Samias work with horses is worth it

Samia Al Saffar's passion for horses is evident with her day job. She is the professionally qualified stable manager of Shakhoora Riding Centre in Saar, the only Bahraini woman on the island to hold such a position.

As well as being a former member of the Bahrain National Equestrian Team, Samia, 38, holds an advanced National Diploma in Equine Business Management from Warwickshire College of Agriculture in UK, the Intermediate Teaching Certificate from the British Horse Society and an International Trainer's Passport.

She said: 'You have to be dedicated and willing to work hard as it is a full-time hands-on job. Most times it is hot and dusty and, although I employ six grooms, the stables need constant supervision by me. I am solely responsible for schooling horses and riding lessons.'

Samia's love affair with horses began at the age of 15 when she was presented with her first horse.

When it was time to choose a future career path, Samia with some help from career guidance in the UK decided to enter the equine business. After spending four years in the UK, she returned to the island in 1991 and took over the Shakhoora stables.

She rejuvenated the stables, which was in a state of neglect and had only three horses, as its previous manager had left Bahrain.

Now, the stables and the riding school is a thriving business bustling with horses and people at all times.

Shakhoora Riding Centre presently houses 51 horses, two of which are Samia's own - an 18-year-old Australian thoroughbred called Blackdraft and a nine-year-old Dutch warm blood called LG.

Apart from managing the business, Samia is mother to 18-month-old Alexander and has also won many competitions both locally and abroad.

She was a member of the Bahrain National Team and has travelled with the team to various GCC countries to take part in regional competitions.

She was placed 10th in Bahrain's World Cup Qualifier two years ago and has several trophies adorning her office.

But though the Arab world is famous for its thoroughbred horses and love of endurance riding Samia said: 'Bahrain still has a long way to go as far as competitions and equestrian activities are concerned.

'There is a lot more interest on the island now and I see many Bahraini girls pursuing this hobby, something which was not there previously but I would love to see more people, particularly youngsters coming into the sport. It's hard work but definitely worth it.'