his horse failed the first inspection. History repeated itself in the following edition in France (2000).
In the 2002 edition in Spain, Kamaruddin was eliminated prior to the last loop as his horse failed the veterinary check. He only completed two loops in the 2004 Dubai edition.
Kamaruddin, a gold medalist in the 2001 Kuala Lumpur Sea Games, decided to retire in 2005 due to a prostate problem.
"I bled whenever I rode and doctors advised me to quit. It was sad as I was among the top-10 ranked riders in the world.
"However, I was coaxed into returning in late 2006 when Terengganu won the bid to host the world meet."
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/07/2008 02:48:00 AM
[WEC Reports] Dubai rider Jaume pulls out of World Championship
Gulfnews.com
By M Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
Published: November 06, 2008, 23:23
Terengganu, Malaysia: Dubai-based Jaume Punti Dachs, riding on Elvis Hob, and Maria Alvarez Ponton, on Nobby, won the silver and bronze medal at last year's European Open Championship and also the team bronze in the open category and the team silver in the European category to complete a remarkable performance for their Spanish national team.
The two were again looking to repeat that display on a larger stage in the World Championships yesterday, but Jaume's horse Elvis Hob was injured ahead of the event.
"Yes, it is a big loss to the team, as we will be one rider short and also for me as we always ride together," said Maria, one of the top-ranked riders in the world.
Jaume, who trains endurance horses for His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said he was upset but would now chip in to help in crewing for his wife and the Spanish team.
"Until yesterday we had hopes, but this morning I found my horse struggling and decided to pull out," he said.
"I have always ridden with him and together we finished winning medals in Portugal last year. Even during other international rides we ride together. But separately, this will be my first ride. I will have to wait and see," said Maria, who has been a consistent performer in the UAE domestic circuit.
Maria said there were at least 15 top rider-horse combinations that will be going for gold.
"All six UAE riders figure in that list while the French have also come with good riders. Meg Wade from Australia has brought the horse that won the Tom Quilty. So there are a good bunch of contenders," said Maria.
The Spanish ace finished sixth here during the pre-side and said she is hoping for a top five finish.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 11:31:00 PM
By M Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
Published: November 06, 2008, 23:23
Terengganu, Malaysia: Dubai-based Jaume Punti Dachs, riding on Elvis Hob, and Maria Alvarez Ponton, on Nobby, won the silver and bronze medal at last year's European Open Championship and also the team bronze in the open category and the team silver in the European category to complete a remarkable performance for their Spanish national team.
The two were again looking to repeat that display on a larger stage in the World Championships yesterday, but Jaume's horse Elvis Hob was injured ahead of the event.
"Yes, it is a big loss to the team, as we will be one rider short and also for me as we always ride together," said Maria, one of the top-ranked riders in the world.
Jaume, who trains endurance horses for His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said he was upset but would now chip in to help in crewing for his wife and the Spanish team.
"Until yesterday we had hopes, but this morning I found my horse struggling and decided to pull out," he said.
"I have always ridden with him and together we finished winning medals in Portugal last year. Even during other international rides we ride together. But separately, this will be my first ride. I will have to wait and see," said Maria, who has been a consistent performer in the UAE domestic circuit.
Maria said there were at least 15 top rider-horse combinations that will be going for gold.
"All six UAE riders figure in that list while the French have also come with good riders. Meg Wade from Australia has brought the horse that won the Tom Quilty. So there are a good bunch of contenders," said Maria.
The Spanish ace finished sixth here during the pre-side and said she is hoping for a top five finish.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 11:31:00 PM
[WEC Reports] Competitors hope for rain during ride
Gulfnews.com
By M. Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
Published: November 06, 2008
Terengganu, Malaysia: Two time world champion Valerie Kanavy from the US along with plenty of others were hoping for rain ahead of the World Endurance Championship event.
The skies did open up with a strong shower on Thursday and more rain is predicted over the next few days. While the rain will certainly please many after the heat and humidity, the Europeans will be tested to the limit in the 160-km event.
Having won two individual titles in the last four World Championships, France will be leading the European challenge while the Americans as well as the Australians will be a force to reckon with.
Uruguay will add some South American flavour after Brazil had to withdraw due to a glandis attack was reported.
Reigning European champion Jean Phillipe Frances, who won the title in Portugal last year, is back on the same horse Hanaba Du Bois and leads the French hopes.
Spain's Maria Alvarez Ponton on Nobby, who came third when the Frenchman won, will renew their rivalry.
The two, along with American Kanavy, are accompanied by some talented teammates and a gruelling tussle is on the cards as they tackle the heat, humidity, rain and night conditions starting from 5.30pm today.
"It will be a very interesting race as nobody can say what is in store tomorrow. The conditions will be new and challenging," said Frances, who led a golden double for France in the European Championship.
"We have been training here for about two weeks now and the horses have adjusted well. But much depends on the speed and that depends on the weather conditions," said Frances, who averaged 19.07kmph in his triumph with Hanaba Du Bois.
Equal record
Kanavy, winner of two golds and a silver and hoping to equal fellow American Becky Hart's record of wins in the world championship, said she was hoping for rain. "It will be good for both the horses and the riders. Otherwise we are used to these conditions as we were based in Florida for a month where conditions are similar," said the 63-year-old champion.
The hosts, with 12 riders in the fray as against six allowed for the other countries, will be hoping to thrill their countrymen with a finish high up in the ranking.
Malaysian King Sultan Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin and veteran horseman Kamaruddin Abd Gani will lead a young Malaysian squad in the championship.
Meanwhile Bahrain and Qatar will be looking to emulate the UAE's achievements in this sport.
Guide
The World Endurance Championship in a nutshell:
Venue:Terengganu, Malaysia
Riders/Horses: 130
Countries: 32
Distance: 160km
Start: 5.30 pm Friday
Medals: Team & Individual
Stages: Seven (28.4kms, 27kms, 28.4 kms, 27kms, 22kms, 15.1 kms and 10kms)
Hold period between stages: 40mins, 50mins, 50mins, 60mins, 50mins, 40mins,
Heart rates: At each Vet Check the pulse rate must not exceed 64bpm within 30 minutes recovery.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 11:27:00 PM
By M. Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
Published: November 06, 2008
Terengganu, Malaysia: Two time world champion Valerie Kanavy from the US along with plenty of others were hoping for rain ahead of the World Endurance Championship event.
The skies did open up with a strong shower on Thursday and more rain is predicted over the next few days. While the rain will certainly please many after the heat and humidity, the Europeans will be tested to the limit in the 160-km event.
Having won two individual titles in the last four World Championships, France will be leading the European challenge while the Americans as well as the Australians will be a force to reckon with.
Uruguay will add some South American flavour after Brazil had to withdraw due to a glandis attack was reported.
Reigning European champion Jean Phillipe Frances, who won the title in Portugal last year, is back on the same horse Hanaba Du Bois and leads the French hopes.
Spain's Maria Alvarez Ponton on Nobby, who came third when the Frenchman won, will renew their rivalry.
The two, along with American Kanavy, are accompanied by some talented teammates and a gruelling tussle is on the cards as they tackle the heat, humidity, rain and night conditions starting from 5.30pm today.
"It will be a very interesting race as nobody can say what is in store tomorrow. The conditions will be new and challenging," said Frances, who led a golden double for France in the European Championship.
"We have been training here for about two weeks now and the horses have adjusted well. But much depends on the speed and that depends on the weather conditions," said Frances, who averaged 19.07kmph in his triumph with Hanaba Du Bois.
Equal record
Kanavy, winner of two golds and a silver and hoping to equal fellow American Becky Hart's record of wins in the world championship, said she was hoping for rain. "It will be good for both the horses and the riders. Otherwise we are used to these conditions as we were based in Florida for a month where conditions are similar," said the 63-year-old champion.
The hosts, with 12 riders in the fray as against six allowed for the other countries, will be hoping to thrill their countrymen with a finish high up in the ranking.
Malaysian King Sultan Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin and veteran horseman Kamaruddin Abd Gani will lead a young Malaysian squad in the championship.
Meanwhile Bahrain and Qatar will be looking to emulate the UAE's achievements in this sport.
Guide
The World Endurance Championship in a nutshell:
Venue:Terengganu, Malaysia
Riders/Horses: 130
Countries: 32
Distance: 160km
Start: 5.30 pm Friday
Medals: Team & Individual
Stages: Seven (28.4kms, 27kms, 28.4 kms, 27kms, 22kms, 15.1 kms and 10kms)
Hold period between stages: 40mins, 50mins, 50mins, 60mins, 50mins, 40mins,
Heart rates: At each Vet Check the pulse rate must not exceed 64bpm within 30 minutes recovery.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 11:27:00 PM
[WEC Reports] Shaikh Hamdan Backs UAE to Win Title Despite Pulling Out
Khaleejtimes.com
Allaam Ousman
7 November 2008
KUALA TERENGGANU (MALAYSIA) - Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, was confident UAE could win the team title at the 12th FEI World Endurance Championship despite opting to compete in the individual race after his fancied horse Jazyk was detected with a swollen eye.
