Major General Dr. Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi, head of the Equestrian Federation and Racing, warmly congratulated His Highness Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, captain of the Bahrain royal squad, on capturing the world endurance championship title in France. This win marked the successful retention of the title he had secured at the previous edition hosted at Bouthib International Village of Endurance in the UAE in 2023.
Al-Raisi noted that Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa truly deserved the championship accolade, reflecting Bahrain’s leadership’s commitment and dedication to equestrian sports. He affirmed, “We celebrate the remarkable victory achieved by Bahrain, particularly since the UAE team claimed the championship title in Italy in 2021. Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad’s triumph in the latest edition reinforces the outstanding abilities of Arab riders, especially those from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, in clinching international titles.”
He praised the extraordinary performances of UAE riders and champions at the World Championship in France, emphasizing their determination despite the adverse weather conditions caused by rain during the event. He recognized the accomplishments of UAE competitors, including Saeed Ahmed Jaber Al-Harbi, who earned a silver medal in the individual category, and Salem Hamad Malhouf, the 2021 champion who finished fifth in the 2023 edition, out of a remarkable 118 participants from 39 countries. This reflects the growth of equestrian sports in the UAE and the impressive technical skills of its champion riders.
Al-Raisi expressed his deep gratitude and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and ruler of Dubai, along with His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister, and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, for their steadfast support for equestrian sports and endurance racing, which has notably enhanced the UAE’s visibility on international stages.
He also extended his thanks to Sheikh Rashid bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Equestrian Club, for his ongoing support for the UAE team in its World Championship participation in France and in various continental and international competitions. He emphasized that the “Emirati Knights” possess the ambition, spirit, and determination to compete fiercely in high-stakes contests.
