DOHA: The second edition of the Hathab Series kicks off at Al Shaqab Arena on October 12, it was announced yesterday.
The 12-leg show jumping series - worth a staggering QR 1m in overall prize money - will alternate between Al Shaqab Arena and Qatar Equestrian Federation’s (QEF) Main Arena in Al Rayyan, organisers confirmed.
Hathab, meaning ‘Canter’ in Arabic, is an initiative of H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC).
The series is aimed at improving the standard of horse riding among Qatari youth while encouraging the involvement of private stables and individual horse owners to spread awareness of horsemanship as part of Qatar’s history and tradition.
Last season’s overall winners were feted at a spectacular closing ceremony under the patronage of the QOC President. Khalifa Al Attiya, the Executive Director of Al Shaqab, presented the trophies to the top riders at the ceremony held in May.
The gathering also saw the attendance of Omar Al Mannai, Commercial Manager of Al Shaqab, and Ali Al Rumaihi, the Tournament Director of the Hathab Series.
The event was attended by Thani Bin Abdul Rahman Al Kuwari, Second Vice President of QOC, Jassim Al Buainain, QEF officials and representatives of Al Shaqab with a large number of participating riders and sponsoring companies.
Top Qatari rider Nasser Al Ghazali, who won the Big Tour category, said: “It was a great season for me. I got to learn so much this season. It was a challenging season with many ups and downs.”
Al Ghazali added: “The competition level was very tough. I look forward to coming back stronger next season.”
At the end of the last season, Al Rumahi, the Tournament Director, said: “I am impressed the way young riders stood up to the challenge of competing in front of the fans.”
He added: “There were struggles but there were so many stories of success as well. Qatar riders hold a lot of promise.
“I am sure they will improve and we will get to see them grow into world-class riders in the future.” FEI rules and regulations will be applied during all the competitions, it was confirmed. The series will be broadcast on Al Kass Sports Channel.
Results of each competitions will be used in the selection process of riders to represent Qatar in future international competitions.