"I pulled out from the team and will ride in the individual race because Jazyk is not 100 per cent ready," said Shaikh Hamdan after the Pre-Ride veterinary inspection of horse and weigh-in of riders on Thursday morning.
Shaikh Majed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who arrived on Thursday morning with Shaikh Hamdan, will now spearhead the UAE challenge for the team title riding Spenda Crest Kamouflage.
The other three team members are Mohammed Ahmed Al Subose (Koum Des Jamets), Abdullah Thani Bin Huzaim (Castlebard Kadeen) and Mubarak Khalifa Bin Shafya (Zakah Zahara). Sultan Ahmed Sultan Bin Sulayem (Tazoul El Parry) will be the other rider vieing for individual honours.
"I'm hoping that the team will win," said Shaikh Hamdan who will be mounting Kaysand Farrazah.
Asked whether the team was upset because of his withdrawal, Shaikh Hamdan said: "They cannot be upset. This is sport. I cannot give 100 per cent with Jazyk."
He acknowledged that his was a tactical withdrawal. "Jazyk is one of best horses. I know him well. He knows me well. We read each other's eyes. But it's bad luck he is not fully ready," said Shaikh Hamdan.
Replying to a question regarding UAE's failure to win the team title in the world championships, Shaikh Hamdan pointed out that victories in several European events proved that they had the pedigree to claim that elusive title.
The high level of humidity will be the X-factor for riders and horses which will flag off on Friday at 5.30pm (1.30pm UAE time) from Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP). But Shaikh Hamdan said it would not weigh heavily on the UAE team.
"We are quite acclimatised to race in all weather conditions. It doesn't matter whether it rains or not," said Shaikh Hamdan when asked whether he would welcome rain.
In fact soon after their arrival the first drops of rain fell and the skies opened out later in the evening.
More rain is forecast on Friday with locals saying it rains this time of the year especially in the night.
Dubai Racing Channel will provide live television broadcast of the race from 1pm UAE time.
Approximately 130 riders from 30 countries passed the Pre-Ride Veterinary Inspection test of horses and weigh-in of riders conducted on Thursday morning by the Veterinary Commission and the Ground Jury at the TIEP.
"Everything is okay here except the heat," said UAE trainer Bin Shafya speaking to Khaleej Times after the inspections. "We have no problems with the track and don't feel any pressure because we are ready. The humidity is the only problem.
"Back home despite the heat there is wind because terrain is flat. Here there is no wind because of forest," he explained.
He added that they had no problem of racing in the night because they have experience of it.
But he was optimistic they would perform to the high expectations. "Insha Allah with a little bit of luck we will do well," he said.
UAE team vet Mario Castro said the horses were ready and in very good condition. "We have a good team. We'll try our best to keep the Emirates flag flying high," he said.
Another UAE equestrian official expected the average speed of the race to be in the range of 15kph.
"The trail looks good during daytime but in the night it's different. There are a lot of sharp turns. We are set for an interesting night," he said.
Some competitors were even praying for rain though for different reasons.
Two-time world champion Valerie Kanavy of the US who had been training in the soft desert sands of Florida was one of them.
"The track has become hard because of the lack of rain. It will be tough on the horses," she said showing the caring side of women for their mount.
However, Bahrain's decision to train in the beaches of south west France could backfire.
Their French trainer Cecile Miletto also expressed concern about the safety of riders because it was a night race.
"I'm scared because they could lose their way in a night race and could not be tracked unlike during daytime," she said. "The conditions look good but the big difficulty is the humidity. However, it will be the same for everybody," said Miletto who rates France and UAE as the favourites to lift the title.
"Our horses trained in the cool climes of Europe because we expected it to rain during the championship. They would also be affected by the heat and humidity," she said.
Asked why more women have won the individual title than men in the world endurance championship, she said it was probably because they are more sensitive.
"Men are fiercely competitive driving the horses to the limits while women are more caring," she said. "We are more patient and work all day," quipped Kanavy who is aiming for her third world title.
Reigning world team champions France are wary of the favourites tag and the weather.
"It's really hot here and difficult because of the high high humidity," said European individual champion Jean Philippes Frances.
"It's a special race because it is in the night. We expect a lot but nobody know how the weather will affect the outcome," he said also expressing disappointment after Spain's top rider Jaume Punti Dachs pulled out after his horse went lame.
However, Qatar's Atta Mohammed Beer believes the humidity in Terengganu could work to the advantage of Midde Eastern countries.
"The climate in the Middle East is similar to that of Malaysia. Horses play a crucial part in this sport and the climate has not affected our mounts," he said.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 09:41:00 PM
Allaam Ousman
7 November 2008
KUALA TERENGGANU (MALAYSIA) - Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, was confident UAE could win the team title at the 12th FEI World Endurance Championship despite opting to compete in the individual race after his fancied horse Jazyk was detected with a swollen eye.
"I pulled out from the team and will ride in the individual race because Jazyk is not 100 per cent ready," said Shaikh Hamdan after the Pre-Ride veterinary inspection of horse and weigh-in of riders on Thursday morning.
Shaikh Majed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who arrived on Thursday morning with Shaikh Hamdan, will now spearhead the UAE challenge for the team title riding Spenda Crest Kamouflage.
The other three team members are Mohammed Ahmed Al Subose (Koum Des Jamets), Abdullah Thani Bin Huzaim (Castlebard Kadeen) and Mubarak Khalifa Bin Shafya (Zakah Zahara). Sultan Ahmed Sultan Bin Sulayem (Tazoul El Parry) will be the other rider vieing for individual honours.
"I'm hoping that the team will win," said Shaikh Hamdan who will be mounting Kaysand Farrazah.
Asked whether the team was upset because of his withdrawal, Shaikh Hamdan said: "They cannot be upset. This is sport. I cannot give 100 per cent with Jazyk."
He acknowledged that his was a tactical withdrawal. "Jazyk is one of best horses. I know him well. He knows me well. We read each other's eyes. But it's bad luck he is not fully ready," said Shaikh Hamdan.
Replying to a question regarding UAE's failure to win the team title in the world championships, Shaikh Hamdan pointed out that victories in several European events proved that they had the pedigree to claim that elusive title.
The high level of humidity will be the X-factor for riders and horses which will flag off on Friday at 5.30pm (1.30pm UAE time) from Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP). But Shaikh Hamdan said it would not weigh heavily on the UAE team.
"We are quite acclimatised to race in all weather conditions. It doesn't matter whether it rains or not," said Shaikh Hamdan when asked whether he would welcome rain.
In fact soon after their arrival the first drops of rain fell and the skies opened out later in the evening.
More rain is forecast on Friday with locals saying it rains this time of the year especially in the night.
Dubai Racing Channel will provide live television broadcast of the race from 1pm UAE time.
Approximately 130 riders from 30 countries passed the Pre-Ride Veterinary Inspection test of horses and weigh-in of riders conducted on Thursday morning by the Veterinary Commission and the Ground Jury at the TIEP.
"Everything is okay here except the heat," said UAE trainer Bin Shafya speaking to Khaleej Times after the inspections. "We have no problems with the track and don't feel any pressure because we are ready. The humidity is the only problem.
"Back home despite the heat there is wind because terrain is flat. Here there is no wind because of forest," he explained.
He added that they had no problem of racing in the night because they have experience of it.
But he was optimistic they would perform to the high expectations. "Insha Allah with a little bit of luck we will do well," he said.
UAE team vet Mario Castro said the horses were ready and in very good condition. "We have a good team. We'll try our best to keep the Emirates flag flying high," he said.
Another UAE equestrian official expected the average speed of the race to be in the range of 15kph.
"The trail looks good during daytime but in the night it's different. There are a lot of sharp turns. We are set for an interesting night," he said.
Some competitors were even praying for rain though for different reasons.
Two-time world champion Valerie Kanavy of the US who had been training in the soft desert sands of Florida was one of them.
"The track has become hard because of the lack of rain. It will be tough on the horses," she said showing the caring side of women for their mount.
However, Bahrain's decision to train in the beaches of south west France could backfire.
Their French trainer Cecile Miletto also expressed concern about the safety of riders because it was a night race.
