The Al Shira’aa Horse Show has wrapped up in spectacular fashion, with Italian rider Guido Grimaldi claiming victory in the prestigious FEI Jumping World Cup Grand Prix. The event, held at the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, saw a thrilling contest where Grimaldi’s flawless performance aboard his horse, Gentleman, earned him his first-ever Grand Prix title. His victory was a moment of sheer mastery, as he completed a double-clear round in an impressive time of 39.67 seconds, narrowly edging out the UAE’s Abdullah Al Muhairi, who took second place with a strong performance.
The event marked a defining moment for the UAE, with local riders dominating the young horse categories, a testament to the rising talent and future promise within the nation’s equestrian scene. In the highly competitive CSIYH1* 6-Year-Old Young Horses Final, Emirati star Omar Al Marzouqi and his horse, King Leon Z, topped the event with a swift and flawless round in 30.05 seconds, showcasing the incredible potential of young UAE riders. The second and third places also went to UAE riders, Sultan Al Tabali and Mohamed Al Remeithi, further solidifying the nation’s growing presence in the world of competitive show jumping.
As the event progressed, the competition remained fierce, with riders from around the globe displaying impressive skill and determination. The action continued with the CSIYH1* 7-Year-Old Young Horses Final, where Syria’s Sabri Badenjki clinched victory, edging out the UAE’s Al Marzouqi, who finished third. The day also featured the CSI4*-W event, where British rider Lily Attwood emerged victorious in the 1.45m accumulator class, showcasing a stunning clear round performance.
The Al Shira’aa Horse Show was not only a showcase of elite equestrian sport but also a shining example of the UAE’s commitment to fostering the next generation of equestrian talent. The success of the local riders highlights the country’s growing prominence in the international equestrian community. As the event concluded, it was clear that the UAE’s investment in equestrian sports is paying off, with a strong foundation of talent ready to dominate future competitions. The show’s legacy continues to inspire and propel the next wave of equestrian stars from the UAE and beyond, cementing the nation’s role as a key player on the global equestrian stage.
