Gulf-daily-news.com
Sunday, December 25, 2011
SHAIKHA Maryam bint Ahmed bin Hamad Al Khalifa raced to victory in the National Day Endurance Horse Ride held yesterday.
Riding Kattar, the Royal Endurance team member completed this challenging 120-km ride on top with a total ride time of four hours, 52 minutes and 22 seconds with an average speed of 24.627-km per hour.
Behind her was Al Khaldiya Stable captain Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa (5:11:10) in second place while Al Fateh Stable's Nasser Khalifa Abdulla (5:32:26) came third on Prince.
More than 50 riders competed in the second event of the season, which took place at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.
Open for senior riders, the ride was closely contested with some of Bahrain's top riders from various stables in the fray.
The five-stage ride got underway with Shaikh Khalid, the Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation president, taking the lead after the 30-km first stage in 1:11:50.
He was followed by Shaikha Maryam (1:12:45) and Abdulla (1:21:34) who were second and third, respectively.
No changes on overall positions were witnessed after the second stage, which was also over 30 kms, as Shaikh Khalid held on to his lead after completing the stage in 1:11:35 and an average speed of 24.150-km per hour.
Shaikha Maryam (1:12:15) maintained composure to stay in second place, and Abdulla (1:21:57) remained third.
Shaikh Khalid managed to keep his lead after the 25-km third stage, clocking 1:01:18 and ahead of Shaikha Maryam (1:01:23) and Abdulla (1:11:31) who were respectively second and third.
Superb
But in the fourth stage, which was over 20 kms, Shaikha Maryam put on a superb show to take over the lead from Shaikh Khalid and finished the stage in 53 minutes and 36 seconds. Shaikh Khalid, who timed 1:01:16, slipped to second for the first time.
An additional 85-km qualifier for inexperienced riders was also held yesterday.
It was won by Royal Endurance Team member Abdulla Mohammed Al Arjani in three hours, 57 minutes and 15 seconds with an average speed of 21.496-km per hour. Second was Mohammed Abdulnabi Ramadan (3:59:20) of Al Fateh Stable while Nehat Singh (4:09:26) of Al Muntaser Stable rounded off the podium.
The rides were followed by an awarding ceremony which was attended by Supreme Council for Youth and Sports chairman and president of the Bahrain Olympic Committee Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khaifa who honoured the top three riders in each event.
The honouring ceremony was also attended by Breef Endurance Committee chairman Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa who congratulated the winners and wished other riders success in future championships.
Photos by Osama Mohammed here:
https://picasaweb.google.com/112590388649341553131/BahrainNationalDayEndurance122411
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
Great Britain: Katie is on the winning trail in endurance riding
Westsussextoday.co.ukPublished on Friday 23 December 2011 10:12
A RUDGWICK teenager has had such outstanding success in her chosen equestrian discipline of endurance riding, that from 2012 she is likely to ride for Great Britain abroad.
Katie Bedwin (13), who is a pupil at Farlington School, started on the winning trail in September when she won the Pony Club’s Intermediate Championship in Bedfordshire with her five-year-old Arab mare, Elayla.
On the first weekend in October she competed in Wales in the home international team with her grandmother, Rosemary Attfield’s part-bred Arab, Burfield Red Dragon.
There she rode 130km over two days and won a cluster of awards- Top Junior, Top Competitive Horse and the Golden Dragon Award, in the face of tough opposition from adults.
Katie, who is a member of Endurance GB, the national body for the sport, is still at junior level in endurance, but her prowess against adults continued in the middle of October when she took Elayla to Braemore in Wiltshire and won the Southern Novice Championship against strong competiton from adult riders.
This was just the start of an impressive winning trail of championships won before Christmas.
To read about them, and for more equestrian news see Equestrian, West Sussex Gazette, December 21 2012
Bahrain: Riders gear up for 120km event
gulf-daily-news.com
Friday, December 23, 2011
SOME of Bahrain's best riders have signed up for the 120km National Day Endurance Horse Ride starting tomorrow at 6am.
The event is being organised by the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) and is due to take place at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.
This will be the second event of the 2011/12 season. The first event was held two weeks ago and was for the Breef President Cup. It was held over a total distance of 100 kms.
Open for senior riders, this weekend's championship will be divided into five stages. The first two stages will be over 30 kms each, the third will be over 25 kms, the fourth over 20 and the fifth and final phase over 15 kms.
Captained by Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Royal Endurance Team will head into tomorrow's ride as the No. 1 team. They had won the National Day title in the 2009 and 2010.
Prominent
The team, under their coach Yousif Taher, will be banking on several prominent riders, including 2009 edition champion Jaffer Mirza, and last year's junior category winner Abdulrahman Al Saad.
Meanwhile, Breef president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa believes the competition in the new season will be fierce due to the increased number of participants and the noticeable progress the Bahraini riders have made in recent events.
On his part, Breef general secretary and ground jury president Ghalib Al Alawi said everything was set for the event. He said the veterinary examination will take place today at 3pm and the event will be managed by a team of Bahraini juries for the first time this season.
The 2011/12 season will also feature six more rides, including the Heavy Weight Challenge on January 7, 2012. This will be followed by His Majesty the King's Cup, the main event of the endurance season, scheduled for February 4. The Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa Ride will then take place on February 18.
The Breef Championship is due to be held on March 2, then His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Cup night ride will take place on April 6. The last event on the Breef calendar will be held on April 5 and is entitled "The End of the Season Ride".
Friday, December 23, 2011
SOME of Bahrain's best riders have signed up for the 120km National Day Endurance Horse Ride starting tomorrow at 6am.
The event is being organised by the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) and is due to take place at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.
This will be the second event of the 2011/12 season. The first event was held two weeks ago and was for the Breef President Cup. It was held over a total distance of 100 kms.
Open for senior riders, this weekend's championship will be divided into five stages. The first two stages will be over 30 kms each, the third will be over 25 kms, the fourth over 20 and the fifth and final phase over 15 kms.
Captained by Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Royal Endurance Team will head into tomorrow's ride as the No. 1 team. They had won the National Day title in the 2009 and 2010.
Prominent
The team, under their coach Yousif Taher, will be banking on several prominent riders, including 2009 edition champion Jaffer Mirza, and last year's junior category winner Abdulrahman Al Saad.
Meanwhile, Breef president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa believes the competition in the new season will be fierce due to the increased number of participants and the noticeable progress the Bahraini riders have made in recent events.
On his part, Breef general secretary and ground jury president Ghalib Al Alawi said everything was set for the event. He said the veterinary examination will take place today at 3pm and the event will be managed by a team of Bahraini juries for the first time this season.
The 2011/12 season will also feature six more rides, including the Heavy Weight Challenge on January 7, 2012. This will be followed by His Majesty the King's Cup, the main event of the endurance season, scheduled for February 4. The Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa Ride will then take place on February 18.
The Breef Championship is due to be held on March 2, then His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Cup night ride will take place on April 6. The last event on the Breef calendar will be held on April 5 and is entitled "The End of the Season Ride".
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Aussies no match for Stirling
Weeklytimesnow.com.au - Full Article
Jenny Sheppard | December 21, 2011
MARTIN Stirling was the star of the World Endurance Championship for Juniors and Young Riders in Abu Dhabi last weekend.
The 15-year-old schoolboy led Uruguay to team and individual glory.
The French stood in silver medal position on the team podium ahead of the Australians, who took bronze, but it was Victorian Allix Jones who was runner-up for the individual title.
Firming up the dominant position of the Uruguayan squad at the biennial event, Oriana Ricca claimed individual bronze and teammate Maria Pereira took the Best Condition award after finishing seventh individually with Mi Jade.
It was a surprise result all round.
There were high expectations that riders from the United Arab Emirates would feature prominently after their convincing wins in 2009.
It did seem the title might be in the UAE's grasp again on Saturday, as Sheik Khalifa Bin Mohammad Al Hamad led throughout the third and fourth stages and looked the rider to beat.
However, despite a three-minute lead going into the final 16km loop, he and his horse, Ultimo, dropped to fifth at the end of the day.
For Stirling, who was accompanied by his parents, two brothers and his baby sister, and by Magdalena Odriozola who owns his winning ride, Vendaval, it was a spectacular achievement.
