Shaikh Hassan finishes fourth

Manama : Bahrain’s number one Show Jumper Shaikh Hassan bin Rashid Al Khalifa claimed a fourth place podium finish for the Kingdom in the CSI1* Grand Prix. It was a magnificent weekend for Shaikh Hassan at the Longines Global Champions Tour – Longines Paris Eiffel Jumping.

Shaikh Hassan was one of only four riders out of 25 starters, who managed to keep a clear round and go double clear over the large 145m GP course set by Uliano Vezzani. 

With the Bahraini flag imprinted on either side, Bahrain team captain raced his trusted partner HBR Vance through the finish line in a streak in 42.41 seconds and missing out on third place by just eight hundredths of a second.

HBR Vance placed sixth while the speedy and flashy mare HBR Radio Saint Clair helped secure fourth place in the opener finishing in times of 61.73 and 60.00 seconds. 

The podium finish was Shaikh Hassan’s crowning moment of a weekend as he claimed a double podium in the big tour 140m-speed class of the opening day making it a triple visit to the winners’ circle throughout the entirety. 

“This was big! It was a very special podium, in a special setting and l achievement for the Kingdom. I’m so proud to represent Bahrain and be able see our flag waving amongst the winners of this amazing event, “ said Shaikh Hassan.

Shaikh Hassan thanked his sponsors for their continued support and hoped this result will help increase the interest in show jumping. 

He also thanked his family for always being there and to BREEF for the continued support of all the Bahraini riders.

It was a seven-horse jump off that brought out the very best of the international riders who were clear and in the final speed round of the CSI1* Grand Prix of ‘City of Light’. 

The seven riders pushed their horses as fast as they could over the stunning course in front of a packed crowd and buzzing VIP tent, which included the likes of Bruce Springsteen and Salma Hayek.