Bahrain has made ‘big strides’ in endurance

Manama : Dubai Ruler, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum hailed the ‘big strides’ of Bahrain in the endurance sport while describing UAE’s participation in HM the King’s Endurance Cup as “a fruitful outcome of bilateral cooperation”.

Speaking while attending the 120-km junior and senior race of HM the King’s Endurance Cup, alongside His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Shaikh Mohammed underlined the great support of HM the King to the sport which he said, “contributed to Bahraini riders’ successes and honourable achievements in various competitions.”

The UAE Vice-President lauded the role played by HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports Chairman, Bahrain Olympic Committee President and Royal Charity Organisation (RCO) Chairman, to develop the endurance sport in Bahrain. 

HM, the King expressed thanks and appreciation to Shaikh Mohammed for attending the event, praising UAE’s participation in the race as a “reflection of the strength of the brotherly Bahraini-UAE relations.”

Prominent riders from Bahrain and the UAE participated in the race, which was organised by the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (BREEF) at Bahrain International Endurance Village, and sponsored by the GFH Financial Group.

HH Shaikh Nasser crowned the winners of the first three places. Salim Al Katbi, the Royal Team and Al Ruood Stables’ rider, was crowned the winner. He was presented a gift by HM the King. Second-placed rider Rashid Al-Balushi, and third-placed rider Abdull Al-Marri were both from UAE stables. 

Shaikh Nasser briefed HM the King and the UAE Vice-President on the stages of the 120-km race and the number of participating riders, noting that BREEF had made all necessary arrangements for Bahraini riders to take part in all races of the season.

HM, the King congratulated all the winners in the race which witnessed fierce competition, praising their outstanding performance which led them to victory.

HM, the King also appreciated the good results attained by Bahraini riders in various races, which, he said, “reflected their outstanding competence and abilities”.

Earlier yesterday, UAE Vice-President was welcomed on his arrival by Shaikh Nasser, Royal Court Minister, Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa and BREEF President, Shaikh Faisal bin Rashid Al Khalifa.