"I'm scared because they could lose their way in a night race and could not be tracked unlike during daytime," she said. "The conditions look good but the big difficulty is the humidity. However, it will be the same for everybody," said Miletto who rates France and UAE as the favourites to lift the title.
"Our horses trained in the cool climes of Europe because we expected it to rain during the championship. They would also be affected by the heat and humidity," she said.
Asked why more women have won the individual title than men in the world endurance championship, she said it was probably because they are more sensitive.
"Men are fiercely competitive driving the horses to the limits while women are more caring," she said. "We are more patient and work all day," quipped Kanavy who is aiming for her third world title.
Reigning world team champions France are wary of the favourites tag and the weather.
"It's really hot here and difficult because of the high high humidity," said European individual champion Jean Philippes Frances.
"It's a special race because it is in the night. We expect a lot but nobody know how the weather will affect the outcome," he said also expressing disappointment after Spain's top rider Jaume Punti Dachs pulled out after his horse went lame.
However, Qatar's Atta Mohammed Beer believes the humidity in Terengganu could work to the advantage of Midde Eastern countries.
"The climate in the Middle East is similar to that of Malaysia. Horses play a crucial part in this sport and the climate has not affected our mounts," he said.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 09:41:00 PM
[WEC Reports] All Malaysian team’s horses pass compulsory veterinary inspection
New Straits Times
2008/11/06
Hilary Sebastian, BERNAMA
SETIU, TERENGGANU:
The Malaysian team's horses passed their compulsory veterinary inspection today ahead of the 12th FEI-World Endurance Championship starting tomorrow.
The Malaysian team's chef-d'Equipe Che Mohd Apandi Muhamad said all horses were found to be healthy and fit for the competition.
Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin is leading Malaysia's team of 11 riders in the championship, which Malaysia is hosting for the first time.
Che Mohd Apandi said Tuanku Mizan would ride his Arab-bred horse named Ibrahim Pascha Larzae.
Apart from Tuanku Mizan, the other Malaysian team members are Datuk Kamaruddin Abdul Ghani, Datuk Shuaib Ishak, Abdul Halim Alihan, Norlaily Bunyamin, Mohd Faizal Ismail, Zainuddin Yusuf, Mohd Azizie Ismail, Rosdam Mohd Noor, Datuk Abdullah Taib and Che Ahmed Yusri Muhamad.
Horses from other teams had also gone through the inspection, which was carried out by a 16-member veterinary commission led by Dr Frans Arts of Russia.
Also present at the veterinary inspection was Crown Prince Shaikh Hamdan Mohammed Rashid Al-Maktoum who is leading the United Arab Emirates team.
The race would be flagged-off at 5.30pm tomorrow, covering a distance of 160km and is expected to finish on Saturday morning.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 05:23:00 PM
2008/11/06
Hilary Sebastian, BERNAMA
SETIU, TERENGGANU:
The Malaysian team's horses passed their compulsory veterinary inspection today ahead of the 12th FEI-World Endurance Championship starting tomorrow.
The Malaysian team's chef-d'Equipe Che Mohd Apandi Muhamad said all horses were found to be healthy and fit for the competition.
Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin is leading Malaysia's team of 11 riders in the championship, which Malaysia is hosting for the first time.
Che Mohd Apandi said Tuanku Mizan would ride his Arab-bred horse named Ibrahim Pascha Larzae.
Apart from Tuanku Mizan, the other Malaysian team members are Datuk Kamaruddin Abdul Ghani, Datuk Shuaib Ishak, Abdul Halim Alihan, Norlaily Bunyamin, Mohd Faizal Ismail, Zainuddin Yusuf, Mohd Azizie Ismail, Rosdam Mohd Noor, Datuk Abdullah Taib and Che Ahmed Yusri Muhamad.
Horses from other teams had also gone through the inspection, which was carried out by a 16-member veterinary commission led by Dr Frans Arts of Russia.
Also present at the veterinary inspection was Crown Prince Shaikh Hamdan Mohammed Rashid Al-Maktoum who is leading the United Arab Emirates team.
The race would be flagged-off at 5.30pm tomorrow, covering a distance of 160km and is expected to finish on Saturday morning.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 05:23:00 PM
[WEC Reports] Dubai Crown Prince arrives in Malaysia
Wam.org.ae
Nov 6, 2008
WAM Kuala Lumpur, Nov. 6, 2008 (WAM) -- Dubai Crown Prince, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, arrived here heading a delegation of UAE equestrians to participate in the 160-kilometre World Endurance Horse Race, which kick-starts here tomorrow, Friday.
He and his accompanying delegation were received on arrival by Prince Badar Al-Zaman, brother of the Malaysian King, a number of Malaysian officials and UAE Ambassador to Malaysia, Nasir Salman Al-Aboudi.
Members of the delegation accompanying Sheikh Hamdan include Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Executive Chairman of DP World, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem and the Board Chairman of Dubai Equestrian Club, Saeed Humaid Al-Tayer.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 05:22:00 PM
Nov 6, 2008
WAM Kuala Lumpur, Nov. 6, 2008 (WAM) -- Dubai Crown Prince, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, arrived here heading a delegation of UAE equestrians to participate in the 160-kilometre World Endurance Horse Race, which kick-starts here tomorrow, Friday.
He and his accompanying delegation were received on arrival by Prince Badar Al-Zaman, brother of the Malaysian King, a number of Malaysian officials and UAE Ambassador to Malaysia, Nasir Salman Al-Aboudi.
Members of the delegation accompanying Sheikh Hamdan include Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Executive Chairman of DP World, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem and the Board Chairman of Dubai Equestrian Club, Saeed Humaid Al-Tayer.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 05:22:00 PM
[WEC Reports] Humid conditions to Middle Eastern advantage
New Straits Times
2008/11/06
QATAR'S Atta Mohammed Beer believes the humidity in Terengganu will work to the advantage of Middle Eastern countries competing in the FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC), which start tomorrow. "The climate in the Middle East is similar to that of Malaysia. Horses play a crucial part in this sport and the climate has not affected our mounts," said Atta at TIEP in Setiu yesterday.
"Horses based in Europe are not used to humidity. Some European riders arrived here early to allow their horses to acclimatise to the weather.
"However, it's still tough for them as their horses are not used to racing in these adverse conditions."
Atta, the World No 18, will ride Epson De La Bruiskale in the race.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 05:20:00 PM
2008/11/06
QATAR'S Atta Mohammed Beer believes the humidity in Terengganu will work to the advantage of Middle Eastern countries competing in the FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC), which start tomorrow. "The climate in the Middle East is similar to that of Malaysia. Horses play a crucial part in this sport and the climate has not affected our mounts," said Atta at TIEP in Setiu yesterday.
"Horses based in Europe are not used to humidity. Some European riders arrived here early to allow their horses to acclimatise to the weather.
"However, it's still tough for them as their horses are not used to racing in these adverse conditions."
Atta, the World No 18, will ride Epson De La Bruiskale in the race.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 05:20:00 PM
[WEC Reports] Horse Riding is a Sport of the Kings
Khaleejtimes.com
Allaam Ousman
6 November 2008
KUALA TERENGGANU (MALAYSIA) — There will be a big royal presence in the World Endurance Championships affirming that horse riding is a sport of the kings.
Hosts Malaysia will be led by none other than their king Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin whose passion for the sport is exemplary. Sultan Mizan who hails from Kuala Terengganu was responsible for bringing the FEI World Endurance Championships to Malaysia for the first time and is a fierce competitor. He came in 29th among 137 riders in the energy-sapping 160-km race in the Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup held in UAE in January. The Malaysian monarch was also selected to represent the country at the Asian Games in Doha in 2006, but had to withdraw as it coincided with his proclamation.
Sultan Mizan is not the only 'blue blood' competing in the event. The Crown Prince of Dubai, Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and his younger brother Shaikh Majid, will lead the UAE charge in this gruelling competition. Shaikh Hamdan, who has won a number of endurance trophies, including the Asian Games gold and more recently, a fourth place in the European Open in Portugal last year, is set to ride Jazyk. Shaikh Majid rides another European Open campaigner Spenda Crest Kamouflage. Shaikh Hamdan is ranked 17th in the world while Shaikh Hamdan is at 33rd.
Among the other royal participants are Bahrain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who is ranked ninth in the world. The 21-year-old Shaikh Nasser is best remembered for winning two silver medals (individual and team) at the 2006 Asian Games. He will be riding Kheopsy Du Pilat. Also in the team is his brother Shaikh Khalid, who won a 160km endurance race in England three months ago.
Women power
Since its inception in 1986, the World Endurance Championship individual title has only been won by two men. In this edition, a woman rider is tipped to be the winner again. In endurance racing, women make up the majority of competitors and more than 50 per cent of the 133 competitors for this edition are women.
