Shaikha Fatima Cup carries Dh800,000 purse
By M. Satya Narayan, Chief Sports Reporter
Gulf News
November 30, 2011
Abu Dhabi: The Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Global Arabian Flat Racing Festival will mark the 40th anniversary of the UAE National Day by hosting the HH Shaikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Endurance Cup on Friday at the Emirates International Endurance Village.
Addressing a press conference here yesterday, Adnan Sultan Al Nuaimi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, said the ride, which is open only to Arab lady riders, will carry a total prize purse of Dh800,000, making it the richest ladies' endurance ride.
"A total of 60 riders from the UAE and other Arab countries will take part in the 100-km ride with the winner taking home a Dh200,000 prize," Al Nuaimi said.
Lara Sawaya, Director of the Shaikh Mansour Festival, said, "We have decided to keep the ride open only to lady riders from Arab countries to improve their chances of winning."
Article continues below
"Around 25 of the lady riders will participate in a ‘Ladies' march of love' for the mother of the UAE, Her Highness Shaikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Chairperson of the UAE's General Women's Union, who has touched so many lives in the UAE and made a huge difference to the Emirati women's confidence and belief," Sawaya said. The march will start at 3 pm from the Baniyas Equestrian Centre to the Emirates International Endurance Village.
Richest ride
Abdullah Al Qubaisi, Communications Chief at the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage, said, "The endurance ride is being held under instructions of Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs. It is the richest ride and we hope that it will live up to the standards that we expect for any event organised as part of the Shaikh Mansour Festival."
Noura Al Suwaidi, Director of the General Women's Union, said, "The support for the ride is under instructions from Her Highness Shaikha Fatima to enhance and support women's sports in the country in general and her passion to develop the Emirati women to play an active role in society."
Talal Al Hashemi, of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council ,said it was a huge step forward for UAE lady riders to take part in the most valuable endurance event. "Since it is part of the National Day's 40th anniversary, we are expecting an exciting event," he said.
"For women in the UAE this is another great stage to celebrate the 40th anniversary of our National Day and Mauzan is proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with our UAE people to ensure we continue to prosper under the wise and visionary guidance of our leaders," said Rafia Helal Bin Drai of Mauzan, one of the sponsors.
"The support of Her Highness Shaikha Fatima for ladies' racing is an exceptionally exciting development and we have seen rapid growth over the past," said Bill Tatham, Senior Vice-President of Invest AD. Essam Abdullah of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society and Khalid Al Haddad, District Manager of Emirates airlines, also addressed yesterday's press conference.
After today's march and veterinary check the lady riders will get off to a mass start at 6.30am tomorrow for a slice of the Dh800,000 prize fund, with all those completing the 100-km ride eligible for a share.
Tomorrow's ride will be run in four stages of 33km, 27km, 24km and 16 km.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Bahrain: Stage set for new endurance season
Gulf Daily News
PREPARATIONS are in full swing for Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa Ride, the inaugural event of the 2011/12 endurance horseride season, scheduled for Saturday.
The first event of the season, which is for the Breef President Cup, will feature two races set to take place at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.
The main race will be over 100km and gets underway at 6am, while an additional qualifying ride will begin at 6.15am and cover a total distance of 80km. They will be followed by the awarding ceremony at 1pm.
Some of the kingdom's best riders are expected to take part in the rides, promising to feature exciting and gruelling competitions among the participants.
However, favourites the Royal Endurance Team decided not to take part in this weekend's ride, following a decision from team leader Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
Shaikh Nasser, the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports chairman and president of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, said the decision was to give the opportunity to more stables to participate.
He expressed delight as the new season approaches with more riders expected to submit their entries for the opening event.
The Royal Endurance Team captain said the race will be mainly open to public stables interested in taking part, and wished them success.
Shaikh Nasser highlighted the continued support from His Majesty King Hamad to equestrian and endurance activities in Bahrain, which has contributed to the significant development of both disciplines.
He also lauded the efforts of the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef), under the presidency of Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, in preparing for the season's opener.
Shaikh Nasser, meanwhile, approved the distances of the stages for both races as well as other issues.
The 100km ride has been divided into four stages, including 30km each for the first and second stages. The third will be over 25km while the fourth is over 15km.
In the 80km qualifying ride, participants will battle over three stages and they are 30km for the first, another 30km for the second and 25km for the third.
The organising committee also named the ground jury for the ride. It's being headed by Abdulghani Al Boosta. Other members are Ghalib Al Alawi, Ali Hussain, Mahdi Al Kalaiti and Fahad Al Romaihi.
The technical delegate is Mohammed Dadulla, while Haider Zubi and Abdulla Al Rumaihi are the stewards.
Dr Abbas Al Haiki was appointed president of he veterinary commission, with Dr Mohammed Al Hammad being the foreign veterinary.
Other veterinarians are Dr Fareeda Abdulrazak, Dr Ebrahim Yousif, Dr Sabah Al Kabie, Dr Abu Obaidah Yaqoob and Dr Abdelrahman Abu Shook, all of Bahrain.
The treating veterinarian at the event is Dr Caonabo Melo of the Dominican Republic.
Following this weekend's ride, the federation will then prepare to organise the National Day Ride on December 24. It will be followed by 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.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Abu Dhabi: Richest ride for Arab lady riders attracts 60 entries
Gulfnews.com - Full Article
Shaikha Fatima Cup carries Dh800,000 purse
* By M. Satya Narayan, Chief Sports Reporter
* Published: 00:00 November 30, 2011
Abu Dhabi: The Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Global Arabian Flat Racing Festival will mark the 40th anniversary of the UAE National Day by hosting the HH Shaikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Endurance Cup on Friday at the Emirates International Endurance Village.
Addressing a press conference here yesterday, Adnan Sultan Al Nuaimi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, said the ride, which is open only to Arab lady riders, will carry a total prize purse of Dh800,000, making it the richest ladies' endurance ride.
