SUHAR, JAN 24
The rider Mahmoud bin Said al Saeedi clinched first place in the Sohar Endurance Festival Local Endurance Race over 100 kilometres for the 2025/2026 season, organised by the Oman Equestrian and Racing Federation (OERF) with the support of the Office of the Governor of Al Batinah North. Al Saeedi successfully defended his title for the second consecutive year, reaffirming his strong presence on the national endurance racing scene.
Al Saeedi secured the gold medal riding Huboob Muscat, owned by Hala bint Mohammed al Turki and trained by Hamad bin Said al Saeedi, after delivering a consistent and composed performance across the four demanding stages of the race. Second place and the silver medal went to rider Yazan bin Khalid al Harthy aboard Mahasin, owned by Hamad bin Mohammed al Balushi and trained by Mohammed bin Ali al Balushi, while third place and the bronze medal were claimed by Mohammed bin Sulaiman al Balushi riding Atta Allah Jamal, owned and trained by Ali bin Marhoon al Hasani.
The competition was hosted in Wilayat Sohar and featured the participation of 49 horses, creating a highly competitive and spirited atmosphere. Prior to the start, all horses underwent mandatory veterinary inspections to ensure their fitness and readiness, conducted in line with the federation’s strict safety and welfare regulations.
The race witnessed intense competition and strong enthusiasm among riders, with several horses eliminated during the course due to technical or veterinary reasons, while a select group successfully completed all four stages. The 100-kilometre race was divided into four phases: the first and second stages covered 27 kilometres each and were designated the white loop, while the third and fourth stages covered 23 kilometres each and were marked as the yellow loop.
Following his victory, Al Saeedi expressed his delight with the achievement, stating: “This win is the result of thorough preparation, discipline, and excellent teamwork with the trainer and the horse’s owner, The competition was strong and winning at the Sohar Festival carries special significance. This title motivates me to continue working hard and striving for further success in upcoming competitions.”
At the conclusion of the event, Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Shihab al Balushi, Deputy Wali of Suhar, officiated the awards ceremony, honouring the top finishers and recognising the supporting institutions and individuals. He praised the race’s organisational and technical success, noting that equestrian sports remain a key component of the Sohar Festival’s diverse activities, given the strong local engagement with this traditional sport.
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