2014 FEI World Equestrian Games Are Awarded to Normandie, France

FEI press Release
Tuesday, 31 March 2009

Today the FEI Bureau awarded the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games to the region of Normandie, France. This will be the seventh edition of the FEI World Equestrian Games and the first one to be held in France. FEI President HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein annonced “The allocation of the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games to the region of Normandie in France is an important development for the future of our sport. The bid committee in cooperation with the French Equestrian Federation have worked for eight years and presented a project of outstanding quality and vision which enjoys the support of the French government and regional authorities, and presents us as a sport with an exceptional platform in the very heart of a region that shares our passion for horses.”

Laurent Beauvais, President of the Regional Council of Basse-Normandie and President of the Organizing Committee Normandie 2014

“Hosting the FEI World Equestrian Games represents an exceptional opportunity for the promotion and development of Normandie on the international level. Normandie is the first region in France for horse breeding and champions. Normandie has a true legitimacy to host the most prestigious equestrian competition. Normandie is proud to take up this challenge. I would like to dedicate this victory to all the local public authorities that were part this bid.”

Christian Leyrit, Prefet of Basse-Normandie representing the French State

“Normandie is taking pride in obtaining the organization of the FEI World Equestrian Games in 2014. This bid has received the support of Nicolas Sarkozy, President of the French Republic. This success is above all the fruit of a common will as well as the result of the work of all the partners involved and the services of the French state. As a representative of the French state, I would like to reiterate my commitment and guarantee a successful event. The Games will contribute to the fame of Basse-Normandie, horse country par excellence.”

Philippe Duron, Member of the French Parliament and Mayor of Caen, capital of Basse-Normandie

“For Caen, it is a wonderful recognition and opportunity to benefit from a worldwide coverage for two weeks. Caen is the cradle of horse riding. Trotting races first took place there in 1837. It is the proof that “yes we Caen!”

Christian Paillot, Vice-President of the French Equestrian Federation

“The French Equestrian Federation, third national federation with 600,000 members, is proud that France obtained the organization of the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games. Thank you to all of those who have worked for a successful bid and to the FEI for this mark of confidence.”

About the FEI World Equestrian Games

The FEI World Equestrian Games are the combination of the world championships of all eight FEI disciplines - Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Driving, Endurance, Vaulting, Reining, and Para-Equestrian – held concurrently at the same place. They take place every four years.

No less than 900 horses, 800 riders and drivers from 60 nations and 300 000 spectators are expected to gather for two weeks of competition in August 2014. The FEI World Equestrian Games will be broadcast widely and is expected to generate important economic, tourist and sports benefits.

About Normandie

Normandie is the symbol of the vitality of the French horse industry. It boasts a natural environment favourable to all horse activities, first rank infrastructure, renowned equine research centres, and high level industry related to horses. Many competitions are organised in Normandie each year.

The French State along with local authorities and the French Equestrian Federation aim at integrating the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games into a global strategy of local development. This strategy includes supporting high level athletes, popularizing horse sports and promoting the horse industry.

Spain: Race across Andalucia, Tierras de Al-Andalus

Full Event Coverage site

Riders from around the world gathered in Jerez, Spain on March 26 for the start of Europe's premier multi-day Endurance event: Tierras de Al-Andalus - an eight day race across the south of Spain.


Almost 70 riders and horses will be competing in this event as either individual riders or members of a 2-person team. The race will be conducted in 8 stages:
Jerez to San Lucar
San Lucar to El Rocio
El Rocio to Sevilla
Sevilla to Carmona
Carmona to Ecija
Ecija to Cordoba
Cordoba - Montoro
Montoro - Virgen de la Cabeza (Andujar)

Each day is staged so that the riders are greeted and wined and dined at the end of the ride by local officials and sponsors from each of the Andalucian towns. The ride is the 'child' of Jose Manuel Soto, one of Spain's revered singers, who has a passion for horses and for adventure and a love of his homeland, Andalucia.

Merri Melde is following the ride this year and sending photos of each day's ride. So far three days have been completed.

Results and photos and coverage can be found at the Tierras de Al Andalus coverage site

Blackwater Boogie Canceled!

Heavy rain and damage cancels Blackwater Boogie (SE-FL)
The Blackwater River State Forest sustained heavy damaged from flooding. Forestry has closed all campgrounds in the Forest and the horse trail system until Easter. Therefore, the April 4th Blackwater Boogie Endurance Ride in Milton, FL has been cancelled. We are working on finding a new date in the next several weeks. We're working on personally contacting riders and volunteers.

Christina Schiro
Ride Manager

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2007 Results
2007 Pictures
2006 Pictures

USA: Rain hammers Roundup Ride at Chester, Georgia

News from Chester, Georgia:

"The ride started in the dark, but it was not raining. Within minutes of the start, the rain also started. We were hoping for just a light rain, but as the pictures show, the rain began coming down harder than I thought possible. Then the lightning started, and for a brief while, pea sized hail, too. The rain continued fairly steady, and frequently very heavy, throughout the day. We constantly were changing the trail going around new bogs, new streams, and then where the trail simply got too deep due to water and use. Finally, we had to call the
100-mile ride off at 88 miles due to deterioration of the trails. There
just were no other places to send the horses that was safe. The road in was being used by the tractor towing rigs out; the fields were knee-deep in mud; the trails had been ridden over too many times to even be passable. Moreover, too many horses were simply falling down on trail. We have notcompiled the stats for all the divisions, but despite only one metabolic
pull (thumps), the completion rate is very low."

