Thenational.ae.com - Full Article
Amith Passela
November 20. 2008
First it was the junior and young riders, next the men, and now it’s the turn of the women, who will be in action in the first of the three-race series exclusively for the ladies at Al Asayel Endurance Village today.
The 120-km race with an FEI-CEI three-star status has drawn 30 entries including the newly crowned world champion Maria Alvarez Ponton, of Spain. Ponton, who trains endurance horses with her husband Juma Punti Dachs in Dubai for Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, won the world crown earlier this month in Terengganu, Malaysia.
She has been in fine fettle with her champion horse Nobby. On whom she won a bronze medal in last year’s European Championship in Portugal.
More....
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Bahrain: 80 riders set for qualifying race
Gulf-daily-news.com
21st November 2008
MORE than 80 of Bahrain's top riders are taking part in the 90km Endurance Horseride Qualifying Championship scheduled for tomorrow at 5am at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir. Leading the entries in this warmup event is Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation president and Royal Endurance Team captain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa who will be riding Omsura Nasrohn.
Other prominent Bahrainis taking part includes Al Khalidiya Stable captain and Breef first vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa who will ride Naima El Fayssetts.
Other riders from the Royal Endurance Team include Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Khalifa, Isa Al Dossary, Abdulla Al Muawda, Ibrahim Al Jaboori and Hussain Al Nayef.
Five entrants will spearhead Al Ruwaie Stables owned by Hassan bin Saleh Al Ruwaie and they are Hamad Al Tamimi, Abdulla Yousif, Jamal Al Tamimi, Abdulla Al Ruwaie and Ahmed Jamal.
The Al Talia Stable, one of the hot contenders tomorrow, will be represented by five riders - Dalpat Hari Singh, Ganpat Singh, Sang Singh Bhati and Ahmed Al Ruwaie.
Mohammed Makki will lead a three-member team from Awal Stables. Other riders are Hassan Ali and Jaffer Salman while Isa Buhazza and Mohammed Khan will ride for Hafeera Stables.
Other stables in the fray includes Bahrain Riding School, Al Shuwamekh, Al Ajyal, Wadi Ali, Al Reem, Al Mughairat, Jehad Ahmed Sharaf, Ali Ghuloom, Abu Younes, Azadi, Abdulla Malalla, Zainab Za'alan, Jassim Malalla, Sayed Hussain Ali and Ahmed Al Mannai.
Ghalib Al Alawi will be the head of the jury committee which also includes Abdulsamad Al Busta and Mahdi Al Klaiti.
The international commissioner is Mahmood Abdulsaheb who will be assisted by Fahad Al Rumaihi. Mohammed Abdulla was named technical commissioner of the race.
The veterinary committee will be headed by Breef assistant general secretary Dr Khalid Ahmed Hassan and comprises of Saudi Arabia's Mohammed Al Hammad, Ibrahim Al Hassan of Jordan, D C Niranjan of India, Bahrain's Ibrahim Yousif, Sabah Al Ka'abi and George Bandalo of Argentina.
A purpose-built veterinary clinic and laboratory will be available at the village and will be supervised by a team consisting of Dr Farida Abdulrazzaq of Bahrain and including compatriot Abdulrahman Abu Al Shouk, Merghani Jilani, Ahmed Dhaif, Milo Kanabo of Dominican Republic and Stephan Prince of France.
21st November 2008
MORE than 80 of Bahrain's top riders are taking part in the 90km Endurance Horseride Qualifying Championship scheduled for tomorrow at 5am at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir. Leading the entries in this warmup event is Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation president and Royal Endurance Team captain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa who will be riding Omsura Nasrohn.
Other prominent Bahrainis taking part includes Al Khalidiya Stable captain and Breef first vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa who will ride Naima El Fayssetts.
Other riders from the Royal Endurance Team include Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Khalifa, Isa Al Dossary, Abdulla Al Muawda, Ibrahim Al Jaboori and Hussain Al Nayef.
Five entrants will spearhead Al Ruwaie Stables owned by Hassan bin Saleh Al Ruwaie and they are Hamad Al Tamimi, Abdulla Yousif, Jamal Al Tamimi, Abdulla Al Ruwaie and Ahmed Jamal.
The Al Talia Stable, one of the hot contenders tomorrow, will be represented by five riders - Dalpat Hari Singh, Ganpat Singh, Sang Singh Bhati and Ahmed Al Ruwaie.
Mohammed Makki will lead a three-member team from Awal Stables. Other riders are Hassan Ali and Jaffer Salman while Isa Buhazza and Mohammed Khan will ride for Hafeera Stables.
Other stables in the fray includes Bahrain Riding School, Al Shuwamekh, Al Ajyal, Wadi Ali, Al Reem, Al Mughairat, Jehad Ahmed Sharaf, Ali Ghuloom, Abu Younes, Azadi, Abdulla Malalla, Zainab Za'alan, Jassim Malalla, Sayed Hussain Ali and Ahmed Al Mannai.
Ghalib Al Alawi will be the head of the jury committee which also includes Abdulsamad Al Busta and Mahdi Al Klaiti.
The international commissioner is Mahmood Abdulsaheb who will be assisted by Fahad Al Rumaihi. Mohammed Abdulla was named technical commissioner of the race.
The veterinary committee will be headed by Breef assistant general secretary Dr Khalid Ahmed Hassan and comprises of Saudi Arabia's Mohammed Al Hammad, Ibrahim Al Hassan of Jordan, D C Niranjan of India, Bahrain's Ibrahim Yousif, Sabah Al Ka'abi and George Bandalo of Argentina.
A purpose-built veterinary clinic and laboratory will be available at the village and will be supervised by a team consisting of Dr Farida Abdulrazzaq of Bahrain and including compatriot Abdulrahman Abu Al Shouk, Merghani Jilani, Ahmed Dhaif, Milo Kanabo of Dominican Republic and Stephan Prince of France.
France puts in formal bid for WEG 2014
Horsetalk.co.nz
November 18, 2008
As preparations build for the next World Equestrian Games - in Kentucky 2010 - France has put in its formal bid for the 2014 Games, with their proposal placing the event in Basse Normandie, Northern France.
Representatives of the French Equestrian Federation formally presented the Candidacy Book outlining the bid to FEI President Princess Haya, on Sunday.