"A total of 60 riders from the UAE and other Arab countries will take part in the 100-km ride with the winner taking home a Dh200,000 prize," Al Nuaimi said.
Lara Sawaya, Director of the Shaikh Mansour Festival, said, "We have decided to keep the ride open only to lady riders from Arab countries to improve their chances of winning."
"Around 25 of the lady riders will participate in a ‘Ladies' march of love' for the mother of the UAE, Her Highness Shaikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Chairperson of the UAE's General Women's Union, who has touched so many lives in the UAE and made a huge difference to the Emirati women's confidence and belief," Sawaya said. The march will start at 3 pm from the Baniyas Equestrian Centre to the Emirates International Endurance Village.
Richest ride
Abdullah Al Qubaisi, Communications Chief at the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage, said, "The endurance ride is being held under instructions of Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs. It is the richest ride and we hope that it will live up to the standards that we expect for any event organised as part of the Shaikh Mansour Festival..."
Read more here:
http://gulfnews.com/sport/horse-racing/richest-ride-for-arab-lady-riders-attracts-60-entries-1.940399
Shaikha Fatima Cup carries Dh800,000 purse
* By M. Satya Narayan, Chief Sports Reporter
* Published: 00:00 November 30, 2011
Abu Dhabi: The Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Global Arabian Flat Racing Festival will mark the 40th anniversary of the UAE National Day by hosting the HH Shaikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Endurance Cup on Friday at the Emirates International Endurance Village.
Addressing a press conference here yesterday, Adnan Sultan Al Nuaimi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, said the ride, which is open only to Arab lady riders, will carry a total prize purse of Dh800,000, making it the richest ladies' endurance ride.
"A total of 60 riders from the UAE and other Arab countries will take part in the 100-km ride with the winner taking home a Dh200,000 prize," Al Nuaimi said.
Lara Sawaya, Director of the Shaikh Mansour Festival, said, "We have decided to keep the ride open only to lady riders from Arab countries to improve their chances of winning."
"Around 25 of the lady riders will participate in a ‘Ladies' march of love' for the mother of the UAE, Her Highness Shaikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Chairperson of the UAE's General Women's Union, who has touched so many lives in the UAE and made a huge difference to the Emirati women's confidence and belief," Sawaya said. The march will start at 3 pm from the Baniyas Equestrian Centre to the Emirates International Endurance Village.
Richest ride
Abdullah Al Qubaisi, Communications Chief at the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage, said, "The endurance ride is being held under instructions of Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs. It is the richest ride and we hope that it will live up to the standards that we expect for any event organised as part of the Shaikh Mansour Festival..."
Read more here:
http://gulfnews.com/sport/horse-racing/richest-ride-for-arab-lady-riders-attracts-60-entries-1.940399
Monday, November 28, 2011
FEI Celebrates 90th Birthday
FEI.org
FEI CELEBRATES 90TH BIRTHDAY AND 1000-DAY COUNTDOWN TO ALLTECH FEI WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES™ 2014
24 Nov 2011
Today, 24 November, is a historic day for the FEI as the Federation celebrates its 90th birthday and joins in the celebrations for the 1000-day countdown to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014.
Exactly 90 years ago, on 24 November 1921, representatives from national equestrian organisations from Belgium, Denmark, France, Italy, Japan, Norway, Sweden and the United States gathered in Paris (FRA) with the objective of forming an international federation. The inclusion of equestrian sport in the Olympic movement and the rapid development of the sport overall made it clear that internationally recognised rules supervised by a world governing body were essential. The Fédération Equestre Internationale was born and Baron du Teil of France was elected as the first FEI President.
“The FEI was founded in 1921 at a small gathering in troubled post-war Europe; now, 90 years later, the FEI is an international organisation with 132 Member Federations and is in charge of almost 3,000 events organised all over the world. More than 50,000 horses and 32,000 riders, drivers and vaulters are today registered with the FEI,” FEI President HRH Princess Haya commented.
“We are proud of the history and tradition of our sport, which celebrates the centuries-old relationship between humans and horses. We continue to celebrate equestrian sport, which has proved beyond any doubt that it has the magic and charisma to remain attractive and relevant in the modern sporting landscape. What an incredible journey it has been and what an incredible journey it will continue to be over the next 90 years!”
Another important date was also marked today with the launch of the 1000-day countdown to the FEI’s flagship event, the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 in Caen (FRA). To celebrate the occasion, the French minister for sport David Douillet, personalities representing the Organising Committee, the region of Lower Normandy, and the city of Caen, as well as Alltech Chief Marketing Officer Catherine Keogh, and FEI Secretary General Ingmar De Vos unveiled the 2014 Games’ official logo at the Caen Fine Arts Museum.
The logo, which depicts a horse’s head and a human’s head superimposed on a leafy green background, demonstrates the unique bond between human and horse at the heart of the Games. The shared profile and shared eye are a creative way of showing the relationship between two elite athletes and their combined determination to win. The beautiful host region of Normandy is present in the bold green colour and the apple blossoms on the backdrop. An animated version of the logo can be viewed here.
A totem pole constructed from three Jumping rails pointing up towards the sky will be erected near the stadium Michel d’Ornano in the city of Caen, where the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 opening and closing ceremonies will be held. A solar-powered countdown timer will be placed on the totem pole, so that the Games become a part of the local residents’ everyday lives even before the event gets underway.
Celebrations will continue on Saturday 26 November when the people of Caen will be invited to learn more about equestrian sport through games and family-oriented activities.
Join the party on FEI Facebook and Twitter where fun quizzes, giveaways, photos and videos are being posted.
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 logo which was officially unveiled today in Caen (FRA)
FEI CELEBRATES 90TH BIRTHDAY AND 1000-DAY COUNTDOWN TO ALLTECH FEI WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES™ 2014
24 Nov 2011
Today, 24 November, is a historic day for the FEI as the Federation celebrates its 90th birthday and joins in the celebrations for the 1000-day countdown to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014.
