From a 15-year-old Omani boy on horseback to the leader of Oman’s equestrian heritage revival

In the quiet plains of Oman, beneath the shade of humble ghaf trees, a young boy named Said Salim Al Balushi first mounted a horse. It was 1997, and he was just fifteen years old—stepping into a world that would shape his destiny.
Little did he know that this moment marked the beginning of a remarkable journey, one defined by unwavering passion, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Said’s early years were spent racing against time and tradition, first in speed races that showcased his natural talent and determination. Among the prized horses he rode was Al-Sho’la, a gift from Sultan Qaboos himself, and others like Nouf and Afnan, with whom he secured multiple victories.

Despite his youth, Said’s talent caught the eye of Oman’s elite, earning him respect and admiration on the racetrack. His partnerships with prominent owners, including Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed Al Shanfari and the former Minister of Oil, Sayid Hilal bin Sammar al Busaidi, saw him achieve a string of victories, proving he was a force to be reckoned with.
By the turn of the millennium, Said’s name began echoing across Oman’s racing circles. His hunger for victory grew, and his list of trophies expanded—winning at prestigious events like the Ibri Cup, the Seeb Cup, and the Mudhaibi Cup. With each triumph, he moved closer to his ultimate goal: to leave a lasting mark in the world of horsemanship.
But beneath the speed and glory lay a deeper calling. While he excelled in sprint races, Said felt a pull towards something greater—endurance racing, a discipline that demanded not just speed but patience, resilience, and an unspoken bond with his horses.
In 1998, before he had even finished his teens, he began dreaming of creating a larger legacy. Starting with a simple practice track under the shade of a ghaf tree, this humble beginning would grow into the renowned Blue Stable, a symbol of dedication, ambition, and hope.
Said’s journey took him beyond the tracks into the heart of Oman’s Royal Army. By 2006, he was appointed the Army’s first official endurance trainer—a role that would test his skills and deepen his understanding of the sport. His commitment paid off when, in 2007, he stood proud at Seeb, lifting local awards and confirming his place among Oman’s finest.
His resilience was further tested in 2013, at the Asian Championship, where a fifth-place finish was seen not as a setback but as a testament to his unwavering dedication.
In 2015, Said was entrusted with leading Oman’s national endurance team—an immense honour that underscored his standing in the sport. Under his guidance, the team achieved remarkable results, securing significant placements at international competitions, and inspiring a new generation of riders.
Throughout his career, Said’s philosophy remained rooted in trust, patience, and respect—values he believed were vital not only in training but in life itself.

His stories of how horses listen with their hearts, of bonds forged in patience and understanding, reveal a man deeply committed to the harmony between rider and horse.
Today, Said Salim Al Balushi stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and passion.
Oman’s Endurance Equestrian Heritage
For centuries, horses have been woven into the very fabric of Oman’s cultural and strategic identity. From desert navigation to military prowess, the Omani relationship with horses exemplifies resilience, loyalty, and a deep-rooted tradition of horsemanship. Endurance racing, in particular, stands as a modern reflection of this long-standing love affair—demanding not only physical stamina but strategic intelligence and profound understanding of the terrain, terrain that often echoes Oman’s historic landscapes.

Oman’s equestrian heritage runs deep, especially within its military. Traditionally, the Royal Army of Oman has integrated horsemanship into its training and operational tactics, recognising the horse’s vital role in mobility and communication in the harsh desert environment. Over generations, this integration of horsemanship has evolved into a discipline that emphasises endurance, strategy, and respect for the animal—values that continue to underpin Oman’s approach to both national defence and sporting excellence.
This ancient bond with horses has shaped Oman’s approach to endurance racing—a sport that demands an intricate balance of technical skill, tactical planning, and cultural reverence. Strategy plays a crucial role: selecting horses with the right blend of speed, stamina, and temperament; understanding terrain and weather conditions; and devising pacing strategies that conserve the horse’s strength for the final stretch. Saeed Salim Al Balushi stands as one of the most pivotal figures in refining and elevating these practices. His deep understanding of Oman’s landscapes and legacy has positioned him as a key architect in the sport’s modern development.

By blending strategic mastery, technical proficiency, and cultural pride, Saeed has become a cornerstone in nurturing a tradition that symbolises Oman’s enduring resilience and identity—ensuring that the nation’s love for horses remains a powerful testament to its history and future.
From a boy under a ghaf tree to a revered trainer shaping Oman’s future in endurance racing, his journey inspires all who dream of turning their aspirations into reality. His story reminds us that with resilience, dedication, and love for what we do, greatness is within reach.