"The Basse Normandie region has put forward a very serious bid which has the support of the President of the French Republic and the French government," said Mr Christian Paillot, Vice President of the French Equestrian Federation. "It is a safe choice as we already have in existence excellent venues as well as a balanced budget."
The bid will now be circulated to the FEI Bureau and FEI Headquarters for evaluation. The official presentation by the bid committee will take place during the FEI Bureau Meeting in April 2009 when the allocation will be made.
2014 will see the eighth edition of FEIs biggest event after the inaugural event was organised in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1990.
November 18, 2008
As preparations build for the next World Equestrian Games - in Kentucky 2010 - France has put in its formal bid for the 2014 Games, with their proposal placing the event in Basse Normandie, Northern France.
Representatives of the French Equestrian Federation formally presented the Candidacy Book outlining the bid to FEI President Princess Haya, on Sunday.
"The Basse Normandie region has put forward a very serious bid which has the support of the President of the French Republic and the French government," said Mr Christian Paillot, Vice President of the French Equestrian Federation. "It is a safe choice as we already have in existence excellent venues as well as a balanced budget."
The bid will now be circulated to the FEI Bureau and FEI Headquarters for evaluation. The official presentation by the bid committee will take place during the FEI Bureau Meeting in April 2009 when the allocation will be made.
2014 will see the eighth edition of FEIs biggest event after the inaugural event was organised in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1990.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
UAE: All Set for Ladies Endurance Championship
20 November 2008
DUBAI - The first endurance ride for the current season exclusively featuring lady riders will be flagged off on Friday at the Al Asayl Endurance Village. The ride is part of the three-round Shaikh Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan Challenge for Ladies, a Press release said.
The UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, in cooperation with the Al Asayel Endurance Village, is organising the rides for the third consecutive year in the country. The FEI, CEI Three-star series will comprise three 120-km rides, the first of which will be held on Friday. Round Two and Three are scheduled to be held on February 19 and March 13.
Al Asayl Endurance Village, which is situated in Sweihan, Abu Dhabi, will be the venue for all the three rides, which are held under the patronage of Shaikh Sultan bin Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the UAE Equestrian Federation.
Round One will be run in five phases of 30km, 30km, 24km, 20km and 16km respectively and will have a mass start at 6.15am. The ride is being sponsored by UAE realtors Hydra Properties.
Pre-ride inspection will be held on Thursday between 3 and 4pm at the Al Asayel Village premises. Respecting the UAE customs and traditions, the UAE local men folk are not permitted at the rides and private videography and photography too are forbidden.
Over 35 enthusiastic lady endurance riders have already confirmed their participation for the Friday inaugural. They include Shaikha Alyazia bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan who will be riding Ningadoo Moesha, Shaikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, who will partner with Sabee, Shaikha Maryam bint Omer Al Qasimi (Tsalla), Shaikha Asma Taleb Al Qasimi (Koheilan Des Serres) and Shaikha Madiya Hasher Al Maktoum (JG Opie). Also vying in the competition is Maria Alvarez Ponton, the reigning FEI World Champion. Maria won the title after finishing first in the Deyaar-sponsored 160-km FEI World Endurance Championship in Terengganu, Malaysia earlier this month.
Other contenders include Afra Khalifa Al Suwaidi, who was last year’s champion, Shamsah Awad Al Otaiba, who finished first in last year’s Round 3, Reem Shaban Ibrahim Hasan, Aliya Ali Mohd Yusuf Al Marzouqi, Sara Mohammed Al Jaber Al Marri, Nadia Mansor Loudouna, Jamila Ahmed, Nouf Mohammed Khamis Al Dhaheri and Bayan Abdullah Abas Ahmed,.
[More ...]
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Kazakhstan: FEI approves 2009 Asian Championship date
The 2009 Asian Championship will be held 16-17 May, in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
Almaty is the former capitol of Kazakhstan, located near the border with China. Previous Endurance events in Kazakhstan include the Championship ride.
Source, Equestrian Federation of Kazakhstan:
On October 18, 2008 in territory of a horse farm "Altyn SuTek" the competitions of Endurance Championship of the Republic of Kazakhstan was held.
The competitions have passed at a distance 30, 60 and 120 kilometers.
The national champion at a 120-kilometer distance became representative of Ust Kamenogorsk (club "Titan") Yuliya Starikova on Russian trotter Poligon.
At a distance of 60 kms a victory Natalya Dolgikh with Batiy have gained. They represent Almaty club "Altyn-Tay".
Kamilla Djumasaeva and Pinochet also representing "Altyn-Tay" have won at the shortest distance of the Championship.
Results
Geographically Kazakhstan is a part of Central Asia, Kazakhstan is more than twice as big as the four other Central Asian republics put together and is roughly half the size of mainland USA. The landscape of Kazakhstan is diverse. The northern forest-steppe turns into steppe, half-deserts and deserts in the South. Kazakhstan is mineral rich. Enterprises involved in extraction and processing of coal, oil, gas, non-ferrous and ferrous metals play a leading role in the national economy. The Republic is a multinational state inhabited with representatives of more than 120 nationalities. The main religions are Islam and Orthodox Christianity, but religious tolerant is the norm. In recent years lots of mosques and churches are under construction and the number of religious people is growing. But Kazakhstan is not as religious as other republics of Central Asia, and as a heritage of the Soviet Union a great number of people are not religious at all.
Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and the former capital of the Republic. The population of the city is over 1.300.000 people. Almaty is a multinational city where various Nationalities are represented as follows Kazaks 51%, Russians 37%, other nationalities 12%. People of Almaty communicate in Russian, Kazakh, or their native languages. Sudden exposure to the outside world has turned Almaty into Central Asia's most cosmopolitan city with shops, restaurants, hotels and casinos that would make the place unrecognizable to anyone who had been away since 1990. Almaty was the capital of Kazakhstan till December 1997. The city has long straight avenues and low-rise architecture. The Zailijski Alatau Mountains rise like a wall along Almaty's southern fringe and form a superb backdrop. There are lots of parks, space and greenery.
More info on Kazakhstan
Almaty is the former capitol of Kazakhstan, located near the border with China. Previous Endurance events in Kazakhstan include the Championship ride.
Source, Equestrian Federation of Kazakhstan:
On October 18, 2008 in territory of a horse farm "Altyn SuTek" the competitions of Endurance Championship of the Republic of Kazakhstan was held.