Mike Tomlinson
photos by M. Tomlinson

UAE: Storm halts endurance ride

A violent thunderstorm brought wind and hail to the Dubai Endurance City during the Dubai Crown Prince Cup. The violent storm scattered over 40 frightened horses across the desert, some were recovered over 20 kilometers from the Endurance City. A blanket of hail covered the land.
photos submitted by K. Hasan

From the Telegraph.co.uk:
"On Thursday, one of the week’s landmark events, the endurance race in the desert, was called off not long after it started. A total of 40 horses went missing, helicopters were called in to round them up, and several riders suffered injury. So ferocious was the storm that car windows were smashed by hail, which lashed the area in the morning. At least one rider was taken to hospital. "

Gulfnews.com
Runs halted as weather turns foul
March 26, 2009, 22:57

Dubai: The Dubai Crown Prince Endurance Cup FEI CEI 2-Star 120km endurance and the Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Al Maktoum Challenge, a CEN 102km endurance ride were cancelled due to unfavourable weather conditions at the Dubai International Endurance Village on Thursday.

The two rides got under way as scheduled at 6am, but had to be called off due to heavy rain and hail.

Participants in the main ride had completed the first loop, while the smaller ride competitors were about to commence their race when the skies opened up.

The Dubai Crown Prince Endurance Cup FEI CEI 2-Star 120km endurance ride that was scheduled to be an inter-stables competition with each of the 20-odd major stables in the UAE, allowed a field of a maximum of four riders or a minimum of three. The Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Al Maktoum Challenge, a CEN 102km endurance ride, was restricted to private stables and individuals so as to give them a better platform to qualify for the bigger events.

Great Britain: An enduring partnership

SouthernReporter
26 March 2009
By Sally Gillespie
Nicky Bertham with her ‘soulmate’, Maverick. Photograph: Alastair Watson

LOCAL endurance riders are saddling up for the first outing of the season this weekend.
The rides at Harestanes cater for beginners or those starting off their horses with a pleasure ride, as well as 16-mile and a 25-mile routes.

Nicky Bertham is secretary of the Borders branch of the Scottish Endurance Riding Club.

She told TheSouthern: "Anyone can do endurance. As long as the horse is fit and sound, then anyone can try it. It is a wonderfully friendly sport, which builds a bond between you and the horse. You're able to ride in the countryside and see some breathtaking views."

There are seven dates in the club's diary this season, including a two-day event at Longnewton in June and some new rides.

The club boasts around 35 members ageing from 12 to 70 – and the 70-year-old completed a 120km (75 miles) ride last year!

Nicky said: "I like endurance because I love riding my horse. It gives me the chance of doing a competitive sport which does not cost as much as eventing.

"You don't need a specific type of horse to do endurance.

"I enjoy the friends you make from all over the country and the chance to travel and help at rides, learning from others, and being able to host an event and offer other riders so much enjoyment."

Pleasure or training rides are up to 30km and distances go up to 160km in one day.

On the day, riders are given a map with the route marked on it. There's also a 'talkround' when organisers talk riders round the route.

Vets check the horse's condition before and after the rides.

There is a grading system in operation for the competitive riders from bronze (two 30km and one 50km rides) to Diamond (completing 160 km in one day).

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Finishing the VV March Maddness

The Leaders of the 2008 VV March Maddness have all passed the 400 mile mark! Below you will find the loop names of the trails they have been riding. In the Spring of Virginia, the late Winter of Wyoming, and dead of summer Austrailia, the Race continues until March 31st!

Flora Hillman 525.52 Miles Loop Names Willisville & Erskine's Woods Loop Foxlease Loop A Bloomfield Loop A Willsville & Cannon Hill Loop Kentfields Loop Cannon Hill & Old Welbourne Loop Upperville Loop Willisville & Cannon Hill (loose cow herd roundup) Newstead Farm & Meadow View Unison Loop & Lost Easyboot Trail Willisville & Cannon Hill Team Virginia ride Foxlease Farm Welbourne & Pelham Bloomfield & Meadow View Loop Mountain Clearing & Bloomfield Loop Foxlease & Cannon Hill Loop Neighborhood WalkAbout Piedmont Foxhounds Kennels Loop Cannon Hill & Old Welbourne Loop Welbourne Loop Kentfields Loop Gar Royer's Farm & Foxlease Ides of March Ride Ides of March Ride II (R)Ides of March - revisited Corotoman Loop Old Welbourne & Willisville Unison/Bloomfield Loop To Llangollen and back Kentfields Loop Willisville Road Cleanup Kentfields Loop Corotoman Loop Foxlease Loop Road clean-up II Bloomfield & Kentfields Mountain trail clearing Team Virginia Ride to the River Willisville & Bloomfield Willisville & Bloomfield - II Mosby Heritage Multiday - Day 1 Mosby Heritage Multiday - Day 2

