The Sultanate of Oman’s rich equestrian heritage was once again on full display at the Annual Royal Cavalry Horse Race, held in Barka on Wednesday evening. Presided over by His Highness Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said, at the behest of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the event showcased the nation’s passion for horse racing and celebrated the beauty and skill associated with Arabian breeds. This prestigious competition drew participants and enthusiasts alike, reinforcing Oman’s commitment to preserving its cultural traditions.
A Royal Tradition: The Annual Royal Cavalry Horse Race
The Annual Royal Cavalry Horse Race isn’t simply a sporting event; it’s a cultural cornerstone deeply intertwined with Oman’s history and identity. Organized by the Royal Court Affairs through the Royal Cavalry, the race in Barka served as a vibrant showcase of Omani horsemanship. This year’s edition was particularly significant as it marked the launch of a new visual identity and official logo for the event, solidifying its position as a long-standing tradition for years to come.
Unveiling the New Logo
His Highness Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said officially unveiled the new logo during the opening ceremony. The design draws inspiration from the regal symbolism of the royal crown, ingeniously represented by two opposing horse heads. This imagery powerfully conveys the supreme royal support for equestrian sports and the art of horsemanship. Furthermore, the logo prominently features the flag of the Royal Cavalry, paying tribute to their role in organizing and upholding the spirit of the horse race.
The colour palette chosen for the logo – dark purple as the primary colour and brownish-gold as the secondary – further enhances its royal and sophisticated aesthetic. The intention is for this new visual identity to serve as a consistent and recognizable emblem for all future iterations of the Annual Royal Cavalry Horse Race.
Thrilling Race Results & Champions Crowned
The evening was filled with excitement as horses and riders competed across several race categories. The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the fifth and main race, the Barka Race for Purebred Arabian Horses, a 2,000-meter test of speed and endurance.
Falah, a stunning Purebred Arabian, emerged victorious in the Sultan’s Cup race, claiming the coveted title. The winning horse is owned by His Highness Sayyid Shihab bin Harib Al Said. A strong performance secured Falah’s place at the top, with Saad, owned by the Royal Cavalry, finishing in second place and Sunny du Loup, also representing the Royal Cavalry, taking third. The Royal Cavalry demonstrated its commitment to breeding and training top-tier Arabian horses by securing two spots on the podium.
Here’s a breakdown of the results from the other races:
- First Race: Nakhl Castle Race (1,200 meters, female riders) – 1st: Al-Muheeb (Ramla bint Khalil Al-Zadjali), 2nd: Hamsa (Raida bint Saud Al-Bahri), 3rd: Mabhour (Asmahan bint Juma Al-Balushi)
- Second Race: Al Hazm Fort Race (1,200 meters) – 1st: Yasrah (Royal Cavalry), 2nd: Amsila (Royal Cavalry), 3rd: Al Miqdam (Royal Cavalry)
- Third Race: Wadi Bani Kharous Race (1,600 meters) – 1st: Bakir (Sayyida Noura bint Mohammed Al Said), 2nd: Al Reem (Royal Cavalry), 3rd: RB Kinzman (Sayyid Saud bin Harith Al Said)
- Fourth Race: Ain Al Kasfa Race (1,600 meters, citizen-owned) – 1st: Madmoun (Al Reef Stud), 2nd: Dhawi (Majid bin Ali bin Majid Al Maamari), 3rd: Izmir de Carrier (Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Abdulrahman)
Beyond the Races: Showcasing Omani Culture and Inspiration
The Annual Royal Cavalry horse racing event extended beyond the competitive races, offering a diverse program of entertainment and cultural displays. Throughout the race rounds, spectators were treated to captivating equestrian performances presented by the skilled riders of the Royal Cavalry, accompanied by enchanting musical pieces.
Adding a local flavour, riders from the South Al Batinah Governorate showcased traditional horse-related arts, for which the region is celebrated. Participating students from local schools also added to the celebratory atmosphere with their own equestrian demonstrations. These performances underscored the importance of passing down traditional skills and fostering a love for horses in the younger generation.
Perhaps one of the most moving segments of the evening was “Insight of a Knight,” a special presentation highlighting the extraordinary connection between a blind Omani youth and his horse. This profoundly inspiring story demonstrated the power of empathy, trust, and the inclusive nature of equestrian sports. Additionally, showcases of horse beauty and charming mini horse-drawn carriages delighted attendees.
Continued Support for Equestrian Sports in Oman
His Excellency Nasr bin Hamoud Al Kindi, Secretary General of the Royal Court Affairs, emphasized the unwavering support of His Majesty the Sultan for equestrianism in Oman. He highlighted the historical and cultural significance of these activities and their vital link to Omani heritage.
“This generous support has strengthened interest in purebred Arabian horses and fostered a strong passion among Omani youth,” His Excellency stated. He further explained that the Royal Court Affairs, through the Royal Cavalry, is dedicated to the ongoing development of equestrian sports, with plans to organize the annual race in various governorates, including Sohar, Nizwa, Bidiyah, Salalah, and Ibri. This expansion aims to enhance riders’ skills and provide a platform for elite competitors to excel.
Hosting the seventh edition of the Annual Royal Cavalry Horse Race in Barka this year is particularly important, as it creates opportunities for riders from across the Sultanate to compete at the highest levels. It underlines Oman’s commitment to nurturing talent and preserving its esteemed equestrian traditions, solidifying its position as a prominent center for Arabian horse breeding and competition. The evening exemplified the dedication to this cherished aspect of Omani culture, and the enthusiasm surrounding the event promises an even brighter future for horse racing in the nation.
