Bahrain News Agency
08 11, 2008
MANAMA, NOV 8 (BNA)-- HIS MAJESTY KING HAMAD BIN ISA AL KHALIFA SENT A CABLE OF CONGRATULATIONS TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE BAHRAIN ROYAL EQUESTRIAN AND ENDURANCE HORSE RACING FEDERATION (BREEF) SHAIKH NASSER BIN HAMAD AL KHALIFA FOR CLINCHING THE BRONZE MEDAL IN THE FEI WORLD ENDURANCE CHAMPIONSHIP 2008 HELD IN MALAYSIA.
HM THE KING HAILED THE ACHIEVEMENT OF THE BAHRAIN ENDURANCE TEAM LED BY SHAIKH NASSER WHICH IS CONSIDERED AN OUTSTANDING ACCOMPLISHMENT. HE ALSO SAID THAT SHAIKH NASSERS PODIUM ACHIEVEMENT ALONG WITH HIS BROTHERS FROM THE UAE AND QATAR IS CONSIDERED AN ACCOMPLISHMENT FOR GCC YOUTH IN WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS. HM THE KING WISHED SHAIKH NASSER CONTINUED SUCCESS IN FUTURE CHAMPIONSHIPS. MEANWHILE, HM THE KING WILL RECEIVE TOMORROW SHAIKH NASSER AND BREEFS FIRST DEPUTY SHAIKH KHALID BIN HAMAD AL KHALIFA ON THE OCCASION OF THIS ACHIEVEMENT. HE WILL ALSO RECEIVE MUHARRAQ TEAM ON THEIR WINNING OF THE ASIAN FEDERATION FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP HS/ 08-NOV-2008 20:08
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/08/2008 08:46:00 PM
Saturday, November 08, 2008
[WEC Reports] Mohammed bin Rashid wins "Godfather of World Endurance Race" award
Wam.org.ae
Nov 8, 2008 - 07:36 -
WAM Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, Nov. 8, 2008 (WAM) -- The King of Malaysia, Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin ibni al-Marhum Sultan Mahmud, has granted H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the "Godfather of World Endurance Horse Race" Award in recognition of Sheikh Mohammed's great contributions and support for world endurance horse race.
The Malaysian monarch, who is also the Chairman of the Higher Organising committee of the World Endurance Horse Race, granted the title to Sheikh Mohammed on behalf of all participants in the race.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince, received the award on behalf of his father from Sultan Mohammed, the brother of the Malaysian King, during a short but colourful ceremony attended by a number of officials and orgisers of the race.
In a comment, Datu Siri Doctor Mohammed Saleh Nour, Deputy Chairman of the Organising Committee of the World Endurance Horse Race, said the award was an international sports honour being granted to the most significant personalities of the sport in recognition of their great contributions in sustaining the sport internationally.
He explained that the award is granted once only in decades to an extraordinary international sports personality whose support and contributions to the world Endurance Horse Race can not be overemphasised. He said the award was the least the committee can award to "a great knight who exerted great efforts in support of endurance horse race and put all his experience on the table to help lift the sport to greater heights".
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/08/2008 08:44:00 PM
Nov 8, 2008 - 07:36 -
WAM Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, Nov. 8, 2008 (WAM) -- The King of Malaysia, Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin ibni al-Marhum Sultan Mahmud, has granted H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the "Godfather of World Endurance Horse Race" Award in recognition of Sheikh Mohammed's great contributions and support for world endurance horse race.
The Malaysian monarch, who is also the Chairman of the Higher Organising committee of the World Endurance Horse Race, granted the title to Sheikh Mohammed on behalf of all participants in the race.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince, received the award on behalf of his father from Sultan Mohammed, the brother of the Malaysian King, during a short but colourful ceremony attended by a number of officials and orgisers of the race.
In a comment, Datu Siri Doctor Mohammed Saleh Nour, Deputy Chairman of the Organising Committee of the World Endurance Horse Race, said the award was an international sports honour being granted to the most significant personalities of the sport in recognition of their great contributions in sustaining the sport internationally.
