Al Maha Stables opened its gates on Saturday to a spectacular equestrian event, supported by the Northern Governate in conjunction with Ali Abdul Hussain. The event, organised by Hameed Al Jabal and Fawzi Al Orayed, ran three classes.
There was a show jumping class for junior riders, a one round class with a jump-off, though in the end all the contestants were winners as they were all presented with trophies. The star of the day was young Ebrahim Nader who not only took home the top slot but also claimed a runner-up position.
This was followed by a show of riders in traditional Arabic costumes, the gentlemen then got on their exquisitely-turned out horses, to show them off to the crowds. The horses had been presented in an array of traditional Arabian costumes and were a dramatic blaze of colour, satins, silks and plumes. Though the four presiding judges were certainly challenged in choosing a winner, it was Aqeel Khalifa who was eventually chosen.
To close the event with pizazz came the cowboys; the horses and riders alike were stunning, as they performed to a packed audience. The crowd went wild whistling and cheering for their favourites. The horses, outfitted in authentic and spectacular western style, looked magnificent, eliciting dazzling images of the past. Taking home the trophy for this class was Mahmood Akbari and his wonderful steed.
This was a wholly enjoyable and memorable event.
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The Dilmun Riding Stables held their Easter pony camp over the holidays, and their pupils learnt aspects of dressage, culminating in participants performing the Working Equitation Dressage test in front of some very proud parents.
During the holidays the girls had learnt different parts of the test, along with how to prepare their ponies for a dressage show, what to expect at a show and general stable management lessons.
On show day they prepared their own ponies, including plaits and ribbons. They had spent some time learning warm-up and main arena etiquette.
The actual Working Equitation test includes slalom bending through poles, blocks or barrels, diagonal trotting poles, a square to turn in and an ‘L’ shape to negotiate through. The test finishes with a dismount and lead out of the arena.
The riders all received their judging sheets with scores and comments along with an attendance certificate. Stable manager Carina Abdulrahman was very impressed by the girls’ enthusiasm during the week.
Meanwhile, the BREEF show jumping and dressage event last Thursday was postponed.
