Major General Dr. Ahmed Nasser Al Raisi, President of the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, reminded that the country has secured the individual title seven times and the team title twice in this championship. He further underscored that in Castelsagrat, France, in September 2023, the UAE retained the individual world title—its fourth in a row—and aims in Romania to press for an eighth individual crown and third team gold.
The national squad comprises five riders: Rashed Ahmad Al Ketbi, Essa Abdulla, Ali Abdulla Al Falasi, Rashed Mohamed Atiq Almehairi, and Majid Jamal Almheiri. Rashed Al Ketbi, last event’s individual champion, is expected to lead the team.
Preparations have included careful conditioning of both horse and rider, overseen by the technical staff and stable teams. UAE officials highlight strong leadership support, including from Sheikh Rashed Bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Equestrian Club, and guidance from the country’s top leadership.
Buftea, approximately 20 kilometres north-west of Bucharest, will host the event under organisation by the Shagya Sports Club Association. The championship provides a platform for younger athletes to display their endurance skills on the international stage.
UAE’s success in Young Horses endurance championships, both in team and individual golds, has been cited as a recent boost to confidence heading into this world championship. Officials say that the logistic, veterinary, and training support systems have been strengthened to meet the demanding conditions of a 120 km endurance race.
Among the challenges anticipated are terrain, climate adaptation, and horse welfare over long distances. Technical teams are focusing on nutrition, rest periods, and vet checks to ensure compliance with FEI welfare standards.
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