Sheikh Saeed presented with stallion

Thrilled visitors watched yesterday as 14-year-old accomplished endurance rider, Sheikh Saeed bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum was given Pretencioso de La Pastora, a four-year-old chestnut Paso Fino stallion, during Dubai's ongoing Equestrian Show at Nad Al Sheba.

The gift marked a goodwill gesture from the Canadian Horse Alliance, Canadian Paso Fino Horse Association, Criadero La Luisa Farm and owner of the farm, Mario Valencia.

"This is the first time the Paso Fino horses have been seen in the UAE," explained Jim Cation, President of the Canadian Paso Fino Horse Association, who handed over the horse to Sheikh Saeed.

"We are very keen to break into the UAE and Middle East market and this presentation today marks a strengthening in trade relations between us and the equestrian world in the UAE."

The Equestrian Show "the region's only official trade show dedicated to the equine world" is held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance and Industry, and support of the Dubai Racing Club, UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation and Emirates Racing Association.

It has been extended a day and will be open during Dubai World Cup day until 4pm.