He explained that the award is granted once only in decades to an extraordinary international sports personality whose support and contributions to the world Endurance Horse Race can not be overemphasised. He said the award was the least the committee can award to "a great knight who exerted great efforts in support of endurance horse race and put all his experience on the table to help lift the sport to greater heights".
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/08/2008 08:44:00 PM
[WEC Reports] New world endurance champion says Shaikh Mohammad was inspiration
Gulfnews.com - Full Article
By M. Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
Published: November 08, 2008, 19:00
Terengganu, Malaysia: "If I am standing here as the world endurance champion it is only because of the support of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai," said the Dubai-based Maria Alvarez Ponton after making it almost a start-to-finish victory in the 160-km FEI World Endurance Championship here on Saturday.
"He gave us everything. We owe everything we have or done in horses to him. This victory is his," said Maria, who first came to Dubai to work as a stable rider seven years ago.
She met Jaume Punti Dachs, who was a trainer for Shaikh Mohammad's horses and after marriage the two created a record by becoming the first husband-wife pair to win a silver and bronze medal in the European Championship.
"Shaikh Mohammad allowed us to ride in competitions and that has helped. He has always been supportive of us and this win is also due to the experience of riding with the best UAE riders during the season," she said.
Riding her favourite horse Nobby, Maria completed the 160-km ride in 8 hours 48 minutes and 06 seconds and said her horse was a world champion.
More...
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/08/2008 04:49:00 PM
By M. Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
Published: November 08, 2008, 19:00
Terengganu, Malaysia: "If I am standing here as the world endurance champion it is only because of the support of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai," said the Dubai-based Maria Alvarez Ponton after making it almost a start-to-finish victory in the 160-km FEI World Endurance Championship here on Saturday.
"He gave us everything. We owe everything we have or done in horses to him. This victory is his," said Maria, who first came to Dubai to work as a stable rider seven years ago.
She met Jaume Punti Dachs, who was a trainer for Shaikh Mohammad's horses and after marriage the two created a record by becoming the first husband-wife pair to win a silver and bronze medal in the European Championship.
"Shaikh Mohammad allowed us to ride in competitions and that has helped. He has always been supportive of us and this win is also due to the experience of riding with the best UAE riders during the season," she said.
Riding her favourite horse Nobby, Maria completed the 160-km ride in 8 hours 48 minutes and 06 seconds and said her horse was a world champion.
More...
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/08/2008 04:49:00 PM
Great Britain: Fourth place for Tennant
Herefordtimes.com
10:40am Saturday 8th November 2008
A YOUNG Herefordshire rider has been showing her endurance in some of Europe’s toughest terrain.
Abbi Tennant, with her horse Chador, was a member of the Great Britain team at the European Young Riders Endurance Championships in Northern Spain and just missed out on a medal with a fourth-place finish.
On one of the toughest courses in Europe, where the minimum speed was reduced from 12kph to 11kph, four of the five British riders completed the 120km or 76-mile course.
Riding sensibly over the mountainous and stony course, Tennant and her team-mates completed the course at an average speed of 12.8kph, taking 12 hours with compulsory vettings and rest/feed periods during the day.
Sixty-six horses from 17 nations started the event with 36 finishing. The remainder were eliminated due to lameness or high heart rates either at the finish or during the day. All the British horses returned home well and sound.
The France team won the gold medal, followed home by Belgium with Switzerland taking bronze.
Herefordtimes.com
10:40am Saturday 8th November 2008
A YOUNG Herefordshire rider has been showing her endurance in some of Europe’s toughest terrain.
Abbi Tennant, with her horse Chador, was a member of the Great Britain team at the European Young Riders Endurance Championships in Northern Spain and just missed out on a medal with a fourth-place finish.
On one of the toughest courses in Europe, where the minimum speed was reduced from 12kph to 11kph, four of the five British riders completed the 120km or 76-mile course.
Riding sensibly over the mountainous and stony course, Tennant and her team-mates completed the course at an average speed of 12.8kph, taking 12 hours with compulsory vettings and rest/feed periods during the day.
Sixty-six horses from 17 nations started the event with 36 finishing. The remainder were eliminated due to lameness or high heart rates either at the finish or during the day. All the British horses returned home well and sound.
The France team won the gold medal, followed home by Belgium with Switzerland taking bronze.
