Sultan Haitham bin Tarik Presides Over Royal Horse Racing Festival in A’Seeb
A’Seeb, The Gulf Observer: His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik presided over the Royal Horse Racing Festival at Madinat Al Adiyat racecourse in the Wilayat of A’Seeb in Muscat Governorate today. The grand event showcased Oman’s rich equestrian heritage and celebrated the nation’s deep-rooted traditions.
The festivities began with a ceremonial procession. The Royal Camel Corps escorted the Royal motorcade to the racecourse gates, where squads from the Royal Cavalry and the Royal Guard of Oman (RGO) joined the motorcade to the main dais. Upon His Majesty’s arrival, he was received by Nasr bin Hamoud Al Kindi, Secretary General of the Royal Court Affairs; Eng. Hilal bin Mohammed Al Wa’eli, Head of Royal Horses, Camels, Farms and Parks Affairs; and Dr. Sarhan bin Salim Al Zeidi, Director General of the Royal Cavalry.
The festival opened with a welcoming performance featuring Omani folklore troupes, dancing horses and camels, and traditional arts including Al Nadba, Hambal Al Khail, Qasafi Al Razha, and Muhurab Al Khail.
Racing Highlights
The centerpiece of the festival was His Majesty the Sultan’s Horse Racing Cup, awarded in the fifth round of the “Al Adiyat Race” for pure Arabian horses (2,000 meters). The race was won by “Soko,” owned by the Royal Cavalry and jockeyed by Michael Forest. Second place went to “RB Blast Off,” owned by HH Sayyid Saud bin Harib Al Said, while “Suny Du Loup,” also owned by the Royal Cavalry, secured third place.
Other race highlights included:
- First Round (Al Muriyat Race, 1,100 meters): Won by “Atheer,” ridden by Maather Al Shamakhi.
- Second Round (Al Mughairat Race, 1,100 meters): Won by “Amusylah,” jockeyed by Al Moatasem Al Balushi.
- Third Round (Al Qadihat Race, 1,600 meters): Won by “Muthabir,” jockeyed by Saif Al Balushi.
- Fourth Round (Al Safinat Race, 1,600 meters): Dedicated to citizens’ horses, this race was won by “Jethjath,” owned by Abdullah Al Maamari and jockeyed by Amer Al Rasbi.
Cultural Performances
Throughout the festival, the Royal Cavalry performed equestrian displays, including tent pegging, mounted archery, and horse and camel dressage. The event also featured a parade of horses forming symbolic patterns, including the number “11” to honor His Majesty’s accession day, and performances by children with disabilities expressing gratitude to His Majesty.
The festival concluded with a tableau of participants showcasing Omani traditional art Al Azi, symbolizing love for the homeland and loyalty to the leader. A unique display featured a carriage drawn by 55 horses, marking the 55th anniversary of Oman’s Renaissance.
Recognition and Closing
At the end of the event, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik presented the winners’ cups and accepted a souvenir from Nasr bin Hamoud Al Kindi. The festival was attended by members of the Royal Family, dignitaries, diplomats, senior officials, and citizens, highlighting Oman’s proud equestrian traditions and its enduring cultural legacy.