Exactly 90 years ago, on 24 November 1921, representatives from national equestrian organisations from Belgium, Denmark, France, Italy, Japan, Norway, Sweden and the United States gathered in Paris (FRA) with the objective of forming an international federation. The inclusion of equestrian sport in the Olympic movement and the rapid development of the sport overall made it clear that internationally recognised rules supervised by a world governing body were essential. The Fédération Equestre Internationale was born and Baron du Teil of France was elected as the first FEI President.
“The FEI was founded in 1921 at a small gathering in troubled post-war Europe; now, 90 years later, the FEI is an international organisation with 132 Member Federations and is in charge of almost 3,000 events organised all over the world. More than 50,000 horses and 32,000 riders, drivers and vaulters are today registered with the FEI,” FEI President HRH Princess Haya commented.
“We are proud of the history and tradition of our sport, which celebrates the centuries-old relationship between humans and horses. We continue to celebrate equestrian sport, which has proved beyond any doubt that it has the magic and charisma to remain attractive and relevant in the modern sporting landscape. What an incredible journey it has been and what an incredible journey it will continue to be over the next 90 years!”
Another important date was also marked today with the launch of the 1000-day countdown to the FEI’s flagship event, the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 in Caen (FRA). To celebrate the occasion, the French minister for sport David Douillet, personalities representing the Organising Committee, the region of Lower Normandy, and the city of Caen, as well as Alltech Chief Marketing Officer Catherine Keogh, and FEI Secretary General Ingmar De Vos unveiled the 2014 Games’ official logo at the Caen Fine Arts Museum.
The logo, which depicts a horse’s head and a human’s head superimposed on a leafy green background, demonstrates the unique bond between human and horse at the heart of the Games. The shared profile and shared eye are a creative way of showing the relationship between two elite athletes and their combined determination to win. The beautiful host region of Normandy is present in the bold green colour and the apple blossoms on the backdrop. An animated version of the logo can be viewed here.
A totem pole constructed from three Jumping rails pointing up towards the sky will be erected near the stadium Michel d’Ornano in the city of Caen, where the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 opening and closing ceremonies will be held. A solar-powered countdown timer will be placed on the totem pole, so that the Games become a part of the local residents’ everyday lives even before the event gets underway.
Celebrations will continue on Saturday 26 November when the people of Caen will be invited to learn more about equestrian sport through games and family-oriented activities.
Join the party on FEI Facebook and Twitter where fun quizzes, giveaways, photos and videos are being posted.
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 logo which was officially unveiled today in Caen (FRA)
Australia: Wade's Triumph Inspires
Weeklytimesnow.com.au - Full ArticleKim Woods | November 28, 2011
AUSTRALIAN endurance champion Meg Wade has become an inspiration to riders around the world.
Her recovery from a traumatic brain injury and determination to ride again has earned her the Federation Equestre Internationale award, Against All Odds.
The FEI Awards 2011 were announced in Rio de Janeiro on November 14.
FEI president Princes Haya said Meg was an inspiration to the equestrian community.
Although her flight to Rio de Janeiro was unexpectedly cancelled, Meg was overwhelmed to receive the award.
"It is my hope that awards like this will raise the awareness of brain injury among the whole equestrian community," she said.
Meg fell from her horse during an endurance ride at Tumbarumba, in southern NSW, in April 2009.
She spent 255 days in rehabilitation and was never expected to ride again.
Until the accident, Meg had competed in 65 160km events, winning 25 of them.
She created history in 2008 as the first person to win the prestigious Tom Quilty Gold Cup four times.
Meg surprised the medical fraternity by learning to ride again in November last year with the help of Riding for the Disabled...
Read more here:
http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/article/2011/11/28/410121_horses.html
Saturday, November 26, 2011
UAE: Fatima rides to endurance cup glory
By M. Satya Narayan, Chief Sports Reporter
Published: 00:06 November 27, 2011
Gulfnews.com
Emirati woman on Siloah Hamza beats strong field to script national day race history
Abu Dhabi: The National Day celebrations came early for Emirati woman rider Fatima Jasem Saeed Al Merri, who made history when she became the first lady rider to win the prestigious National Day Cup 120km endurance ride at the Emirates International Endurance Village here yesterday.
Fatima rode brilliantly on 9-year-old Anglo-Arab chestnut gelding Siloah Hamza to a superb win from among 170-strong starters who included two-time world champion Maria Alvarez Ponmton and recently-crowned European Open champion Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri.
Fatima along with Mohammad Saeed Mohammad Al Faresi on Kheops De Lozelle completed a one-two finish for the Seeh Al Salam Endurance Stables.
Fatima and Siloah Hamza were placed 44th after the first stage of 33km and then the Dubai College student moved up to 21st after the next loop of 27km. It was in the third loop that Fatima forged into the leading pack and then faced some stiff completion from Maria on Portos. Fatima moved to fourth place after the third loop of 24km and with Maria making an exit in the next stage after her horse went lame, Fatima took the lead in the penultimate stage of 20km.
Good condition
While compatriot Mohammad Al Faresi moved from fifth to second in the final 16km, Fatima and Siloah Hamza maintained their lead and won in 4hours 20minutes 52seconds.
"This is my horse's first win but I have won a ladies ride last year," said Fatima after winning a car for her effort.
"It was a very tough ride with so many taking part. The third loop was tough but after that I realised my horse was in good condition and I managed to win."
Sultan Ahmad Al Beloushi on Marlicia Walter saw his bid to win this event for the second year end early when his horse went lame in the second loop of the five-loop ride. Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri, who won the European Open ride earlier in the year, finished fifth on Lourizon Frost in the 120km ride.
