The seventh round of the Qatar Equestrian Tour – Longines Hathab commenced yesterday with a showcase of skill in dressage at the Qatar Equestrian Federation’s (QEF) main arena. Riders competed across multiple levels, demonstrating precision and harmony with their horses. Barbara Ali emerged as the standout performer in the preliminary test, highlighting the growing talent within the Qatar Equestrian Tour.
The event, held on November 20, 2023, at the QEF facility, featured competition in preliminary, novice, and first level dressage. These classes serve as crucial stepping stones for riders aiming for higher levels of the sport, including international competitions. The Longines Hathab tour aims to promote equestrianism in Qatar and provide a platform for local riders to develop their abilities.
Dressage Highlights from the Qatar Equestrian Tour
Barbara Ali’s performance with Neron in the preliminary test was particularly impressive, earning a score of 70.834. This result placed her well ahead of the competition and signaled a strong start to this stage of the tour. Mona Mohammed Al Sulaiti followed with a score of 66.429 riding Jazz Para, while Khalid Mohammed Al Ghanim secured third place with 56.905 on Pontendro.
Novice and Junior Divisions
In the Level 2 Novice category, Mona Mohammed Hammoudi claimed victory with a score of 68.363 aboard Kaluintek. She was closely pursued by Mariam Abdulkarim Abdul and Hamad Nasser Al Marri, demonstrating the depth of talent in the novice ranks. Notably, Al Marri also achieved success in the Junior class, further showcasing the development of young riders in Qatar.
Michelle Germes led the First Level competition, achieving a score of 72.234 with Givenchy. This level requires increased technical skill and demonstrates a rider’s ability to execute more complex movements with their horse. The consistent performance across all levels underscores the increasing sophistication of equestrian sports in the country.
Dressage, a highly regarded discipline within the equestrian world, emphasizes the development of a horse’s natural athletic ability through a series of prescribed movements. Judges evaluate the horse and rider’s performance based on factors such as accuracy, elegance, and obedience. The Qatar Equestrian Federation has been actively investing in facilities and training programs to elevate the standard of dressage within Qatar.
The Longines Hathab tour is a significant initiative by the Qatar Equestrian Federation, supported by the sponsorship of Longines. It provides a structured pathway for riders to progress through the levels of competition, ultimately aiming to represent Qatar on the international stage. The tour also contributes to the broader goal of promoting horse riding as a popular and accessible sport within the nation.
Additionally, the event serves as a valuable opportunity for riders to gain experience and exposure. The competitive environment encourages continuous improvement and fosters a sense of community among equestrian enthusiasts. The QEF regularly hosts similar events, contributing to a vibrant calendar of equestrian events throughout the year.
However, participation in these events is not without its challenges. Riders must dedicate significant time and resources to training and horse care. The sport also requires a high degree of physical and mental discipline. Despite these demands, the enthusiasm for dressage and other equestrian disciplines remains strong in Qatar.
The next round of the Qatar Equestrian Tour – Longines Hathab is expected to feature show jumping competitions, scheduled to take place in early December. The specific dates and details will be announced by the QEF in the coming days. Observers will be watching to see if the current leaders can maintain their momentum and if any new talents emerge in the show jumping arena.
The continued success of the Longines Hathab tour will likely depend on sustained investment in infrastructure, training, and rider development. The QEF’s commitment to these areas will be crucial in ensuring that Qatar remains a prominent force in the regional and international equestrian community. Further announcements regarding future tour expansions and international collaborations are anticipated.
Longines’s ongoing sponsorship is also a key factor, providing financial support and brand recognition to the event. The partnership between the QEF and Longines demonstrates a shared commitment to promoting excellence in equestrian sports.