"I was confident," he said afterwards.
"I wasn't far behind the leading horse in the second-last loop and my horse was in good shape when I went into the last 16km."
Twenty-eight nations were represented at the event - Argentina, Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Chile, the Czech Republic, Ecuador, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, India, Italy, Mexico, Namibia, The Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Slovakia, Sweden, South Africa, Uruguay and the host, the UAE...
Read more here:
http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/article/2011/12/21/421991_horses.html
Jenny Sheppard | December 21, 2011
MARTIN Stirling was the star of the World Endurance Championship for Juniors and Young Riders in Abu Dhabi last weekend.
The 15-year-old schoolboy led Uruguay to team and individual glory.
The French stood in silver medal position on the team podium ahead of the Australians, who took bronze, but it was Victorian Allix Jones who was runner-up for the individual title.
Firming up the dominant position of the Uruguayan squad at the biennial event, Oriana Ricca claimed individual bronze and teammate Maria Pereira took the Best Condition award after finishing seventh individually with Mi Jade.
It was a surprise result all round.
There were high expectations that riders from the United Arab Emirates would feature prominently after their convincing wins in 2009.
It did seem the title might be in the UAE's grasp again on Saturday, as Sheik Khalifa Bin Mohammad Al Hamad led throughout the third and fourth stages and looked the rider to beat.
However, despite a three-minute lead going into the final 16km loop, he and his horse, Ultimo, dropped to fifth at the end of the day.
For Stirling, who was accompanied by his parents, two brothers and his baby sister, and by Magdalena Odriozola who owns his winning ride, Vendaval, it was a spectacular achievement.
"I was confident," he said afterwards.
"I wasn't far behind the leading horse in the second-last loop and my horse was in good shape when I went into the last 16km."
Twenty-eight nations were represented at the event - Argentina, Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Chile, the Czech Republic, Ecuador, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, India, Italy, Mexico, Namibia, The Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Slovakia, Sweden, South Africa, Uruguay and the host, the UAE...
Read more here:
http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/article/2011/12/21/421991_horses.html
Bahrain: National Day Endurance Ride set
BNA.bh
11 : 07 AM - 21/12/2011
Manama, Dec. 21 (BNA) -- THE Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) has stepped up its preparations for the National Day Ride on Saturday. It's the second endurance ride of the 2011/12 season. The inaugural event of the year took place two weeks ago and was for the Breef President Cup, which covered a total distance of 100km, this was published at GDN.
Saturday's event, to be staged at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir, will be over 120km with some of the kingdom's best riders expected to take part.
Among the participants are the the Royal Endurance Team, captained by Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, which is the top favourite stable.
Royal Endurance Team had dominated the previous ride, winning all three podiums. This event will only be open for senior riders.
Shaikh Nasser highlighted the upcoming event, which marks the Bahrain National Day celebrations and His Majesty King Hamad's accession to the throne.
The Royal Endurance Team leader said the National Day Championship is one of the major rides in the season and features gruelling competition among participants.
Following this weekend's ride, the federation will then prepare to organise the Heavy Weight Challenge on January 7, next year.
His Majesty the King's Cup ride, the main event of the endurance season, will then take place on February 4, to be followed by Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa Ride on February 18.
The Breef Championship is scheduled for March 2, and then His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Cup night ride will be held on April 6. The End of the Season Ride will then be held on April 5.
EM
11 : 07 AM - 21/12/2011
Manama, Dec. 21 (BNA) -- THE Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) has stepped up its preparations for the National Day Ride on Saturday. It's the second endurance ride of the 2011/12 season. The inaugural event of the year took place two weeks ago and was for the Breef President Cup, which covered a total distance of 100km, this was published at GDN.
Saturday's event, to be staged at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir, will be over 120km with some of the kingdom's best riders expected to take part.
Among the participants are the the Royal Endurance Team, captained by Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, which is the top favourite stable.
Royal Endurance Team had dominated the previous ride, winning all three podiums. This event will only be open for senior riders.
Shaikh Nasser highlighted the upcoming event, which marks the Bahrain National Day celebrations and His Majesty King Hamad's accession to the throne.
The Royal Endurance Team leader said the National Day Championship is one of the major rides in the season and features gruelling competition among participants.
Following this weekend's ride, the federation will then prepare to organise the Heavy Weight Challenge on January 7, next year.
His Majesty the King's Cup ride, the main event of the endurance season, will then take place on February 4, to be followed by Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa Ride on February 18.
The Breef Championship is scheduled for March 2, and then His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Cup night ride will be held on April 6. The End of the Season Ride will then be held on April 5.
EM
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Qatar: UAE endurance riders sweep all medals
Gulfnews.com - Full Article
Mohammad on hand to witness the winning performance of Hamdan and his teammates
By Yasir Abbasher, Senior Reporter
Published: 00:00 December 18, 2011
Doha: The UAE dominated the endurance riding competition at the 12th Arab Games in Doha, winning all three individual medals as well as team gold yesterday.
His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, was in attendance to watch his son, Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the President of Dubai Sports Council, help the UAE team to victory. Shaikh Hamdan was awarded the silver medal after finishing alongside Yousuf Al Beloushi, who claimed gold. The bronze was won by Sultan Al Maamary. They were joined by Ali Ganem Al Merri, Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri and Mohammad Ahmad Al Subose in the UAE team that swept aside all competition in the 120km endurance ride.
Al Beloushi finished the first stage leading the pack riding Shardell Prince Valiant in 1hr 11min 34sec, followed by Shaikh Hamdan on Muhannad in 1:11.48, Al Maamary in third on Dudleydick TE in 1:12.06 and fourth-placed Al Merri on EO Rakam in 1:12.09.
Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, from Bahrain, placed fifth on Picaflor in 1:12.16, while Al Jahouri was ninth on Lourizon Frost in 1:14.04 and Al Subose 10th on Indian Eskalonik in 1:16.36...
read more here:
http://gulfnews.com/sport/horse-racing/uae-endurance-riders-sweep-all-medals-1.952780
Mohammad on hand to witness the winning performance of Hamdan and his teammates
By Yasir Abbasher, Senior Reporter
Published: 00:00 December 18, 2011
Doha: The UAE dominated the endurance riding competition at the 12th Arab Games in Doha, winning all three individual medals as well as team gold yesterday.
His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, was in attendance to watch his son, Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the President of Dubai Sports Council, help the UAE team to victory. Shaikh Hamdan was awarded the silver medal after finishing alongside Yousuf Al Beloushi, who claimed gold. The bronze was won by Sultan Al Maamary. They were joined by Ali Ganem Al Merri, Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri and Mohammad Ahmad Al Subose in the UAE team that swept aside all competition in the 120km endurance ride.
Al Beloushi finished the first stage leading the pack riding Shardell Prince Valiant in 1hr 11min 34sec, followed by Shaikh Hamdan on Muhannad in 1:11.48, Al Maamary in third on Dudleydick TE in 1:12.06 and fourth-placed Al Merri on EO Rakam in 1:12.09.
Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, from Bahrain, placed fifth on Picaflor in 1:12.16, while Al Jahouri was ninth on Lourizon Frost in 1:14.04 and Al Subose 10th on Indian Eskalonik in 1:16.36...
read more here:
http://gulfnews.com/sport/horse-racing/uae-endurance-riders-sweep-all-medals-1.952780
Friday, December 16, 2011
Australia Third and New Zealand Sixth in FEI YR/J World Endurance Championship
Horsezone.com.au
Published on Tuesday, December 13, 2011 in Event Results
Uruguayan wonder-boy, 15-year-old Martin Stirling, rode the nine-year-old Vendaval to Team and Individual gold at the FEI World Endurance Championship for Juniors and Young Riders 2011 in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.
Abu Dhabi hosted the FEI World Junior Endurance Championships over the weekend where Australia and New Zealand were both represented by teams.
The Young Riders Representing Australia in the World Youth Endurance Championships were Alexandra Toft and High Society te; Brooke Warner and Kunama Safira; Georgia Toft and Bremervale Arrogance; and Allix Jones and Castlebar Moonlight.
New Zealand was represented by a team of four competing on their own horses - Tessa Deuss, Emma Mason, Sian Reid and Georgia Smith.