Herefordtimes.com
USA: Home town Hidalgo
Moultonadvertiser.com - Full Article
Local girl is top national junior endurance rider
By Jeffrey M. Peyton Publisher
Published: Thursday, November 6, 2008
This is not your typical girl-and-her-horse story.
Not unless you define "typical" as the love-hate relationship between a teen-ager and the $150 rescue horse she rode at breakneck pace for 11 hours to win the national American Endurance Ride Conference 100-mile junior championship.
Actually, Joni and Cash Bonus won more than that lofty title. At age 14, the East Lawrence High School freshman finished fifth overall in the AERC 100-mile national championship, besting 45 other riders, all adults.
For his efforts, Cash also earned the title "Best Condition" and was named the #1 half-Arabian by the Arabian Horse Association.
The championship ride, which took place earlier this month in Henryville, Ind., was Joni's final ride as a junior...
More...
[WEC Reports] King Sad As Horse Eliminated
Bernama.com.my
November 08, 2008 17:17 PM
By Hilary Sebastian
SETIU, Nov 7 (Bernama) -- Hosts Malaysias hopes of creating history at the 12th FEI World Endurance Championship 2008 evaporated at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) when all four horses competing in the team event were eliminated due to various reasons.
Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidins horse Ibrahim Paschal Larzac was eliminated after the fifth loop while three other team members, Datuk Mohd Shuaib Isahak astride Blue Bronco lasted only until the 3rd loop, Mohd Faizal Ismail (Edenfels Zephyr) the 4th loopand Rosdam Mohd Noor (Janor Mamatembo) the 5th loop.
"I'm sad because my horse could not continue but I am happy that there were so many fans who came to watch the event," said Tuanku Mizan at the TIEP in Lembah Bidong here today.
The King who had to ride under extreme weather conditions caused by a heavy thunderstorm halfway through the race, was also happy that other riders in the Malaysian team emerged unscathed.
Apart from His Majesty and the three riders, six other riders who competed in the individual category were also eliminated, including former world number one Datuk Kamaruddin Abdul Ghani and his steed Navidad. Kamaruddin was the highest ranked Malaysian rider in the 160km race.
The other five, Datuk Abdullah Taib & Kerbalanen Armor, Muhammad Che Ahmad Yusri & Penn 3, Muhammad Firdaus Hamid & Ifra Des Jamets, Norlaily Bunyamin & Bremervale Jessie James, and Zainuddin Yusof & Texas, were unable to continue the race after various stages when their horses were eliminated for a number of reasons ranging from lameness, metabolic problems, time violation and retirement.
The two Malaysian riders who earned the honour of having completed the gruelling race were Md Azizie Ismail & Janor Fee and Abdul Halim Alihan & Brookkleigh Kentara, who finished in 34th and 39th places respectively.
A beaming Halim said though he had completed 160km races before, competing and finishing the FEI World Endurance Championship was a special feat that he would cherish.
"I only started endurance racing two years ago and earned a ticket to compete in the FEI World Endurance Championship on merit," said the Sarawakian who started as a groom and riding boy at the Royal Terengganu Stable Club in 2006.
The 27-year-old rider, who has competed in four 160km endurance competitions this year, is ranked 161st in the world and his best result was fifth placing at the Saera event in Australia in June.
The individual title was won by Spain's Maria Mercedes & Nobby who led the field of 126 riders from start to finish while the team title went to UAE.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/08/2008 04:02:00 PM
November 08, 2008 17:17 PM
By Hilary Sebastian
SETIU, Nov 7 (Bernama) -- Hosts Malaysias hopes of creating history at the 12th FEI World Endurance Championship 2008 evaporated at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) when all four horses competing in the team event were eliminated due to various reasons.
Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidins horse Ibrahim Paschal Larzac was eliminated after the fifth loop while three other team members, Datuk Mohd Shuaib Isahak astride Blue Bronco lasted only until the 3rd loop, Mohd Faizal Ismail (Edenfels Zephyr) the 4th loopand Rosdam Mohd Noor (Janor Mamatembo) the 5th loop.
"I'm sad because my horse could not continue but I am happy that there were so many fans who came to watch the event," said Tuanku Mizan at the TIEP in Lembah Bidong here today.