The competitions have passed at a distance 30, 60 and 120 kilometers.
The national champion at a 120-kilometer distance became representative of Ust Kamenogorsk (club "Titan") Yuliya Starikova on Russian trotter Poligon.
At a distance of 60 kms a victory Natalya Dolgikh with Batiy have gained. They represent Almaty club "Altyn-Tay".
Kamilla Djumasaeva and Pinochet also representing "Altyn-Tay" have won at the shortest distance of the Championship.
Results
Geographically Kazakhstan is a part of Central Asia, Kazakhstan is more than twice as big as the four other Central Asian republics put together and is roughly half the size of mainland USA. The landscape of Kazakhstan is diverse. The northern forest-steppe turns into steppe, half-deserts and deserts in the South. Kazakhstan is mineral rich. Enterprises involved in extraction and processing of coal, oil, gas, non-ferrous and ferrous metals play a leading role in the national economy. The Republic is a multinational state inhabited with representatives of more than 120 nationalities. The main religions are Islam and Orthodox Christianity, but religious tolerant is the norm. In recent years lots of mosques and churches are under construction and the number of religious people is growing. But Kazakhstan is not as religious as other republics of Central Asia, and as a heritage of the Soviet Union a great number of people are not religious at all.
Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and the former capital of the Republic. The population of the city is over 1.300.000 people. Almaty is a multinational city where various Nationalities are represented as follows Kazaks 51%, Russians 37%, other nationalities 12%. People of Almaty communicate in Russian, Kazakh, or their native languages. Sudden exposure to the outside world has turned Almaty into Central Asia's most cosmopolitan city with shops, restaurants, hotels and casinos that would make the place unrecognizable to anyone who had been away since 1990. Almaty was the capital of Kazakhstan till December 1997. The city has long straight avenues and low-rise architecture. The Zailijski Alatau Mountains rise like a wall along Almaty's southern fringe and form a superb backdrop. There are lots of parks, space and greenery.
More info on Kazakhstan
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Bahrain: Endurance qualifying race, schedule
Gulf Daily News
REGISTRATION has opened for the 90km Endurance Horseride Qualifying Ride scheduled for Saturday, commencing at 5am at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.
Registration opened under the directives of the Bahrain Equestrian and Endurance Federation president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
This qualifying race, which follows the Bahrain Endurance Team's impressive third-place in the World Championship in Malaysia, is a warm-up event for the new season.
Shaikh Nasser said the race would be divided into four stages, starting with 30km for the first, 25km for the second, 20km for the third and 15km for the fourth.
The Breef chief added that cash prizes would be given away to the top riders.
Improve
Shaikh Nasser also added that invitations were being sent to riders from European and Asian countries to take part in this season's races as part of a plan to improve the level of local riders.
The judges committee is led by Ghalib Al Alawi and includes Abdulsamad Al Busta, Mahdi Al Kelaiti and Ali Ghuloom.
Mahmood Abdulsahab was named official commissioner of the event and will be assisted by Fahad Al Rumaihi. Mohammed Abdulla will be the official technical commissioner.
The veterinary committee is headed by Dr Khalid Ahmed Hassan and consists of Dr mohammed Al Hammad of Saudi Arabia, Jordan's Dr Ibrahim Al Hassan, DCV Neringan of India, Dr George Pandlo of Argentina and Bahrain's Dr Ibrahim Yousif, Dr Khalid Ahmed, Dr Subah Al Kaabi.
The federation earlier announced the schedule for this year's competitions. The first main event of the season will be a 120km race on December 13.
That will be followed by the 120km Open Championship on January 10 and then the Breef Open Women's Championship on January 31 which will also be over 120km.
The next event on the Breef calendar will be a 100km and 160km races on February 7 and this will be followed by His Majesty King Hamad Championship scheduled for March.
The season's first night race will be held on April 3 and is for the Crown Prince Cup covering a total distance of 120km. It will be followed by the final event of the season - a 100km senior championship in the first week of May which will also be held at night.
REGISTRATION has opened for the 90km Endurance Horseride Qualifying Ride scheduled for Saturday, commencing at 5am at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.
Registration opened under the directives of the Bahrain Equestrian and Endurance Federation president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
This qualifying race, which follows the Bahrain Endurance Team's impressive third-place in the World Championship in Malaysia, is a warm-up event for the new season.
Shaikh Nasser said the race would be divided into four stages, starting with 30km for the first, 25km for the second, 20km for the third and 15km for the fourth.
The Breef chief added that cash prizes would be given away to the top riders.
Improve
Shaikh Nasser also added that invitations were being sent to riders from European and Asian countries to take part in this season's races as part of a plan to improve the level of local riders.
The judges committee is led by Ghalib Al Alawi and includes Abdulsamad Al Busta, Mahdi Al Kelaiti and Ali Ghuloom.
Mahmood Abdulsahab was named official commissioner of the event and will be assisted by Fahad Al Rumaihi. Mohammed Abdulla will be the official technical commissioner.
The veterinary committee is headed by Dr Khalid Ahmed Hassan and consists of Dr mohammed Al Hammad of Saudi Arabia, Jordan's Dr Ibrahim Al Hassan, DCV Neringan of India, Dr George Pandlo of Argentina and Bahrain's Dr Ibrahim Yousif, Dr Khalid Ahmed, Dr Subah Al Kaabi.
The federation earlier announced the schedule for this year's competitions. The first main event of the season will be a 120km race on December 13.
That will be followed by the 120km Open Championship on January 10 and then the Breef Open Women's Championship on January 31 which will also be over 120km.
The next event on the Breef calendar will be a 100km and 160km races on February 7 and this will be followed by His Majesty King Hamad Championship scheduled for March.
The season's first night race will be held on April 3 and is for the Crown Prince Cup covering a total distance of 120km. It will be followed by the final event of the season - a 100km senior championship in the first week of May which will also be held at night.
Endurance Seminar in Buenos Aires, November 24,25
EnduroOnline.com
François Atger: Breeding horses for Endurance
(La cría de caballos para endurance en Francia)
Leonard Liesens: Training horses for Endurance
(Entrenamiento de caballos de endurance)
Full info and registration details at EnduroOnline.com
François Atger: Breeding horses for Endurance
(La cría de caballos para endurance en Francia)
Leonard Liesens: Training horses for Endurance
(Entrenamiento de caballos de endurance)
Full info and registration details at EnduroOnline.com
France: Basse Normandie, Official Candidate to Host the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games
FEI Press Release
photo: Christian Paillot, Vice President of the French Equestrian Federation, presents
the Candidature Book to the FEI President, HRH Princess Haya.