All the horses were fitted with electronic head collars, so live results were available for each loop/phase (five loops in total) of the ride. The winning time was 5 hours, 18 minutes and 51 seconds by Martin Stirling of Uruguay.
Congratulations to Australian team member Allix Jones riding Castlebar Moonlight, who did an outstanding job and finished second in the fantastic time of 5 hours, 19 minutes and 3 seconds. Individual silver medallist, Allix Jones, was less than a minute behind with Castlebar Moonlight whose average speed was 22.567kph. And it was a moment to savour for the horse's owner, Margaret "Meg" Wade, one of the great heroines of equestrian sport who won the FEI's "Against All Odds" Award, but missed out on the presentation at the 2011 General Assembly in Rio de Janeiro last month when her flight to Brazil was cancelled. Meg's extraordinary recovery and return to the saddle after the multiple champion suffered a traumatic brain injury in a fall two years ago has been nothing short of inspirational.
Aussie Brooke Warner finished 16th with a time of 5 hours, 59 minutes and 52 seconds and Alexander Toft finished 37th. Unfortunately Georgia Toft's horse Bremervale Arrogance was vetted out in phase three. The Australian team did brilliantly and ended up in third place overall, out of 17 teams.
Best placed New Zealand Junior was Sian Reid and AA Sabatage in 28th place with a time of 6.42.21, closely followed by Tessa Deuss and Aspen Hills Santa Ana in 36th place with a time of 6.52.42. Georgia Smith and her horse Glenmore Astroid rounded off the New Zealand results in 42nd place with a time of 7.10.20. Emma Mason and Taralea Sheer Illusion were unfortunately vetted out pre-ride. The New Zealand team put in a great effort and placed sixth overall.
There were 77 individual entries in total, so both Australian and New Zealand young riders did a fantastic job.
Team Results:
1st Uruguay 16.35.53
2nd France 17.31.42
3rd Australia 18.14.39
4th USA 19.36.56
5th Argentina 20.06.43
6th New Zealand 20.45.23
Published on Tuesday, December 13, 2011 in Event Results
Uruguayan wonder-boy, 15-year-old Martin Stirling, rode the nine-year-old Vendaval to Team and Individual gold at the FEI World Endurance Championship for Juniors and Young Riders 2011 in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.
Abu Dhabi hosted the FEI World Junior Endurance Championships over the weekend where Australia and New Zealand were both represented by teams.
The Young Riders Representing Australia in the World Youth Endurance Championships were Alexandra Toft and High Society te; Brooke Warner and Kunama Safira; Georgia Toft and Bremervale Arrogance; and Allix Jones and Castlebar Moonlight.
New Zealand was represented by a team of four competing on their own horses - Tessa Deuss, Emma Mason, Sian Reid and Georgia Smith.
All the horses were fitted with electronic head collars, so live results were available for each loop/phase (five loops in total) of the ride. The winning time was 5 hours, 18 minutes and 51 seconds by Martin Stirling of Uruguay.
Congratulations to Australian team member Allix Jones riding Castlebar Moonlight, who did an outstanding job and finished second in the fantastic time of 5 hours, 19 minutes and 3 seconds. Individual silver medallist, Allix Jones, was less than a minute behind with Castlebar Moonlight whose average speed was 22.567kph. And it was a moment to savour for the horse's owner, Margaret "Meg" Wade, one of the great heroines of equestrian sport who won the FEI's "Against All Odds" Award, but missed out on the presentation at the 2011 General Assembly in Rio de Janeiro last month when her flight to Brazil was cancelled. Meg's extraordinary recovery and return to the saddle after the multiple champion suffered a traumatic brain injury in a fall two years ago has been nothing short of inspirational.
Aussie Brooke Warner finished 16th with a time of 5 hours, 59 minutes and 52 seconds and Alexander Toft finished 37th. Unfortunately Georgia Toft's horse Bremervale Arrogance was vetted out in phase three. The Australian team did brilliantly and ended up in third place overall, out of 17 teams.
Best placed New Zealand Junior was Sian Reid and AA Sabatage in 28th place with a time of 6.42.21, closely followed by Tessa Deuss and Aspen Hills Santa Ana in 36th place with a time of 6.52.42. Georgia Smith and her horse Glenmore Astroid rounded off the New Zealand results in 42nd place with a time of 7.10.20. Emma Mason and Taralea Sheer Illusion were unfortunately vetted out pre-ride. The New Zealand team put in a great effort and placed sixth overall.
There were 77 individual entries in total, so both Australian and New Zealand young riders did a fantastic job.
Team Results:
1st Uruguay 16.35.53
2nd France 17.31.42
3rd Australia 18.14.39
4th USA 19.36.56
5th Argentina 20.06.43
6th New Zealand 20.45.23
Thursday, December 15, 2011
FEI World Rankings for Young Riders & Juniors
Meydan Young Riders World Ranking as of December 5 2011
1. Manuela Basombrio - Argentina
2. Martin Garcia Lazo - Chile
3. Camila Fiandra - Uruguay
4. Kyle Gibbon - USA
5. Magdalena Leiva - Uruguay
6. Catalina Bastons - Argentina
7. Juan Pablo Viana Ponte - Uruguay
8. Cristina Mutis - Colombia
9. Martin Stirling - Uruguay
10. Daniela Moreno - Ecuador
Full list here:
http://search.fei.org/Search_Centre/Ranking/Pages/Search.aspx?rankingCode=E_WR_Y
Meydan Young Riders Combination World Ranking as of December 5 2011
1. Pablo Llompart and Ankar Samurai - Chile
2. Sofia Ribadeneira and Angostura Frodo - Ecuador
3. Sebastian Taverne Barros and Eclipse - Chile
4. Kyle Gibbon and Misu Koran - USA
5. Benjamin Boetsch Table and Khadijah - Chile
5. Manuela Basombrio and Faisal - Argentina
7. Joyce Van Den Berg and Bas de Cardonne - Netherlands
7. Juan Pablo Viana Ponte and Larkeena del Timote - Uruguay
9. Magdalena Leiva and Minuana and Uruguay
10. Catalina Bastons and RP Dardanell - Argentina
Full list here:
http://search.fei.org/Search_Centre/Ranking/Pages/Search.aspx?rankingCode=E_WR_Y_RH
Meydan Young Riders Horse World Ranking as of December 5 2011
1. Faisal
2. H C E Falcaida
3. Xime
3. Ankar Samurai
5. Angostura Frodo
6. Eclipse
6. RP Hard Line
8. Misu Koran
9. Khadijah
10. Bas de Cardonne
10. Larkeena del Timote
Full list here:
http://search.fei.org/Search_Centre/Ranking/Pages/Search.aspx?rankingCode=E_WR_Y_H
1. Manuela Basombrio - Argentina
2. Martin Garcia Lazo - Chile
3. Camila Fiandra - Uruguay
4. Kyle Gibbon - USA
5. Magdalena Leiva - Uruguay
6. Catalina Bastons - Argentina
7. Juan Pablo Viana Ponte - Uruguay
8. Cristina Mutis - Colombia
9. Martin Stirling - Uruguay
10. Daniela Moreno - Ecuador
Full list here:
http://search.fei.org/Search_Centre/Ranking/Pages/Search.aspx?rankingCode=E_WR_Y
Meydan Young Riders Combination World Ranking as of December 5 2011
1. Pablo Llompart and Ankar Samurai - Chile
2. Sofia Ribadeneira and Angostura Frodo - Ecuador
3. Sebastian Taverne Barros and Eclipse - Chile
4. Kyle Gibbon and Misu Koran - USA
5. Benjamin Boetsch Table and Khadijah - Chile
5. Manuela Basombrio and Faisal - Argentina
7. Joyce Van Den Berg and Bas de Cardonne - Netherlands
7. Juan Pablo Viana Ponte and Larkeena del Timote - Uruguay
9. Magdalena Leiva and Minuana and Uruguay
10. Catalina Bastons and RP Dardanell - Argentina
Full list here:
http://search.fei.org/Search_Centre/Ranking/Pages/Search.aspx?rankingCode=E_WR_Y_RH
Meydan Young Riders Horse World Ranking as of December 5 2011
1. Faisal
2. H C E Falcaida
3. Xime
3. Ankar Samurai
5. Angostura Frodo
6. Eclipse
6. RP Hard Line
8. Misu Koran
9. Khadijah
10. Bas de Cardonne
10. Larkeena del Timote
Full list here:
http://search.fei.org/Search_Centre/Ranking/Pages/Search.aspx?rankingCode=E_WR_Y_H
Great Britain: Jeni Gilbert Triumphs at Endurance GB Awards
Horsemart.co.uk15 December 2011
HorseHage-sponsored endurance rider, Jeni Gilbert, and her Connemara pony, Flurrie, have triumphed at the recent annual Endurance GB Awards.