The King who had to ride under extreme weather conditions caused by a heavy thunderstorm halfway through the race, was also happy that other riders in the Malaysian team emerged unscathed.
Apart from His Majesty and the three riders, six other riders who competed in the individual category were also eliminated, including former world number one Datuk Kamaruddin Abdul Ghani and his steed Navidad. Kamaruddin was the highest ranked Malaysian rider in the 160km race.
The other five, Datuk Abdullah Taib & Kerbalanen Armor, Muhammad Che Ahmad Yusri & Penn 3, Muhammad Firdaus Hamid & Ifra Des Jamets, Norlaily Bunyamin & Bremervale Jessie James, and Zainuddin Yusof & Texas, were unable to continue the race after various stages when their horses were eliminated for a number of reasons ranging from lameness, metabolic problems, time violation and retirement.
The two Malaysian riders who earned the honour of having completed the gruelling race were Md Azizie Ismail & Janor Fee and Abdul Halim Alihan & Brookkleigh Kentara, who finished in 34th and 39th places respectively.
A beaming Halim said though he had completed 160km races before, competing and finishing the FEI World Endurance Championship was a special feat that he would cherish.
"I only started endurance racing two years ago and earned a ticket to compete in the FEI World Endurance Championship on merit," said the Sarawakian who started as a groom and riding boy at the Royal Terengganu Stable Club in 2006.
The 27-year-old rider, who has competed in four 160km endurance competitions this year, is ranked 161st in the world and his best result was fifth placing at the Saera event in Australia in June.
The individual title was won by Spain's Maria Mercedes & Nobby who led the field of 126 riders from start to finish while the team title went to UAE.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/08/2008 04:02:00 PM
[WEC Reports] UAE wins team gold in World Endurance Championship
By M. Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
Published: November 08, 2008, 11:01
Terengganu, Malaysia: The UAE endurance team won the team gold and an individual bronze to totally dominate the 12th edition of the World Endurance Championship.
After Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince, made an unfortunate exit after the third stage as his horse went lame, the remaining five riders led by Shaikh Mayed Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum went on to finish in the top seven, one of the best by any country in the world championships.
While Shaikh Mayed along with Mubarak Khalifa Bin Shafya, Abdullah Thani Bin Huzaim and Mohammad Ahmad Ali Subose displayed excellent team work to outclass their opponents and claim the prestigious team gold, Sultan Bin Sulayem finished ahead of the gold-winning UAE quartet to take the individual bronze.
Dubai-based Spanish rider Maria Alvarez Ponton won the individual gold with Argentina's Augustin Vita taking the silver.
A total of 127 riders from 32 countries took part in the first ever night ride.
Results of the Deyaar-sponsored 160-km FEI World Endurance Championship:
* 1. Maria Alvarez Ponton-Spain- (Nobby) 8hrs 58mins 06 secs
* 2. Augustin Vita-Argentina-(Barakah Ibn Al Tamah) 9:07.55;
* 3. Sultan Ahmad Bin Sulayem (Tazoul El Parry ) 9:19.31
* 4. Shaikh Mayed Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum (Spenda Crest Kamouflage) 9:24.42;
* 5. Mohammad Ahmad Ali Subose (Koum Des Jamets) 9:31.38;
* 6. Mubarak Khalifa Bin Shafya (Zakah Zahara) 9:31.39;
* 7. Abdullah Thani Bin Huzaim (Castlebar Kadeen) 9;31.40.
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Posted By Steph Teeter to WEC Reports at 11/08/2008 02:05:00 PM
[WEC Reports] Bahraini riders stay in the fray
Gulf Daily News
BAHRAIN's Royal Endurance Horseride team successfully completed the first two stages of the 160-km World Endurance Horseride Championship which got underway yesterday at the Terengganu International Endurance Park in Terengga.
The team, being led by Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, put up a spirited show in the first stages of this challenging race which concludes today.
The Bahrainis managed to stay in the race despite the heavy rain which started before the event and continued to fall throughout the early stages of the race.
The remaining five Bahrainis in the fray are Breef first vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Yousif Taher, Ghazi Al Dossary, Raed Mahmood and Ahmed Abdulla.