(c) Sandra Azar / FEI
Representatives of the French Equestrian Federation formally presented to the FEI President, HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, the Candidacy Book outlining the bid of the French region of Basse Normandie, Northern France, to host the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games.
“The Basse Normandie region has put forward a very serious bid which has the support of the President of the French Republic and the French government,” said Mr Christian Paillot, Vice President of the French Equestrian Federation. “It is a safe choice as we already have in existence excellent venues as well as a balanced budget.”
The bid will now be circulated to the FEI Bureau and FEI Headquarters for evaluation. The official presentation by the bid committee will take place during the FEI Bureau Meeting in April 2009 when the allocation will be made.
2014 will see the eighth edition of FEI’s biggest event after the inaugural event was organised in Stockholm (SWE) in 1990.
photo: Christian Paillot, Vice President of the French Equestrian Federation, presentsthe Candidature Book to the FEI President, HRH Princess Haya.
(c) Sandra Azar / FEI
Representatives of the French Equestrian Federation formally presented to the FEI President, HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, the Candidacy Book outlining the bid of the French region of Basse Normandie, Northern France, to host the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games.
“The Basse Normandie region has put forward a very serious bid which has the support of the President of the French Republic and the French government,” said Mr Christian Paillot, Vice President of the French Equestrian Federation. “It is a safe choice as we already have in existence excellent venues as well as a balanced budget.”
The bid will now be circulated to the FEI Bureau and FEI Headquarters for evaluation. The official presentation by the bid committee will take place during the FEI Bureau Meeting in April 2009 when the allocation will be made.
2014 will see the eighth edition of FEI’s biggest event after the inaugural event was organised in Stockholm (SWE) in 1990.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Abu Dhabi: Al Beloushi wins Sorouh Challenge
Gulfnews.com - Full Article
By M. Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
Published: November 15, 2008, 23:41
Abu Dhabi: Omair Hussain Abdullah Al Beloushi revealed why he holds the world record for the fastest time when he won the 120km Sorouh Challenge.
Riding Silversprings Kabir Arwa, he turned up the heat on two gold medallists from last week's World Endurance Championship in Malaysia to win Saturday's race.
Mohammad Ahmad Ali Al Subose, a member of the gold medal winning UAE team in Malaysia, and Maria Alvarez Ponton of Spain, who won the world champion, could not match Omair's speed.
The pair had to be content with the second and third places respectively.
More...
By M. Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
Published: November 15, 2008, 23:41
Abu Dhabi: Omair Hussain Abdullah Al Beloushi revealed why he holds the world record for the fastest time when he won the 120km Sorouh Challenge.
Riding Silversprings Kabir Arwa, he turned up the heat on two gold medallists from last week's World Endurance Championship in Malaysia to win Saturday's race.
Mohammad Ahmad Ali Al Subose, a member of the gold medal winning UAE team in Malaysia, and Maria Alvarez Ponton of Spain, who won the world champion, could not match Omair's speed.
The pair had to be content with the second and third places respectively.
More...
Abu Dhabi: 110 Riders to Vie for Honours in FEI 120-km Sourouh Cup Endurance Championship
Khaleejtimes.com
(KT Report)
15 November 2008
ABU DHABI -The stage is set for the FEI 120-km Sorouh Cup Endurance ride which will be held at the Emirates International Endurance Village at Al Wathba on Saturday.
Over 110 riders will take part in the event.
“We thank Sorouh Real Estate who are supporting this event for the second year and we are expecting all the top riders to take part on Saturday,” said Adnan Sultan, Director General of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club.
“A total prize money of Dh 300,000 and a car for the winner will be up for grabs in the ride which will be held in five stages,” said Adnan.
“We have also instituted two awards for the best rider and the best trainer for all the rides to be held here at Al Wathba.”
Mohammad Al Marzouqi, HR and Administrative Director of Sorouh, said: “We would like to place on record our gratitude to Shaikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs, for giving us another opportunity to support equestrian sport.
“This is the second year that we are supporting this event and what makes it all the more important is that Saturday’s Sorouh Cup will kick start the Open competition in the UAE’s 2008-09 endurance season,” he said.
“Endurance riding is so closely linked to the community, which has a deep-rooted affinity with horses, which is why Sorouh is keen to support and promote this equestrian sport.”
Lara Sawaya, Managing Director of Tasweeq Management, said the Sorouh Cup would see that start of a promotional campaign for the breeding stables of Shaikh Mansour.
“This is the first in a promotional campaign which will see Sorouh and other companies involved in promoting the breeding stables of Shaikh Mansour.
“The campaign will also include organising seven races around the world for Purebred Arabian horses.”
The Sorouh Cup trophies have been designed specially by a top company in Los Angeles, according to Sawaya.
2008 FEI World Endurance Championship- A final story
I think that this event represented the maturity of our sport at the International level. It was a very tight race - a tightly contested race. I'm not sure how much more advantage can be gained in future events by 'getting better' at any single aspect of competition. With more things being equal (training, nutrition, crewing, strategy) we are beginning to see the true brilliance and athletic ability of the horse and the skill and horsemanship of the rider prevail.
I have written many many words about this event, about Malaysia as host, about the efforts behind a WEC. This link will take you there -
WEC wrap up - Steph's view
Congratulations to all who endeavored and to all who succeeded!
Steph Teeter
Endurance.net
I have written many many words about this event, about Malaysia as host, about the efforts behind a WEC. This link will take you there -
WEC wrap up - Steph's view
Congratulations to all who endeavored and to all who succeeded!
Steph Teeter
Endurance.net
Friday, November 14, 2008
Jordan: Mohammad wins endurance race in Aqaba
Gulfnews.com
WAM
Published: November 14, 2008
His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, was crowned the champion of the 120 km International Al Hussain Endurance Race which was held on Friday in the Jordanian Rum Valley in Aqaba.
Shaikh Mohammad, riding “Kumait- Kevin De Narzox” won in a time of 4 hours, 59 minutes and 55 seconds.
Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s Crown Prince was second place, in a time of 4:59min and 56 secs.