Marirose Six 464.76 Miles Loop Names shed hunting Denny's mission ride State land to salt creek Exploring Playing north K I S Rough country We're off to see the wizard Good-bad-ugly More K I S Can't resist Chilly The draws Peat & repeat The meadows The roads Around about Nooks & Crannys Up & down Memory test Extra miles Almost Fanny Peak Elk country Here & there Fanny Peak & beyond Cappses Bringing Burt Gary state land windy day south & north hiding from wind

Jay Randel 456.44 Miles Loop Names Camel's Hump Goat Track Camel's Hump Winery Track Camel's Hump Erica's Track Winery Track Ted's Gate Ted's Gate Ted's Gate Camel's Hump Ted's Gate Polo Club Camel's Hump Winery Track Ted's Gate Polo Club Winery Track Ted's Gate Winery Track Polo Club Goat Track Polo Club Polo Club Winery Track Polo Club Goat Track Power Lines Goat Track Polo Club Ted's Gate Goat Track Tom's Track Tom's Track Tom's Track Tom's Track Goat Track Polo Club Ted's Gate Polo Club Camel's Hump Polo Club Ted's Gate Ted's Gate Winery Track Polo club Goat Track

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India: Army conducted 1000 mile Thar Centaur horseback expedition

Press Information Bureau. Government of India
March 26, 2009

Highlighting man’s insatiable thirst for exploring unchartered territory the Armoured Corps conducted ‘Thar Centaurs’ a 1000 mile expedition on horseback as an adventure activity by the Cavaliers from Fifteen Armoured Regt, 61 Cavalry and PBG from 29 Jan to 25 Mar 09. The expedition of 12 riders led by Lt Col PS Grewal on horseback was conducted in the Thar Desert amidst the harshest terrain comprising desolate and rocky deserts characterized by high sand dunes to test the skill and endurance of the rider and horse. The 1000 mile expedition on horseback is a unique event which has never been attempted in the sub-continent over such rigorous terrain. It was a test of endurance for both the horse and rider as the expedition was executed on ‘Posting the Trot’ a ride which is physically very gruelling for the horseback but comfortable to the horse. The daily ride continued for 10-12 hours covering an average 60-70 kms everyday. The expedition had on board a veterinary team which monitored the performance and health of the horses on a daily basis.

The aim of this expedition was to learn and participate in the culture of deserts as well as foster a spirit of adventure amongst the army men which is an essential part of any military life and ethos. The expedition helped the team in getting an insight into the traditional heritage of Rajasthan, as well as a opportunity to revive the military heritage of our cavalry of yester years. The horses and riders stoically withstood the stress and strain during the expedition and completed the gruelling expedition successfully. The expedition concluded on yesterday at Jaipur, and ‘flagged in’ by Lt Gen SN Handa, Chief of Staff, South Western Command.

VS/RPA

USA: 2009 Adequan FEI North American Junior/Young Rider Championships

USEF.org

Mark the Calendar: Plans for 2009 Adequan FEI North American Junior/Young Rider Championships presented by Gotham North in Full Swing

Release: March 25 2009

Lexington, KY - The countdown to the 2009 Adequan FEI North American Junior/Young Rider Championships presented by Gotham North (NAJYRC) has begun in earnest. For the first time, the NAJYRC will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY – which in 2010 will play host to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. This year’s NAJYRC will be held July 21-26, 2009.

Since 1979, these Championships showcase the best young rider and junior horse/rider combinations in the three Olympic disciplines of Dressage, Eventing and Jumping. In 2008, the Western discipline of Reining was added, bringing the best young athletes, ages 14-21, in four of the most exciting Equestrian disciplines together for the first time.

The Dressage Championships bring out the country’s best Juniors and Young Riders and 2009 promises not to disappoint. Dressage will again be sponsored by Platinum Performance and the United States Dressage Federation

For more information about the Dressage Championships, and the selection procedures, please see: http://www.usdf.org/competitions/competitions-championships/najyrc/index.asp.

The Eventing Championships have always enjoyed the support of the US Eventing Association, and this year is no different. For information and selection information about these Championships, please see: http://www.usef.org/documents/disciplines/eventing/SelectionProcess.pdf.

Jumping has a new title sponsor: CN - whose dedication to the program has proved invaluable (they have served as a title sponsor for the entire event since 2005) - continues with the Jumping sponsorship in 2009. The United States Hunter Jumper Association moves from title to presenting sponsor. For information and Jumping Selection procedures, please see: http://www.usef.org/Contentpage2.aspx?id=natjumping.

Reining returns to the Championships for the second year in 2009. Hugely popular in 2008, it will thrive again this year with the sponsorship of SmartPak Equine. The selection procedures for Reining are being finalized and will be on the following page on the USEF website shortly: http://www.usef.org/ContentPage2.aspx?id=intreining.

