Christopher Hector is Doha bound…
Next Tuesday I will be flying into Qatar for what looks to be a really super horse show, the CHI AL SHAQAB 2019…
The jewel in Qatar and Al Shaqab’s equestrian crown, is CHI AL SHAQAB 2019, which will be held from March 7-9.
The CHI is Al Shaqab’s signature event. With ExxonMobil as the main sponsor, the competition will see top riders compete in three Olympic equestrian disciplines of Showjumping; Dressage; and Para Dressage. The showjumping entry list is a real who’s who of world showjumping: Edwina Tops-Alexander, Gregory Wathelet, Roger Yves Bost, Bertram Allen, Maikel van der Vleuten, Steve Guerdat and Henrik von Eckermann, are just a few who are flying in with their horses. There are also impressive entries for the dressage and para…
One of the stars headed for Doha – Edwina Tops-Alexander
CHI AL SHAQAB is the first equestrian competition of its kind in the Middle East and Asia region to be sanctioned by the International Equestrian Federation. Attracting the best athletes and horses from around the world since its inception in 2013, it is one of only five international equestrian events to showcase three or more equestrian disciplines.
One of the dressage stars is young Grand Prix rider, Frederic Wandres
Photo Stefan Lafrentz
Capturing the excitement and spirit of top-class sport, CHI AL SHAQAB further strengthens Qatar’s status as a hub for international sporting competition, while paying tribute to Qatar’s rich equestrian heritage.
Khalifa al Attiya, President of CHI AL SHAQAB and Al Shaqab’s Executive Director, said:
“The Arab world has a very rich equine heritage, and through events such as this, Al Shaqab preserves and perpetuates that aspect of Qatari culture. CHI AL SHAQAB significantly contributes to the international equestrian and business community, highlighting Qatar’s role as a global sporting destination.”
AL SHAQAB – A World Class Facility
Since its establishment in 1992, AL SHAQAB’s vision was to build on Qatar’s Arabian horse heritage and be a leading global centre for equine professionals while providing an engaging experience for the community. Global leadership has not only meant preserving, improving and promoting the Arabian horse breed, but also encouraging the community in this unique, traditional cultural sport.
Today, AL SHAQAB’s impressive facilities, which are distinctively designed in the shape of a horseshoe, cover 980, 000 square metres. With a state-of-the-art Main Arena comprising both an indoor and outdoor venue capable of holding over 5000 spectators, AL SHAQAB is part of Qatar’s growing reputation on the world stage that showcases its ability to host major international sports event at the highest level.