RESULTS
Top 5 results in yesterday's 120km National Day Cup Endurance ride:
1. Fatima Jasem Saeed Al Merri (Siloah Hamza) 4 hours 20 minutes 52 seconds;
2. Mohammad Saeed Al Faresi (Kheops De Lozelle) 4:27:27;
3. Saeed Sultan Shames Al Maamari (IFO El Pablito) 4:30:33;
4. Ahmad Ali Al Sabri (Castlebar Cable) 4:31:09;
5. Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri (Lourizon Frost) 4:34:43.
Published: 00:06 November 27, 2011
Gulfnews.com
Emirati woman on Siloah Hamza beats strong field to script national day race history
Abu Dhabi: The National Day celebrations came early for Emirati woman rider Fatima Jasem Saeed Al Merri, who made history when she became the first lady rider to win the prestigious National Day Cup 120km endurance ride at the Emirates International Endurance Village here yesterday.
Fatima rode brilliantly on 9-year-old Anglo-Arab chestnut gelding Siloah Hamza to a superb win from among 170-strong starters who included two-time world champion Maria Alvarez Ponmton and recently-crowned European Open champion Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri.
Fatima along with Mohammad Saeed Mohammad Al Faresi on Kheops De Lozelle completed a one-two finish for the Seeh Al Salam Endurance Stables.
Fatima and Siloah Hamza were placed 44th after the first stage of 33km and then the Dubai College student moved up to 21st after the next loop of 27km. It was in the third loop that Fatima forged into the leading pack and then faced some stiff completion from Maria on Portos. Fatima moved to fourth place after the third loop of 24km and with Maria making an exit in the next stage after her horse went lame, Fatima took the lead in the penultimate stage of 20km.
Good condition
While compatriot Mohammad Al Faresi moved from fifth to second in the final 16km, Fatima and Siloah Hamza maintained their lead and won in 4hours 20minutes 52seconds.
"This is my horse's first win but I have won a ladies ride last year," said Fatima after winning a car for her effort.
"It was a very tough ride with so many taking part. The third loop was tough but after that I realised my horse was in good condition and I managed to win."
Sultan Ahmad Al Beloushi on Marlicia Walter saw his bid to win this event for the second year end early when his horse went lame in the second loop of the five-loop ride. Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri, who won the European Open ride earlier in the year, finished fifth on Lourizon Frost in the 120km ride.
RESULTS
Top 5 results in yesterday's 120km National Day Cup Endurance ride:
1. Fatima Jasem Saeed Al Merri (Siloah Hamza) 4 hours 20 minutes 52 seconds;
2. Mohammad Saeed Al Faresi (Kheops De Lozelle) 4:27:27;
3. Saeed Sultan Shames Al Maamari (IFO El Pablito) 4:30:33;
4. Ahmad Ali Al Sabri (Castlebar Cable) 4:31:09;
5. Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri (Lourizon Frost) 4:34:43.
Who Won the Mongol Derby and How!?
Horsehero.com - Full Articleby Katy Willings
15 November 2011
(Editor’s note: If you are not familiar with the Mongol Derby, read Katy’s article, the 'Spirit of the Derby' first.)
In August 2011, the third edition of the Mongol Derby, the world’s longest and toughest horse race, thundered through 1000km of pristine Mongolia, catapulting (at times literally) another 23 riders into the Adventurists Hall of Fame, and with any luck, the Guinness World Record books. Organiser Katy Willings gives the inside track on this thrillng race....
Immediately after the race, I spent several weeks analysing the reams of data which came back from the Steppe, leaden with horse sweat and the faint whiff of goats, in order to bring you a less whimsical, and more informative blow-by-blow account of what happened this year, where the race was won and lost, and where it hung in the balance.
The beauty about the event is that no one individual has the full story. So much of the good and bad is privately enjoyed and endured, but nevertheless a coherent story emerges form the paperwork! I’ll mix key statistics with brief explanations, points of note and any lessons learned, and invite questions from the floor (in the Comments area below).
Race overview: The Mongol Derby was won by South African dairy farmer and endurance rider Craig Egberink by 2 minutes (a nose over 1000kms, surely?) from Inner Mongolian contender Sanbayier, first of a cluster of three Chinese riders who were a formidable team throughout. The field spread out over the first two days but though injuries and subsequent drop-outs, the survivors were more clustered than they might have been. All bar two riders fell off, most at least once...
Read more here:
http://www.horsehero.com/editorial/?feat=73811
UAE: Final Entries for JYR World Endurance Championship
The final list of entries have been posted for the FEI World Endurance Championship Junior-Young Rider 120 km race to be held on December 10th, 2011, in the UAE.
61 riders from 29 countries will participate in the race that will be held at Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi.
For the complete list of entries, see
http://www.endurance.net/international/UAE/2011WECYRJ/DefiniteEntries.pdf
Friday, November 25, 2011
Greener Pastures: High Winds Jedi - May 1983-October 2011
Arabianhorseworld.com
by Genie Stewart-Spears
Larry and Valerie Kanavy, of Fort Valley, Virginia, are mourning the loss of their 1998 World Champion endurance horse, 28-year-old High Winds Jedi (Tut El Sakkara x RAF Silver Sonnet) who died on October 29. Valerie Kanavy had just returned from earning the individual Bronze Medal at the Pan American Endurance Championship to find her beloved World Champion gelding breathing his final breaths.
Jedi competed in many top AERC and FEI endurance competitions between the years of 1994-2000. Of his 58 starts in AERC competitions, he won 20 and earned 10 Best Condition awards. Valerie said her most thrilling ride of a lifetime was when she and Jedi won the 1998 World Championship in Dubai. This ride is recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest international equine event ever held.
“It was tremendously satisfying because it had the largest representation of competitors that was or ever has been from throughout the world,” she said. “There were 50-some countries and nearly 180 starters. To be able to compete with such caliber and numbers of competitors was a real thrill.”
