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| Staff Writer |
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In a significant move for Middle East racing, the GCC Horse Racing Cooperation Council has outlined ambitious plans for regional development during their latest gathering in Riyadh.
Meeting chairman HE Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, who serves as Vice Chair of the Asian Racing Federation, led discussions focusing on establishing four specialist working groups. These will target regulatory alignment, integrity measures, veterinary protocols and race programming across Gulf states.
HRH Prince Bandar bin Khaled AlFaisal, heading the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, welcomed delegates while emphasising the crucial nature of cross-border cooperation. "Regional cooperation is vital in elevating our sport," the Prince declared, setting the tone for productive talks.
The council's membership, including representatives from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait, demonstrated their commitment to unified race management standards. His Excellency Salem S bin Mahfouz attended as Vice Chairman, alongside fellow council members His Excellency Bader Al Darwish, His Excellency Youssef Buheji, His Excellency Retired Brigadier General Abdulrazzaq Al Shahwarzi, and His Excellency Hisham Jahail.
Key focus areas encompass veterinary protocols, horse movement regulations, and sustainable industry practices. The gathering highlighted the importance of maintaining exemplary standards across all racing jurisdictions while fostering transparency throughout the region.
Chairman Al Shehhi and attending members expressed their dedication to advancing these objectives through continued collaboration, marking a new chapter in Gulf racing's development.