The pair took the titles of Senior and Supreme Champion as well as winning the Veteran Trophy and awards for the Best Unregistered Horse and Best Endurance Ride Results This Season. They were also runners-up for the Best Team award (four horses) and the Best Three Endurance Ride Results and achieved their 6400km award for successful competition.
This is the second time Jeni and Flurrie, who are based near Huddersfield in Yorkshire, have been crowned Endurance GB Supreme Championship and is a brilliant achievement for both horse and rider as Flurrie is now sixteen-years-old and is a native breed competing in a sport dominated by Arab horses.
Said a delighted Jeni: “My great pony, Flurrie, and fantastic crew of Sue Headland and Julie Martin are the mainstay behind our success and it is always a real team effort. I am also very grateful to the support I receive from my sponsor, Marksway HorseHage. It was a thrilling end to a great season!”
For further information on HorseHage, or advice on feeding your horse or pony, please call 01803 527257 or visit www.horsehage.co.uk
Stephen Gray to represent Australia in endurance race
Couriermail.com.au
by: Margaret Maccoll, Southern Star
From: Quest Newspapers
December 16, 2011
Rochedale equestrian rider Stephen Gray will head to New Zealand without his horse on January 26 for an endurance horse-riding event.
Gray will represent Australia in the 160km Trans Tasman endurance race in which the host nation supplies horses to its visitors.
Gray has competed in endurance events since 2000 after taking up the sport for interest and falling in love with it.
From his semi-rural property he maintains nine horses, devoting much of his time to providing them with special attention as well as training and preparing for competitions.
``Endurance riding is a major growing sport in Australia and overseas, as is evidenced by the growing number of horses and popularity of equestrian sports throughout Australia, particularly in areas close to the city,'' he said.
On this occasion, however, he will be training and riding a New Zealand horse unknown to him which will add another dimension to his competition riding.
During his 12 days in New Zealand attending the Trans Tasman Event in the South Island of New Zealand, he will encounter extremely difficult and rugged terrain, which will test the stamina of both horse and rider.
by: Margaret Maccoll, Southern Star
From: Quest Newspapers
December 16, 2011
Rochedale equestrian rider Stephen Gray will head to New Zealand without his horse on January 26 for an endurance horse-riding event.
Gray will represent Australia in the 160km Trans Tasman endurance race in which the host nation supplies horses to its visitors.
Gray has competed in endurance events since 2000 after taking up the sport for interest and falling in love with it.
From his semi-rural property he maintains nine horses, devoting much of his time to providing them with special attention as well as training and preparing for competitions.
``Endurance riding is a major growing sport in Australia and overseas, as is evidenced by the growing number of horses and popularity of equestrian sports throughout Australia, particularly in areas close to the city,'' he said.
On this occasion, however, he will be training and riding a New Zealand horse unknown to him which will add another dimension to his competition riding.
During his 12 days in New Zealand attending the Trans Tasman Event in the South Island of New Zealand, he will encounter extremely difficult and rugged terrain, which will test the stamina of both horse and rider.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
FEI World Rankings
Meydan Open Riders World Ranking as of December 5 2011
1. Maria Hagman-Eriksson - Sweden
2. Virginie Atger - France
3. Enora Boulenger - France
4. Faleh Nasser SS Bughenaim - Qatar
5. Jack Begaud - France
6. Alex Luque Moral - Spain
7. Hassan Tahous S.J. Al Nuaimi - Qatar
8. Philippe Tomas - France
9. Romain Laporte - France
10. Sabrina Arnold - Germany
Full list here:
http://search.fei.org/Search_Centre/Ranking/Pages/Search.aspx?rankingCode=E_WR
Meydan Open Combination World Ranking as of December 5 2011
1. Jose Juis Ruiz Hidalgo and Al Gharbe - Spain
2. Maria Hagman-Eriksson and Power - Spain
3. John Crandell III and Heraldic - USA
4. Roland Verge and Ainhoa Soldarike - France
4. Bernardo Algorta and Cacique - Uruguay
6. Sean Trafford and Sayfwood Rolling Stone - New Zealand
7. Inger Pitter Bertelsen and Portal OX - Denmark
8. Alex Luque Moral and Nitra - Spain
9. Alex Luque Moral and Ikland - Spain
Full list here:
http://search.fei.org/Search_Centre/Ranking/Pages/Search.aspx?rankingCode=E_WR_RH
Meydan Open Horse World Ranking as of December 5 2011
1. Nikel Kermorvan
2. Mario De Plouvor
3. Al Gharbe
4. Power
5. Heraldic
6. Mazayha
7. Mediatik Larzac
8. Negro Jefe Molles
9. Ainhoa Soldarike
9. Cacique
Full list here:
http://search.fei.org/Search_Centre/Ranking/Pages/Search.aspx?rankingCode=E_WR_H
1. Maria Hagman-Eriksson - Sweden
2. Virginie Atger - France
3. Enora Boulenger - France
4. Faleh Nasser SS Bughenaim - Qatar
5. Jack Begaud - France
6. Alex Luque Moral - Spain
7. Hassan Tahous S.J. Al Nuaimi - Qatar
8. Philippe Tomas - France
9. Romain Laporte - France
10. Sabrina Arnold - Germany
Full list here:
http://search.fei.org/Search_Centre/Ranking/Pages/Search.aspx?rankingCode=E_WR
Meydan Open Combination World Ranking as of December 5 2011
1. Jose Juis Ruiz Hidalgo and Al Gharbe - Spain
2. Maria Hagman-Eriksson and Power - Spain
3. John Crandell III and Heraldic - USA
4. Roland Verge and Ainhoa Soldarike - France
4. Bernardo Algorta and Cacique - Uruguay
6. Sean Trafford and Sayfwood Rolling Stone - New Zealand
7. Inger Pitter Bertelsen and Portal OX - Denmark
8. Alex Luque Moral and Nitra - Spain
9. Alex Luque Moral and Ikland - Spain
Full list here:
http://search.fei.org/Search_Centre/Ranking/Pages/Search.aspx?rankingCode=E_WR_RH
Meydan Open Horse World Ranking as of December 5 2011
1. Nikel Kermorvan
2. Mario De Plouvor
3. Al Gharbe
4. Power
5. Heraldic
6. Mazayha
7. Mediatik Larzac
8. Negro Jefe Molles
9. Ainhoa Soldarike
9. Cacique
Full list here:
http://search.fei.org/Search_Centre/Ranking/Pages/Search.aspx?rankingCode=E_WR_H
Great Britain: Kirsty still riding high despite odds
Bridportnews.co.uk
Wednesday 14th December 2011 in Local Sport
By Ky Capel »
LYME’S Kirsty Wiscombe continues to defy the odds.
Last year the endurance rider finished as the top British rider in the FEI World Open Endurance Rider Rankings just 12 months after recovering from a life-threatening illness.
And now, having won the Mirwart FEI World Veteran Rider Championship, the 41-year-old has begun another bout of rehabilitation after having both hips replaced.
Reflecting on the past year, Wiscombe said: “I have had a mixed season.
“Unfortunately I have struggled to ride most of the season due to severe osteoarthritis in my hips.
“However, Eskar, my 11-year-old pure bred gelding, has been fantastic and despite me being in a lot of pain he has looked after me all season.
“He has done two FEI one-star rides and two FEI two-star rides.
“For my final ride of the season I returned to Mirwart in Belgium and despite being in pain and having to be helped on and off Eskar, I had a fantastic ride.