Kanavy acquired Jedi when he was 14 years old, after he had had a short career as a racehorse, been schooled in dressage, and then raced in endurance. About Jedi, who once appeared on “The Today Show with Katie Couric,” Kanavy says, “His earlier training in dressage taught him balance and flexibility. As a result he was so responsive, so push-button easy to ride...."
Read more here:
http://www.arabianhorseworld.com/live/library/2011/11/waterhole/index.html
by Genie Stewart-Spears
Larry and Valerie Kanavy, of Fort Valley, Virginia, are mourning the loss of their 1998 World Champion endurance horse, 28-year-old High Winds Jedi (Tut El Sakkara x RAF Silver Sonnet) who died on October 29. Valerie Kanavy had just returned from earning the individual Bronze Medal at the Pan American Endurance Championship to find her beloved World Champion gelding breathing his final breaths.
Jedi competed in many top AERC and FEI endurance competitions between the years of 1994-2000. Of his 58 starts in AERC competitions, he won 20 and earned 10 Best Condition awards. Valerie said her most thrilling ride of a lifetime was when she and Jedi won the 1998 World Championship in Dubai. This ride is recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest international equine event ever held.
“It was tremendously satisfying because it had the largest representation of competitors that was or ever has been from throughout the world,” she said. “There were 50-some countries and nearly 180 starters. To be able to compete with such caliber and numbers of competitors was a real thrill.”
Kanavy acquired Jedi when he was 14 years old, after he had had a short career as a racehorse, been schooled in dressage, and then raced in endurance. About Jedi, who once appeared on “The Today Show with Katie Couric,” Kanavy says, “His earlier training in dressage taught him balance and flexibility. As a result he was so responsive, so push-button easy to ride...."
Read more here:
http://www.arabianhorseworld.com/live/library/2011/11/waterhole/index.html
AHA Youth of the Year headed to the UAE for World Championship
Arabianhorses.org
November 22 2011
Aurora, CO (November 22, 2011) – Kelsey Kimbler, the AHA 2010 Youth of the Year, heads to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates next month to help represent the United States in the Young Rider World Endurance Championship.
"The opportunity to represent my country and the great sport of endurance riding is incredible," says Kimbler. "It has been my dream to get to compete in this championship."
Riders, ages 14-21, met certain qualifications with their horses for a chance to be part of team USA. Kimbler, a 2011 high school graduate, is ranked second in the country among those who applied for the team.
In addition to being a full-time biology major at Northern State University in her hometown of Aberdeen, S.D., Kimbler has an impressive list of accomplishments, most recently being selected as both the United States Equestrian Federation's (USEF) 2010 Junior Equestrian of the Year and Youth Sportsman Charter Overall winner. At the 2010 North American Young Rider Endurance Championship Kimbler was a team silver medalist. Kimbler earned an individual gold medal and team bronze at the 2009 Championship. In 2006 and 2008 Kimbler was honored with the American Endurance Ride Conference Junior National 100 mile award, by completing more 100 mile rides than any other junior in North America.
November 22 2011
Aurora, CO (November 22, 2011) – Kelsey Kimbler, the AHA 2010 Youth of the Year, heads to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates next month to help represent the United States in the Young Rider World Endurance Championship.
"The opportunity to represent my country and the great sport of endurance riding is incredible," says Kimbler. "It has been my dream to get to compete in this championship."
Riders, ages 14-21, met certain qualifications with their horses for a chance to be part of team USA. Kimbler, a 2011 high school graduate, is ranked second in the country among those who applied for the team.
In addition to being a full-time biology major at Northern State University in her hometown of Aberdeen, S.D., Kimbler has an impressive list of accomplishments, most recently being selected as both the United States Equestrian Federation's (USEF) 2010 Junior Equestrian of the Year and Youth Sportsman Charter Overall winner. At the 2010 North American Young Rider Endurance Championship Kimbler was a team silver medalist. Kimbler earned an individual gold medal and team bronze at the 2009 Championship. In 2006 and 2008 Kimbler was honored with the American Endurance Ride Conference Junior National 100 mile award, by completing more 100 mile rides than any other junior in North America.
Australia: Riding royalty at Red Range
Static.Lifeislocal.com.au - Full ArticleBEN LONERGAN
24 Nov, 2011 03:25 PM
The Red Range Sports Ground was graced with the presence of one of the biggest stars the sport of endurance riding has to offer on the weekend.
Four time Australian champion and 10 time national rider of the year, Margaret “Meg” Wade was in town for the Red Range Federation Equestrian Internationale (FEI) annual event.
Meg was undoubtedly one of the top endurance riders in Australia and throughout the world before a tragic accident cut short her competitive career two years ago.
While riding in an event in Tumbarumba during Easter in 2009, Meg fell from her horse only 10km from the finish line and as a result suffered traumatic brain injuries.
She was placed in an induced coma for three weeks and lost around three months worth of her memory.
Meg was kept in hospital for almost a year, so her condition could be monitored as well as to start her rehabilitation.
For the next year, she had to travel from her home just south of the NSW border to Albury two nights a week for rehabilitation.
But her persistence and commitment to rehabilitation eventually paid off and she had her first post accident horse ride in November 2010...
Read more here:
http://www.gleninnesexaminer.com.au/news/local/sport/equestrian/riding-royalty-at-red-range/2369734.aspx
Abu Dhabi: 200 ready for National Day cup endurance horseride
Gulfnews.com - Full Article
* By M. Satya Narayan, Chief Sports Reporter
* Published: 16:00 November 25, 2011
Around 200 riders have confirmed their entries for Saturday's prestigious National Day Cup endurance ride to be held at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba
Abu Dhabi Around 200 riders have confirmed their entries for Saturday's prestigious National Day Cup endurance ride to be held at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba.
The National Day Cup, which has a 15-year history, is a CEI two-star event and will be run over 120km, with almost all the top riders in the UAE to be joined by some international riders.