The Bahraini team is being coached by Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa while Dr Khalid Hassan was appointed team manager.
A total of 242 riders representing 34 countries started this challenging race but only 90 riders could finish the first two stages.
Crossed
In the first stage, which was over 28 kms, 108 were able to complete the race, including Spaniard rider Maria Alvarez who crossed the finish line in one hour, 24 minutes and 29 seconds.
Behind her was Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum (1:25:24) of the UAE in second place while Qatari Abdulla Al Mirri (1:27:23) was third.
Bahrain's first rider to finish this stage was Al Dossary who clocked 1:40:20, followed by Abdulla (1:41:23), Shaikh Nasser (1:43:46), Mahmood (1:44:43), Taher (1:46:44) and Shaikh Khalid (1:58:23).
In the second stage, Al Mirri moved on top and was ahead of Alvarez who went down to second while Shaikh Hamdan dropped to third.
The first Bahraini rider to end this stage was Al Dossary who marked three hours, 13 minutes and 59 seconds.
The next Bahraini was held by Abdulla (3:19:29), Mahmood (3:23:12), Taher (3:30:33), Shaikh Nasser (3:39:24) and Shaikh Khalid (3:55:17).
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Posted By Steph Teeter to WEC Reports at 11/08/2008 02:01:00 PM
BAHRAIN's Royal Endurance Horseride team successfully completed the first two stages of the 160-km World Endurance Horseride Championship which got underway yesterday at the Terengganu International Endurance Park in Terengga.
The team, being led by Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, put up a spirited show in the first stages of this challenging race which concludes today.
The Bahrainis managed to stay in the race despite the heavy rain which started before the event and continued to fall throughout the early stages of the race.
The remaining five Bahrainis in the fray are Breef first vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Yousif Taher, Ghazi Al Dossary, Raed Mahmood and Ahmed Abdulla.
The Bahraini team is being coached by Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa while Dr Khalid Hassan was appointed team manager.
A total of 242 riders representing 34 countries started this challenging race but only 90 riders could finish the first two stages.
Crossed
In the first stage, which was over 28 kms, 108 were able to complete the race, including Spaniard rider Maria Alvarez who crossed the finish line in one hour, 24 minutes and 29 seconds.
Behind her was Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum (1:25:24) of the UAE in second place while Qatari Abdulla Al Mirri (1:27:23) was third.
Bahrain's first rider to finish this stage was Al Dossary who clocked 1:40:20, followed by Abdulla (1:41:23), Shaikh Nasser (1:43:46), Mahmood (1:44:43), Taher (1:46:44) and Shaikh Khalid (1:58:23).
In the second stage, Al Mirri moved on top and was ahead of Alvarez who went down to second while Shaikh Hamdan dropped to third.
The first Bahraini rider to end this stage was Al Dossary who marked three hours, 13 minutes and 59 seconds.
The next Bahraini was held by Abdulla (3:19:29), Mahmood (3:23:12), Taher (3:30:33), Shaikh Nasser (3:39:24) and Shaikh Khalid (3:55:17).
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Posted By Steph Teeter to WEC Reports at 11/08/2008 02:01:00 PM
[WEC Reports] Spain's Maria Mercedes Sweeps Individual Title, UAE Clinch Team...
Bernama.com
November 08, 2008 17:06 PM
By Hilary Sebastian
SETIU, Nov 8 (Bernama) -- Spain's Maria Mercedes Alvarez Ponton astride Nobby not only overcame thunderstorms and pitch darkness but also her male challengers to win the FEI World Endurance Championship 2008 individual title, while the UAE clinched the team title at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong, Setiu, Saturday.
Maria's win underlined Spain's supremacy in world endurance races as it was their second victory in the individual category in the prestigious championship after Miguel Villa Ubach won the title in 2006 in Aachen, Germany.
The Spanish rider led from start to finish with the exception of the second loop where she came in second behind Argentinas Agustin Vita to complete the 160km race in a time of 8 hours 48 minutes and 06 seconds.
Her win also maintained women's dominance in the World Endurance Championship as she became the 10th women to win the individual title out of 12 editions, since 1986.
