Sheikh Majid makes winning endurance debut

Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, barely in his teens, showed a lot of maturity as he finished first in a 40-kilometre Qualifier Ride here yesterday, thus making a winning debut on the UAE Endurance circuit.
Though the Qualifier Ride does not take into account the ranking but just the number of qualifiers within the stipulated parameters, the fact that Sheikh Majid finished ahead of a pack of riders  who had more experience and have been around for sometime, proved that he is the latest of the Sheikh Mohammed brothers on the success trail.
Even as his brothers Sheikh Rashid, Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Ahmed were figuring in the top ten of the 90-kilometre senior ride being run simultaneously, Sheikh Majid  revealed most of the traits that have made the Maktoum family one of the world's foremost in equestrian and racing world. 
Speaking to Gulf News, Sheikh Majid said he did not find the ride difficult. "I have been training every day with lots of help from my brothers. My father has been my inspiration and I hope to live up to the high standards he has set," said young Sheikh Majid.
Sheikh Majid, who finished ahead of Emma Launder of Great Britain, said "I ride about 10 to 15 kilometres every day which made my debut ride here very easy. I am really looking forward to participating in more rides."
"I am fortunate to have the advice and support of my father and my brothers," he added.
Sheikh Majid must have certainly made his father General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and UAE Defence Minister proud for he showed all the dedication, determination and skill which had helped Sheikh Mohammed win the European Team championship for UAE in 1999.
While Sheikh Mohammed has been one of the leaders of the UAE endurance team who have been dominating the world endurance circuit, Sheikh Rashid and Sheikh Hamdan have topped the FEI-Emirates Worldwide Ranking in 1999 and 2000 respectively. They have also featured in UAE's double triumph in 1999 in Europe when the won the team championship in both the Open and junior categories.
While Sheikh Mohammed has not taken part in any ride of late, his other son, Sheikh Maktoum was also a constant rider last season. Yesterday Sheikh Maktoum was seen driving alongside Sheikh Majid and encouraging him during his ride.