DOHA: Qatari showjumper Sheikh Khalifa Abdulaziz Al Thani won the CSI3* final on the last day of competition at the Al Shaqab Arena yesterday.
Riding Al Hawajer Arizona Pie, Sheikh Khalifa walked off with the top prize of €11,880 after his ride produced the winning time of 37.52 seconds.
Sheikh Khalifa cleared the last of the seven-course fences at the CSI3* against the clock jump-off (1m45) and then he raised his fist up in the air knowing that it would be difficult for any of the four riders left to compete to challenge his flawless routine.
Saudi rider Fahad Al Eid, astride Dutch mare Unlimited, finished in second spot with a time of 38.56 seconds. Al Eid won €7,200.
Al Eid’s compatriot Nasser Albagami — who was riding True Blue — clocked the third-best time of 36.06 but with four faults in the jump-off.
Besides Sheikh Khalifa, eight other Qatari riders featured in the 14-entry field.
“I am really happy with my victory. It gives me enormous satisfaction,” Sheikh Khalifa said afterwards. “Everything is pretty unbelievable here. Top facilities and a lot of work being put into every single detail. It’s just perfect in my view,” he added
Al Eid said: “It was really difficult to compete here. I did my utmost but it wasn’t enough to win. A lot of emotions were involved too.”
He added: “The competition at CHI Al Shaqab is great. I want to thank the organisers for their amazing work. This is the best equestrian event in the world.”
Third-placed Albagami said: “I tried to win it but it wasn’t enough this time. I am happy with this result though.”
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