“The ride is a tough hilly one and hosts the Belgium Nat-ional Championships. We finished seventh overall and won the Mirwart FEI World Vet-eran Rider Championship...
Read more here:
http://www.bridportnews.co.uk/sport/localsport/9416738.Kirsty_still_riding_high_despite_odds/
Wednesday 14th December 2011 in Local Sport
By Ky Capel »
LYME’S Kirsty Wiscombe continues to defy the odds.
Last year the endurance rider finished as the top British rider in the FEI World Open Endurance Rider Rankings just 12 months after recovering from a life-threatening illness.
And now, having won the Mirwart FEI World Veteran Rider Championship, the 41-year-old has begun another bout of rehabilitation after having both hips replaced.
Reflecting on the past year, Wiscombe said: “I have had a mixed season.
“Unfortunately I have struggled to ride most of the season due to severe osteoarthritis in my hips.
“However, Eskar, my 11-year-old pure bred gelding, has been fantastic and despite me being in a lot of pain he has looked after me all season.
“He has done two FEI one-star rides and two FEI two-star rides.
“For my final ride of the season I returned to Mirwart in Belgium and despite being in pain and having to be helped on and off Eskar, I had a fantastic ride.
“The ride is a tough hilly one and hosts the Belgium Nat-ional Championships. We finished seventh overall and won the Mirwart FEI World Vet-eran Rider Championship...
Read more here:
http://www.bridportnews.co.uk/sport/localsport/9416738.Kirsty_still_riding_high_despite_odds/
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
New Zealand: 'Velvet Pure’ National Endurance Championships leading sponsor
NZEquestrian.org.nz
10/12/2011 12:59:22 a.m.
Even though our National Endurance Championships are a few months away, 6 - 8th April 2012, the OC is thrilled to have conformation of ‘Velvet Pure’ taking Major Naming Rights for our leading event on our National calendar.
Some serious work behind the scenes has resulted in ‘Velvet Pure ‘having confidence to invest into our event. This 100% New Zealand owned (based in Darfield – North Canterbury) company is only into its very early years of development.
Taking the stag by the antlers (so to speak) will be a very large commitment for them. Deer Velvet has been prized by the Chinese people for over 2000 for its powerful health promoting properties. Deer Velvet contains 32 amino acids, minerals, glucosamine and chondroitin.
These ingredients are naturally occurring. Velvet Pure produces this nutritional dietary supplement not only for humans (VelHealth) but for Equine, Canine & Feline too. Benefits to name a few, supports the body’s immune system, helpful for stress and fatigue, assist with strength and endurance, helps support anti -ageing. Their $6000.00 investment will see a range of their products made available as prizes a cash injection that will help the running costs of this major event.
Velvet Pure will also sponsor a first time entrant in the National CEI Championship 160km ride to the value of $150, a new idea being trialed at both Sth Is & National Champs this season.
Barbara Avery - NZ Nationals Sponsorship convener in conjunction with Nick Page (ENZ Board member)
Deer Velvet – Made by ‘Nature’ supported by ‘Science’ visit their website: www.velvetpure.co.nz Ph: (03)3187023 – Jo Jules - Director
10/12/2011 12:59:22 a.m.
Even though our National Endurance Championships are a few months away, 6 - 8th April 2012, the OC is thrilled to have conformation of ‘Velvet Pure’ taking Major Naming Rights for our leading event on our National calendar.
Some serious work behind the scenes has resulted in ‘Velvet Pure ‘having confidence to invest into our event. This 100% New Zealand owned (based in Darfield – North Canterbury) company is only into its very early years of development.
Taking the stag by the antlers (so to speak) will be a very large commitment for them. Deer Velvet has been prized by the Chinese people for over 2000 for its powerful health promoting properties. Deer Velvet contains 32 amino acids, minerals, glucosamine and chondroitin.
These ingredients are naturally occurring. Velvet Pure produces this nutritional dietary supplement not only for humans (VelHealth) but for Equine, Canine & Feline too. Benefits to name a few, supports the body’s immune system, helpful for stress and fatigue, assist with strength and endurance, helps support anti -ageing. Their $6000.00 investment will see a range of their products made available as prizes a cash injection that will help the running costs of this major event.
Velvet Pure will also sponsor a first time entrant in the National CEI Championship 160km ride to the value of $150, a new idea being trialed at both Sth Is & National Champs this season.
Barbara Avery - NZ Nationals Sponsorship convener in conjunction with Nick Page (ENZ Board member)
Deer Velvet – Made by ‘Nature’ supported by ‘Science’ visit their website: www.velvetpure.co.nz Ph: (03)3187023 – Jo Jules - Director
FEI World Endurance Championship for Juniors & Young Riders 2011
FEI.orgSTAR PERFORMANCE FROM STIRLING AS URUGUAY TAKES TEAM AND INDIVIDUAL GOLD by Louise Parkes
Martin Stirling was the star turn at the 2011 FEI World Endurance Championship for Juniors and Young Riders in Abu Dhabi over the weekend when the 15-year-old schoolboy led Uruguay to Team and Individual glory.
The French stood in silver medal position on the team podium ahead of the Australians who took bronze, and it was Australia's Allix Jones who was runner-up for the Individual title. Firming up the dominant position of the Uruguayan squad at this biennial event, Oriana Ricca claimed Individual bronze while team-mate, Maria Pereira, took the Best Condition Award after finishing individually seventh with Mi Jade.
It was a surprise result all round, with high expectations that riders from the United Arab Emirates would feature prominently. The UAE's Hussain Ali Al Marzouqi steered his horse, Sergai, to win the last FEI World Endurance Champion for Juniors and Young Riders held in Hungary in 2009, while Ahmad Ali Al Sabri and Alizee de Marjolaine claimed the Open category gold at the European Junior and Young Rider Endurance Championships in 2010.
It did seem that the title might well be in the UAE's grasp once again on Saturday, as Sheikh Khalifa Bin Mohammad Al Hamad led throughout the third and fourth stages and looked the one to beat. But, despite a three-minute lead going into the final 16kms loop, he and his horse, Ultimo, dropped to fifth at the end of the day.
SPECTACULAR ACHIEVEMENT
For Stirling, who was accompanied by his parents, two brothers and his baby sister, and by Magdalena Odriozola who owns his winning ride, Vendaval, it was a spectacular achievement.
"I was confident" he said afterwards. "I wasn't far behind the leading horse in the second-last loop and my horse was in good shape when I went into the last 16kms."
A total of 28 nations were represented at the event - Argentina, Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Chile, the Czech Republic, Ecuador, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, India, Italy, Mexico, Namibia, The Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Sweden, South Africa, Uruguay, the USA, and the host country, the UAE. Teams were mainly comprised of four riders, with the scores of the best three taken into account.
Competitors arrived early last week and the opening ceremony took place at the Emirates Palace on Wednesday evening. The next day they took a trip to the Desert Safari Dinner, and on Friday horses underwent the pre-ride veterinary examination. The 120km race was run over five loops of 33kms, 27kms, 24kms, 20kms and 16kms.
CONSIDERABLY MORE DIFFICULT
The action, staged by Adec, kicked off at 6.30 on Saturday morning at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba, and the course proved considerably more difficult than many had anticipated.
"The track was certainly challenging", said Ian Williams, FEI Director of Non-Olympic Sports who attended the event. "It included relatively flat going, but also a lot of sand dunes and local forestation - some sections were quite demanding. It was a real desert ride, with horses going from level terrain into deep sand in the dunes, so it called for clever riding and good technique from all the competitors" he explained.
The completion rate of over 60% was impressive, as was the average speed of 22.581kph achieved by Stirling's horse Vendeval, who was a polo pony in a former life, and who looked as happy as his young rider as they crossed the line after 120kms of tough sport in a total riding time of 5 hours, 18 minutes and 51 seconds.
Individual silver medallist Allix Jones was less than a minute behind with Castlebar Moonlight whose average speed was 22.567kph. And it was a moment to savour for the horse's owner, Margaret "Meg" Wade, one of the great heroines of equestrian sport who won the FEI's "Against All Odds" Award, but missed out on the presentation at the 2011 General Assembly in Rio de Janeiro last month when her flight to Brazil was cancelled. Meg's extraordinary recovery and return to the saddle after the multiple champion suffered a traumatic brain injury in a fall two years ago has been nothing short of inspirational.