The defending champion is Sultan Ahmad Al Beloushi, who won last year on Marlicia Walter. The Al Reef Stables rider also went on to win the HH President's Cup ride over 160km and is expected to be among the favourites today, along with the likes of Yousef Ahmad Al Beloushi.
This year's European Open champion, Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri from Al Wathba Stables, will also be in with a good chance.
Significance
Adnan Sultan Al Nuaimi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, said: "With the UAE marking its 40th year, the event holds a lot of significance to the riders and officials.
"A total prize fund of Dh300,000 and a car for the winner of the ride will be on offer. We expect the number of starters to exceed 200 but a final figure will be known after the pre-ride veterinary check."
First of a series of equestrian events
Lara Sawaya of Tasweeq said: "This is just the first of a series of equestrian events to mark the UAE National Day. The National Day Cup will be followed by another prestigious ride for ladies and we will give details of that event soon.
Today's ride was due to start at 6.30am and will be run in five different loops of 33km, 27km, 24km, 20km and 16km.
Ali Al Mulla, Chairman of Areej Al Ameerat, who are one of the sponsors, said: "For us it is a source of great pride to be involved in this prestigious ride. We have seen this ride develop into one of the most popular events on the UAE endurance calendar and being a sport involved with the UAE's past, we are delighted to support it."
* By M. Satya Narayan, Chief Sports Reporter
* Published: 16:00 November 25, 2011
Around 200 riders have confirmed their entries for Saturday's prestigious National Day Cup endurance ride to be held at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba
Abu Dhabi Around 200 riders have confirmed their entries for Saturday's prestigious National Day Cup endurance ride to be held at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba.
The National Day Cup, which has a 15-year history, is a CEI two-star event and will be run over 120km, with almost all the top riders in the UAE to be joined by some international riders.
The defending champion is Sultan Ahmad Al Beloushi, who won last year on Marlicia Walter. The Al Reef Stables rider also went on to win the HH President's Cup ride over 160km and is expected to be among the favourites today, along with the likes of Yousef Ahmad Al Beloushi.
This year's European Open champion, Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri from Al Wathba Stables, will also be in with a good chance.
Significance
Adnan Sultan Al Nuaimi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, said: "With the UAE marking its 40th year, the event holds a lot of significance to the riders and officials.
"A total prize fund of Dh300,000 and a car for the winner of the ride will be on offer. We expect the number of starters to exceed 200 but a final figure will be known after the pre-ride veterinary check."
First of a series of equestrian events
Lara Sawaya of Tasweeq said: "This is just the first of a series of equestrian events to mark the UAE National Day. The National Day Cup will be followed by another prestigious ride for ladies and we will give details of that event soon.
Today's ride was due to start at 6.30am and will be run in five different loops of 33km, 27km, 24km, 20km and 16km.
Ali Al Mulla, Chairman of Areej Al Ameerat, who are one of the sponsors, said: "For us it is a source of great pride to be involved in this prestigious ride. We have seen this ride develop into one of the most popular events on the UAE endurance calendar and being a sport involved with the UAE's past, we are delighted to support it."
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Great Britain: The tale of the horse who got stuck in the mud
By Hugh Morris Wednesday, November 23, 2011
BARNEY, a 24-year-old endurance race horse, may be fit for his age but was still left exhausted after a two-hour struggle stuck in the mud.
The gelding had slipped into the River Cam near Church Street, Great Shelford, early on Tuesday morning. His owner, Dr Jane Greatorex, awoke expecting to find three horses in the field but there were only two, despite all the gates being shut.
She called for Barney and he neighed back.
“In 25 years we have never had a horse fall in the river. It’s quite slippery on the banks so he must have just fallen. He was right in up to his shoulders,” she said.
“I borrowed some waders and went in to try and encourage him out and managed to get him to the spot he was eventually rescued from.
“It was quite scary. He had obviously been trying to get out as he was exhausted.”
When Cambridgeshire Fire And Rescue Service’s two appliances and a rescue vehicle arrived at the scene, four of the firefighters got into the water with the horse but he was too heavy to lift and had sunk into the mud...
Read more here:
http://www.cambridgefirst.co.uk/news/the_tale_of_the_horse_who_got_stuck_in_the_mud_1_1135000
Europe: Young Horses Championship Moved
Endurance-belgium.com
November 20 2011
Compiègne had announced its forfeit for the organisation of the Young Horses Championship to be held at the same time as the World Championship in Euston Park. Compiègne had launched this event in 2002 and year after year it became an inescapable event in endurance.
Babolna (located at the State Stud breeding Shagya arabs) has just received the right to organize this championship. It will take place on 18-19 August 2012.
November 20 2011
Compiègne had announced its forfeit for the organisation of the Young Horses Championship to be held at the same time as the World Championship in Euston Park. Compiègne had launched this event in 2002 and year after year it became an inescapable event in endurance.
Babolna (located at the State Stud breeding Shagya arabs) has just received the right to organize this championship. It will take place on 18-19 August 2012.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Abu Dhabi: Entries for YRJ Championship
November 20 2011
Representatives from 33 countries will participate in the 120-km FEI Young Riders & Juniors World Endurance Championship on December 10, 2011 at the Emirates International Endurance Village at Al Wathba in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Entry list can be seen here:
http://www.endurance.net/international/UAE/2011WECYRJ/
Representatives from 33 countries will participate in the 120-km FEI Young Riders & Juniors World Endurance Championship on December 10, 2011 at the Emirates International Endurance Village at Al Wathba in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Entry list can be seen here:
http://www.endurance.net/international/UAE/2011WECYRJ/
Australia: Back in the Saddle
ABC.net.au - See Video
Posted November 20, 2011 14:44:00
In the world of endurance riding one event stands above all the others, the 160 kilometre Tom Quilty. Amongst the nearly 200 riders in this year's field was one of the sport's superstars, former world number one and four time Quilty winner, Meg Wade. This year though she rode just five kilometres - keeping a promise to herself that she wouldn't let a near fatal horse fall keep her out of the saddle or away from her favourite event.
