Horse & Style is excited to be at the CHI AL SHAQAB, held at the world-famous and breathtaking Al Shaqab facility in Doha, Qatar, once again! This year marks the prestigious horse show’s 25th anniversary.
The first day of Para Dressage competitions got off to an exciting start. Held in Al Shaqab’s impressive indoor arena, this was the first major international event for many competitors since the Paralympics in Rio last year.
CHI AL SHAQAB offers the only major Para Dressage competition in the Middle East, and with its enviable facilities for horses and riders, it predictably attracts the world’s leading riders in this discipline. The event offers three days of competition for all Para Dressage Grades with team, individual and freestyle competitions.
Para Dressage, Prize Giving (L-R): Lee Pearson (GBR), Jens Lasse Dokkan (NOR), Elke Philipp (GER), photo: Frank Sorge/Al Shaqab
Two back-to-back 5* show jumping classes energized the crowd. Abdelkebir Ouaddar (MAR) beat 41 other riders, with a second phase time of 28.94. His partner for this competition was the experienced grey stallion Cordano Site Z.
Abdelkebir Ouaddar (MAR) Cordano Site Z, photo: Sarah Appel
The 2nd CSI5* speed round was a delight to watch. First to go, Roger Yves Bost (FRA) aboard Qoud’Coeur de La Loge put in a lightening fast 58.04 second round. Daniel Deusser (GER) had the speed at 56 secs, but an unfortunate last rail down lowered his placement. It wasn’t until the the penultimate pair, Bertram Allen (IRL) and Molly Malone V, galloped through the timers that Bost’s lead was finally overtaken. Allen secured victory by just .34 of a second. Pius Schwizer (SUI) finished third.
Bertram Allen (IRL) and Molly Malone V; photo: Al Shaqab
Another exciting day of Dressage, Para Dressage and Show Jumping is on schedule for today at the CHI AL SHAQAB.
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