Bronze medallist, Oriana Ricca, completed the course with Hunter Toro in five hours, 35 minutes and 25 seconds and at an average speed of 21.466kph, fractionally faster than Argentina's Manuela Basombrio and Tio Langa.
TEAMS
The Uruguayan team victory was a convincing one, when Stirling, Ricca, Pereira and Juan Pablo Viana (Larkeena Del) completed with a total time of 16 hours, 35 minutes and 53 seconds, almost a full hour ahead of the French silver medal-winning side that included Nina Lissarrague (Al Jaime De), Lea Vogler (Al Abjar), Julien Lafaure (Petra Cabirat) and Lisa Riou (Favela), whose average speed was 20.538kph as opposed to the winners' 21.707kph.
Australia's bronze medal finish was all-the-more impressive for the fact that this was only a three-strong side - Jones joined by Brooke Warner (Kunama Safira) and Alexandra Toft (High Society Te) to complete in 18 hours 14 minutes and at an average speed of 19.964kph.
Talking afterwards about the test they had faced, the champions from Uruguay explained that their plan was always to work as a team and to concentrate on taking a team medal, so the individual success was a major bonus. "We were not expecting to finish first and third individually!" they said.
The French declared themselves pleased with team silver. "We prepared our horses for the desert and the sand, but we didn't expect that the course would be so difficult", they said. The Australians declared it "a great course", and agreed that it had been a strong test. "We thought it would be flat, and not very technical, but actually it turned out to be very challenging. We thoroughly enjoyed it, it was a great competition!" they enthused.
The result may well have changed the face of international Endurance riding, with the next generation of senior riders from the South American countries very much to the fore as they claimed five of the top eight places in the Individual rankings - Ecuador's Rafaela Darquea steering Tequila into eighth place.
And Martin Stirling is certainly a name to remember. He rode with maturity well beyond his years, and only showed his emotion as he crossed the winning line with tears in his eyes and a big smile on his horse's face. "To win the Team and Individual gold was really fantastic!" said the delighted young man who enjoyed the ride of his life.
Results:
Team: GOLD - URUGUAY 21.7078, Vendeval (Martin Stirling), Hunter Toro (Oriana Ricca), Mi Jade (Maria Pereira), Larkeena Del (Juan Pablo Viana); SILVER - FRANCE 20.5383, Al Jaime De (Nina Lissarrague), Al Abjar (Lea Vogler), Petra Cabirat (Julien Lafaure), Favela (Lisa Riou); BRONZE - AUSTRALIA 19.9644, Castlebar Moonlight (Allix Jones), Kunama Safira (Warner Brooke), High Society Te (Alexandra Toft).
Individual: GOLD – Vendeval (Martin Stirling) URU 22.581; SILVER - Castlebar Moonlight (Allix Jones) AUS 22.567; BRONZE - Hunter Toro (Oriana Ricca) URU 21.466.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Malaysia: Tuanku Mizan Ends Term With String Of Achievements
Bernama.com
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- The Sultan of Terengganu, Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, who ends his term as the 13th Yang di-Pertuan Agong today has recorded a string of sterling achievements.
Tuanku Mizan was the first Muslim head of state to step foot on Antarctica last month after His Majesty made a five-day working visit to the research station at Scott Base located in the southernmost continent on Nov 20 to 24.
The visit was held in conjunction with Malaysia's accession to the Antarctic Treaty, 1959 on Oct 31 this year, which among others, enables Malaysian scientists to be directly engaged in all research undertaken on the continent.
Malaysia's assent to the Antarctic Treaty also made it the first Southeast Asian country and first Islamic nation to accede to the treaty.
Tuanku Mizan who was among the youngest Malay rulers to ascend the throne as the Sultan of Terengganu, aged 36, in 1988, was the second youngest Yang di-Pertuan Agong after Tuanku Syed Putra Syed Hassan Jamalullail when he was chosen as the 13th Yang di-Pertuan Agong on Dec 13, 2006 at age 44.
Tuanku Mizan, 49, as the Supreme Commander of the Malaysian Armed Forces was also the first Yang di-Pertuan Agong to take a flight in a fighter jet, the Sukhoi SU-30MKM at supersonic speed which was faster than the speed of sound, for about 45 minutes over Pulau Langkawi and Penang, where he visited the Royal Malaysian Air Force base in Butterworth on Feb 7, this year.
On March 10, His Majesty went into KD Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia's first submarine, which made a maximum depth dive for an operation in the South China Sea, as well as carrying out simulation fire on targets from the Scorpene submarine.
Tuanku Mizan who is known for his humility, spent a day with the crew to experience life in a submarine.
During his reign, Tuanku Mizan also helped to strengthen relations between Malaysia and other countries. Apart from receiving the visits of foreign leaders, he also visited several countries including in the Asean region, and Kuwait, Qatar and Uruquay.
He also made special visits to the United Kingdom, United States and Canada.
For Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, he was very grateful to Tuanku Mizan in all his dealings with His Majesty.
"Under His Majesty's reign, state matters were smoothly conducted. The King's support is also highly appreciated by members of the Cabinet," he said at the banquet held in conjunction with the end of Tuanku Mizan's term as the 13th Yang di-Pertuan Agong at Istana Negara, here, on Saturday.
Najib also expressed his appreciation for Tuanku Mizan's entire reign as Yang di-Pertuan Agong, and that the government and people were proud of His Majesty's concern for the people, apart from being active in charity work and sports.
Information, Communications and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim in his speech said that during the five-year reign of His Majesty, Malaysia continued to progress from one level to another higher level.
"All the policies and practices under the 1Malaysia concept proved fruitful under Tuanku's reign and it is hoped that the nation will continue to prosper," he said.
For Datuk Paduka Maharaja Lela, Datuk Awang Kechik Abdul Rahman who had served for more than two years with Tuanku Mizan as the Agong, said His Majesty's tenacity should be an example to every citizen of the country.
"The King has repeatedly reminded the people to protect the good relations between the races, and to practise mutual respect and cooperation for harmony to prevail in the country," he told Bernama at Istana Negara recently.
Awang Kechik said Tuanku Mizan had devoted his full attention to the people when each invitation involving the people was always fulfilled.
Tuanku Mizan married Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Nur Zahirah in 1996 and the royal couple is blessed with two princes, Tengku Mohammad Ismail, 13, and Tengku Muhammad Mua'az, 11, and two princesses, Tengku Nadhirah Zahrah, 15, and Tengku Fatimatuz Zahra', 9.
Tengku Mohammad Ismail, the elder son of Tuanku Mizan, was appointed as Acting Sultan of Terengganu following the appointment of his father as the 13th Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
Tuanku Mizan who is active in sports, especially in endurance horse riding, had spent time to participate in several competitions such as the World Endurance Challenge for the World Endurance Championships organised by Yayasan Diraja Sultan Mizan (YDSM), Equestrian Association of Malaysia (EAM), Federation Equestrian International (FEI) and Penn Endurance & Equestrian Club (PENN)).
The King had also participated in the Sheikh Mohammed Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup competition in Dubai in January 2008.
-- BERNAMA
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- The Sultan of Terengganu, Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, who ends his term as the 13th Yang di-Pertuan Agong today has recorded a string of sterling achievements.
Tuanku Mizan was the first Muslim head of state to step foot on Antarctica last month after His Majesty made a five-day working visit to the research station at Scott Base located in the southernmost continent on Nov 20 to 24.
The visit was held in conjunction with Malaysia's accession to the Antarctic Treaty, 1959 on Oct 31 this year, which among others, enables Malaysian scientists to be directly engaged in all research undertaken on the continent.
Malaysia's assent to the Antarctic Treaty also made it the first Southeast Asian country and first Islamic nation to accede to the treaty.
Tuanku Mizan who was among the youngest Malay rulers to ascend the throne as the Sultan of Terengganu, aged 36, in 1988, was the second youngest Yang di-Pertuan Agong after Tuanku Syed Putra Syed Hassan Jamalullail when he was chosen as the 13th Yang di-Pertuan Agong on Dec 13, 2006 at age 44.