Women riders from the US have won seven consecutive editions, starting with the inaugural event in Italy through Cassandra Schuler, followed by three-time winner Becky Hart. Valerie Kanavy won in 1994 and 1998, while her daughter Danielle won the 1996 US edition. France's Milla Killa Perringerard broke the US dominance in 2000 to ensure a woman won it again, while UAE's Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed emerged the first men's winner in the 2002 event in Spain.
Age no barrier
Janice Worthington, 68, may be the oldest competitor at this year's World Endurance Championship and is determined to prove that age will not stand in her way of aiming for glory.
With more than 30 years experience of horseback riding, this will be her fifth outing at World Endurance Championship, the first of which was in Compiegne, France in 2000, followed by Jerez de la Frontera, Spain (2002), Dubai, UAE (2004) and Aachen, Germany (2006).
One of them is eight-year-old Golden Lightning which she has shipped out here for the championship.
Despite her age, Janice has chalked up over 48,500km in the saddle and has not showed any signs of slowing down. Just two months ago, she won a 160-km all-night endurance race in the United States.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 05:17:00 PM
Allaam Ousman
6 November 2008
KUALA TERENGGANU (MALAYSIA) — There will be a big royal presence in the World Endurance Championships affirming that horse riding is a sport of the kings.
Hosts Malaysia will be led by none other than their king Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin whose passion for the sport is exemplary. Sultan Mizan who hails from Kuala Terengganu was responsible for bringing the FEI World Endurance Championships to Malaysia for the first time and is a fierce competitor. He came in 29th among 137 riders in the energy-sapping 160-km race in the Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup held in UAE in January. The Malaysian monarch was also selected to represent the country at the Asian Games in Doha in 2006, but had to withdraw as it coincided with his proclamation.
Sultan Mizan is not the only 'blue blood' competing in the event. The Crown Prince of Dubai, Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and his younger brother Shaikh Majid, will lead the UAE charge in this gruelling competition. Shaikh Hamdan, who has won a number of endurance trophies, including the Asian Games gold and more recently, a fourth place in the European Open in Portugal last year, is set to ride Jazyk. Shaikh Majid rides another European Open campaigner Spenda Crest Kamouflage. Shaikh Hamdan is ranked 17th in the world while Shaikh Hamdan is at 33rd.
Among the other royal participants are Bahrain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who is ranked ninth in the world. The 21-year-old Shaikh Nasser is best remembered for winning two silver medals (individual and team) at the 2006 Asian Games. He will be riding Kheopsy Du Pilat. Also in the team is his brother Shaikh Khalid, who won a 160km endurance race in England three months ago.
Women power
Since its inception in 1986, the World Endurance Championship individual title has only been won by two men. In this edition, a woman rider is tipped to be the winner again. In endurance racing, women make up the majority of competitors and more than 50 per cent of the 133 competitors for this edition are women.
Women riders from the US have won seven consecutive editions, starting with the inaugural event in Italy through Cassandra Schuler, followed by three-time winner Becky Hart. Valerie Kanavy won in 1994 and 1998, while her daughter Danielle won the 1996 US edition. France's Milla Killa Perringerard broke the US dominance in 2000 to ensure a woman won it again, while UAE's Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed emerged the first men's winner in the 2002 event in Spain.
Age no barrier
Janice Worthington, 68, may be the oldest competitor at this year's World Endurance Championship and is determined to prove that age will not stand in her way of aiming for glory.
With more than 30 years experience of horseback riding, this will be her fifth outing at World Endurance Championship, the first of which was in Compiegne, France in 2000, followed by Jerez de la Frontera, Spain (2002), Dubai, UAE (2004) and Aachen, Germany (2006).
One of them is eight-year-old Golden Lightning which she has shipped out here for the championship.
Despite her age, Janice has chalked up over 48,500km in the saddle and has not showed any signs of slowing down. Just two months ago, she won a 160-km all-night endurance race in the United States.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 05:17:00 PM
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
[WEC Reports] Inspection to kick-start world meet
New Straits Times
2008/11/06
THE World Endurance Championships unofficially start today with the first horse inspection at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Setiu.
The inspection of horses is the most crucial part of the WEC as riders will be eliminated if their mounts fail the test. A total of 133 horses will be inspected by the Veterinary Commission and the Ground Jury at the Vet Gates.
Veterinary Commission Dr Hosain Abbara said previous world meets have witnessed mounts failing the first inspection.
"Affected riders will have to withdraw as they cannot replace their horses," said Hosain at the TIEP yesterday.
"However, most horses pass the first inspection. I cannot predict what will happen tomorrow (today), but from my own experience, there will likely be failures."
Today's inspection will include taking the horse's temperature, measuring its heartbeat rate, respiration rate and a full metobolic profile. The horses will also be trotted to confirm its soundness.
"If there is anything abnormal with a horse, the case will be referred to a special committe for a decision," added Hosain, who was president of the veterinary panel at the 2006 Doha Asian Games.
The 160km race is divided into seven loops or phases.
The horses are also inspected after completion of each loop and again after they have crossed the finish line. So the first horse across the finish line is not necessarily the winner.
Meanwhile, the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) is predicting a 30 per cent completion rate at the WEC.
"It's going to be a difficult race, the toughest ever in a world meet. The humidity will take a toll on the riders and horses," said an FEI official.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 04:21:00 AM
2008/11/06
THE World Endurance Championships unofficially start today with the first horse inspection at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Setiu.
The inspection of horses is the most crucial part of the WEC as riders will be eliminated if their mounts fail the test. A total of 133 horses will be inspected by the Veterinary Commission and the Ground Jury at the Vet Gates.
Veterinary Commission Dr Hosain Abbara said previous world meets have witnessed mounts failing the first inspection.
"Affected riders will have to withdraw as they cannot replace their horses," said Hosain at the TIEP yesterday.
"However, most horses pass the first inspection. I cannot predict what will happen tomorrow (today), but from my own experience, there will likely be failures."
Today's inspection will include taking the horse's temperature, measuring its heartbeat rate, respiration rate and a full metobolic profile. The horses will also be trotted to confirm its soundness.
"If there is anything abnormal with a horse, the case will be referred to a special committe for a decision," added Hosain, who was president of the veterinary panel at the 2006 Doha Asian Games.
The 160km race is divided into seven loops or phases.
The horses are also inspected after completion of each loop and again after they have crossed the finish line. So the first horse across the finish line is not necessarily the winner.
Meanwhile, the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) is predicting a 30 per cent completion rate at the WEC.
"It's going to be a difficult race, the toughest ever in a world meet. The humidity will take a toll on the riders and horses," said an FEI official.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 04:21:00 AM
[WEC Reports] Bahrain Riders set for top showdown
Gulf-daily-news.com
6th November 2008
SHAIKH Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa will arrive in Malaysia today for the World Endurance Horseride Championship scheduled for tomorrow at the Terengganu International Endurance Park in Terengga.
Shaikh Nasser, the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) president, and Shaikh Khalid, who is the Breef first vice-president, will lead a six-member Bahrain Royal Endurance team in this night race set to be flagged off at 12noon (Bahrain time).
The other four Bahraini riders are Yousif Taher, Ghazi Al Dossary, Raed Mahmood and Ahmed Abdulla.
The team is being coached by Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa while Dr Khalid Hassan is the team manager.
The Bahrainis will be among 140 riders representing 34 countries from across the world who are taking part in this challenging event to be run over 160kms.
Among top countries in the fray are the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Australia, Canada, Portugal, South Africa, Sweden and the US.
Besides Bahrain, the other GCC countries in the fray are the UAE, Oman and Qatar.
The race will be divided into seven stages - 28 kms for the first, 27 kms for the second, 28 kms for the third, 27 kms for the fourth, 23 kms for the fifth, 18 kms for the sixth while the seventh and last stage is over 10 kms.
This will be Bahrain's third appearance in the World Championship scince their debut in the 2005 edition in Dubai. They then took part in the 2006 championship in Akhn, Germany.
This time the Bahrainis are eying a podium finish in this prestigious $200,000 championship which features teams and individual races.
Overall
The overall winner will claim $22,000 while the runner-up receives $16,000. The third and fourth placed runners will get $13,000 and $11,000 respectively.
In the teams category, the winners receive $22,400 while the runners-up get $19,200. The third and fourth placed teams will receive $14,400 and $12,000 respectively.
The owner of the horse 'with the best condition' will receive $20,000.
The Bahraini riders yesterday underwent a pre-ride inspection which was followed by 'weighing in'.
