International Equestrian Sword Festival gets off to a glittering start

The opening ceremony of HH The Emir 23

International Equestrian Sword Festival which is being held under the patronage of HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, got off to a glorious start at the outdoor arena of the Qatar Equestrian  Federation on Thursday, February 20.

Renowned equestrian showman Mario Luraschi and his team mesmerised the packed galleries with their scintillating performances.

The show was filled with flair and sparkle, making for a delightful spectacle. The stunts of course drew tremendous applause.

The acrobatic mounts and dismounts by the riders as well as the fire display by a German team kept the audience in awe.

The Qatari Armed Forces band began the day’s proceedings with their performance which ended with the playing of the Qatar National Anthem.

QREC general manager Sami Jassim Al Boenain inaugurated the eight day festival in front of a packed gathering. “I have the pleasure to welcome you all to HH The Emir 23rd International Equestrian Sword Festival which is being held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar.

This year, the Festival acquires special significance as it features HH the Emir Trophies and Sword, making it the most valuable edition. It is the only festival in the world that involves various equestrian events and disciplines over eight days,” Sami added.

This year the Festival includes the Purebred Arabian Horse Show, the Straight Egyptian Arabian Horse Show and a range of international races, which culminate with HH The Emir Trophies and Sword Day. All such events are part of the ongoing efforts made to enhance our activities, maintain the remarkable standing of Qatar’s equestrian sport and accomplish even more achievements.”

The QREC general manager also welcomed the various dignitaries who have assembled in Doha for the mega event. “We are also pleased to have with us this year the members of the European Conference of Arab Horse Organisations (ECAHO) and the members of the International Federation of Arabian Horse Racing Authorities (IFAHR) to attend the various events of the Festival and their annual meetings, which will be held alongside the Festival.

Sami thanked the leadership for their continued support for equestrian sport. “I take this opportunity to extend heartfelt thanks to HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani for the unlimited support to Qatar’s sports, especially the equestrian sport being the sport of our forefathers, which has seen massive progress at all levels over the recent years.

Source: qrec.gov.qa