Pip Courtney
See video here:
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-11-20/back-in-the-saddle/3682640?section=sport
Posted November 20, 2011 14:44:00
In the world of endurance riding one event stands above all the others, the 160 kilometre Tom Quilty. Amongst the nearly 200 riders in this year's field was one of the sport's superstars, former world number one and four time Quilty winner, Meg Wade. This year though she rode just five kilometres - keeping a promise to herself that she wouldn't let a near fatal horse fall keep her out of the saddle or away from her favourite event.
Pip Courtney
See video here:
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-11-20/back-in-the-saddle/3682640?section=sport
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Great Britain: World Class Start and Potential Squad and Young Riders Training and Assessment Weekend
Endurancegb.co.uk
15th November 2011
Bury Farm near Luton, Beds once again welcomed us to their equestrian village and hosted our event.
Last weekend saw the Autumn assessment and training weekend for the combined squads of the WCSPS and the YRs.
Bury Farm near Luton, Beds once again welcomed us to their equestrian village and hosted our event. All of the facilities that we could possibly need including 4 indoor arenas and permanent indoor stabling for all of the squads horses, meant that once again both of the squads could enjoy the facilities and get together.
On Saturday, both squads had individual guidance and assessments from their individual team vets, farriers, and physios along with riding and trot-up practise. Crews were also included in the trot-up training and given guidance on what is required of them next season.
In the afternoon both squads came together for some talks including, Lorna Edgar from Baileys horse feeds and Alison Northroyd and Dan Gorton from Anglia Ruskin University on the science they need our help with to provide research on the fitness and nutritional requirements for the Endurance Rider. Lots of our riders have now signed up to assist with research which will include visits and assessments at the university along with assesments at competitions. It is hope from this, that they will be able to provide the firm facts on what we need to optimise our performances as riders.
Two WCSPS riders then talked about their experiences so far, Lindsey Comben on completing her first 160k ride and Gill Brown on her experiences crewing for Catriona Moon at the Florac European Champs.
A super Buffet dinner was arranged by Bury Farm caterers for all in the evening.
Sunday morning was workshops and team building sessions, as well as overviews by the team Chef’s as to what we plan for next season.
Sunday lunchtime saw all departing until the next training in Feb 2012.
World Class Start and Potential Squad 2011/2012
The following combinations put their horses forward for assessment at this weekend, and will be preparing now for next season under the guidance of the World Class Squad MT.
Start level Riders – Preparing for 2* rides UK and Europe
Gill Brown – Nougat Du Villard
Laura Short – Bey Shebaan
Harrier Hammond – Natida Rahmoon
Rebecca Kinnarney – Seren Capella
Anna Kidd – Espace
Selena Webb – Dolivier
Fiona Griffiths – Oliver/ Dear kate
Jane Greatorex – Trust me Too
Claire Wertheimer – Marouk du Caprice
Rachael Stendall – Tuleeka
Potential Level Riders - Min of 2 x 2* rides completed working towards Elite
Jo Malcolm – Rasslan
Lindsey Comben – Radhwan
We look forward to welcoming them and those riders both start and potential who where not able to attend this weekend, to the next Squad training weekend at Bury Farm on 18th-19th Feb 2012.
Andrea Baker
Chef D’equipe
15th November 2011
Bury Farm near Luton, Beds once again welcomed us to their equestrian village and hosted our event.
Last weekend saw the Autumn assessment and training weekend for the combined squads of the WCSPS and the YRs.
Bury Farm near Luton, Beds once again welcomed us to their equestrian village and hosted our event. All of the facilities that we could possibly need including 4 indoor arenas and permanent indoor stabling for all of the squads horses, meant that once again both of the squads could enjoy the facilities and get together.
On Saturday, both squads had individual guidance and assessments from their individual team vets, farriers, and physios along with riding and trot-up practise. Crews were also included in the trot-up training and given guidance on what is required of them next season.
In the afternoon both squads came together for some talks including, Lorna Edgar from Baileys horse feeds and Alison Northroyd and Dan Gorton from Anglia Ruskin University on the science they need our help with to provide research on the fitness and nutritional requirements for the Endurance Rider. Lots of our riders have now signed up to assist with research which will include visits and assessments at the university along with assesments at competitions. It is hope from this, that they will be able to provide the firm facts on what we need to optimise our performances as riders.
Two WCSPS riders then talked about their experiences so far, Lindsey Comben on completing her first 160k ride and Gill Brown on her experiences crewing for Catriona Moon at the Florac European Champs.
A super Buffet dinner was arranged by Bury Farm caterers for all in the evening.
Sunday morning was workshops and team building sessions, as well as overviews by the team Chef’s as to what we plan for next season.
Sunday lunchtime saw all departing until the next training in Feb 2012.
World Class Start and Potential Squad 2011/2012
The following combinations put their horses forward for assessment at this weekend, and will be preparing now for next season under the guidance of the World Class Squad MT.
Start level Riders – Preparing for 2* rides UK and Europe
Gill Brown – Nougat Du Villard
Laura Short – Bey Shebaan
Harrier Hammond – Natida Rahmoon
Rebecca Kinnarney – Seren Capella
Anna Kidd – Espace
Selena Webb – Dolivier
Fiona Griffiths – Oliver/ Dear kate
Jane Greatorex – Trust me Too
Claire Wertheimer – Marouk du Caprice
Rachael Stendall – Tuleeka
Potential Level Riders - Min of 2 x 2* rides completed working towards Elite
Jo Malcolm – Rasslan
Lindsey Comben – Radhwan
We look forward to welcoming them and those riders both start and potential who where not able to attend this weekend, to the next Squad training weekend at Bury Farm on 18th-19th Feb 2012.