Apart from Ubach in 2006 the only other time men won the title was in 2002 when Spain hosted the championship. Ahmed Al Maktoum of the UAE won it then.
Vita went on to clinch second place with a time of 857:55s while UAEs Sultan Ahmed Sultan Sulayem clocked 909:31s to take third place.
Maria who started the 160km race at 5.30pm yesterday together with 126 other riders who competed in the individual and team events, completed the final loop (loop 7) at 7.18am this morning as the first rider while the last rider came into the final check point at 11.40am.
In the team event, middle east countries UAE, Qatar and Bahrain made a clean sweep of the top three places while defending champion France were relegated to 9th spot as Portugal, Spain, Italy, Canada and Argentina finished ahead of them.
The total times recorded by UAEs three team members, 27 hours 57 minutes 59 seconds gave them the team title ahead of Qatar who finished with a time of 2847:17s for second place while Bahrain snatched third place from Portugal with a time of 3055:34s.
The grueling race that was flagged off at 5.30pm yesterday with 126 riders saw only 50 riders complete the race while 76 were eliminated for various health reasons to horses or the riders.
By the first loop, 21 riders had been eliminated and another 10 saw the exit in the second loop, 15 after the third loop, 13 more were eliminated in the fourth loop while the fifth, sixth and seventh loops saw ten, four and three riders disqualified respectively.
The prize giving ceremony would be held tomorrow at TIEP.
RESULTS:
INDIVIDUAL CATEGORY:
1. Maria Mercedes Alvarez Ponton & Nobby (Spain)
08:46:06 seconds
2. Agustin Vita Agustin & Baraka Ibn Tamah (Argentina) 08:57:55s
3. Sultan Ahmed Sultan Sulayem & Tazoul El Parry (UAE) 09:09:31s
4. Shaikh Majid Mohd Al Maktoum & Spenda Crest Kamouflage (UAE) 09:14:42s
5. Mohd Ahmad Ali Subose & Koum Des Jamets (UAE) 09:21:38s
6. Mubarak Khalifa Shafya & Zakah Zahara (UAE) 09:21:39s
7. Abdulla Thani Huzaim & Caslebar Kadeen (UAE) 09:21:40s
8. Rachel Jaumotte & Rukban Dikruhu (BEL) 09:32:18s
9. Shaikh Nasser Hamad Al Khalifa (BHR) 09:33:28s
10. Atta Mohammed Beer (OTR) 09:34:38s
TEAM CATEGORY:
1. UAE 27:57:59S
2. Qatar 28:47:17s
3. Bahrain 30:55:34s
4. Portugal 30:58:52s
5. Spain 31:25:24s
6. Italy 34:31:37s
7. Canada 38:25:45s
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Posted By Steph Teeter to WEC Reports at 11/08/2008 01:36:00 PM
November 08, 2008 17:06 PM
By Hilary Sebastian
SETIU, Nov 8 (Bernama) -- Spain's Maria Mercedes Alvarez Ponton astride Nobby not only overcame thunderstorms and pitch darkness but also her male challengers to win the FEI World Endurance Championship 2008 individual title, while the UAE clinched the team title at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong, Setiu, Saturday.
Maria's win underlined Spain's supremacy in world endurance races as it was their second victory in the individual category in the prestigious championship after Miguel Villa Ubach won the title in 2006 in Aachen, Germany.
The Spanish rider led from start to finish with the exception of the second loop where she came in second behind Argentinas Agustin Vita to complete the 160km race in a time of 8 hours 48 minutes and 06 seconds.
Her win also maintained women's dominance in the World Endurance Championship as she became the 10th women to win the individual title out of 12 editions, since 1986.
Apart from Ubach in 2006 the only other time men won the title was in 2002 when Spain hosted the championship. Ahmed Al Maktoum of the UAE won it then.
Vita went on to clinch second place with a time of 857:55s while UAEs Sultan Ahmed Sultan Sulayem clocked 909:31s to take third place.
Maria who started the 160km race at 5.30pm yesterday together with 126 other riders who competed in the individual and team events, completed the final loop (loop 7) at 7.18am this morning as the first rider while the last rider came into the final check point at 11.40am.