Hagyard will be the Official Veterinary Services Provider to the NAJYRC, and is generously providing treating veterinary coverage to all four disciplines. Hagyard Equine Medical is located directly across the street from the Kentucky Horse Park.

A non-Championship FEI CEI** competition will be held in conjunction with the NAJYRC. The Endurance event will be held July 22-26, 2009 in Henryville, Indiana. For more information regarding endurance, please email Vonita Bowers at vbowers@usef.org.

A Vaulting demonstration will also be held for Juniors and Young Riders, stay tuned for more details as the schedule is confirmed.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available; please contact Scott Carling at scarling@usef.org for more information.

Vendor spaces are available too; please contact Joanie Morris at jmorris@usef.org or at 859.225.2052 for an application or general information regarding the event.

Lots of information is available on the NAJYRC Website: www.youngriders.org, including information regarding hotels and camping. Please check frequently for updates and important information.

India: Army expedition on horse back

Indopia.in

March 25,2009

Jaipur , Mar 25 In a feat attempted for the first time in the country, a 12-member army expedition traversed over 1600 km of Rajathan&aposs desert terrain on horse back in two months.

The expedition 'Thar Centaur' flagged off on January 24 used Global Positioning System to navigate their way through high sand dunes, rocky wasteland and other remote regions, in a test of endurance and skill.

The 12 members rode on horseback through 190 villages covering an average distance of 40 km per day, a spokesman said.

"The adventure cum endurance expedition was aimed at bettering the standards of horsemanship in field conditions," he said, adding the feat "has never been attempted in modern India".

Spain: Presentado el Raid Kaliber Tierras de Al-Andalus

Ecuestreonline.com

24/03/2009

The chairman of the organizing committee Kaliber Lands Raid Al-Andalus, Jose Manuel Soto, presented evidence that in Seville will be held from March 27 until April 4 between Frontera and Jerez de la Virgen de la Cabeza, involving horses and riders from over ten countries.

El presidente del comite organizador del Raid Kaliber Tierras de Al-Andalus, Jose Manuel Soto, presento en Sevilla la prueba que se disputara del 27 de marzo hasta el 4 de abril entre Jerez de la Frontera y Virgen de la Cabeza, en la que participaran jinetes y caballos de mas de diez paises.

Ayer, lunes, tuvo lugar el acto de presentacion de la IV Edicion del Raid Kaliber Tierras de Al-Andalus, que un ano mas recorrera las tierras andaluzas, comenzando el 27 de marzo en Jerez de la Frontera (Cadiz) para finalizar el 4 de abril en Virgen de la Cabeza (Jaen).

Al acto asistieron el jefe de los Servicios de Calidad y Promocion de la Consejeria de Agricultura y Pesca de la Junta de Andalucia, Antonio Rodriguez Ocana; el secretario general para el Deporte de la Consejeria de Turismo, Comercio y Deportes de Andalucia, Manuel Jimenez Barrios; el director de Sponsoring y Eventos de Imagen de Heineken Espana, Diego Antonanzas; y el presidente del comite organizador del Raid Kaliber Tierras de Al-Andalus, Jose Manuel Soto.

En esta edicion de la prueba participaran jinetes provenientes de doce paises (entre ellos Francia, Alemania, Belgica, Estados Unidos, Inglaterra, Portugal, Argentina, Italia y Espana), que recorreran 500 kilometros en ocho etapas.

Como principal novedad, este ano el recorrido escogido sera la ruta del Guadalquivir, que, tal y como destaco Manuel Jimenez Barrios, resulta de vital importancia, dado el reciente traspaso de las competencias de su gestion a la Comunidad Autonoma de Andalucia. Tal y como senalo, se trata de "poner al servicio del rio nuestra inteligencia, de forma que se promueva su relevancia economica, cultural y ambiental", para lo que resultan de gran utilidad este tipo de acontecimientos deportivos.

Diego Antonanzas destaco el interes de Kaliber por patrocinar esta prueba de marcado caracter internacional, cuyo protagonista principal es el caballo, asi como el logo de la cerveza sin alcohol. En sus propias palabras, "esta carrera que merece la pena perder es una oportunidad unica de recorrer los parajes mas increibles de toda Espana".

Jose Manuel Soto, como presidente fundador del Raid Kaliber Tierras de Al-Andalus, remarco la vocacion divulgativa de Andalucia de esta competicion, ya que esta tierra es a la vez el escenario y la gran protagonista de cada etapa, tanto desde el punto de vista paisajistico y medioambiental como del cultural e historico.

Asimismo, Soto resalto la inclusion de una nueva etapa, destacable por su belleza, que permitira mostrar el municipio de Carmona. Sera durante el cuarto dia, y se sumara en espectacularidad a la que atraviesa El Coto de Donana y la que desembocara en el Alcazar de Cordoba. Estas, junto con otras de especial dureza que atravesaran la sierra de Andujar y la de Montoro, convertiran la prueba en un acontecimiento que espera, como cada ano, ganar mas adeptos dentro y fuera de nuestras fronteras.

