HM King visits Endurance village; follows up on race

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

His Majesty King  Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa yesterday followed up the 160-kilometre-long World Championship qualifying endurance ride at the Bahrain International Endurance Village.

The Batelco-sponsored race was part of festivities marking the National Day and HM the King’s accession to the throne. A large number of stables and riders took part in the race.

HM the King was welcomed on arrival by HM the King’s Representative for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs, Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (BREEF) Honorary Chairman His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al-Khalifa.

HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al-Khalifa briefed HM the King about the participating teams, different stages of the race and the number of riders in the fray.

HM the King welcomed all the riders who are participated in this global race and stressed the importance of the endurance sport in enhancing cooperation, friendship and acquaintance between the youth and riders of the world, congratulating the winners.

He expressed his thanks to HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al-Khalifa and the organisers of the race, wishing all success in the coming championships.

Riders also thanked HM the King for following up the race which reflects Bahrain’s keen interest in promoting the equestrian and endurance sports, hailing the warm welcome, hospitality and outstanding organization.

HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al-Khalifa finished second in the 160-kilometre race, riding Calandria PH, while Spanish Maria Alvarez won the world championship, riding Bizahe De Piboul.