Fascinating tussle in the offing in Spain

The UAE riders, led by General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Minister of Defence, trained for the second day here in preparation for what is turning out to be a fascinating tussle for honours in the World Endurance Championship.

The 160-km event is scheduled for tomorrow and two-time European Open team champions, the UAE are locked in a keen tussle for supremacy with the other major forces in endurance.

Sheikh Mohammed, Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Maktoum and a couple of other riders trained on Friday as well as yesterday.

Though there was a drop in temperature, after a couple of hot and humid days, the dust seemed to be their main problem during the training sessions.

The hosts Spain have yet to name their final team while reigning champion Maya Killa Perringerard will lead the French challenge, while twice world champion Valerie Kanavy leads the U.S. challenge.

Tomorrow's ride, which is part of the World Equestrian Games, will be run in five stages at the Garrapilos, a venue situated about 17kms from Jerez.

Meanwhile, the three UAE show jumpers have also arrived in Jerez and have begun their training. Hussein Mohammed Hussein, Secretary General of the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, told Gulf News that the three UAE jumpers have done extensive preparation and are looking forward to the championship.

"It will be a good experience for the UAE jumpers. The world's best jumpers have assembled here and the competition and experience will be a big gain for the UAE," he said.

Hussein Mohammed also visited the UAE pavilion at the equestrian exhibition being staged on the sidelines. The UAE equestrian and racing federation has put on display the various equestrian publications and posters which has been a big draw in the show.

The videos showing the equestrian facilities in the UAE and clippings of major events like the Dubai World Cup, the world endurance championship staged in the UAE and other events are in much demand.