A prize-distribution ceremony is scheduled for Sunday.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 04:19:00 AM
6th November 2008
SHAIKH Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa will arrive in Malaysia today for the World Endurance Horseride Championship scheduled for tomorrow at the Terengganu International Endurance Park in Terengga.
Shaikh Nasser, the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) president, and Shaikh Khalid, who is the Breef first vice-president, will lead a six-member Bahrain Royal Endurance team in this night race set to be flagged off at 12noon (Bahrain time).
The other four Bahraini riders are Yousif Taher, Ghazi Al Dossary, Raed Mahmood and Ahmed Abdulla.
The team is being coached by Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa while Dr Khalid Hassan is the team manager.
The Bahrainis will be among 140 riders representing 34 countries from across the world who are taking part in this challenging event to be run over 160kms.
Among top countries in the fray are the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Australia, Canada, Portugal, South Africa, Sweden and the US.
Besides Bahrain, the other GCC countries in the fray are the UAE, Oman and Qatar.
The race will be divided into seven stages - 28 kms for the first, 27 kms for the second, 28 kms for the third, 27 kms for the fourth, 23 kms for the fifth, 18 kms for the sixth while the seventh and last stage is over 10 kms.
This will be Bahrain's third appearance in the World Championship scince their debut in the 2005 edition in Dubai. They then took part in the 2006 championship in Akhn, Germany.
This time the Bahrainis are eying a podium finish in this prestigious $200,000 championship which features teams and individual races.
Overall
The overall winner will claim $22,000 while the runner-up receives $16,000. The third and fourth placed runners will get $13,000 and $11,000 respectively.
In the teams category, the winners receive $22,400 while the runners-up get $19,200. The third and fourth placed teams will receive $14,400 and $12,000 respectively.
The owner of the horse 'with the best condition' will receive $20,000.
The Bahraini riders yesterday underwent a pre-ride inspection which was followed by 'weighing in'.
A prize-distribution ceremony is scheduled for Sunday.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 04:19:00 AM
[WEC Reports] France wary of favourites' tag
New Straits Times
2008/11/06
By : Ajitpal Singh
VERY few people are betting against France winning the FEI World Endurance Championship (WEC) which starts tomorrow at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong, Setiu.
The French team have numerous star riders, own a record four WEC team titles and carry an aura of invincibility in endurance racing.
There is no denying France, the reigning world team champions, are heavily favoured to win a fifth time.
The French, however, pointed out that things won't be as simple as they look.
"It's true that we have great chances to win the WEC team event, but that doesn't mean it's a done deal," said France team leader Jean-Louis Leclerc.
"It's humid here unlike in France. My riders are inexperienced in such weather conditions and they need a good strategy to overcome it.
"However, racing at night would not be a problem for the team as we have raced in night events in Europe.
"We arrived on Oct 17 to prepare for the event. The riders have tested the course a few times and are prepared."
France won their first world team title in 1992 in Barcelona, Spain, and again in 1994 (Den Haag, the Netherlands). They were victors for a third time in 2002 in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain and again in 2006 in Aachen, Germany.
France have also won two world individual titles through Maya Killa Perringerard (2000-Comoiegne, France) and Barbara Lissarague (2004-Dubai, UAE).
This time around, France have named a stronger team comprising riders who won the European individual and team titles in Spain, last year.
The team includes European individual champion Jean Philippe Frances, who rides Hanaba Du Bois, Virginie Atger (Hadia De Jalima), Philippe Benoit (Akim Du Boulve), Pascale Dietsch (Hifrane Du Barthas), Caroline Denayer (Gwellik Du Parc) and Julien Lafaure (Jharez De Cabirat).
However, those selected are not necessarily the best from France as absent are World No 1 Jack Begaud, World No 3 Laurent Mosti and World No 10 Vincent Dupont.
"Begaud had two horses qualified for the WEC here. However, he sold his horses. It would have been great to have him around. I'm not sure about Mosti and Dupont," said Leclerc.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 04:15:00 AM
2008/11/06
By : Ajitpal Singh
VERY few people are betting against France winning the FEI World Endurance Championship (WEC) which starts tomorrow at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong, Setiu.
The French team have numerous star riders, own a record four WEC team titles and carry an aura of invincibility in endurance racing.
There is no denying France, the reigning world team champions, are heavily favoured to win a fifth time.
The French, however, pointed out that things won't be as simple as they look.
"It's true that we have great chances to win the WEC team event, but that doesn't mean it's a done deal," said France team leader Jean-Louis Leclerc.
"It's humid here unlike in France. My riders are inexperienced in such weather conditions and they need a good strategy to overcome it.
"However, racing at night would not be a problem for the team as we have raced in night events in Europe.
"We arrived on Oct 17 to prepare for the event. The riders have tested the course a few times and are prepared."
France won their first world team title in 1992 in Barcelona, Spain, and again in 1994 (Den Haag, the Netherlands). They were victors for a third time in 2002 in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain and again in 2006 in Aachen, Germany.
France have also won two world individual titles through Maya Killa Perringerard (2000-Comoiegne, France) and Barbara Lissarague (2004-Dubai, UAE).
This time around, France have named a stronger team comprising riders who won the European individual and team titles in Spain, last year.
The team includes European individual champion Jean Philippe Frances, who rides Hanaba Du Bois, Virginie Atger (Hadia De Jalima), Philippe Benoit (Akim Du Boulve), Pascale Dietsch (Hifrane Du Barthas), Caroline Denayer (Gwellik Du Parc) and Julien Lafaure (Jharez De Cabirat).
However, those selected are not necessarily the best from France as absent are World No 1 Jack Begaud, World No 3 Laurent Mosti and World No 10 Vincent Dupont.
"Begaud had two horses qualified for the WEC here. However, he sold his horses. It would have been great to have him around. I'm not sure about Mosti and Dupont," said Leclerc.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 04:15:00 AM
[WEC Reports] Six Americans set to Vie for 2008 FEI World Endurance Champions...
Usef.org
Release: November 05 2008
Lexington, KY – 160 km on horseback is no easy feat. But 142 riders from 34 nations will undertake the task when the FEI World Endurance Championships get underway in Terengganu, Malaysia November 6-9, 2008.
The US has six horse/rider combinations in Malaysia under the guidance of three-time World Champion Becky Hart, who is serving as Chef d'Equipe. The team includes another multiple world champion: Valarie Kanavy. She is hot off of a win at the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) National Championships in the 100-mile Championship. In that victory she rode King Ali Gold 45 minutes clear of the runner-up, but the Fort Valley, VA rider will contest the World Championships on Flash Flame, a 10-year-old Arabian mare.
Katharine Brunjes left the Maine winter behind headed to the desert for her second World Championships. She is diligently preparing for the night ride in Malaysia aboard Theatric, a 10-year-old Arabian gelding she has had since he was an unbroken 4-year-old.
Brunjes and Theatric were invited to compete in the Sultan's Cup in 2007 which served as the test event for these World Championships. They finished fifth. Improvements have been made all over the venue based on the experiences of the previous year's event. The team has settled in well and Brunjes looks forward to the competition getting underway.
"The team is in good spirits and we are exercising and training daily," said Brunjes. "On Monday we had our long ride leading up to the event. We rode our training loop front-wards and backwards several times to accumulate 20 miles. Our training track – each country has an individual training track to maintain our quarantine status until race day – is just 10.4 km, so we had to do some creative riding to get the mileage we need. The horses look great, are acclimating nicely and we are pleased with how each horse has settled in."
John Crandell III and Saba Shams made the trek to Malaysia from Star Tannery, VA. The 9-year-old Arabian gelding is owned by Ann Crandell – the pair prepared for the World Championships with a runner-up finish at the 2008 Greenway Gallivant in Florida in July.
Like Crandell, Cheryl Dell, from Springville, CA, is riding in her first World Championship on Reason to Believe. The 10-year-old Arabian gelding was third in the Owyhee 100 in Idaho. This is the sole combination from the West Coast.
Two eight year old Arabians round out the group of six in Malaysia. Both Syrocco Reveille and Golden Lightning are contesting their first World Championships. Ridden by Dr. Meg Sleeper and Jan Worthington, respectively, they both have experienced pilots. Sleeper rode Saba Shams at last year's test event in Terengganu and was part of the US team at the 2006 World Equestrian Games in Aachen, Germany. Sleeper and Syrocco have had two top three finishes in North America in 2008.
Worthington, from Scales Mound, IL, and Golden Lightning won the Greenway Gallivant in July and Worthington was a member of the 2000 World Championship Team.
The competition gets underway at 5:30 pm local time on Friday November 7. For results and more information, please see: http://www.malaysia-wec.com.
