Doha, Qatar: The highly anticipated H H The Amir’s Sword International Equestrian Festival kicks off today, featuring over 150 riders from 28 countries vying for top honors in the prestigious three-day event at Al Shaqab.
This annual gala, renowned for its top-class showjumping and dressage competitions, marks the return of international riders for the first time since 2016, offering a prize pool exceeding €650,000. Notably, the Festival will present the Amir’s Sword to a local dressage rider for the first time.
Last year, Qatari showjumper Ghanim Nasser Al Qadi and his stallion Morocco clinched victory in the H H The Amir Sword, triumphing in the Big Tour.
Over the course of three days, riders will showcase their skills in both the Longines Indoor and Outdoor Arenas, with today's schedule featuring nine contests across three-star and five-star categories alongside dressage events.
"We have finalized all preparations and are poised to host an exceptional Festival. Building on the success of last month’s Doha International Equestrian Tour Championship 2024, we aim to elevate the standards of competition and provide an unparalleled experience for riders," remarked Sheikh Ahmed bin Nouh Al Thani, Secretary-General of the Qatar Equestrian Federation (QEF) and Chairman of the Festival’s Supreme Organizing Committee.
Ahmed Jaber Al Mulla, Vice Chairman of the Festival’s Supreme Organizing Committee, expressed excitement for the action-packed event, with prominent riders set to participate. Qatar will be represented by 70 riders, while 14 male and female riders will compete in dressage events.
The Festival will culminate in the five-star Grand Prix race, the His Highness the Amir’s Showjumping Sword, and the His Highness the Amir’s Dressage Sword, specially designated for local riders.
Throughout the Festival, spectators can enjoy various entertainment activities, with general stand tickets available for QR25 at www.q-tickets.com. VIP tickets, offering seats in the VIP suite at the Longines Outdoor Arena, are also on sale.
Sponsored by Doha Bank, Vodafone Qatar, Al Abdulghani Motors, Kinto, Al Kass Sports Channels, Zabarjad Jewellery, White Event, and Gulfcrafts, this year's Festival also boasts strategic partnerships with the Qatar Olympic Committee and Al Shaqab. Several sponsorship agreements were signed during yesterday’s press conference, signaling the event's significance and widespread support.
