Abu Dhabi: Areej Al Ameerat have stepped in to support equestrian sport in a big way starting with their sponsorship of the 120-km Wathba Challenge Endurance ride to be held on Saturday at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba.
Addressing a press conference, Ali M. Al Mulla, Chairman of Areej Al Ameerat, said: "This is the first time we are supporting an endurance ride and for us it is a matter of great pride."
Al Mulla also confirmed his company's support for two other major equestrian events. "We will be sponsoring the Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Global Arabian Racing Festival and will also support the Arabian Racing Conference and Adihex 2011," said Al Mulla.
Prize money
Adnan Sultan Al Nuaimi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club said: "Saturday's endurance ride will kick-start action at the Al Wathba venue with over 100 horses participating."
"A total prize money of Dh300,000 and a 4WD car will be on offer for those finishing on top in the 120-km ride which will be run in five stages," Al Nuaimi added.
Talal Al Hashmi, representing Abu Dhabi Sports Council said: "While we are all excited about staging the F-1 race on Sunday, this endurance race on Saturday will reflect our care and preservation of heritage sport."
Lara Sawaya, Director of Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Global Arabian Racing Festival thanked Al Mulla for extending support to the Festival and the Arabian Racing Conference. "Next year we will be staging two more races in the Shaikh Mansour Festival," she said.
