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| Staff Writer |
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The Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club is preparing to host its fourth Doha International Arabian Horse Show, with an impressive lineup of 300 horses from the Gulf region's premier breeding operations converging at the Qatar Equestrian Federation's main arena from Thursday.
The European Conference of Arab Horse Organizations-sanctioned event will feature international adjudicators evaluating entries across multiple classifications, culminating in championships for colts, fillies, mares and stallions. Medal ceremonies will honor the top three in each division with gold, silver and bronze awards, alongside substantial prize money.
Leading the home contingent are Al Shaqab (Member of Qatar Foundation), Al Shahania Stud, Al Sraiya Stud, Al Jood Stud, Al Jaham Stud and Al Jamal Stud, joining distinguished participants from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait and the UAE.
Last January's renewal showcased the region's depth of talent, with Bashir Al Bashir, owned by Abdullateef Basheer Alrasheedi, claiming stallion honours. The mare championship went to D Fala from Salem Stud, while Ashadiya, representing Al Nasser Stud, secured silver and Best in Show accolades.
Junior divisions saw Mzoon Al Diriyah triumph for owner Mesfer Mohammed Al Hajri, while Bahi Al Jaham dominated the colts' section for Al Jaham Stud with a show-high 93 points. The yearling championships were claimed by MHS Sora (Alkhashab Stud) and Qaysar RJ (Al Rajhiah Stud) respectively.
The showcase forms part of the 2024-25 season calendar, with QREC management focused on maintaining Qatar's prominence in Arabian horse events. This commitment is evidenced by recent successes at the World Arabian Horse Championship in Paris, where Al Shaqab, Al Shahania Stud, Al Nasser Stud and Al Naif Stud have consistently excelled.