The UAE’s Sheikh Ali Al Qassimi didn’t need to think twice about competing in the Gulf Elite Tour, claiming the competition will not only help produce more talented riders but also raise the profile of showjumping in the region.
The inaugural event takes place at Al Habtoor Polo Club Thursday and Friday with approximately 100 riders from the region and around the world set to compete.
Sheikh Ali, 25, is among those to feature in the field while 2012 Olympic gold medallist Scott Brash has confirmed his participation.
Supported by the region’s ruling families and as part of the Emirates Longines League, it gives riders the chance to compete regularly, with this week’s event the first of six, each held monthly, on the calendar.
The competitors will be aiming to win points in their bid to qualify for April’s Grand Prix finale.
Having ridden for more than 15 years in a career that has seen him represent the country at the 2010 Youth Olympics as well as win this year’s Dubai Grand Prix, Sheikh Ali has seen the sport grow hugely, but is convinced the Gulf Elite Tour will take the sport to another level.
“I was engaged with the idea as it’s something new to our sport and it will add value to a sport that I’ve been doing more than 15 years,” said Sheikh Ali, who is one of the ambassadors. “I didn’t really need to think about it (on competing).
“I’ve been around the world and competed at international shows. I could see the potential and the talent of the UAE riders but asked myself why we cannot go and win an Olympic medal? What I realise is we need more exposure and more shows to compete and the Gulf Elite Tour is perfect for that.”
Each leg will not only see a series of contests but a lot of fan activities – something that Sheikh Ali says is crucial for people to gain interest.
“We want to encourage people to take up the sport and not just by watching the horses jumping but enjoy the activities,” he said.
Rosanna Chopra, founder of the Gulf Elite Tour, says there are plans to expand the competition to other countries.
“This year it will all be in the UAE because it’s new. We have had invitations from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and there is an appetite to do it in Singapore and take the tour to Asia,” she said.
WHAT: Gulf Elite Tour
WHERE: Al Habtoor Polo Club
WHEN: Thursday from 16:00 – 21:00, Friday from 11:00 – 23:00