In the team event, middle east countries UAE, Qatar and Bahrain made a clean sweep of the top three places while defending champion France were relegated to 9th spot as Portugal, Spain, Italy, Canada and Argentina finished ahead of them.
The total times recorded by UAEs three team members, 27 hours 57 minutes 59 seconds gave them the team title ahead of Qatar who finished with a time of 2847:17s for second place while Bahrain snatched third place from Portugal with a time of 3055:34s.
The grueling race that was flagged off at 5.30pm yesterday with 126 riders saw only 50 riders complete the race while 76 were eliminated for various health reasons to horses or the riders.
By the first loop, 21 riders had been eliminated and another 10 saw the exit in the second loop, 15 after the third loop, 13 more were eliminated in the fourth loop while the fifth, sixth and seventh loops saw ten, four and three riders disqualified respectively.
The prize giving ceremony would be held tomorrow at TIEP.
RESULTS:
INDIVIDUAL CATEGORY:
1. Maria Mercedes Alvarez Ponton & Nobby (Spain)
08:46:06 seconds
2. Agustin Vita Agustin & Baraka Ibn Tamah (Argentina) 08:57:55s
3. Sultan Ahmed Sultan Sulayem & Tazoul El Parry (UAE) 09:09:31s
4. Shaikh Majid Mohd Al Maktoum & Spenda Crest Kamouflage (UAE) 09:14:42s
5. Mohd Ahmad Ali Subose & Koum Des Jamets (UAE) 09:21:38s
6. Mubarak Khalifa Shafya & Zakah Zahara (UAE) 09:21:39s
7. Abdulla Thani Huzaim & Caslebar Kadeen (UAE) 09:21:40s
8. Rachel Jaumotte & Rukban Dikruhu (BEL) 09:32:18s
9. Shaikh Nasser Hamad Al Khalifa (BHR) 09:33:28s
10. Atta Mohammed Beer (OTR) 09:34:38s
TEAM CATEGORY:
1. UAE 27:57:59S
2. Qatar 28:47:17s
3. Bahrain 30:55:34s
4. Portugal 30:58:52s
5. Spain 31:25:24s
6. Italy 34:31:37s
7. Canada 38:25:45s
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Posted By Steph Teeter to WEC Reports at 11/08/2008 01:36:00 PM
Thursday, November 06, 2008
[WEC Reports] Equestrian event opening does Malaysia proud
New Straits Times
2008/11/07
KUALA TERENGGANU: It was an evening to remember for some 50,000 people who attended the opening ceremony of the FEI World Endurance Championship 2008 at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium in Gong Badak on Wednesday night.
Not only was it a historic night as it was the first time the nation was hosting the prestigious equestrian competition, but the lavish ceremony, opened by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, had also impressed many.
There were cultural song and dance, an acrobatic horse show by Lorenzo, fireworks display and performances by popular artistes, including M. Nasir, Ramli Sarip, Jamal Abdillah, Ella and Mawi.
But not many would know the spectacular fanfare was put together in less than a week by event management company Dale Lokman Associates Sdn Bhd.
Its managing director, Datuk Mahadzir Lokman, said he was entrusted with the task late last month but the go-ahead for the programme and opening ceremony came only about a week ago. He said at such short notice, it was a wonder the show got off the ground. But the hard work and sleepless nights paid off as the event was a success, judging by the many congratulatory phone calls and messages received after the show.
Time, Mahadzir said, was the team's biggest constraint, but everything fell into place at the right time.
He said he did not know why the tournament organiser had waited that long to hire an event manager for the opening ceremony, but he decided to accept the challenge.
Event deputy director Morne Hashim said she believed it was a rescue job of sorts. However, for the love of the country and the sport, she accepted the challenge of putting up a production with a cast of almost 1,000.
She said an ideal period for such a job would be at least three months but with grit and determination, anything could be done and done well.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/07/2008 03:05:00 AM
2008/11/07
KUALA TERENGGANU: It was an evening to remember for some 50,000 people who attended the opening ceremony of the FEI World Endurance Championship 2008 at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium in Gong Badak on Wednesday night.
Not only was it a historic night as it was the first time the nation was hosting the prestigious equestrian competition, but the lavish ceremony, opened by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, had also impressed many.