Shaikh Majid Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, finished third after clocking 4:59 mins and 57 seconds.
Shaikh Mohammad received the Golden Sword trophy from Princess Alia Bint Al Hussain, Chairperson of the Royal Jordanian Equestrian Union.
Shaikh Hamdan and Shaikh Majid also received their trophies from Princess Alia. A total of 75 riders representing Syria, Egypt, Italy, Spain, Jordan and the UAE took part in the five-phased endurance race.
WAM
Published: November 14, 2008
His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, was crowned the champion of the 120 km International Al Hussain Endurance Race which was held on Friday in the Jordanian Rum Valley in Aqaba.
Shaikh Mohammad, riding “Kumait- Kevin De Narzox” won in a time of 4 hours, 59 minutes and 55 seconds.
Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s Crown Prince was second place, in a time of 4:59min and 56 secs.
Shaikh Majid Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, finished third after clocking 4:59 mins and 57 seconds.
Shaikh Mohammad received the Golden Sword trophy from Princess Alia Bint Al Hussain, Chairperson of the Royal Jordanian Equestrian Union.
Shaikh Hamdan and Shaikh Majid also received their trophies from Princess Alia. A total of 75 riders representing Syria, Egypt, Italy, Spain, Jordan and the UAE took part in the five-phased endurance race.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
UAE: Mohammad leads UAE squad to Jordan
Gulfnews.com - Full Article
November 13, 2008
Al Aqaba, Jordan: His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, yesterday arrived in Al Aqaba, Jordan, accompanied by UAE jockeys - champions of the International Endurance Race in Malaysia.
The jockeys will take part in the International Endurance Race, hosted by Jordan from today (Friday), with the participation of tens of jockeys.
More...
November 13, 2008
Al Aqaba, Jordan: His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, yesterday arrived in Al Aqaba, Jordan, accompanied by UAE jockeys - champions of the International Endurance Race in Malaysia.
The jockeys will take part in the International Endurance Race, hosted by Jordan from today (Friday), with the participation of tens of jockeys.
More...
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
[WEC Reports] Spain Wins Individual Gold as U.S. Battles Illness and Elements
USEF.org
Release: November 12 2008
Terengganu, Malaysia - Besting a Championship field of riders, Spain's Maria Alvarez Ponton galloped home to Gold on Nobby, with a ride time of 8:48:06. Argentinean rider, Agustin Vita, riding Baraka Ibn Al Tamah won Silver, and Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem of the United Arab Emirates, gained the Bronze on Tazoul El Parry at the 2008 World Endurance Championship held at Terengganu, Malaysia, on the edge of the South China Sea. Nobby and Ponton were also awarded the Best Condition. The first ten riders finished within one hour of the winning time. The Gulf Countries of the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain swept Team Gold, Silver and Bronze respectively.
Kathy Brunjes riding Theatric was the first and only member of the United States team to finish in 24th position while Valerie Kanavy riding Flash Flame came in shortly after her in 25th place. The six member U.S. squad finished one team and one individual rider after an exceptional run of bad luck. Team member, John Crandell riding Saba Shams, was eliminated at Gate Two for lameness. Cheryl Dell, riding one of the highest rated horses, Reason To Believe, was stricken with a debilitating illness and had to withdraw at the same gate. Early in the ride, a heavy rain storm caused flooding on the trail, but it was the bolt of lightning that finished off the team. When lightning struck a tree as Jan Worthington on the aptly named, Golden Lightning, and Meg Sleeper on Syrocco Reveille, traveled through the water on the trail, the horses received the shock. The horses were flipped end over end, dumping riders and gear. Fortunately, no one was badly hurt at the time, but the scrapes and bruises on the horses took their toll over the remaining 70 miles, and both horses were eventually eliminated for lameness. Forty-eight horses finished the ride of the 127 starters.
United States Equestrian Federation Director of Endurance Vonita Bowers said, "We had a plan and stuck to it, but we had some bad luck. The horses were very ready. We had no metabolic issues and we had good recoveries. We knew the speeds that we wanted to go and we stuck fairly close to those speeds. Except for the unforeseen things such as illness and lightning, we rode our ride the way we planned. The selection process gave us the best horses and the best riders, and the training session system of selection worked well."
Chef d'Equipe, Becky Hart commented, "In spite of the outcome, a lot of good things happened here. Everyone worked like a team; when a rider was pulled, they pitched in to help. We are now moving onward and making plans for Kentucky."
Held once every two years, the 2008 FEI World Endurance Championship was staged from the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong, situated on the South China sea on the coastline north of Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia. 129 riders from 32 countries were invited to compete. The sponsorship and location were promoted by avid endurance rider, the King of Malaysia, Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Wathiqu Billah Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Mahumud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah. The world's top riders were joined by members of the Royal families of Bahrain and Dubai.
Due to the tropical climate, the 160 km event began at 5:30 p.m. and ran throughout the night.
The U.S. Training Squad is already preparing for the 2010 Endurance Championship ride to be held as part of the World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky. This is the 3rd time the United States has hosted the World Endurance Championship. It was held at Front Royal, Virginia, in 1988 and in Fort Riley, Kansas, in 1996.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/13/2008 12:08:00 AM
Release: November 12 2008
Terengganu, Malaysia - Besting a Championship field of riders, Spain's Maria Alvarez Ponton galloped home to Gold on Nobby, with a ride time of 8:48:06. Argentinean rider, Agustin Vita, riding Baraka Ibn Al Tamah won Silver, and Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem of the United Arab Emirates, gained the Bronze on Tazoul El Parry at the 2008 World Endurance Championship held at Terengganu, Malaysia, on the edge of the South China Sea. Nobby and Ponton were also awarded the Best Condition. The first ten riders finished within one hour of the winning time. The Gulf Countries of the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain swept Team Gold, Silver and Bronze respectively.
Kathy Brunjes riding Theatric was the first and only member of the United States team to finish in 24th position while Valerie Kanavy riding Flash Flame came in shortly after her in 25th place. The six member U.S. squad finished one team and one individual rider after an exceptional run of bad luck. Team member, John Crandell riding Saba Shams, was eliminated at Gate Two for lameness. Cheryl Dell, riding one of the highest rated horses, Reason To Believe, was stricken with a debilitating illness and had to withdraw at the same gate. Early in the ride, a heavy rain storm caused flooding on the trail, but it was the bolt of lightning that finished off the team. When lightning struck a tree as Jan Worthington on the aptly named, Golden Lightning, and Meg Sleeper on Syrocco Reveille, traveled through the water on the trail, the horses received the shock. The horses were flipped end over end, dumping riders and gear. Fortunately, no one was badly hurt at the time, but the scrapes and bruises on the horses took their toll over the remaining 70 miles, and both horses were eventually eliminated for lameness. Forty-eight horses finished the ride of the 127 starters.