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Yesterday, Monday, took place the presentation of the Fourth Edition of Kaliber Land Raid Al-Andalus, a year tour the land of Andalusia, beginning March 27 at Jerez de la Frontera (Cadiz) to finish 4 April Virgen de la Cabeza (Jaen).

The event was attended by the Head of Service Quality and Promotion of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries of the Junta de Andalucia, Antonio Rodriguez Ocana, Secretary General for Sport of the Ministry of Tourism, Trade and Sports of Spain, Manuel Jimenez Barrios; director of Sponsoring & Events Image Heineken Espana, Antonanzas Diego and the chairman of the organizing committee Kaliber Lands Raid Al-Andalus, Jose Manuel Soto.

In this edition of the test involved riders from twelve countries (including France, Germany, Belgium, United States, England, Portugal, Argentina, Italy and Spain), which will travel 500 miles in eight stages.

As the main novelty, this year the tour will be the chosen route of the Guadalquivir, which, as highlighted by Manuel Jimenez Barrios, is vital, given the recent transfer of the powers of management to the autonomous community of Andalusia. As noted, this is "putting the river to our intelligence, so as to promote their economic significance, cultural and environmental", which are useful for such sporting events.

Diego Antonanzas stressed the value of this test for sponsoring Kaliber strong international, whose main protagonist is the horse, as well as the logo of the beer without alcohol. In his own words, "this race worth losing a unique opportunity to tour the most incredible of all Spain."

Jose Manuel Soto, president and founder of the Lands Kaliber Raid Al-Andalus, he disclosed Andalucia vocation of this competition, because this land is both the stage and the main protagonist of each stage, from the point of view environmental and landscape of cultural and historical context.

Similarly, Soto said the inclusion of a new phase, noted for its beauty, which will show the town of Carmona. Will be during the fourth day, and will join in the spectacular crossing the Coto Donana and leading to the Alcazar de Cordoba. These, along with other special hardness to cut through the mountains of Andujar and Montoro, become evidence in a pending event, as every year, gaining more followers inside and outside our borders.

Mas...

Spain: The CEI2 * Badajoz, for Luis Cenisergue

Ecuestreonline.com - Full Story, Photos and Results

More than 60 riders and horses participated in the Raid XLII Riding of Badajoz contest organized by the Society Hipica Lebrero which consisted of three tests, including two international and two stars, which were imposed, respectively, Luis Cenisergue ( " Mediatik Larzac) and Isidoro Bautista ( "Dance").

Mas de 60 jinetes y caballos participaron en el XLII Raid Hipico de Badajoz, certamen organizado por la Sociedad Hipica Lebrera que consto de tres pruebas, dos de ellas internacionales de dos y una estrellas, en las que se impusieron, respectivamente, Luis Cenisergue ("Mediatik Larzac") e Isidoro Bautista ("Danza").

El sabado 14 de marzo se disputo la 42nd edicion del Raid de Badajoz, compuesto por sendas pruebas internacionales de dos (CEI2*) y una (CEI*) estrellas, y por una territorial de Promocion.

Treinta y un binomios participaron en el CEI2* (120 kilometros), 23 de los cuales se clasificaron, empezando por Luis Cenisergue y "Mediatik Larzac", que se impusieron con un tiempo de seis horas, cuatro minutos y 41 segundos (6:04:41), y una velocidad media de 19,710 kilometros por hora (kms./h.). Juan Manuel Alonso (6:04:42 con el Mejor Condicion "Ezz") y Patricia Mariscal (6:16:04 sobre "Salduero") fueron segundo y tercera, respectivamente.

Mas...

New Zealand: Round One To The South Africans at HOY

Photo by Helen Bain
NZEquestrian.org.nz - Full Article

24/03/2009

The visiting South African endurance team seized victory in round one of a South Africa–New Zealand contest which began at Horse of the Year. The 100-kilometre one-star endurance event at HOY was the first of two rides in the inter-country challenge –the second will take place in Dullstroom, South Africa in October. However New Zealander Peter Birkett took individual honours, taking first place in the HOY CEI* 100km rideon Makahiwi Fire, with fellow New Zealanders, Amy Crowley on Makahiwi Stirling in second place, and David Hutchings on Tally Man coming third.

The South African team of Eone Willemse riding Hardisty (4th place), Leanne Geldenhuys riding Makahiwi Pandora (6th), Dominique Van Zyl riding Makahiwi Huron (7th), and Machel Greyling riding Makahiwi Genoa (9th) didn’t take out the top individual rankings but they all survived to compete the course successfully.

In contrast the New Zealand team lost two riders (Trina Hill riding Arizona McCue and Selwyn Boler riding Denzel) to vet-outs after the third loop of the four-loop ride, so Peter and Amy’s first and second placings weren’t enough to secure a team win.

However the Kiwis will have the chance to even the score when they ride in the 123km CEI** event in Dullstroom on South African horses – the South Africans rode horses provided by their New Zealand hosts here.

The HOY endurance rides were run through vineyards and farmland south of Hastings on a track which was relatively flat for a New Zealand endurance course. But though the terrain was not particularly arduous, the fast pace and warm conditions provided their own challenges, and only 10 of the 19 starters in the 100km ride completed the course.

