The UAE National Show Jumping Team is set to compete on Monday in the individual event at the Palace of Versailles during the 2024 Paris Olympics. The event will feature 75 riders, with the top 30 advancing to the final stage based on faults and recorded times.
The UAE riders have completed their training round, each navigating eight obstacles within 90 seconds. Their horses have successfully passed the veterinary inspection, ensuring they are ready for the competition.
Sultan Mohammed Al Yahyai, Board Member of the Emirates Equestrian and Racing Federation and Head of the Show Jumping Committee, highlighted that the UAE’s participation in the 33rd Summer Olympics represents a significant milestone in the country’s equestrian journey. This marks the first time a UAE team will compete in this Olympic event, signaling a paradigm shift following remarkable successes at various levels.
Al Yahyai emphasized the Board of Directors’ commitment, under Major General Dr. Ahmed Nasser Al Raisi’s leadership, to enhance Emirati capabilities through ambitious programs. These initiatives aim to increase participation in show jumping via training programs and collaboration with clubs, supporting the sport’s development.
Addressing the preparation of female riders, Al Yahyai noted that Emirati women receive substantial support through the Federation’s developmental programs. These programs aim to develop their skills and ambitions in show jumping and other equestrian sports, with the hope of fostering generations of female champions in the field.