For more information, please contact Joanei Morris at jmorris@usef.org.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/05/2008 11:03:00 PM
Release: November 05 2008
Lexington, KY – 160 km on horseback is no easy feat. But 142 riders from 34 nations will undertake the task when the FEI World Endurance Championships get underway in Terengganu, Malaysia November 6-9, 2008.
The US has six horse/rider combinations in Malaysia under the guidance of three-time World Champion Becky Hart, who is serving as Chef d'Equipe. The team includes another multiple world champion: Valarie Kanavy. She is hot off of a win at the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) National Championships in the 100-mile Championship. In that victory she rode King Ali Gold 45 minutes clear of the runner-up, but the Fort Valley, VA rider will contest the World Championships on Flash Flame, a 10-year-old Arabian mare.
Katharine Brunjes left the Maine winter behind headed to the desert for her second World Championships. She is diligently preparing for the night ride in Malaysia aboard Theatric, a 10-year-old Arabian gelding she has had since he was an unbroken 4-year-old.
Brunjes and Theatric were invited to compete in the Sultan's Cup in 2007 which served as the test event for these World Championships. They finished fifth. Improvements have been made all over the venue based on the experiences of the previous year's event. The team has settled in well and Brunjes looks forward to the competition getting underway.
"The team is in good spirits and we are exercising and training daily," said Brunjes. "On Monday we had our long ride leading up to the event. We rode our training loop front-wards and backwards several times to accumulate 20 miles. Our training track – each country has an individual training track to maintain our quarantine status until race day – is just 10.4 km, so we had to do some creative riding to get the mileage we need. The horses look great, are acclimating nicely and we are pleased with how each horse has settled in."
John Crandell III and Saba Shams made the trek to Malaysia from Star Tannery, VA. The 9-year-old Arabian gelding is owned by Ann Crandell – the pair prepared for the World Championships with a runner-up finish at the 2008 Greenway Gallivant in Florida in July.
Like Crandell, Cheryl Dell, from Springville, CA, is riding in her first World Championship on Reason to Believe. The 10-year-old Arabian gelding was third in the Owyhee 100 in Idaho. This is the sole combination from the West Coast.
Two eight year old Arabians round out the group of six in Malaysia. Both Syrocco Reveille and Golden Lightning are contesting their first World Championships. Ridden by Dr. Meg Sleeper and Jan Worthington, respectively, they both have experienced pilots. Sleeper rode Saba Shams at last year's test event in Terengganu and was part of the US team at the 2006 World Equestrian Games in Aachen, Germany. Sleeper and Syrocco have had two top three finishes in North America in 2008.
Worthington, from Scales Mound, IL, and Golden Lightning won the Greenway Gallivant in July and Worthington was a member of the 2000 World Championship Team.
The competition gets underway at 5:30 pm local time on Friday November 7. For results and more information, please see: http://www.malaysia-wec.com.
For more information, please contact Joanei Morris at jmorris@usef.org.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/05/2008 11:03:00 PM
[WEC Reports] UAE Riders Set for World Endurance Championship
Khaleejtimes.com
Allaam Ousman
6 November 2008
KUALA TERENGGANU (MALAYSIA) - The six-member UAE team led by Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, were in high spirits 48 hours before the start of the 12th FEI World Endurance Championships which is being held in Malaysia for the first time.
ShaikhHamdanbinMohammedbin Rashid AlMaktoum,CrownPrince of DubaiThey have been installed as the top contenders for the world title having in their ranks accomplished riders and because of their familiarity with the tough terrain and humid weather conditions which are expected to prevail in this first ever night race on Friday.
Team member Abdullah Thani Bin Huzaim speaking to the Khaleej Times said they were well primed to aim for the title. "We are ready and confident of doing well. With a little bit of luck we could strike gold," said Bin Huzaim, who is ranked fifth in the FEI world rankings.
The UAE riders which includes Shaikh Majed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Mohammed Ahmad Al Subose, Mubarak Khalifa bin Shafya and Sultan Ahmed Sultan bin Sulayem, arrived on Monday while the horses landed on Wednesday on a special Boeing aircraft.
Asked whether they felt any pressure since they have been tagged as favourites, Bin Huzaim said they looked at it positively. "It's a night race but we have experience of night races. The humidity is nothing new to us because we experience it back home. But it will be a tough race but the same difficulties will apply to all the competitors," he said.
The weather during daytime was 25 degrees Celsius but humidity could rise up to 80 per cent. The Terengganu International Endurance Park is the first sole endurance village in south east Asia. Situated in the fishing town of Merang, 25km north of Kuala Terengganu, competitors will ride along the coastline of the South China Sea, through plantations, fishing villages and forests.
"There are a lot of trees while the fifth loop is hilly," observed Bin Huzaim after the team performed a track recce on Wednesday. "But the weather is nice, people are nice," he added.
Asked about the fitness of the horses, he said: "All are in good condition. We are ready."
Asian Games gold medallist Shaikh Hamdan is set to ride Jazyk. Shaikh Majid will be aboard European Open campaigner Spenda Crest Kamouflage.
Shafya is booked on Zakah Zahara, Sulayem on Tazoul El Parry, world no. 4 Al Subose will be riding Koum Des Jamets and Bin Huzaim Castlebar Kadeen.
A total of 133 riders from 32 countries have assembled for this world championship which will be cover a distance of 160km divided into seven stages.
Meanwhile, Uruguay believe it is their turn to win the title having in their midst world no.2 Juan Miguel Pio Olascoaga Amaga, the highest ranked rider in this competition. However, they have never won a title in the World Endurance Championship since its inception in 1986.
Amaya, 28, a winner of two 160-km titles this year, said he and his teammates have the experience to wrest the title from hot favourites the United Arab Emirates and France.
"We have been training hard and our horses have adapted well to the humidity. We like the track as it's flat and soft.
"I hope to compete both in the individual and team events for Uruguay," said Amaya. "As the top seed in the individual event, the pressure will be on me to perform. My strategy on race day is to get a head start and maintain my speed throughout. I need to opt for this strategy as my main rivals will be doing the same."
UAE on the other hand produced the youngest and first male winner of the world championship in Jerez, Spain in 2002 when Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed won the coveted title. UAE also have come close to claiming the team title on several occasions.
The World Endurance Championship was officially inaugurated on Wednesday night by the Malaysian King Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium following a spectacular opening ceremony.
Ian Williams, non-Olympic sports director of FEI, the world body governing equestrian sports, read out a special message on behalf of FEI head Princess Haya bint Hussein, wife of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, expressing her inability to attend the event. Princess Haya wished everyone a great competition, a sporting competition and great endurance competition.
The ceremony began with a colourful dance ensemble with the theme Malaysia Welcomes the World 'Selamat Datang' followed by the march past of the participating teams.
Another eye-catching performance was the performance by Malaysia singers, a horse show by Lorenzo, the Flying Frenchman, and a dazzling fireworks display.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/05/2008 10:58:00 PM
Allaam Ousman
6 November 2008
KUALA TERENGGANU (MALAYSIA) - The six-member UAE team led by Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, were in high spirits 48 hours before the start of the 12th FEI World Endurance Championships which is being held in Malaysia for the first time.
ShaikhHamdanbinMohammedbin Rashid AlMaktoum,CrownPrince of DubaiThey have been installed as the top contenders for the world title having in their ranks accomplished riders and because of their familiarity with the tough terrain and humid weather conditions which are expected to prevail in this first ever night race on Friday.
Team member Abdullah Thani Bin Huzaim speaking to the Khaleej Times said they were well primed to aim for the title. "We are ready and confident of doing well. With a little bit of luck we could strike gold," said Bin Huzaim, who is ranked fifth in the FEI world rankings.
The UAE riders which includes Shaikh Majed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Mohammed Ahmad Al Subose, Mubarak Khalifa bin Shafya and Sultan Ahmed Sultan bin Sulayem, arrived on Monday while the horses landed on Wednesday on a special Boeing aircraft.
Asked whether they felt any pressure since they have been tagged as favourites, Bin Huzaim said they looked at it positively. "It's a night race but we have experience of night races. The humidity is nothing new to us because we experience it back home. But it will be a tough race but the same difficulties will apply to all the competitors," he said.
The weather during daytime was 25 degrees Celsius but humidity could rise up to 80 per cent. The Terengganu International Endurance Park is the first sole endurance village in south east Asia. Situated in the fishing town of Merang, 25km north of Kuala Terengganu, competitors will ride along the coastline of the South China Sea, through plantations, fishing villages and forests.
"There are a lot of trees while the fifth loop is hilly," observed Bin Huzaim after the team performed a track recce on Wednesday. "But the weather is nice, people are nice," he added.
