## Midway Point of the Al Shira’aa International Horse Show
The Al Shira’aa International Horse Show has hit its stride as it reaches the midway point, featuring six thrilling classes across two arenas. Among the highlights was the first qualifier for Sunday’s Grand Prix, alongside the ever-exciting Ride n’ Drive class that captivated attendees.
## Young Talent Shines in CSI Juniors Class
Kicking off Day Three in Arena Two, the CSI Juniors class, sponsored by Prestige, showcased the impressive skills of young riders. This 1.25m Two-Phase class saw twelve out of nineteen pairs navigate the first phase without faults. The podium was filled entirely with Emirati talent. Mohammad Saeed Al Ghurair took first place riding Corlyska, clocking in at a remarkable 25.49 seconds. The 17-year-old has had a standout season, including victories at the FEI Group VII Finals in Doha last November and multiple podium finishes in the UAE’s international circuit. Close behind, Saleh Mufrrej Ali Mohamed Alkarbi secured second place with Dion Z, while Ali Mufrrej Ali Mohamed Alkarbi rounded out the top three on Salsa.
## Challenging Course in the CSI4* Pearl Tour
Attention then shifted to Arena One for the CSI4* Pearl Tour Longines Ranking class, presented by Equitrans. Here, 46 riders tackled a challenging 1.45m course, with twelve advancing to the jump-off. The Equitrans oxer posed difficulties for many competitors. In a thrilling finish, local star Al Shira’aa’s rider took the win aboard Emaraude de Zabala, achieving a swift clear round in 37.50 seconds. This marks his first victory on the mare since beginning to ride her last summer. Germany’s Christian Ahlmann put in a strong effort with Sherran WL but finished second in 37.71 seconds. Maximilian Lill, who is making his debut this season in the UAE, proudly claimed third place on Viverter PS.
## CSI Children’s Class Showcases Future Stars
The CSI Children’s class, supported by Al Forsan International Sports Resort, featured the youngest competitors in the 1.15m Two-Phase event. Diana Heidari from Iran stood out as she rode Roosje van de Meyhoeve to a flawless round in just 29.78 seconds, securing the win. UAE’s Khaled Ahmad Khalifa Al Ayali Al Mheiri took second place on Urtimack des Abbayes, while Ayesha Saeed Al Ghurair achieved third on Haia, delivering the only other double clear round of the class.
## Amateurs Take Center Stage
The Al Shira’aa-sponsored CSI Amateur class provided a platform for aspiring riders to showcase their talents on an international stage. Among the competitors, 16-year-old Rawad Saad from Lebanon impressed everyone by clearing the 1.05m Two-Phase course on Sydney van het Oosthof with a swift time of 23.16 seconds. Emirati rider Mohamed Shafa Mohamed Saleh Abdalla followed closely, finishing second on Levita, while Egypt’s Omar Ahmed Taha claimed third place aboard Pleasure WV.
## Elite Competition in the CSI4*-W Diamond Tour
As the afternoon progressed, the event shifted back to elite levels with the CSI4*-W Diamond Tour Longines Ranking class, presented by AMEA Power. Riders faced an imposing 1.50m course designed as a qualifier for Sunday’s Grand Prix. British rider Alexander McLean clinched victory aboard Calixte Heartbreaker Z, completing a faultless round in 68.71 seconds. Since taking over the ride last December, McLean has guided the agile mare to several victories. Sweden’s Henrik von Eckermann finished strong in second with Qasirah van de Reistenhoek, while Germany’s Christian Ahlmann took the third spot on Vivario JLZ.
## Excitement Builds with the Ride n’ Drive Class
As night fell, the atmosphere intensified with the highly anticipated CSI2* Ride n’ Drive class, presented by Al Futtaim. The thrilling blend of speed, precision, and entertainment drew large crowds. Riders and drivers raced through a course featuring various obstacles. Layth Ghrayeb demonstrated his typical speed on Elite de Ponts, quickly transitioning to the awaiting SUV driven by Ali Al Nowais, finishing in an impressive 95.23 seconds. They secured first place, outpacing Yaser Almasri in second and Sultan Majed Al Awani in third.
With three days of competition behind them, all eyes are now on the Al Shira’aa International Horse Show as it gears up for the penultimate day, which promises more exhilarating events, including the Al Shira’aa Hickstead Speed Derby.
