MUSCAT: The inaugural Horseback Archery Championship concluded at Al Haffa Equestrian Arena in Dhofar Governorate after two days of thrilling competition held as part of the Khareef Dhofar Season 2026 festivities, attracting enthusiastic spectators and showcasing one of the Sultanate of Oman’s growing equestrian disciplines.
Organised by the Oman Equestrian and Racing Federation in cooperation with the Dhofar Equestrian Committee, the event was supported by the Office of the Governor of Dhofar, Dhofar Municipality, and the Festival Department of Dhofar Municipality. The championship featured 15 riders representing several equestrian clubs and stables from across Oman.
The opening day featured the Qabaq (Plate) Track, where Basel bin Rabia al Hinai of Al Sharaf Equestrian Centre secured first place after an impressive display of speed and accuracy. Mahmood bin Sulaiman al Sharyani of Fursan Oman Centre finished second, while his teammate Sami bin Ali al Haddadi claimed third place.
Competition intensified on the second day with the Serial Track, which tested riders' precision and consistency while shooting at multiple targets during full-speed runs. Sami bin Ali al Haddadi delivered an outstanding performance to take first place, followed by Ahmed bin Nasser al Sawafi of Al Saad Stud in second. Ali bin Khamis al Balushi, representing Madaraat Fursan Oman, completed the podium in third.
Thanks to his consistent performances across both events, Al Haddadi captured the overall championship title. Al Sawafi finished runner-up in the overall standings, while Al Sharyani secured third place.
Mohammed bin Hamed al Marhoon, Chairman of the Dhofar Equestrian Committee, praised the successful staging of the championship, noting that hosting the event for the first time at Al Haffa Beach marked an important milestone for horseback archery in Oman.
He expressed appreciation to the Oman Equestrian and Racing Federation for organising the competition and thanked the Office of the Governor of Dhofar, and Dhofar Municipality for their valuable support. Al Marhoon highlighted the impressive public attendance and the high technical standard demonstrated by the riders, describing the championship as a significant addition to the Khareef Season's sporting programme.
MONTHS OF PREPARATION
Overall champion Sami bin Ali al Haddadi credited his success to months of intensive preparation and dedicated training.
"I prepared thoroughly for this championship, and the hard work paid off," Al Haddadi said. "Winning first place in the Serial Track, finishing third in the Plate Track, and securing the overall title is a tremendous achievement. The level of competition was exceptionally strong, which makes this victory even more meaningful. I sincerely thank everyone who supported and encouraged me throughout this journey."
The successful debut of the championship reflects the growing popularity of horseback archery in Oman and reinforces the country's commitment to promoting traditional equestrian sports while expanding the range of attractions offered during the annual Khareef Dhofar Season.
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