Asked about the fitness of the horses, he said: "All are in good condition. We are ready."
Asian Games gold medallist Shaikh Hamdan is set to ride Jazyk. Shaikh Majid will be aboard European Open campaigner Spenda Crest Kamouflage.
Shafya is booked on Zakah Zahara, Sulayem on Tazoul El Parry, world no. 4 Al Subose will be riding Koum Des Jamets and Bin Huzaim Castlebar Kadeen.
A total of 133 riders from 32 countries have assembled for this world championship which will be cover a distance of 160km divided into seven stages.
Meanwhile, Uruguay believe it is their turn to win the title having in their midst world no.2 Juan Miguel Pio Olascoaga Amaga, the highest ranked rider in this competition. However, they have never won a title in the World Endurance Championship since its inception in 1986.
Amaya, 28, a winner of two 160-km titles this year, said he and his teammates have the experience to wrest the title from hot favourites the United Arab Emirates and France.
"We have been training hard and our horses have adapted well to the humidity. We like the track as it's flat and soft.
"I hope to compete both in the individual and team events for Uruguay," said Amaya. "As the top seed in the individual event, the pressure will be on me to perform. My strategy on race day is to get a head start and maintain my speed throughout. I need to opt for this strategy as my main rivals will be doing the same."
UAE on the other hand produced the youngest and first male winner of the world championship in Jerez, Spain in 2002 when Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed won the coveted title. UAE also have come close to claiming the team title on several occasions.
The World Endurance Championship was officially inaugurated on Wednesday night by the Malaysian King Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium following a spectacular opening ceremony.
Ian Williams, non-Olympic sports director of FEI, the world body governing equestrian sports, read out a special message on behalf of FEI head Princess Haya bint Hussein, wife of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, expressing her inability to attend the event. Princess Haya wished everyone a great competition, a sporting competition and great endurance competition.
The ceremony began with a colourful dance ensemble with the theme Malaysia Welcomes the World 'Selamat Datang' followed by the march past of the participating teams.
Another eye-catching performance was the performance by Malaysia singers, a horse show by Lorenzo, the Flying Frenchman, and a dazzling fireworks display.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/05/2008 10:58:00 PM
[WEC Reports] 800 to maintain security at endurance show
Nst.com.my
2008/11/05
KUALA TERENGGANU, TERENGGANU:
Eight hundred policemen will be deployed to provide security for partcipants and guests at the four-day FEI World Endurance Championship (WEC) 2008 which starts in the Bidong Valley, Setiu, tomorrow.
Terengganu deputy police chief Datuk Jalaludin Abdul Rahman said today that the guests included the Sultan of Brunei, Sultan Hasanal Bolkiah.
"Their safety, from the moment they arrive until they depart will be our responsibility," he told a news conference here.
He the police had also sought the cooperation of the public and residents in the surrounding areas to stay away from the tracks as their presence might scare the horses.
The championship will see 133 riders from 32 countries competing at the Terengganu International Endurance Park, the first time that the FEI championship is being held in a tropical country.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/05/2008 04:51:00 PM
2008/11/05
KUALA TERENGGANU, TERENGGANU:
Eight hundred policemen will be deployed to provide security for partcipants and guests at the four-day FEI World Endurance Championship (WEC) 2008 which starts in the Bidong Valley, Setiu, tomorrow.
Terengganu deputy police chief Datuk Jalaludin Abdul Rahman said today that the guests included the Sultan of Brunei, Sultan Hasanal Bolkiah.
"Their safety, from the moment they arrive until they depart will be our responsibility," he told a news conference here.
He the police had also sought the cooperation of the public and residents in the surrounding areas to stay away from the tracks as their presence might scare the horses.
The championship will see 133 riders from 32 countries competing at the Terengganu International Endurance Park, the first time that the FEI championship is being held in a tropical country.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/05/2008 04:51:00 PM
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
[WEC Reports] Amaya buoyant on Uruguay's chances
The New Straits Times Online
2008/11/05
By : Ajitpal Singh
photo: Amaya kisses his beloved horse Ar Vale after a training session in Lembah Bidong yesterday. — Pic: IMRAN MAKHZAN
URUGUAY believe it will be their year to be crowned world champions in both the individual and team events at the 12th FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC) which starts tomorrow at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong, Setiu.
But their fortunes will depend on World No 2 Juan Miguel Pio Olascoaga Amaya, the highest ranked rider in this competition.
For the record, Uruguay have never won a title in the WEC, which incepted in 1986.
Amaya, 28, a winner of two 160-km titles this year, said he and his teammates have the experience to wrest the title from hot favourites the United Arab Emirates and France.
"We have been training hard and our horses have adapted well to the humidity. We like the track as it's flat and soft.
"I hope to compete both in the individual and team events for Uruguay," said Amaya at the TIEP in Setiu yesterday.
"As the top seed in the individual event, the pressure will be on me to perform. My strategy on race day is to get a head start and maintain my speed throughout. I need to opt for this strategy as my main rivals will be doing the same."
At the WEC, Amaya will be riding his trusted eight-year-old horse Ar Vale which he has been riding for the past seven months.
The others in the Uruguay squad are Adriana Basso MacGregor, who will be riding Ed Virka, Flavia Maria Danvila (Count Spot), Sofia Maria Danvila (Nortea), Juan Cruz Aranda (Espartaco In) and Isadora Mackinnon (Guarda Costa). Their coach is Amaya's father, Pio Olascoaga Silveira.
Unlike in previous editions, the WEC in Terengganu will start tomorrow evening after the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) had taken into account the humid conditions in Terengganu.
The 133 riders will have to complete 160km in 13 hours and 20 minutes. The race will be broken into seven loops or phases.
Amaya also described the facilities, including the stables, at the TIEP as world class.
"The TIEP offers the best facilities for riders and horses. I have raced in may courses and I must say, this course has the best stables and track."
--
Posted By Steph Teeter to WEC Reports at 11/05/2008 02:25:00 AM
2008/11/05
By : Ajitpal Singh
URUGUAY believe it will be their year to be crowned world champions in both the individual and team events at the 12th FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC) which starts tomorrow at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong, Setiu.
But their fortunes will depend on World No 2 Juan Miguel Pio Olascoaga Amaya, the highest ranked rider in this competition.
For the record, Uruguay have never won a title in the WEC, which incepted in 1986.
Amaya, 28, a winner of two 160-km titles this year, said he and his teammates have the experience to wrest the title from hot favourites the United Arab Emirates and France.
"We have been training hard and our horses have adapted well to the humidity. We like the track as it's flat and soft.
"I hope to compete both in the individual and team events for Uruguay," said Amaya at the TIEP in Setiu yesterday.
"As the top seed in the individual event, the pressure will be on me to perform. My strategy on race day is to get a head start and maintain my speed throughout. I need to opt for this strategy as my main rivals will be doing the same."
At the WEC, Amaya will be riding his trusted eight-year-old horse Ar Vale which he has been riding for the past seven months.
The others in the Uruguay squad are Adriana Basso MacGregor, who will be riding Ed Virka, Flavia Maria Danvila (Count Spot), Sofia Maria Danvila (Nortea), Juan Cruz Aranda (Espartaco In) and Isadora Mackinnon (Guarda Costa). Their coach is Amaya's father, Pio Olascoaga Silveira.
Unlike in previous editions, the WEC in Terengganu will start tomorrow evening after the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) had taken into account the humid conditions in Terengganu.
The 133 riders will have to complete 160km in 13 hours and 20 minutes. The race will be broken into seven loops or phases.
Amaya also described the facilities, including the stables, at the TIEP as world class.
"The TIEP offers the best facilities for riders and horses. I have raced in may courses and I must say, this course has the best stables and track."
--
Posted By Steph Teeter to WEC Reports at 11/05/2008 02:25:00 AM
[WEC Reports] Janice's love for riding evergreen
The New Straits Times Online
2008/11/05
photo: Janice is most happy when on a horse. (The New Straits Times Online)
JANICE Worthington, at 68, holds the distinction of being the oldest competitor at the FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC). Age, according to the United States rider, will not stand in her way of attaining glory.
With more than 30 years of experience in horseback riding, she's looking forward to a fairytale outing at the WEC which starts at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong, Setiu, tomorrow.
This will be Janice's fifth outing in a WEC, the first of which was in Compiegne, France in 2000, followed by Jerez de la Frontera, Spain (2002), Dubai, United Arab Emirates (2004) and Aachen, Germany (2006).
Janice, who has four grandchildren, lives in Illinois where she has a 300-acre ranch and 65 horses. One of them is eight-year-old Golden Lightning which she has shipped out here for the championship.