United States Equestrian Federation Director of Endurance Vonita Bowers said, "We had a plan and stuck to it, but we had some bad luck. The horses were very ready. We had no metabolic issues and we had good recoveries. We knew the speeds that we wanted to go and we stuck fairly close to those speeds. Except for the unforeseen things such as illness and lightning, we rode our ride the way we planned. The selection process gave us the best horses and the best riders, and the training session system of selection worked well."
Chef d'Equipe, Becky Hart commented, "In spite of the outcome, a lot of good things happened here. Everyone worked like a team; when a rider was pulled, they pitched in to help. We are now moving onward and making plans for Kentucky."
Held once every two years, the 2008 FEI World Endurance Championship was staged from the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong, situated on the South China sea on the coastline north of Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia. 129 riders from 32 countries were invited to compete. The sponsorship and location were promoted by avid endurance rider, the King of Malaysia, Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Wathiqu Billah Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Mahumud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah. The world's top riders were joined by members of the Royal families of Bahrain and Dubai.
Due to the tropical climate, the 160 km event began at 5:30 p.m. and ran throughout the night.
The U.S. Training Squad is already preparing for the 2010 Endurance Championship ride to be held as part of the World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky. This is the 3rd time the United States has hosted the World Endurance Championship. It was held at Front Royal, Virginia, in 1988 and in Fort Riley, Kansas, in 1996.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/13/2008 12:08:00 AM
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
UAE: Open competition of the endurance season set to begin
Gulf News
By M. Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
Published: November 12, 2008, 00:02
Abu Dhabi: Over 100 riders are expected to kick start the open competition 2008-09 season at the Sorouh Cup to be held at the Emirates International Endurance Village on Saturday.
"We thank Sorouh Real Estate who are supporting this event for the second year and we are expecting all the top riders to take part on Saturday," said Adnan Sultan, Director General of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club.
"A total prize money of Dh300,000 and a car for the winner will be up for grabs in the FEI 120-km ride which will be held in five stages," said Adnan.
"We have also instituted two awards for the best rider and the best trainer for all the rides to be held here at Al Wathba."
Mohammad Al Marzouqi, HR and Administrative Director of Sorouh, said: "We would like to place on record our gratitude to Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs, for giving us another opportunity to support equestrian sport.
"This is the second year that we are supporting this event and what makes it all the more important is that Saturday's Sorouh Cup will kick start the Open competition in the UAE's 2008-09 endurance season," he said.
"Endurance riding is so closely linked to the community, which has a deep-rooted affinity with horses, which is why Sorouh is keen to support and promote this equestrian sport."
Promotional campaign
Lara Sawaya, Managing Director of Tasweeq Management, said the Sorouh Cup would see that start of a promotional campaign for the breeding stables of Shaikh Mansour.
"This is the first in a promotional campaign which will see Sorouh and other companies involved in promoting the breeding stables of Shaikh Mansour.
"The campaign will also include organising seven races around the world for Purebred Arabian horses."
The Sorouh Cup trophies have been designed specially by a top company in Los Angeles, according to Sawaya.
By M. Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
Published: November 12, 2008, 00:02
Abu Dhabi: Over 100 riders are expected to kick start the open competition 2008-09 season at the Sorouh Cup to be held at the Emirates International Endurance Village on Saturday.
"We thank Sorouh Real Estate who are supporting this event for the second year and we are expecting all the top riders to take part on Saturday," said Adnan Sultan, Director General of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club.
"A total prize money of Dh300,000 and a car for the winner will be up for grabs in the FEI 120-km ride which will be held in five stages," said Adnan.
"We have also instituted two awards for the best rider and the best trainer for all the rides to be held here at Al Wathba."
Mohammad Al Marzouqi, HR and Administrative Director of Sorouh, said: "We would like to place on record our gratitude to Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs, for giving us another opportunity to support equestrian sport.
"This is the second year that we are supporting this event and what makes it all the more important is that Saturday's Sorouh Cup will kick start the Open competition in the UAE's 2008-09 endurance season," he said.
"Endurance riding is so closely linked to the community, which has a deep-rooted affinity with horses, which is why Sorouh is keen to support and promote this equestrian sport."
Promotional campaign
Lara Sawaya, Managing Director of Tasweeq Management, said the Sorouh Cup would see that start of a promotional campaign for the breeding stables of Shaikh Mansour.
"This is the first in a promotional campaign which will see Sorouh and other companies involved in promoting the breeding stables of Shaikh Mansour.
"The campaign will also include organising seven races around the world for Purebred Arabian horses."
The Sorouh Cup trophies have been designed specially by a top company in Los Angeles, according to Sawaya.
Horse sport body appoints Lexis
Brandrepublic.com
by Matt Cartmell, PR Week UK 10-Nov-08, 10:16
The Federation of International Equestrianism (FEI), the international governing body of horse sport, has appointed Lexis Sport to provide consultancy work.
The FEI is responsible for a variety of different horse sport disciplines ranging from show jumping and eventing through to more niche sports such as carriage driving and endurance.
This is both the first win for Lexis’s new head of sport Will Oscroft and the agency’s first sports commercial consultancy.
Oscroft said: ‘It is a constant challenge to expand the appeal of these sports to reach out to new audiences whilst capitalising on the commercial value within each sport.’
Oscroft added that Lexis will be working closely with the commercial department of the FEI to capitalise on the fact that horse sport appeals to an up-scale family audience and that it is one of the only Olympic sports when men and women compete on equal footing.
The FEI is also expanding its event-based sponsorship opportunities within jumping and dressage, as well as capitalising on the increasing demand for content through the development of a web TV platform.
by Matt Cartmell, PR Week UK 10-Nov-08, 10:16
The Federation of International Equestrianism (FEI), the international governing body of horse sport, has appointed Lexis Sport to provide consultancy work.