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Qatar: Al Shaqab team sweep medals

Gulf-times.com

Doha: The Al Shaqab Endurance Team dominated the HH Emir Endurance Cup at the Qatar Endurance Village in Mesaeed on Saturday. The team won the gold, silver and bronze medals in the junior and senior race.

Al Shaqab, member of Qatar Foundation, had 12 of their 19 riders finish in their respective races, which is an incredibly high completion percentage for a team.
In the Senior race, which is 120 km long and had 34 competitors, Al Shaqab rider Mohammed Tahous Saif al-Nuaimi received the gold medal with a total time of 5:26:01 on his horse In Situ. Just three seconds behind him, Al Shaqab rider Essa Mohammed al-Sulaiti upon Hidalgo crossed the finish line for the silver medal. The two riders finished with the same average speed of 22.08 km/h for the entire race. Capturing the Bronze medal for Al Shaqab, Jassim Mohammed Ali al-Meadadi and horse Epson De Labruskaie finished the 120 km in 5:42:42.

Also finishing in the standings in the senior race for Al Shaqab, Khalid Yousef A al-Malki, Atta Mohammed Beer, Mohammed Sanad al-Nuaimi and Hanut Singh Pabu Singh placed 4th, 5th, 7th and 10th respectively.

The winning streak continued for the Al Shaqab team in the Junior race of 100km, which had a total of 45 entries. Hassan Tahous Saif al-Nuaimi secured the gold medal aboard First Star in 4:27:31. Al Shaqab’s second through fifth place finishes were an exciting race to the end with only five seconds separating all four riders, all with the same average speed of 22.4 km/hr for the race. Salem Rashid Mohammed al-Marri grabbed the silver medal on mount Lysa De Lap with a time of 4:27:48.

Abdulla Towaim Ali al-Marri came in two seconds later to win the bronze medal on Sanniesguns Sadan. Naif Rashid Ali Ibrahim was fourth place on Petite just one second behind his bronze placing teammate. Fifth place was won by Al Shaqab rider Khalid Mohammed Abdulla al-Emadi on Lasan in 4:27:53.

Al Shaqab, member of Qatar Foundation, is headed by general supervisor Owaida al-Hajeri, manager and trainer Hadi Nasser al-Ramzani and assistant trainer Jabr Nasser al-Ramzani. The team will compete next at the National Endurance Ride in Mesaeed, Qatar on April 24.

UAE: Yousef Wins Shaikh Rashid bin Hamdan Challenge

Khaleejtimes.com

22 March 2009

ABU DHABI - President’s Cup winner Yousef Ahmed Al Baloushi won the Shaikh Rashid bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Challenge 2 FEI CEI 119km Endurance Ride at the Emirates International Endurance Village at Al Wathba on Saturday.

The champion trainer, from the famed Al Reef Stables, finished with a time of four hours, 36 minutes and 44 seconds. Harmke Margreta Westervelt of The Netherlands, astride Khaki, was second with a time of four hours, 39 minutes and 48 seconds, while Saeed Mohd Al Jaber Al Marri of the UAE, riding Hurst Kariba, from the Al Reef Stables, was third with a timing of four hours, 47 minutes and 43 seconds.

World Endurance champion Maria Alvarez Ponton of Spain, who had won the Al Jaber Group Endurance Cup for ladies UAE CEN 92km Endurance Ride earlier on Friday, was fourth. Maria, astride Vendetta from the Emirates Stables, had a time of four hours, 47 minutes and 51 seconds. Hassan bin Ali of the UAE, riding Centre Traveller, was fifth, with a time of four hours, 56 minutes and 17 seconds. It was a keen tussle between Yousef and Harmke but Yousef held on, to prevail in the end. Yousef, astride Carallio, finished the first loop of 32km in third spot before jumping to the top spot in the 27km second loop. He maintained the top position in the third stage of 24km before he dropped a spot to second by the end of the 20km fourth loop. But Yousef fought back to finish the fifth loop of 16km in top spot. He had an average speed of 25.80.

Harmke, meanwhile, finished the first stage in sixth spot before jumping to second after the second loop. Harmke held on to the second spot in the third loop as well before making a charge in the fourth loop to grab the top spot. But Harmke slipped up to eventually finish second.

Maria staged a splendid fightback to finish fourth. She had finished the first stage in 30th position, before working her way up.

She ended the second loop in 17th place before jumping to 10th after the third loop. She moved to the third spot after the fourth stage but dropped down a spot to finish the fifth loop in fourth position.

Around 80 riders took part in the Ride which was organised by the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club.

The Ride was held under the patronage of Shaikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs and the Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club. The event had a total prize money of Dh550,000 and Yousef won a Nissan Patrol car. Harmke was richer by Dh50,000, while Saeed Mohd Al Jaber Al Marri got Dh 45,000. There were cash prizes for the Best Conditioned Horse Competition as well.
Results:
Yousef Ahmed Al Baloushi (UAE (Carallio) (Al Reef Stables) 4:36.44 seconds

Harmke Margreta Westervelt (Ned) (Khaki) (Shaikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum) 4:39.48s.

