Doha, Qatar – British show jumping rider Scott Brash dominated the competition at Al Shaqab’s Longines Outdoor Arena yesterday, claiming both the CSI5* 1.60m Grand Prix Jump-Off and the CSI3* 1.50m Jump-Off Grand Prix titles. The prestigious event, part of the HH The Father Amir’s Prix Tour, saw Brash and his gelding Hello Jefferson secure the top spot in the premier class with a blistering time of 42.66 seconds, adding to a successful weekend of equestrian sport. Qatar Olympic Committee President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani presented the awards.
The competition, which ran from January 10th to 11th, drew top international and local equestrian talent to Al Shaqab, renowned for its world-class facilities. Several other riders also distinguished themselves throughout the tour, showcasing the growing strength of show jumping in the region and globally. The event highlights Qatar’s commitment to hosting high-profile sporting competitions.
Scott Brash Triumphs in Al Shaqab Grand Prix
Brash’s victory in the CSI5* 1.60m Grand Prix was particularly impressive, outpacing France’s Megane Moissonnier by just fractions of a second. Moissonnier, riding Crooner Tame, finished with a time of 42.78 seconds, securing second place. Eve Jobs of the USA rounded out the podium, achieving a time of 43.42 seconds with Canto Bruno. This contest tested the skill of both horse and rider with a challenging course designed to push them to their limits.
Double Victory for Brash
Earlier in the day, Brash demonstrated his versatility and skill by also winning the CSI3* 1.50m Jump-Off Grand Prix aboard Hello Chadora Lady, posting a clear round in 32.34 seconds. Abdel Said of Belgium finished second with Wathnan Calvaro (33.49 seconds), while Janne F Meyer-Zimmermann from Germany secured third with Iron Dames High Level (33.74 seconds). The consistent performance underscores Brash’s current form and the quality of horses he is riding.
Brash, speaking after his wins, praised the exceptional facilities at Al Shaqab. He noted the arena’s quality and the well-structured schedule contribute to an excellent environment for horses, allowing them to perform at their best. The experience, he stated, is always a positive one when competing in Doha.
Beyond the Grand Prix events, Harry Charles of Great Britain excelled in the CSI5* 1.50m Special Two-Phase, winning with Bandit in 35.10 seconds. Millie Allen followed closely behind for a British one-two, securing second place. Italy’s Emanuele Gaudiano took the win in the CSI3* 1.40m Accumulator, while France’s Jean Francois Rondoux won the CSI3* 1.30m Faults & Time. Local Qatari riders also achieved success, particularly Hussain Said A M Haidan, who won the CSI1* 1.30m Jump-Off Grand Prix.
The national competition also saw Qatari riders take the lead, with Mariam Abdulkarim Sabri, Afraa Abdulrahman Al Sulaiti, and Salman Faisal Al Marri claiming first, second, and third places respectively in the 1.00m Special Two-Phase class. This demonstrates the growing depth of equestrian talent within Qatar itself, fostered by facilities like Al Shaqab and a sustained investment in the sport. Qatar’s equestrian calendar includes several other prominent events.
As the HH The Father Amir’s Prix Tour concludes, attention now turns to upcoming international competitions and the continued development of show jumping throughout the region. The performance of both established and rising riders, alongside the quality of the facilities, suggests further growth. Future events will be closely watched to observe the continued impact of investments in equestrian sports in Qatar.