Tuanku Mizan, 49, as the Supreme Commander of the Malaysian Armed Forces was also the first Yang di-Pertuan Agong to take a flight in a fighter jet, the Sukhoi SU-30MKM at supersonic speed which was faster than the speed of sound, for about 45 minutes over Pulau Langkawi and Penang, where he visited the Royal Malaysian Air Force base in Butterworth on Feb 7, this year.
On March 10, His Majesty went into KD Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia's first submarine, which made a maximum depth dive for an operation in the South China Sea, as well as carrying out simulation fire on targets from the Scorpene submarine.
Tuanku Mizan who is known for his humility, spent a day with the crew to experience life in a submarine.
During his reign, Tuanku Mizan also helped to strengthen relations between Malaysia and other countries. Apart from receiving the visits of foreign leaders, he also visited several countries including in the Asean region, and Kuwait, Qatar and Uruquay.
He also made special visits to the United Kingdom, United States and Canada.
For Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, he was very grateful to Tuanku Mizan in all his dealings with His Majesty.
"Under His Majesty's reign, state matters were smoothly conducted. The King's support is also highly appreciated by members of the Cabinet," he said at the banquet held in conjunction with the end of Tuanku Mizan's term as the 13th Yang di-Pertuan Agong at Istana Negara, here, on Saturday.
Najib also expressed his appreciation for Tuanku Mizan's entire reign as Yang di-Pertuan Agong, and that the government and people were proud of His Majesty's concern for the people, apart from being active in charity work and sports.
Information, Communications and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim in his speech said that during the five-year reign of His Majesty, Malaysia continued to progress from one level to another higher level.
"All the policies and practices under the 1Malaysia concept proved fruitful under Tuanku's reign and it is hoped that the nation will continue to prosper," he said.
For Datuk Paduka Maharaja Lela, Datuk Awang Kechik Abdul Rahman who had served for more than two years with Tuanku Mizan as the Agong, said His Majesty's tenacity should be an example to every citizen of the country.
"The King has repeatedly reminded the people to protect the good relations between the races, and to practise mutual respect and cooperation for harmony to prevail in the country," he told Bernama at Istana Negara recently.
Awang Kechik said Tuanku Mizan had devoted his full attention to the people when each invitation involving the people was always fulfilled.
Tuanku Mizan married Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Nur Zahirah in 1996 and the royal couple is blessed with two princes, Tengku Mohammad Ismail, 13, and Tengku Muhammad Mua'az, 11, and two princesses, Tengku Nadhirah Zahrah, 15, and Tengku Fatimatuz Zahra', 9.
Tengku Mohammad Ismail, the elder son of Tuanku Mizan, was appointed as Acting Sultan of Terengganu following the appointment of his father as the 13th Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
Tuanku Mizan who is active in sports, especially in endurance horse riding, had spent time to participate in several competitions such as the World Endurance Challenge for the World Endurance Championships organised by Yayasan Diraja Sultan Mizan (YDSM), Equestrian Association of Malaysia (EAM), Federation Equestrian International (FEI) and Penn Endurance & Equestrian Club (PENN)).
The King had also participated in the Sheikh Mohammed Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup competition in Dubai in January 2008.
-- BERNAMA
Team USA Places Fourth at FEI Junior and Young Rider World Endurance Championship in Abu Dhabi
RELEASE: December 11, 2011
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: USEF Communications Department
Lexington, KY - The U.S. finished fourth among 19 teams Saturday in Abu Dhabi, UAE, at the FEI Junior and Young Rider World Endurance Championship despite an uphill battle that included an injured horse at the first inspection.
"What an exhilarating team effort and realistically an unexpected result - but privately hoped for," said Chef d'Equipe Emmett Ross.
Unexpected, in part, because Natalie Muzzio's horse Khalil Asam was not able to ship, resulting in the loss of Team member Steven Hay. Then, at the first inspection on Friday, Kyle Gibbon's horse, Misu Koran, owned by Stephen Rojek, presented with a sore shoulder and was not able to start. There are five vet checks throughout the race to check the horse's soundness and metabolic capacity in order to be allowed to continue.
The three remaining Team members - 16-year-old Kelsey Russell (Willison, FL) on Gold Raven, 17-year-old Mary Kathryn Clark (Eatonton, GA) aboard Cheryl Van Deusen's DA Al Capone, and 18-year-old Kelsey Kimbler (Aberdeen, SD) on Kirsten Kimbler's Cody Canuck - would all need to finish the course to post a team score and rank as a team (aggregate total time of three riders score as a team).
All three U.S. Young Riders did just that, with Russell and Valerie Kanavy's Gold Raven, a 10-year-old Arabian mare, finishing sixth individually in 5 hours, 37 minutes.
"Before the race I reminded our youngsters that they had never raced as fast as they were going to be asked to, or under so much pressure," Ross said.
The 120km race was represented by 76 riders between the ages of 14-21 from 29 countries. The course included deep sand for 12km out of the first 33km on the first loop - a concern for the U.S. Team, Ross said, "because of the lack of experience of our riders in sand."
"But everyone here - riders, mentors, families, crew, and staff were positive throughout," Ross said. "As Chef I had to try to have the riders understand that their task had many levels of responsibility for the team to accomplish a respectable team result - finish well with each horse giving it's all."
Ross said that result did not materialize until the last loop. "And actually not until the last portion of the last loop," he said. "The USA team result started with a 13th-place position for the first loop, and each loop improving two to three positions. I felt that our only chance to even finish a team well was to stick to a very closely monitored effort. Several of us who had worked here often saw how many strong looking and leading visiting horses simply crash on latter loops. We adopted the monitored plan and changed the goal for the horse/ rider combination after each loop."
Kimbler and Clark were separated after the first loop by about 10 minutes, but starting with the third loop, Kimbler and Cody Canuck, a 14-year-old Arabian gelding, caught up to Clark and DA Al Capone, a 16-year-old Arabian gelding.
"They essentially rode together the rest of way with Al and MK providing some last-loop energy to Cody and Kelsey who were tiring somewhat," Ross said. "In fact, these two team members and their wonderful horses did each loop slightly faster than the previous, as planned, except for the third loop which virtually knocked all horses down somewhat off their previous pace or closing pace."
The U.S. Team horses are doing well and will head home on Tuesday.
"It is a remarkable accomplishment for the Young Riders," said Vonita Bowers, director of endurance and reining at the United States Equestrian Federation, which for the first time sent a full team and support staff to Championship. "Many thanks to Emmett Ross, (Team Vet) Dr. Dwight Hooton, and all of the Young Riders crew and supporters."
Abu Dhabi: All the credit should go to my horse, Stirling says
Gulfnews.com - Full Article
By M. Satya Narayan, Chief Sports Reporter
Published: 00:00 December 11, 2011
Abu Dhabi: It still had not sunk in for the Uruguayan teenager, who kept playing with his two-year-old sister even as journalists threw questions at the new junior world endurance champion.
Martin Stirling, 15, scored a huge win for his country with gold in the individual event, and also made a big contribution to the team's victory.
"My horse Vendaval is a great horse and all credit goes to him," said Stirling, whose parents along with his two brothers and sister were all there to celebrate with him.
"I have come second on Vendaval in the junior championship in Uruguay but to win here in the UAE is good.
"In the final loop I just concentrated on my horse and towards the end the Australian rider gave me a hard challenge."
Stirling's win was the second for Uruguay in the Junior World Championship, their earlier victory coming in the 2006 event in Argentina.
‘Great experience'
"We had prepared well as a team and I am happy for the other riders who helped us win the team gold also," he said, adding that he was bowled over by the facilities at the Emirates International Endurance Village...
Read more here:
http://gulfnews.com/sport/horse-racing/all-the-credit-should-go-to-my-horse-stirling-says-1.948503
By M. Satya Narayan, Chief Sports Reporter
Published: 00:00 December 11, 2011
Abu Dhabi: It still had not sunk in for the Uruguayan teenager, who kept playing with his two-year-old sister even as journalists threw questions at the new junior world endurance champion.
Martin Stirling, 15, scored a huge win for his country with gold in the individual event, and also made a big contribution to the team's victory.
