Jumping and para-dressage events open fifth edition of CHI AL SHAQAB 

The fifth edition of CHI AL SHAQAB opened with a thrilling first day of competition today, as top international riders converged on Doha’s world-class AL SHAQAB arena.

The morning’s competition opened with CSI 3* jumping, followed by para-dressage. In the afternoon, the 3* jumping continued, with the 5* jumping events capping off the day.

Columbian rider Andres Penalosa wins CSI3* – the opening class of CHI AL SHAQAB 2017. Penalosa is the only rider from Columbia in the entire competition. He produced a strong clear in this two phase competition, recording a fast time of 31.02 in the second phase. His winning ride for this class was the eleven year old, Barcelona. This Dutch bred horse by the notable stallion, Blue is certainly bred for the job. Whilst the rider represented Columbia, Abdulkarim  Abdulrahman Abbar from Saudi Arabia owns the horse.

CHI Al Shaqab 2017 Schedule of Events

Omar Al Mannai, Event Director, CHI AL SHAQAB, said:

Today saw excellent competition from all the riders and horses. The first day of the competition sets the tone for the event, and I know everyone in attendance was pleased to see the high level of competition and horsemanship on display. We were also happy to see the number of spectators who came out today, including many families and groups from local schools.’

CHI AL SHAQAB will continue tomorrow with a full slate of events. Para-dressage opens Day 2 at 8:45 am in the indoor arena, following by 3* jumping in the outdoor arena at 9:30 am and 12:45 pm. The 5* Grand Prix highlights the afternoon at the indoor arena, beginning at 3 pm, with 5* jumping continuing at 4:45 pm and 7:15 pm in the outdoor arena.

Purchased tickets will allow entrants to participate in a raffle draw and win a Mercedez Benz C200, courtesy of Nasser Bin Khaled (NBK). The winner will be announced on the last day of the competition.

Visitors to CHI AL SHAQAB enjoyed a dedicated entertainment zone in the Festival Area, including interactive video games, virtual reality sets, F1 and horse simulators, face painters, illusionists, pony rides and a daycare center for toddlers. A range of cultural activities are also be on offer, including henna painters, falcon handlers and traditional food to enable visitors to experience true Qatari hospitality.

Al Shaqab
Al Shaqab