Saeed Mohd Al Jaber Al Marri (UAE) (Hurst Kariba) (Al Reef Stables) 4:47.43s.

Maria Alvarez Ponton (Esp) (Vendetta) (Emirates Stables) 4:47.51s.

Hassan bin Ali (UAE) (Centre Traveller) (Shaikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum) 4:56.17s

UAE: Maria Rides Antares Sauveterre to Victory

Khaleej Times
March 19 2009

ABU DHABI - World Endurance champion Maria Alvarez Ponton won the Al Jaber Group Endurance Cup for ladies, winning the UAE CEN 92km Endurance Ride at the Emirates International Endurance Village, Al Wathba on Friday. Spaniard Maria, astride 13-year-old Antares Sauveterre, from the Emirates Stables, finished with a time of three hours, 21 minutes and one second. The average speed was 27.46.

The event was held under the patronage of Shaikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs and the chairman of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club. Latifa Al Shaikh of Saudi Arabia, astride 13-year-old Coolaroo Jubal from the Al Reef Stables, was second with a timing of 3:21.52 seconds. Layla Abdul Aziz Al Redha of the UAE, was third. Layla, astride Kerria Du Vrihou, finished with a time of 3:21.59 seconds. UAE’s Reem Shaban Ibrahim Hasan came in fourth. Reem, riding Sharahd Sataka from the Al Reef Stables, had a time of 3:26.22 seconds. Argentina’s Ana Lia Mendez, astride Benaur Tom Dooley, from the Emirates Stables, was fifth. Maria, who rode Antares Sauveterre to victory in the 90km Dubai Equestrian Club Endurance Challenge for Ladies, at the end of February, stamped her class again. She finished second to start off with, after the first loop of 32km. But after that, Maria, who won the silver and her husband Jaume Punti Dachs the bronze in the European Championship, moved to the top spot and held position for the remaining three loops.

But the most thrilling Ride of the day was form Latifa Al Shaikh of Saudi Arabia. Having finished the first loop in 10th position, Latifa fought back in fine fashion. She jumped five spots up to fifth after the second loop and moved to fourth at the end of the third loop and finished second. Layla Abdul Aziz Al Redha too fought back well. Finishing the first loop in seventh spot, Layla moved to third after the second stage.

Results: Maria Alvarez Ponton (Esp) (Antares Sauveterre) (Emirates Stables) 3:21.01s; Latifa Al Shaikh (KSA) (Coolaroo Jubal) (Al Reef Stables) 3:21.52s; Layla Abdul Aziz Redha (UAE) (Kerria Du Vrihou) (Shaikh Faisal bin Saqr Al Qasimi) 3:21.59s; Reem Shaban Ibrahim Hasan (UAE) (Sharahd Sataka) (Al Reef Stables) 3:26.22s; Ana Lia Mendez (Arg) (Benaur Tom Dooley) (Emirates Stables) 3:42.04s.

Qatar: Al Shaqab Endurance Team to Compete in Emir’s Cup

March 19, 2009
Doha, Qatar -- The Al Shaqab Endurance Team will enter a total of 19 riders in the prestigious Emir’s Cup Endurance Race that will be held Saturday, 21st March at the Qatar Endurance Village in Mesaeed near Sealine Beach.

The Emir’s Cup is the highlight of the Qatar Endurance season and entails winning purses of over QR 1,000,000. The Cup will have a 100km race for Junior-age riders and a 120km race for Senior entrants. Al Shaqab will have twelve Senior entrants and seven Junior riders.

Al Shaqab’s Endurance Team, member of Qatar Foundation, is headed by General Supervisor Owaida Al Hajeri, Manager and Trainer Hadi Nasser Al Ramzani and Assistant Manager Jabr Nasser Al Ramzani.

As one of the fastest growing international equestrian events, endurance racing consists of varied terrain through a course in the desert. There are mandatory check points where all horses must pass a veterinary inspection, including tests for heart rate, respiratory abilities and dehydration. A horse must pass the inspection to continue on to the next check point, including a final inspection at the end of the race to clock an official time. Any horse that does not pass a test in the check point, or is considered lame, is eliminated from the race.

Riders competing on the Al Shaqab Endurance team for the Senior race are the following: Atta Mohammed Peer, Mohammed Tahous Saif Al Nuaimi, Khalid Al Malki, Faleh Nasser Saleh Bughenaim, Hanut Singh, Abdulrahmen Al Sulaitin, Essa Ahmed Al Mannai, Khalid Sanad Al Naimi, Jassim Mohammed Al Maadhadi, Hadi Nasser Al Naimi, Mohammed Sanad Al Naimi and Llyas Mushtak Khan.

Competing as a Junior in the Cup for Al Shaqab are: Hassan Tahous Al Nuaimi, Hamad Rashid Al Ardhi, Abdul Aziz Mohammed, Saad Senan Al Kaabi, Abdulla Towaim Al Marri, Rashid Naif Ibrahim and Salem Rashid Al Marri.



