UAE Showjumping Team's Olympic Journey Fueled By Leadership Support

Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairwoman of the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, Abu Dhabi Ladies Club, and Al Ain Ladies Club, as well as the owner and founder of Al Shira’aa Stables, highlighted the UAE showjumping team’s participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics. She attributed this achievement to the support from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Sheikha Fatima emphasised that the backing from these leaders has been crucial throughout all development stages of the athletes. This support has propelled them to reach the pinnacle of their careers at the Paris Olympics. She praised the UAE riders' remarkable journey and success in qualifying for the final stage among 20 countries in their first major sporting event.

"Despite many riders from other countries having participated in previous Olympic Games editions, the UAE showjumping team proved their merit among the best with impressive numbers and positive results," she noted. She highlighted promising rider Omar Al Marzooqi, who is the youngest participant, followed by Ali Al Karbi, showcasing the talent and competence of UAE riders.

Sheikha Fatima also expressed pride in Al Shira’aa Stables for nurturing national showjumping teams with talented individuals passionate about equestrian sports. These athletes have developed under elite trainers' guidance to reach top form. The UAE riders have progressed from mere participation to competition, winning first places and qualifying for major events without relying on wild cards.

Omar Al Marzooqi's journey was particularly highlighted by Sheikha Fatima. He joined Al Shira’aa Stables at an early age and excelled in equestrian sports, winning a historic medal at the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 2018. His achievements reflect the strong foundation built by Al Shira’aa Stables for representing and competing for the nation.

Omar Al Marzooqi's Performance

Omar Al Marzooqi concluded his participation in the 33rd Olympic Games held in Paris from 26th July to 11th August. The event featured 10,500 athletes, including 14 from the UAE. He finished among the Top 20 riders after qualifying among 30 out of 75 riders for the finals. With 8 faults in a time of 83.38 seconds, he ranked 19th as the youngest rider in Olympic history.

The achievements of Omar Al Marzooqi and other UAE riders underscore their dedication and skill in showjumping. Their success at such a prestigious event highlights their potential to continue excelling on international platforms.

The support from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan has been instrumental in developing these athletes. Their encouragement has enabled them to compete at high levels and achieve significant milestones.

The journey of these riders serves as an inspiration for future generations of equestrians in the UAE. Their accomplishments demonstrate that with proper support and training, they can achieve great heights on global stages.

With inputs from WAM