The FEI is responsible for a variety of different horse sport disciplines ranging from show jumping and eventing through to more niche sports such as carriage driving and endurance.
This is both the first win for Lexis’s new head of sport Will Oscroft and the agency’s first sports commercial consultancy.
Oscroft said: ‘It is a constant challenge to expand the appeal of these sports to reach out to new audiences whilst capitalising on the commercial value within each sport.’
Oscroft added that Lexis will be working closely with the commercial department of the FEI to capitalise on the fact that horse sport appeals to an up-scale family audience and that it is one of the only Olympic sports when men and women compete on equal footing.
The FEI is also expanding its event-based sponsorship opportunities within jumping and dressage, as well as capitalising on the increasing demand for content through the development of a web TV platform.
Monday, November 10, 2008
[WEC Reports] New Zealand: They did it!
NZEquestrian.org.nz
9/11/2008 4:20:09 p.m.
Andrea Smith and horse Sierra Nevada were placed 31st in the 160km World Endurance Championship in a time of 11:46 yesterday.
Kevin James the High Performance Director said today that the team is very happy with Andrea's performance and that she has done NZ proud. When asked how Andrea was feeling today, Kevin said "a box of fluffy ducks".
There were 127 starters in the World Championship with an unbelievable 70 that "vetted out". The low completion rate says a lot about how difficult the climatic conditions and track may have been.
Smith's completion and excellent placing has given NZ the ability to compare, how we sit on the international stage. It is at times like these that the future of the sport, heading into WEG 2010, looks very promising and exciting for Endurance NZ.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/11/2008 01:19:00 AM
9/11/2008 4:20:09 p.m.
Andrea Smith and horse Sierra Nevada were placed 31st in the 160km World Endurance Championship in a time of 11:46 yesterday.
Kevin James the High Performance Director said today that the team is very happy with Andrea's performance and that she has done NZ proud. When asked how Andrea was feeling today, Kevin said "a box of fluffy ducks".
There were 127 starters in the World Championship with an unbelievable 70 that "vetted out". The low completion rate says a lot about how difficult the climatic conditions and track may have been.
Smith's completion and excellent placing has given NZ the ability to compare, how we sit on the international stage. It is at times like these that the future of the sport, heading into WEG 2010, looks very promising and exciting for Endurance NZ.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/11/2008 01:19:00 AM
[WEC Reports] The Aussies: 12th FEI WEC 2008
12th FEI World Endurance Championship 2008 by Sharon Meyers
What a roller coaster of an adventure this ride has been.
Maria Alvarez Ponton won the ride. Her bay French-bred Arab gelding Nobby (Best Conditioned) is only a little fellow but is neatly put together - an athletic horse. They traveled at 21.41 for the final leg.
Second: Agustin Vita, UAE.
Third: Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, UAE.
Fourth: HH Sh Majid Bin Mohd Al Maktoum, UAE.
The Australians vetted through to a huge cheer. The horses looked as though they could go out on another leg! Penny Toft and Don placed 18th and Kristie McGaffin and Tierview Maverick 19th. A sterling effort all round. The Australian contingent worked hard throughout the night and morning.
Derek Armitage and Moorah Park Mickerby, Matthew Sample and Brookleigh Ricardo, Brook Sample and Brookleigh Excalibur and Meg Wade and China Doll did not complete the ride.
Penny Toft and Don and Kristie McGaffin and Tierview Maverick both completed in 18th and 19th position. Their big striding horses ate up the course and they came back to base looking extraordinarily well after each loop. The Australian crew did a sterling job strapping the horses, as did the roving crew meeting the riders out at the crew points. A great team effort from everyone. Our team consisted of Penny, Kristie, Meg and Matthew.
It was a tough ride with the weather conditions that prevailed at the time. A huge storm hit the area with lightening strikes and thunder claps that hurt your ears. Lighting struck the media tent and the Aussie base. The Aussies received a nasty electric shock including Kristy and Maverick. The thunderclap that followed was unbelievable – we all jumped out of our skins! Fortunately Matt and I were not in the media tent at the time when it was struck by the lightening. I believe two American horses were knocked off their feet while out on the track as a result of a lightening strike.
I was surprised at the speed that Spaniard Maria Alvarez Ponton travelled at throughout the ride. It was obvious from the start she was out to win the ride. Her support team at the crew points were like a well-oiled machine – they never missed a beat. Maria never stopped, they just ran along side throwing water over the horse and doing what was necessary. One the first loop her speed was 20.45, second loop 17.56, third loop 19.44, fourth 15.83, fifth 17.71, sixth 16.80 and seventh 21.41. Maria led for all loops except Loop Two where she came in second. I went and had a close look at her horse Noddy while waiting for Best Conditioned. He is a lovely purebred Arab gelding with kind eyes, very athletic looking, well put together and quite small. For the pedigree conscious he has three crosses to Nabeg. Noddy looked as though he could go out again, a credit to his rider and team.
The Team Results
First – UAE
Second – Qatar
Third – Bahrain
Fourth – Portugal
More...
Photos by Matt Bennet
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/11/2008 01:15:00 AM
What a roller coaster of an adventure this ride has been.
Maria Alvarez Ponton won the ride. Her bay French-bred Arab gelding Nobby (Best Conditioned) is only a little fellow but is neatly put together - an athletic horse. They traveled at 21.41 for the final leg.
Second: Agustin Vita, UAE.
Third: Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, UAE.
Fourth: HH Sh Majid Bin Mohd Al Maktoum, UAE.
The Australians vetted through to a huge cheer. The horses looked as though they could go out on another leg! Penny Toft and Don placed 18th and Kristie McGaffin and Tierview Maverick 19th. A sterling effort all round. The Australian contingent worked hard throughout the night and morning.
Derek Armitage and Moorah Park Mickerby, Matthew Sample and Brookleigh Ricardo, Brook Sample and Brookleigh Excalibur and Meg Wade and China Doll did not complete the ride.
Penny Toft and Don and Kristie McGaffin and Tierview Maverick both completed in 18th and 19th position. Their big striding horses ate up the course and they came back to base looking extraordinarily well after each loop. The Australian crew did a sterling job strapping the horses, as did the roving crew meeting the riders out at the crew points. A great team effort from everyone. Our team consisted of Penny, Kristie, Meg and Matthew.