Andrea Baker
Chef D’equipe
India: Second horse endurance today
Saturday, 19 November 2011 11:03
Indian Sports News
Chandigarh: The 2nd All-India Horse Endurance Championship will be organised by the Punjab Horse Sports and Breeders Society (PHSBS) at Kaler Bhaini village in Patiala district on November 19.
Sumrinder Sira, president of the PHSBS, in a press release today, said the race would cover 40 km, divided into two rounds of 20 km each. The prize money had been doubled to Rs 1 lakh this year, while the second and third prizes would be of Rs 51,000 and Rs 21,000, respectively.
Sira said the average speed of the winning horses in the 40-km national endurance run was around 16 km per hour, whereas during the previous Punjab endurance meet held in April, the winner delivered a speed of 18.38 km per hour and that too by indigenous breed against high standard of performances generally attributed to other established horse breeds, especially the Army stock, which have dominated the endurance rides in the recent past.
The Tribune
Indian Sports News
Chandigarh: The 2nd All-India Horse Endurance Championship will be organised by the Punjab Horse Sports and Breeders Society (PHSBS) at Kaler Bhaini village in Patiala district on November 19.
Sumrinder Sira, president of the PHSBS, in a press release today, said the race would cover 40 km, divided into two rounds of 20 km each. The prize money had been doubled to Rs 1 lakh this year, while the second and third prizes would be of Rs 51,000 and Rs 21,000, respectively.
Sira said the average speed of the winning horses in the 40-km national endurance run was around 16 km per hour, whereas during the previous Punjab endurance meet held in April, the winner delivered a speed of 18.38 km per hour and that too by indigenous breed against high standard of performances generally attributed to other established horse breeds, especially the Army stock, which have dominated the endurance rides in the recent past.
The Tribune
Friday, November 18, 2011
South Africa: De Kock battles to have equine export ban lifted
Racingpost.com - Full Article
By Michael Clower 12:09PM 18 NOV 2011
South Africa: Trainer Mike de Kock and Racing South Africa boss Peter Gibson have enlisted the support of the South African government in a bid to have the equine export ban lifted and, in particular, to be allowed to fly horses direct to Dubai.
South African horses going to Dubai have tobe quarantined in Europe en route but outbreaks of African Horse Sickness earlier this year resulted in Brussels imposing an automatic two-year ban on horses from South Africa.
This means that de Kock and other South African trainers are unable to send their local stars for the Dubai carnival.
President Zuma raised the matter in Dubai earlier this week with United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Khalifa Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed, who is Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE.
The South African government has agreed to prioritise the problem of horse exports to the UAE and Zuma was joined on the state visit by the South African Equine Trade Council...
Read more here:
http://www.racingpost.com/news/horse-racing/mike-de-kock-south-africa-de-kock-battles-to-have-export-ban-lifted/949264/international/
By Michael Clower 12:09PM 18 NOV 2011
South Africa: Trainer Mike de Kock and Racing South Africa boss Peter Gibson have enlisted the support of the South African government in a bid to have the equine export ban lifted and, in particular, to be allowed to fly horses direct to Dubai.
South African horses going to Dubai have tobe quarantined in Europe en route but outbreaks of African Horse Sickness earlier this year resulted in Brussels imposing an automatic two-year ban on horses from South Africa.
This means that de Kock and other South African trainers are unable to send their local stars for the Dubai carnival.
President Zuma raised the matter in Dubai earlier this week with United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Khalifa Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed, who is Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE.
The South African government has agreed to prioritise the problem of horse exports to the UAE and Zuma was joined on the state visit by the South African Equine Trade Council...
Read more here:
http://www.racingpost.com/news/horse-racing/mike-de-kock-south-africa-de-kock-battles-to-have-export-ban-lifted/949264/international/
New Zealand: Junior pair make NZ team
Times-age.co.nz - Full Article
Gary Caffell gary.caffell@age.co.nz | Friday, November 18, 2011 16:00
Wairarapa Endurance Club provides two members of the four-strong New Zealand team for the 2011 FEI world junior endurance championships to be held at Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates on December 10.
Emma Mason and Tessa Duess are part of a squad which, for the first time, will take their own horses with them to compete in what is certain to be a hotly-contested event.
They will face a course which takes in a gruelling 120km in temperatures and over terrain completely foreign to them.
Duess, 21, and her mount Aspen Hills Santa Ana were selected after a very successful 2010-11 season.
They were the only combination to complete back-to-back 160km rides in both the North Island and national championships held in Karatau.
A meritorious eighth in the senior division at the North Island champs was followed by a third placing in the young rider division at the nationals.
Aspen Hills Santa Ana was bred by Tessa's mother Gabrielle Duess, who passed away last year and was a huge influence on her daughter's endurance riding career...
Read more here:
http://www.times-age.co.nz/news/junior-pair-make-nz-team/1178117/
Gary Caffell gary.caffell@age.co.nz | Friday, November 18, 2011 16:00
Wairarapa Endurance Club provides two members of the four-strong New Zealand team for the 2011 FEI world junior endurance championships to be held at Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates on December 10.
Emma Mason and Tessa Duess are part of a squad which, for the first time, will take their own horses with them to compete in what is certain to be a hotly-contested event.
They will face a course which takes in a gruelling 120km in temperatures and over terrain completely foreign to them.
Duess, 21, and her mount Aspen Hills Santa Ana were selected after a very successful 2010-11 season.
They were the only combination to complete back-to-back 160km rides in both the North Island and national championships held in Karatau.
A meritorious eighth in the senior division at the North Island champs was followed by a third placing in the young rider division at the nationals.
Aspen Hills Santa Ana was bred by Tessa's mother Gabrielle Duess, who passed away last year and was a huge influence on her daughter's endurance riding career...
Read more here:
http://www.times-age.co.nz/news/junior-pair-make-nz-team/1178117/
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