In an atmosphere brimming with enthusiasm and fierce competition, Saudi rider Faisal Al-Osaimi was crowned champion of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee Endurance Cup, held today in the historic Al-Ula Governorate. The Royal Commission for Al-Ula Governorate organized this prominent sporting event in strategic partnership with the Saudi Equestrian Federation. The 120-kilometer race was technically divided into four stages, demanding a high level of skill in managing the horses' exertion.
Al-Osaimi clinched the title with his horse "Duq" after achieving an impressive average speed of 23.142 km/h, securing first place. The road to the podium was far from easy, with the final meters witnessing intense excitement and fierce competition that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. Rider Hassan Bamanah finished in second place, just 28 seconds behind the leader, aboard the mare "DJALIK DE FIGNOLS" with an average speed of 23.108 km/h. In third place was rider Abdulaziz Al-Sayyali on the horse "GAIA DE MORGANE," recording an average speed of 22.148 km/h.
Holding this race in AlUla Governorate is of particular significance, as the governorate has become a leading global destination for equestrian sports and endurance riding, thanks to its stunning natural landscapes and diverse sand and mountain tracks that truly test the abilities of riders and horses. This event reflects the continued success of the partnership between the Royal Commission for AlUla Governorate and the Saudi Equestrian Federation in hosting major championships, further solidifying the Kingdom's position as a regional and international hub for this noble sport.
From the start of the race at 7:00 AM, the riders displayed exceptional skill levels, reflecting the significant development of equestrian sports in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This progress is supported by the wise leadership and aligns with the goals of Vision 2030, which places great importance on sports and equestrian heritage. Endurance racing is considered one of the most challenging equestrian sports, demanding high levels of physical fitness and perfect harmony between rider and horse to cover long distances under strict veterinary requirements to ensure the horses' well-being.
On the sidelines of the exciting main race, the event witnessed the organization of another international race of 100 kilometers, in addition to two local qualifying races of 40 and 80 kilometers, aimed at preparing a new generation of riders and qualifying horses for future competitions, thus expanding the base of practitioners of this ancient sport in the Kingdom.
