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The Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan Endurance Festival concluded on January 26, 2026, at Boudheeb International Endurance Village in Al Khatam area, featuring a premier 160-kilometer endurance race. The two-day event drew international competitors and showcased the UAE’s commitment to equestrian sports excellence.
Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society, crowned the winners during the ceremony. Major General Dr. Ahmed Nasser Al Raisi, President of the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, attended alongside other dignitaries including Mohammed Ahmed Al Harbi and Ahmed Al Suwaidi.
International Rider Claims Victory in Endurance Race
Rider Francisco Balbierdi aboard “Haroun Al Aziz” from Al Asifah Stables secured first place in the Sultan bin Zayed Endurance Cup, a two-star internationally classified event. According to official results, Balbierdi completed the 160-kilometer distance in 6 hours, 42 minutes, and 4 seconds, maintaining an average speed of 23.88 kilometers per hour.
The endurance competition tested both horse and rider stamina over challenging terrain during the two-day format. Additionally, veterinary checks throughout the race ensured the welfare of all participating horses remained paramount.
Top Three Finishers Demonstrate Elite Performance
Rider Dawn Pastell finished second aboard “Barjas” from Al Reef Al Ajban Stables, recording a time of 6 hours, 42 minutes, and 52 seconds. Meanwhile, Ahmed Abdul Qader Al Hashemi claimed third place riding “Sherlock,” also representing Al Reef Al Ajban Stables, with a completion time of 6 hours, 53 minutes, and 32 seconds.
The close finish between the top competitors highlighted the high level of competition at the Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan Endurance Festival. However, the mere 48-second difference between first and second place demonstrated the intense nature of elite endurance racing.
Boudheeb Protocol Winners Announced
In a separate category following the Boudheeb Protocol scoring system, rider Youssef Al Hammadi took first place aboard “JM Galmaria” from Al Meena Stables. According to the official standings, Al Hammadi accumulated 335.5 points in this specialized competition format.
Rider Esti Razmini secured second position on “SW Galliphor” representing Emirates Stables with 318.9 points. Ibrahim Mohammed Hassan Al Hammadi rounded out the podium in third place riding “Poleo Billy” from Al Asifah Stables, earning 316.4 points.
Significance for UAE Equestrian Sports
The festival continues the UAE’s tradition of hosting world-class endurance competitions that attract international participation. In contrast to shorter distance races, the 160-kilometer format represents one of the most demanding tests in equestrian endurance sport.
The event’s two-star international classification by the International Equestrian Federation ensures results contribute to global rankings and qualification systems. Furthermore, the festival honors the legacy of the Al Nahyan family’s dedication to preserving and promoting Arabian horse heritage.
Multiple stables participated in the competition, including Al Asifah Stables, Al Reef Al Ajban Stables, Al Meena Stables, and Emirates Stables. This diverse representation underscores the depth of talent within the UAE’s endurance racing community.
Authorities have not announced dates for the next major endurance competition at Boudheeb International Endurance Village. The facility typically hosts multiple events throughout the season, though the specific calendar for upcoming races remains to be confirmed by the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation.
