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Al Wathba Stables claimed the title of the 27th President’s Endurance Cup after rider Masa Adnan crossed the finish line first at a championship event held on February 8, 2026. The prestigious endurance race took place at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba, attracting 193 riders from the United Arab Emirates and abroad to compete in this historic equestrian competition.
According to organizers, the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba hosted the event in cooperation with the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation. The endurance race consisted of six stages covering a total distance of 160 kilometers, testing both horse and rider stamina throughout the challenging course.
Championship Performance in President’s Endurance Cup
Masa Adnan secured her second personal victory in the President’s Endurance Cup aboard “LSI Satchmo,” representing Al Wathba Stables. The win marked the 11th championship title for Al Wathba Stables in this prestigious competition. The winning combination completed the 160-kilometer course in 6 hours, 2 minutes, and 37 seconds, maintaining an average speed of 26.47 kilometers per hour.
The podium finish showcased the depth of talent in UAE equestrian sports. Rider Maryam Ali claimed second place aboard “Hantioucha Larzac” for Al Reef Al Ajban Stables, finishing just seven seconds behind the winner with a time of 6:02:44. Meanwhile, Kawther Zeitouni rounded out the top three on “Ayan” for Al Wathba Stables, recording a time of 6:02:45.
Record Participation Highlights Growing Sport
The 27th edition of the endurance race witnessed record-breaking participation numbers, according to event officials. The 193 riders who registered represented one of the largest fields in the competition’s history. This significant turnout demonstrates the growing appeal of endurance racing both domestically and internationally.
His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, participated in the awards ceremony alongside other distinguished officials. Additionally, Major General Dr. Ahmed Nasser Al Raisi, President of the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, attended the celebration. Musallam Al Ameri, Director General of the Emirates International Endurance Village, and Suhail Al Arifi, Executive Director of the Sports Development Sector at Abu Dhabi Sports Council, also honored the winners.
Significance for UAE Equestrian Heritage
Al Ameri praised the record participation of 193 riders and the competitive standards displayed throughout the event. He emphasized the race’s substantial legacy within the history of equestrian competitions, reflecting its importance to the UAE’s sporting culture. The championship represents a continuation of the nation’s commitment to preserving and promoting traditional Arabian horsemanship.
However, the success of Al Wathba Stables extends beyond this single victory. With 11 total championships in this event, the stable has established itself as the dominant force in UAE endurance racing. The stable’s consistent performance demonstrates the quality of training programs and horse breeding initiatives within the Emirates.
The six-stage format of the President’s Endurance Cup tests multiple aspects of equestrian skill and horse conditioning. Riders must balance speed with strategic pacing to ensure their horses can complete the full 160-kilometer distance while maintaining competitive times. Veterinary checkpoints between stages ensure the welfare and fitness of all competing horses throughout the demanding course.
The Emirates International Endurance Village continues to serve as a world-class facility for hosting major equestrian events. Its infrastructure and organizational capabilities allow the UAE to maintain its position as a leading destination for international endurance racing competitions.
Future editions of the President’s Endurance Cup are expected to continue the tradition established over 27 years of competition. While specific dates for the next championship have not been announced, organizers anticipate maintaining the event’s annual schedule and high competitive standards.
