Abu Dhabi: Some of the medal winners at the World Equestrian Games' endurance championship will be seen in action during tomorrow's 120-kilometre National Day Cup and the 120-kilometre Giants Endurance Challenge (Round 1) at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba.
Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Shaikh Majid Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture, members of the gold-medal winning UAE team are likely to ride in the National Day Cup and the first round of the Giants event. Some of the top riders in the region and around the world are expected to take part in the two rides, to be held over five stages each.
"A total prize fund of Dh300,000 and a car will be up for grabs in the National Day Cup ride. The Giants ride here will kick-start the three-round series with the venues for the next two rounds to be decided soon," said Adnan Sultan Al Nuaimi of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club.
Ali M. Al Mulla, Chairman Areej Al Ameerat, one of the sponsors of the National Day Cup ride said, "Endurance rides are part of our culture and to see so many big names in the event, we are delighted to be supporting it." Stephen Bowey of Invest AD, said, "Endurance racing is a marvellous spectacle, and we expect a strong race from the many talented riders and horses who will take part this weekend."
Lara Sawaya, representing Wathba Stud Farm said, "With Abu Dhabi gripped by sports fever, Saturday's two endurance events give sporting fans the chance to witness some heritage sport.