There were cultural song and dance, an acrobatic horse show by Lorenzo, fireworks display and performances by popular artistes, including M. Nasir, Ramli Sarip, Jamal Abdillah, Ella and Mawi.
But not many would know the spectacular fanfare was put together in less than a week by event management company Dale Lokman Associates Sdn Bhd.
Its managing director, Datuk Mahadzir Lokman, said he was entrusted with the task late last month but the go-ahead for the programme and opening ceremony came only about a week ago. He said at such short notice, it was a wonder the show got off the ground. But the hard work and sleepless nights paid off as the event was a success, judging by the many congratulatory phone calls and messages received after the show.
Time, Mahadzir said, was the team's biggest constraint, but everything fell into place at the right time.
He said he did not know why the tournament organiser had waited that long to hire an event manager for the opening ceremony, but he decided to accept the challenge.
Event deputy director Morne Hashim said she believed it was a rescue job of sorts. However, for the love of the country and the sport, she accepted the challenge of putting up a production with a cast of almost 1,000.
She said an ideal period for such a job would be at least three months but with grit and determination, anything could be done and done well.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/07/2008 03:05:00 AM
[WEC Reports] Challenge awaits riders
New Straits Times
2008/11/07
Ajitpal Singh
TERENGGANU will make history today by staging the FEI World Endurance Championships's first ever night race at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Setiu.
This is also the first time the 160km race is being held in a tropical country.
WEC technical director Derek Liebenberg said the endurance racing fraternity is anticipating an exciting race.
"Terengganu is a new challenge for everyone because it is the first time riders will be racing at night in a world meet. It's going to be exciting under challenging conditions, and interesting," said Liebenberg at TIEP yesterday.
"Everything has been done to ensure safety. We have tested the safety specifications many times and riders should not worry.
"Among the safety specs are the 1,200 light poles installed in sections of the course, check points at designated areas and all riders will be wearing a GPS tracking device.
"The Malaysian army will be stationed along the course during the race. The medical team are also well prepared if there are any untoward incidents."
The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) decided on a night race due to the humid conditions here.
Riders should be prepared for a wet race as the meteorological department is predicting heavy rain for today.
That won't be too bad for the European riders who are hoping for rain in the hope that their horses will last the whole race.
However, riders from Middle Eastern countries are not too particular about the track and weather. According to endurance experts, their horses are trained to endure any conditions.
The Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Tuanku Nur Zahirah will flag off the race which starts at 5.30pm today and the first horse is expected to cross the line at about 7am tomorrow.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/07/2008 02:59:00 AM
2008/11/07
Ajitpal Singh
TERENGGANU will make history today by staging the FEI World Endurance Championships's first ever night race at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Setiu.
This is also the first time the 160km race is being held in a tropical country.
WEC technical director Derek Liebenberg said the endurance racing fraternity is anticipating an exciting race.
"Terengganu is a new challenge for everyone because it is the first time riders will be racing at night in a world meet. It's going to be exciting under challenging conditions, and interesting," said Liebenberg at TIEP yesterday.
"Everything has been done to ensure safety. We have tested the safety specifications many times and riders should not worry.
"Among the safety specs are the 1,200 light poles installed in sections of the course, check points at designated areas and all riders will be wearing a GPS tracking device.
"The Malaysian army will be stationed along the course during the race. The medical team are also well prepared if there are any untoward incidents."
The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) decided on a night race due to the humid conditions here.
Riders should be prepared for a wet race as the meteorological department is predicting heavy rain for today.
That won't be too bad for the European riders who are hoping for rain in the hope that their horses will last the whole race.
However, riders from Middle Eastern countries are not too particular about the track and weather. According to endurance experts, their horses are trained to endure any conditions.
The Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Tuanku Nur Zahirah will flag off the race which starts at 5.30pm today and the first horse is expected to cross the line at about 7am tomorrow.
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/07/2008 02:59:00 AM
[WEC Reports] Tuanku Mizan will lead Malaysia
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).
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/07/2008 02:56:00 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).
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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/07/2008 02:56:00 AM
[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).
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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).
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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."
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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."
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
--
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.
--
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.
--
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.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/06/2008 05:20:00 PM
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