The 2023 Abu Dhabi International Arabian Horse Beauty Championship has officially kicked off at the Union Arena on Yas Island, showcasing 369 horses, including 114 from abroad. This prestigious event draws significant attention from officials and enthusiasts alike, solidifying its reputation in the global arena. Over the next three days, top contenders will battle it out for a share of nearly 4 million euros in prize money, under the auspices of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society and in accordance with the regulations set by the European organization for Arabian horse competitions, ECAHO. The championship not only highlights the excellence of Arabian horses but also reinforces Abu Dhabi’s stature as a pivotal center for such world-class events.
Day One Highlights
On the first day of the Abu Dhabi International Arabian Horse Beauty Championship, prominent figures graced the event, including Aref Hamad Al Awani, the Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and Dr. Ali Hamad Al Dhaheri, Director of the Office of the Vice President for Development Affairs and Martyrs’ Families. Key members of the organizing committee, such as Mohamed Ahmed Al Harbi, the General Director of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society, were also in attendance. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as owners and managers of esteemed horse stables from across the globe flocked to witness the competition.
Competitive Showcases
The first day was marked by fierce competition across various categories. In the opening class for yearling fillies – Section A, “Balma O” from Al Shiraa Stud topped the leaderboard with a score of 92.15 points, followed closely by “Jawana Al Rimas” with 91.05 points. Not far behind, “Venisia Al Badayer” claimed third place for Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi with a score of 90.90 points.
In Section B for yearling fillies, “Muzan SH” from Qatar secured the top position with a score of 91.35 points, while “Selene Al Badayer,” also for Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, took second with 90.95 points. “RDS Noura” from Ajman finished third, sharing the same score.
Leading Contenders
The two-year-old fillies’ competitions showcased remarkable talent as “AD Najwa” from Hamad Adnan Al Shahi led Section A with a score of 91.45 points. Following closely was “Dunya J” from Jadam in Belgium with 91.30 points, and “Flowa Al Shaqab” from Qatar, who both finished with identical scores.
In Section B for the same category, “Ajiba Al Badayer” for Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi took first place with 91.60 points, while “Di Niran” from Dubai stood second with 91.15 points. “Forlux Eibow” from the Netherlands finished third with 91.10 points.
Exciting Moments Ahead
As the event progresses, more thrilling moments await. In the three-year-old fillies class – Section A, “Sidra Al Ghazali” from Hanaya Stud in Switzerland claimed the top spot with a score of 92.15 points. Meanwhile, “Sana OS” from Lobotchnia in Germany, and “Wojoud Al Bahya” from Ras Al Khaimah followed closely, showcasing the competitive spirit of the event.
As the Abu Dhabi International Arabian Horse Beauty Championship continues, it’s evident that this prestigious competition not only celebrates the artistry in breeding and training but also reinforces Abu Dhabi’s significance as an international hub for Arabian horse events.