Final round of ladies' endurance ride on Friday

Abu Dhabi: The Hydra Properties-sponsored third and final round of the 100-km Shaikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan Challenge Endurance Ride for ladies is set for a grand finish on Friday with a Dh150,000 car awaiting the overall winner.

After two rides in the series, Afra Khalifa Al Suwaidi and Sue Sidebottom are the leading contenders for the overall prize with 200 points and 180 points respectively.

Salem Al Ketbi of Al Asayel Endurance Village said the race for the overall winner, which is based on points tallied in all three rounds, is still wide open.

"Most of the riders are back in the Third Round which is supported by Hydra Properties and we expect a thrilling finish to this important event for Lady riders," Al Ketbi said.

'Matter of pride'

Addressing yesterday's press conference, Dr Sulaiman Al Fahim, CEO, Hydra Properties, said: "For Hydra Properties, it is indeed a matter of pride and delight to be associated with this event as so many UAE lady riders along with those from around the world are taking part."

"Sport is an integral part of all projects unveiled by Hydra Properties and we take it as our responsibility to support and help in the progress of UAE sportspersons to reach international levels. Our support to this event reflects this amply," said Dr Al Fahim.

Tasweeq managing director Lara Sawaya said the points system had kept many riders in with a chance.

"With 130 points for a win, an addition 45 points on offer for winning the best conditioned horse award, means any one of the top seven riders can still win the overall title," she said.

"The rider who partners the same horse and completes all three rounds will also get an additional 100 bonus points," she added.

Friday's 100-km FEI CEI Two-star event will be run over 100kms at the Al Asayel Endurance Village in Sweihan.

The ride will start at 6.30am and will be run in four loops of 30kms, 30kms, 24kms and 16kms.