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The calendar of events also includes the FEI World Cup Show Jumping Arab League Qualifier which is being held in the country for the third consecutive year.
During the current season Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club will host ten competitions including nine national and one CSI, Sharjah Equestrian Club will host seven national competitions including one CSI, Dubai Club will be the venue for six national competitions, Ajman Club will play host to two national competitions whereas Emirates Riding Centre will witness one championship.
The UAE Equestrian Federation set itself the task of developing the Olympic discipline of show jumping and of bringing the standard up to true international level. The 2005-06 season clearly showed huge progress in this direction.
Success at both the national and international level demonstrated the realization of obvious development. The UAE is the only country in the region with both a national circuit of weekly shows and also full international tour of FEI competitions. Facilities afforded to the UAE riders are now compliant with those recommended by FEI. The arenas, fences and the management of the Federation’s shows are truly of the highest standard.
Because of this, the Federation presents the riders with the best facilities through which they can fully realize their potential.
Another important indicator to the success of the development plans is witnessed by the dramatic increase in both the numbers of riders and horses registered with the UAE Federation and competing regularly. The Federation currently has 240 riders and 353 horses registered, representing a 70 % and 82 % increase respectively.
It should be noted that the UAE Federation held 23 National and three International shows during last year. This is unequalled in the region. “Maktoum Memorial Show” got a huge boost under the guidance and support of HRH Princess Haya bint Hussein of Jordan, FEI President and wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The event has now has become the leading event on the FEI world programme.
The UAE riders were fully represented at other international shows in the region. Success for our Senior Riders included winning Grand Prix and other classes. In addition and an indicator to future success, our Junior Riders also won and were placed in important competitions. Their performances have the utmost significance and will inspire all concerned in their future efforts.
Annually the UAE Federation holds “The Emirates National Championships.” This year too the venue will be the excellent Abu Dhabi Equestrian Centre. Jumping of the highest standard can be watched by the riders and the ever improving quality of the riding skills ensures extremely keen competition.
The Federation continues to help in offering training in Europe for both the horses and riders.
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