It was a tough ride with the weather conditions that prevailed at the time. A huge storm hit the area with lightening strikes and thunder claps that hurt your ears. Lighting struck the media tent and the Aussie base. The Aussies received a nasty electric shock including Kristy and Maverick. The thunderclap that followed was unbelievable – we all jumped out of our skins! Fortunately Matt and I were not in the media tent at the time when it was struck by the lightening. I believe two American horses were knocked off their feet while out on the track as a result of a lightening strike.
I was surprised at the speed that Spaniard Maria Alvarez Ponton travelled at throughout the ride. It was obvious from the start she was out to win the ride. Her support team at the crew points were like a well-oiled machine – they never missed a beat. Maria never stopped, they just ran along side throwing water over the horse and doing what was necessary. One the first loop her speed was 20.45, second loop 17.56, third loop 19.44, fourth 15.83, fifth 17.71, sixth 16.80 and seventh 21.41. Maria led for all loops except Loop Two where she came in second. I went and had a close look at her horse Noddy while waiting for Best Conditioned. He is a lovely purebred Arab gelding with kind eyes, very athletic looking, well put together and quite small. For the pedigree conscious he has three crosses to Nabeg. Noddy looked as though he could go out again, a credit to his rider and team.
The Team Results
First – UAE
Second – Qatar
Third – Bahrain
Fourth – Portugal
More...
Photos by Matt Bennet
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/11/2008 01:15:00 AM
[WEC Reports] Bahrain endurance team receive award
Gulf-daily-news.com
10th November2008
BAHRAIN'S Royal Endurance Team yesterday received the bronze medal following their third place finish in the World Endurance Horseride Championship which concluded on Saturday at the Terengganu International Endurance Park in Terengganu.The Bahraini team was captained by Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa who came eighth in the individual category.
Other riders of the Royal team were Ghazi Al Dossary who was ninth overall, Breef first vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Yousif Taher, Raed Mahmood and Ahmed Abdulla.
The Bahraini team is coached by Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa while the team manager is Dr Khalid Hassan who received the trophy on behalf of Shaikh Nasser who returned to Bahrain right after the race.
A total of 242 riders, representing 34 countries from across the world started this race but few managed to cross the finish line due to heavy rain, especially in the first three stages.
The awarding ceremony was held under the patronage of the Malaysian monarch Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin who deputised his wife to honour the winners.
Maria Mercedes of Spain won the race while Argentinean rider Agustin Vita finished second and Sultan bin Sulayem of the UAE was third.
Finished
The next four places were won by UAE riders - Shaikh Majid bin Mohammed Al Maktoum finished fourth and was followed by Mohammed Al Saboosi, Mubarak bin Shafia and Abdulla bin Hazeem in that other.
Shaikh Nasser and Shaikh Khalid congratulated the members of the UAE and Qatari teams who finished first and second respectively in the team event, adding that the Gulf nations will now pose a stronger challenge to the Europeans, Americans and the Australians.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/10/2008 04:39:00 PM
10th November2008
BAHRAIN'S Royal Endurance Team yesterday received the bronze medal following their third place finish in the World Endurance Horseride Championship which concluded on Saturday at the Terengganu International Endurance Park in Terengganu.The Bahraini team was captained by Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa who came eighth in the individual category.
Other riders of the Royal team were Ghazi Al Dossary who was ninth overall, Breef first vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Yousif Taher, Raed Mahmood and Ahmed Abdulla.
The Bahraini team is coached by Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa while the team manager is Dr Khalid Hassan who received the trophy on behalf of Shaikh Nasser who returned to Bahrain right after the race.
A total of 242 riders, representing 34 countries from across the world started this race but few managed to cross the finish line due to heavy rain, especially in the first three stages.
The awarding ceremony was held under the patronage of the Malaysian monarch Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin who deputised his wife to honour the winners.
Maria Mercedes of Spain won the race while Argentinean rider Agustin Vita finished second and Sultan bin Sulayem of the UAE was third.
Finished
The next four places were won by UAE riders - Shaikh Majid bin Mohammed Al Maktoum finished fourth and was followed by Mohammed Al Saboosi, Mubarak bin Shafia and Abdulla bin Hazeem in that other.
Shaikh Nasser and Shaikh Khalid congratulated the members of the UAE and Qatari teams who finished first and second respectively in the team event, adding that the Gulf nations will now pose a stronger challenge to the Europeans, Americans and the Australians.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/10/2008 04:39:00 PM
Sunday, November 09, 2008
[WEC Reports] Riders give event the thumbs up
New Straits Times - Full Article
By Ajitpal Singh - ajitpalsigh@nst.com.my
THE 12th FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC), which concluded yesterday was an intense competition among the best endurance riders in the world in Lembah Bidong, Setiu.
The race was a success as 48 riders or 38.09 per cent of the 126 participants completed the 160km race, one of the highest completion rate ever to be recorded in this event.
Riders also praised the challenging track conditions.
Spain's Maria Mercedes Alvarez Ponton emerged as the individual champion, becoming the 10th woman in the history of WEC to achieve the feat.
Argentina's Vita Agustin and the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) Sultan Ahmed Sultan Sulayem won the silver and bronze medals, respectively.
Maria's horse - Nobby, was also named the "Best Condition Horse" in the competition.
"I would not have won if not for Nobby's perfect condition during the race. I'm happy that my horse won the award," said Maria at the closing ceremony at the Terengganu International Endurance Park in Setiu yesterday.
More...
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/10/2008 02:19:00 AM
By Ajitpal Singh - ajitpalsigh@nst.com.my
THE 12th FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC), which concluded yesterday was an intense competition among the best endurance riders in the world in Lembah Bidong, Setiu.
The race was a success as 48 riders or 38.09 per cent of the 126 participants completed the 160km race, one of the highest completion rate ever to be recorded in this event.
Riders also praised the challenging track conditions.
Spain's Maria Mercedes Alvarez Ponton emerged as the individual champion, becoming the 10th woman in the history of WEC to achieve the feat.
Argentina's Vita Agustin and the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) Sultan Ahmed Sultan Sulayem won the silver and bronze medals, respectively.
Maria's horse - Nobby, was also named the "Best Condition Horse" in the competition.
"I would not have won if not for Nobby's perfect condition during the race. I'm happy that my horse won the award," said Maria at the closing ceremony at the Terengganu International Endurance Park in Setiu yesterday.
More...
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/10/2008 02:19:00 AM
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