Qatar pulled off an impressive one-two in the Abu Dhabi World Cup Qualifier CSI 3* jumping show on Saturday, thanks to double-clear rounds from winner Sheikh Ali bin Khalid Al Thani and runner-up Bassem Hassan Mohammed.

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The show is the first of four World Cup Qualifiers staged in the UAE over the next four weeks, where riders can pick up points that will count towards their Arab League tally, with the top three booking spots in the prestigious World Cup Finals in Las Vegas from April 15-19.

Both Sheikh Ali, on First Division, and Mohammed, on Victoria, solidified their position in the top three of the Arab League standings thanks to some brilliant rides yesterday afternoon at the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club. 

The Qatari pair, who were part of the team that won gold at the Asian Games last September, were the only two riders to go clear with no penalties in the opening round of the Grand Prix. They were the last two – of 15 riders who had made it through from round one – to step into the arena for round two.

With just two more riders remaining, Syrian Olympian Ahmed Saber Hamcho led the standings with one time penalty and a fast time of 53.34 seconds. Qatar’s Sheikh Ali then immediately snatched the lead with a second clear round and a time of 53.47 seconds, leaving his team-mate Mohammed only one option – to go clear and faster than that time.

Mohammed completed half the deed but clocked 54.32 seconds to hand the victory to Sheikh Ali and settle for second place.

“It’s amazing to win a World Cup Qualifier Grand Prix,” Sheikh Ali told Sport360°. 

“I was looking for the points as well and I got full points now. For sure my horse was on form. He jumped really good. The first round I didn’t ride so good, he helped me a lot. Second round I rode well and he jumped even better. 

“I’ve qualified to the World Cup Finals twice before, but it was more for experience than going to win it. This year I improved a lot and I have better horses. I made the final there before but this time I’m looking to be in the top-five insha’Allah.”

UAE’s Muftah Al Dhahiri was the highest-placed Emirati, finishing in 12th place with one fence down in each of the two rounds. 

Upcoming Arab League shows in the UAE
Sharjah – January 15-17
Dubai – January 29-31
Al Ain – February 5-7