P.O. Box 90055
Doha, Qatar
(974) 454-6245
sdohmann@qf.org.qa

Bank Windhoek Otjivero Endurance Ride

NewEra.com.na
March 19, 2009

WINDHOEK – The fourth annual Bank Windhoek Independence Otjivero Endurance Ride gets under way at Gobabis tomorrow.

Bank Windhoek is sponsoring the event for the umpteenth time with a staggering amount of N$15 000.00, in addition to Bank Windhoek promotional caps, golf shirts, waterbottles and folders.

The Bank Windhoek Independence Otjivero Endurance Ride attracted 87 participants in distances ranging from 30 to 160km last year. This year, riders will again test their mettle in the junior, senior and heavyweight categories over distances of 33.6; 66.5; 83.1; 100.3; 127.1 and 160 kms.

Endurance riding in Namibia dates back to 1966 and has grown in popularity ever since. This particular equestrian sporting discipline is unique in its own sense because of the fact that it’s not always the fastest horse that takes the accolades, but rather the horse and rider with the ability to complement each other.

Endurance riders must be physically fit with immense determination. The sport’s ability to unite diverse cultures, coupled with the addition of high quality locally bred horses, makes it an ideal activity for the country as a whole.

Namibian Equestrian Federation

Namibia Endurance Ride Association

Malaysia: Meet ‘horse uncle’ Mutalib

The New Straits Times

HE proves that nothing is impossible if you put your mind and heart into it.

Abdul Mutalib Ismail, 43, who owns a logistics company, has won trophies in various landscaping, bird-singing and cat competitions.

This Penangite, known as mamu kuda (horse uncle), also set up the first horse endurance club in the state, the Al-Khamsa Endurance Club, in January this year. (Other states have similar endurance clubs.)

Al-Khamsa is an Arabic term to mean “the five” which refers to Prophet Muhammad’s five favourite horses.
The endurance race challenges both the fitness and skills of the horse and rider. The races are in the 40km, 80km, 120km and 160km categories.

Eight months prior to setting up the club, Mutalib learnt all he could about horses.

His interest in the sport was ignited after a few horse-riding sessions and visits to various endurance races.

He came across many talented Malaysian riders at the races, including the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin.

“So I learnt how to ride, bought my first foal and started training.”

After months of practice, he decided to form his own club.

“I started with 30 members. We are still small compared with other endurance clubs but I believe that one day we will be as big as them.”

“I currently own six Arabian horses. They are known for their intelligence and stamina, and thus ideal for endurance races. Riders must be able to communicate with their horses in order for them to perform well,” said Mutalib.

He said Arabian horses, with their distinctively shaped heads and high tail carriages, are one of the most easily recognisable horse breeds in the world.

“Today, Arabian bloodlines are found in almost every modern breed of riding horses,” he added.

Mutalib said that like most international sports, endurance riding has the potential to contribute towards the state’s tourism industry.

He wants to promote endurance riding and attract youths to get involved in the sport.

“Horse endurance racing is not easy. Both horse and rider need to be physically and mentally prepared. It’s tough but I love the adrenaline rush I get every time I race,” said Mutalib.

He plans to organise state events, open a riding school and teach endurance training to get Penangites involved in the sport.

“Many think it’s expensive to participate in the sport. But this is untrue. You just have to master riding — and you don’t even have to own a horse to do so,” said Mutalib.

He added that he intends to give free riding lessons to the underpriviledged such as orphans and the handicapped.

At the moment he is eyeing the Melaka Grand International Endurance Ride next month.

“Horses are passionate animals. As you ride the horse regularly, the bond between you will get stronger. Treat the horse well and it will treat you well in return.”

For more information about the Al-Khamsa Endurance Club, email Mutalib at alkhamsa5@gmail.com.

[More ...]

UAE: 60 riders register for Al Jaber race

Gulfnews.com

M. Satya Narayan
March 17, 2009, 23:09

Abu Dhabi: Some of the UAE's top lady riders will be seen in action this Friday in the Al Jaber Group Endurance Cup for Ladies - a 90-km national ride to be held at the Emirates International Village in Al Wathba.

Addressing a press conference here yesterday, Antonie Chamy, the group administration manager for the Al Jaber Group said: "Our chairman, Obaid Khalifa Al Jaber, takes great pride in supporting activities in the community, be it sport or other related events."

"The Al Jaber Group Endurance Cup for Ladies is of particular importance and we take great pride in being part of this endeavour," said Al Jaber, in a statement read on his behalf.

"This is not the first time that we have been associated with endurance races, as we have supported and sponsored such an event in the past. But Friday's 90-km Al Jaber Group Endurance Cup for Ladies is of special significance as this sport is part of the UAE's heritage and culture," said Al Jaber.

"The UAE riders are already well-known all over the world and have won every major international championship. We hope that this Al Jaber Group Endurance Cup for Ladies will help encourage more riders to join the sport and throw up more champions," he said.

Lara Sawaya, Tasweeq managing director, said over 60 riders had confirmed their entries for the ride.

"This number may go up. A total purse of Dh400,000 which includes a car for the winner will be up for grabs," she said.

Friday's ride is being held under the patronage of Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs.