DOHA: Qatar’s top riders and entries from 14 other countries will be battling for honours at the third and final leg of the QNB Doha Tour that kicks off at a special sea-side site inside Katara.
The three-day equestrian competition will see top-ranking local, regional and international riders competing in CSI 4* events.
The main event will be held on Saturday.
The three-day gala will start today with the first show jumping event at 11am followed by another competition beginning at 1:30pm, organisers said yesterday.
A horse show has also been scheduled at 4;30pm today, a Qatar Equestrian Federation (QEF) official confirmed yesterday.
This will be the first time that an FEI-approved show jumping event is going to be staged at Katara.
The first two legs of the 2016 QNB Doha Tour were staged at QEF’s Main Arena and at Al Shaqab Arena.
“The original idea of staging the CSi4* QNB Doha Tour was put forward at the end of last year by Hamad bin Abdulrahman Al Attiya, President of QEF,” a QEF official said.
“Gradually the concept developed into a remarkable spectacle that is totally made in Qatar,” the official added.
The attractive seaside venue site consists of a main arena of 80 x 50 m, large enough accommodate any international show jumping event with a warm-up area for riders and horses.
The main stand can accommodate 400 spectators, details revealed yesterday.
There’s a VVIP and a VIP stand to welcome guests who will enjoy unhindered sea view at all times.
In addition, there are private VIP tents and tables for guests at the site, organisers said.
A large jumbo tron has added more detailed view of all competitions.
The make-shift site also consists of a judges room and a press centre while the events will be covered by live streaming and TV coverage.
A market place has also been set up with 12 shops to provide fans the chance to buy merchandise and show jumping equipment.
Oraginsers yesterday carried out the traditional vet check on the horses. QEF President Al Attiyah also visited the venue to witness the final preparations of the three-day event taking place.
The QNB Doha Tour series trophy will be awarded to the overall champion who has won the most points over the three events.
“We are glad to get the support of QNB who have supported our events in the past. This is not the first time they have joined us in promoting the sport,” Al Attiya said.
“QNB were with us last month also during the Emir’s Sword Meet,” Al Attiya said yesterday.
“This is the third edition of Doha Tour.
“In previous years it was an event that attracted riders from the region,” he said.
“Now we have upgraded the event to an international series, throwing the gates open to international entries as well,” Al Attiya said.
“With ranking points at stake, we will see a high level of competition among home riders and international entries,” Al Attiya said.The Peninsula