"My horse Vendaval is a great horse and all credit goes to him," said Stirling, whose parents along with his two brothers and sister were all there to celebrate with him.
"I have come second on Vendaval in the junior championship in Uruguay but to win here in the UAE is good.
"In the final loop I just concentrated on my horse and towards the end the Australian rider gave me a hard challenge."
Stirling's win was the second for Uruguay in the Junior World Championship, their earlier victory coming in the 2006 event in Argentina.
‘Great experience'
"We had prepared well as a team and I am happy for the other riders who helped us win the team gold also," he said, adding that he was bowled over by the facilities at the Emirates International Endurance Village...
Read more here:
http://gulfnews.com/sport/horse-racing/all-the-credit-should-go-to-my-horse-stirling-says-1.948503
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Abu Dhabi: Stirling effort for Uruguay to win world endurance gold
WAM photo Thenational.ae - Full Article
Amith Passela
Dec 10, 2011
AL WATHBA // Martin Stirling gave his family, who had made the long trip to the UAE, two reasons to celebrate yesterday with victory in the FEI World Endurance Championship for Young Riders and Juniors.
The 15 year old from Uruguay rode Vendaval to win the 120-kilometre race, and then helped the South Americans take the team gold at the Emirates International Endurance Village.
The biennial championship drew 79 riders from 29 countries and 48 completed the race, which was run over five loops of 33km, 27km, 24km, 20km and 16km.
Stirling guided the nine-year-old bay gelding to victory ahead of Australia's Allix Jones on Castlebar Moonlight. Oriana Ricca, his Uruguayan team member, took bronze on Hunter Toro.
"It was a very fast-run race," said Stirling. "The weather was nice and cool but the track was difficult, particularly the first three loops with some sharp climbs and downhill trail, and some deep sandy areas to negotiate.
"Having come out of the toughest stages, I was confident. I wasn't far off behind the first horse in the second last loop. My horse was in good shape when I went into the last 16km and then went all out.
"To win was a great achievement and to win the team gold as well was really fantastic ... To win the world junior title in the UAE is my biggest and most memorable."
Stirling's parents, his two brothers and baby sister travelled with him along with Magdalena Odriozola, the owner of Vendaval.
"Martin's my neighbour," said Odriozola. "It's just four horses we have and train in the farm. Vendaval was a birthday gift to me. Martin used to ride the horses and today he rode a great race to win...
Read more here:
http://www.thenational.ae/sport/horse-racing/stirling-effort-for-uruguay-to-win-world-endurance-gold
Abu Dhabi: Stirling leads Uruguayan double to Latin Delight in championship
Image Credit: Ahmed Kutty/Gulf News
Gulfnews.com - Full Article
By M. Satya Narayan, Chief Sports Reporter
Published: 00:06 December 11, 2011
UAE left heartbroken as Khalifa loses lead to finish in fifth spot
Abu Dhabi: Fifteen-year-old schoolboy Martin Stirling led a ‘Latin Delight' as riders from South America turned in a dominant display to stun favourites UAE in the World Junior and Young Riders Endurance Championship here yesterday.
Stirling won the individual gold and led his Uruguay team to gold to complete a perfect double while team mate Oriana Ricca finished third, Argentina's Manuela Basombrio was fourth, Uruguayan Maria Pereira seventh and Rafaela Darquea from Ecuador next to him to complete a memorable championship for Latin America.
It was heartbreak for the UAE's Shaikh Khalifa Bin Mohammad Al Hamad, who led in the third and fourth stage but his horse Ultimo, despite a three-minute lead going out into the final loop of 16kms, could only manage a fifth place.
Stirling, on Vendaval, did well to first overtake the UAE rider and from then on keep his nine-year-old bay gelding in front despite a late challenge from Australian Allix Jones.
Stirling leads Uruguayan double to Latin Delight in championship
UAE left heartbroken as Khalifa loses lead to finish in fifth spot
By M. Satya Narayan, Chief Sports Reporter
Published: 00:06 December 11, 2011
Gulf News
13
Winner Martin Stirling from Uruguay finishing the white loop
Image Credit: Ahmed Kutty/Gulf News
Winner Martin Stirling from Uruguay finishing the white loop during the World Endurance Championship for young riders and juniors championship at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba yesterday.
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Abu Dhabi: Fifteen-year-old schoolboy Martin Stirling led a ‘Latin Delight' as riders from South America turned in a dominant display to stun favourites UAE in the World Junior and Young Riders Endurance Championship here yesterday.
Stirling won the individual gold and led his Uruguay team to gold to complete a perfect double while team mate Oriana Ricca finished third, Argentina's Manuela Basombrio was fourth, Uruguayan Maria Pereira seventh and Rafaela Darquea from Ecuador next to him to complete a memorable championship for Latin America.
It was heartbreak for the UAE's Shaikh Khalifa Bin Mohammad Al Hamad, who led in the third and fourth stage but his horse Ultimo, despite a three-minute lead going out into the final loop of 16kms, could only manage a fifth place.
Stirling, on Vendaval, did well to first overtake the UAE rider and from then on keep his nine-year-old bay gelding in front despite a late challenge from Australian Allix Jones.
Article continues below
Stirling's team mate Ricca finished third on Hunter Toro and with Maria Pereira in seventh the Uruguayans added the team gold to the individual gold.
With 77 riders from 29 countries starting at 6.30am in the five-loop race, the UAE riders looked to be in good positions midway through the 120km event. But after Ali Ganem Al Merri's exit in the second loop, Mohammad Saeed Al Faresi also went the same way in the third loop.
Strange ride
But Shaikh Khalifa and Khalifa Ganem Mohammad Al Merri on Little Joe Fox looked in contention for a medal until the final 16kms. While Al Merri's horse went lame before starting out on the final stage, Shaikh Khalifa said his horse behaved otherwise in the final loop. "It was a very strange ride for us and a very difficult one. I had a good chance but my horse was not up to it in the final loop," he said...
Read more here:
http://gulfnews.com/sport/horse-racing/stirling-leads-uruguayan-double-to-latin-delight-in-championship-1.948502
Friday, December 09, 2011
Abu Dhabi: Young Rider/Junior World Endurance Championship Updates
December 9
Cheryl Van Deusen (USA):
Tough day today, the USA only has 3 horses starting the ride. Kyle's horse
Misu did not vet in - he travels funny and although they gave us three trot
outs, he did not clear. We are really sad for Kyle and Steve as they are
such team players, along with great sports. Now the pressure is really on
as we all have to finish to finish a team.
it's a great place,but boy are we whipped - lots of work, but it's paid
off. DA Al Capone (will be ridden by Mary Catherine Clark) is feeling good and vetted in well - nice trot for him along with
a pulse of 30.
Mary Farris and Melody Blittersdorf have been great crew, along with Grace
and Wendy who scored so much local assistance, it's awesome. Momma Peggy
came in a couple of days ago to round out a great team.
Race starts at 6:30 am for us (unless fog or sheikh is delayed) -- which is
about 9 hours earlier there -- so while you are sleeping, we'll be riding.
Melody Blittersdorf (USA)
Good luck team USA ! Only thing that could have possibly made this trip better is if Kyle and Steven were riding. This is one heck of a group here! Wish us luck !!!!!
Mary Katherine Clark (USA)
Team USA is set to go in the mornig for the race in the morning. Unfortunately one of the horses was not quite right and did not pass vet in. Kyle and Steve have been so much fun to have around and help this week. Thank you for everything! The race starts at 6:30 a.m. which is 9 hours ahead of eastern time. Out to the barn at 4 a.m. Go Team USA!!
Kelly Kimbler
I just wanted to take a minute to say thanks to everybody following Kelsey & Cody on their big adventure. In addition to those at home and our endurance family we have a really great group of people here helping us and getting us ready for this race. They all keep reminding us that this is just another ride and to remember to have fun and do the best they can! Thanks everybody!
Lientie de Wit (Namibia)
Pierre and Otis TE are ready for the race......for know....it's bed time....have to be awake at 4 o'clock, leaving at 4.30......the race starts at 06h30.....
More updates and photos at
http://www.endurance.net/international/UAE/2011WECYRJ/
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