Despite her age, Janice has chalked up over 48,500km in the saddle and has not showed any signs of slowing down. Just two months ago, she won a 160-km all-night endurance race in the United States.
"Horse riding has been my first love and I am most happy when on a horse. It's all in the mind and there is no such thing as too old to ride.
"As long as you are mentally fit, you can ride. More so in endurance racing," Janice said at TIEP, Setiu yesterday.
"You only have to worry about your horse because it cannot tell you personally if it is tired or needs a rest," added Janice, who is part of a six-member US team.
"I look forward to doing well here. It's hot and I reckon it will be a challenging race."
The other members of the US team are Kathy Brunjes on Theatric, John Crandell (HH Saba Shams), Cheryl Dell (Reason To Believe), Valerie Kanavy (Flash Flame) and Margaret Sleeper (Syrocco Reveille).
--
Posted By Steph Teeter to WEC Reports at 11/05/2008 02:20:00 AM
2008/11/05
JANICE Worthington, at 68, holds the distinction of being the oldest competitor at the FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC). Age, according to the United States rider, will not stand in her way of attaining glory.
With more than 30 years of experience in horseback riding, she's looking forward to a fairytale outing at the WEC which starts at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong, Setiu, tomorrow.
This will be Janice's fifth outing in a WEC, the first of which was in Compiegne, France in 2000, followed by Jerez de la Frontera, Spain (2002), Dubai, United Arab Emirates (2004) and Aachen, Germany (2006).
Janice, who has four grandchildren, lives in Illinois where she has a 300-acre ranch and 65 horses. One of them is eight-year-old Golden Lightning which she has shipped out here for the championship.
Despite her age, Janice has chalked up over 48,500km in the saddle and has not showed any signs of slowing down. Just two months ago, she won a 160-km all-night endurance race in the United States.
"Horse riding has been my first love and I am most happy when on a horse. It's all in the mind and there is no such thing as too old to ride.
"As long as you are mentally fit, you can ride. More so in endurance racing," Janice said at TIEP, Setiu yesterday.
"You only have to worry about your horse because it cannot tell you personally if it is tired or needs a rest," added Janice, who is part of a six-member US team.
"I look forward to doing well here. It's hot and I reckon it will be a challenging race."
The other members of the US team are Kathy Brunjes on Theatric, John Crandell (HH Saba Shams), Cheryl Dell (Reason To Believe), Valerie Kanavy (Flash Flame) and Margaret Sleeper (Syrocco Reveille).
--
Posted By Steph Teeter to WEC Reports at 11/05/2008 02:20:00 AM
[WEC Reports] Rookie Firdaus out to earn his spurs
The New Straits Times Online
2008/11/05
MUHD Firdaus Hamid's first experience with horses was on a pony when he was just nine years old.
Today, at 15, Firdaus is preparing for the biggest race of his career at the FEI (WEC) at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP), Setiu, starting tomorrow. The Kuala Terengganu-born rider is the youngest Malaysian competitor in the event.
"My involvement began when I was just nine. Picking up the sport is easy in Terengganu, especially those living in villages as farmers keep horses," said Firdaus, a student with SMK Tengku Bariah in Kuala Terengganu, yesterday.
"My first ride was on a pony owned by my father's friend. My love for horses grew but I ventured into show-jumping first before deciding to make a switch to endurance early this year.
"I was competing in a show-jumping event in Ipoh, Perak last year when another rider told me that I was more suited for endurance. I decided to try it and have not looked back since."
Firdaus made an immediate impact on his maiden endurance competition in Uruguay in June, where he earned his first Certificates of Capability (CoC).
A month later he earned his second CoC, also in Uruguay, and made the cut for the world meet.
"I was not expecting to make an immediate impact. The WEC will only be my fourth 160km race. It's going to be tough but I hope to complete the race and earn a good position," he added.
Meanwhile, a host of local artistes will be performing at the opening of the WEC at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium in Kuala Terengganu today.
Among those performing are Mawi, Jamal Abdillah, Ramli Sarip and local rock queen Ella.
The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, who is also competing in the WEC, will officially open the event.
-- AJITPAL SINGH
--
Posted By Steph Teeter to WEC Reports at 11/05/2008 02:16:00 AM
2008/11/05
MUHD Firdaus Hamid's first experience with horses was on a pony when he was just nine years old.
Today, at 15, Firdaus is preparing for the biggest race of his career at the FEI (WEC) at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP), Setiu, starting tomorrow. The Kuala Terengganu-born rider is the youngest Malaysian competitor in the event.
"My involvement began when I was just nine. Picking up the sport is easy in Terengganu, especially those living in villages as farmers keep horses," said Firdaus, a student with SMK Tengku Bariah in Kuala Terengganu, yesterday.
"My first ride was on a pony owned by my father's friend. My love for horses grew but I ventured into show-jumping first before deciding to make a switch to endurance early this year.
"I was competing in a show-jumping event in Ipoh, Perak last year when another rider told me that I was more suited for endurance. I decided to try it and have not looked back since."
Firdaus made an immediate impact on his maiden endurance competition in Uruguay in June, where he earned his first Certificates of Capability (CoC).
A month later he earned his second CoC, also in Uruguay, and made the cut for the world meet.
"I was not expecting to make an immediate impact. The WEC will only be my fourth 160km race. It's going to be tough but I hope to complete the race and earn a good position," he added.
Meanwhile, a host of local artistes will be performing at the opening of the WEC at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium in Kuala Terengganu today.
Among those performing are Mawi, Jamal Abdillah, Ramli Sarip and local rock queen Ella.
The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, who is also competing in the WEC, will officially open the event.
-- AJITPAL SINGH
--
Posted By Steph Teeter to WEC Reports at 11/05/2008 02:16:00 AM
Bahrain: Season-opening endurance horse race set
Equestrianbahrain.com
04 November 2008
The Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) will host the first endurance horseride of the season on November 22 at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.
The federation, under its president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, approved the 2008/09 season calendar at its board of directors meeting. The inaugural race of the new season will be a 90-km qualifying event for young riders seeking experience in endurance races.
The first official race this year will be the National Day Championship set for December 13 and is over 120km. That will be followed by a 12km open race on January 3 next year.
Other events are the Women's Open Championship on January 31, the National Stables Championship on February 7, His Majesty King Hamad Cup on March 7, the Crown Prince Cup race on April 3 and the Season-Ending Championship on May 1.
Meanwhile, the Breef members also discussed the showjumping season and confirmed the schedule of its events. The showjumping season will get underway on November 7 with the Season Starting Championship, to be followed by the National Day Championship on December 19, then the Breef Cup on February 13.
In other competitions, the Arab League round for His Majesty King Hamad Cup will be held from February 19 to 22, the second Breef Cup on March 27 and the Season Ending Championship on March 10 and 11.
The federation also decided to form a marketing committee to promote its programmes and activities. The committee, to be headed by Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa, will start looking for sponsors to support the federation this season.
The meeting was also attended by Breef first vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, second vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, general secretary Ghalib Al Alawi, assistant general secretary Dr Khalid Hassan, public relations head Faisal Al Ajmi and members Tawfeeq Salehi, Haider Al Zo'bi, Mahmood Abdulsaheb and Fahad Al Rumaihi.
04 November 2008
The Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) will host the first endurance horseride of the season on November 22 at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.
The federation, under its president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, approved the 2008/09 season calendar at its board of directors meeting. The inaugural race of the new season will be a 90-km qualifying event for young riders seeking experience in endurance races.
The first official race this year will be the National Day Championship set for December 13 and is over 120km. That will be followed by a 12km open race on January 3 next year.
Other events are the Women's Open Championship on January 31, the National Stables Championship on February 7, His Majesty King Hamad Cup on March 7, the Crown Prince Cup race on April 3 and the Season-Ending Championship on May 1.
Meanwhile, the Breef members also discussed the showjumping season and confirmed the schedule of its events. The showjumping season will get underway on November 7 with the Season Starting Championship, to be followed by the National Day Championship on December 19, then the Breef Cup on February 13.
In other competitions, the Arab League round for His Majesty King Hamad Cup will be held from February 19 to 22, the second Breef Cup on March 27 and the Season Ending Championship on March 10 and 11.
The federation also decided to form a marketing committee to promote its programmes and activities. The committee, to be headed by Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa, will start looking for sponsors to support the federation this season.
The meeting was also attended by Breef first vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, second vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, general secretary Ghalib Al Alawi, assistant general secretary Dr Khalid Hassan, public relations head Faisal Al Ajmi and members Tawfeeq Salehi, Haider Al Zo'bi, Mahmood Abdulsaheb and Fahad Al Rumaihi.
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