48 WINTER 2015

THE LEADING EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Showjumping I Profiles I Events I Dressage I Training Tips I Legal

VIEW POINT FROMFROM THETHE CHAIRMANCHAIRMAN

Metidji and Mrs. Fahima Sebianne, our equestrian sport, we were proud to president of the ground jury, for their co-sponsor and cover the “SOFITEL extreme dedication and hopeful vision. Cairo El Gezirah Hotel Horse Show” held at the Ferousia Club and to give In this issue, we present for your you a look at the opening of Pegasus consideration an expert legal analysis Equestrian Centre in Dreamland, a of the issues related to the Global significant and impressive addition to Champions Tour versus the FEI in the nation’s riding facilities. a struggle for control of the sport. Dear Readers, And all way from Spain, we bring We would like to share with you as you highlights of the Belgian team at well special interviews with Egyptian I would like to start by wishing you a the Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup™. horse riders: Amina Ammar, the Merry Christmas and a Happy New leading lady riding at top levels and Year to you and your beloved families. With more focus on technical training, Mr. Ahmed Talaat, the leading figure in we bring you Emad Zaghloul’s course designing representing Egypt dressage article on impulsion and The development of the equestrian internationally. sport is intensifying worldwide and the importance of such principle in particularly in the Middle East, where all equestrian disciplines. Moving on To better complement our storytelling, the rate of progress is remarkable. to showjumping, our regular feature we introduce you to the photographers HT had the chance and privilege to Training Tips offers insights into the behind the special shots who have cover the Salon du Cheval d’El Jadida relation between the execution of the been documenting equestrian th 2015 for the 6 time consecutively perfect jump and the inner horseman. moments: Philippe Lemire, Driss where, once again, we witnessed the Benmalek and Fouad El Sherbini. amazing growth and improvement of As for our national equestrian heritage, the organisational skills, details and we celebrate Rabab International Read and Enjoy, technical logistics. Equally along the Championship S-Show presenting same lines is the 2015 Algerian Tour, one of the oldest and most renowned Sincerely, with special thanks to the President studs. And in our continuous and of the Algerian Federation M’hamed dedicated effort to share the growth of Khaled Assem

Chairman: Art Director: Distribution Officers: Khaled Assem Salonaz Sakr Ahmed Hifni [email protected] [email protected] Hassan Mishabit Hossam Rabie Assistant Managing Editor: Graphic Designer: Mahmoud Faheem Aya Amr Radwa Saeed [email protected] Publishers: Photography: Permanent Press Ltd. Nicosia, Cyprus Senior Editor: Jacques Toffi Dirk Caremans Prepress & Printing: Bridget McArdle McKinney Headline Printing & Design [email protected] Cymon Taylor Driss Benmalek On the cover: Copy Editor: Hamada Hamdy Abdel Kebir Ouddar Engy Adham Sherif Alyamany by Jacques Toffi [email protected] Saleh Mustapha Rabab stud Writers & Contributors: Head Office: Right click Khaled Assem EQUICARE 2, Bahgat Ali Street, Islam Khaled Bridget McArdle McKinney Zamalik, Cairo – Egypt Aya Amr Studio delaroque Tel: +2-02-27356939 Engy Adham Khaled Assem Fax: +2-02-27354348 Emmadeldin Zaghloul Yvonne Lavagne Financial Consultants: Enquiries: Piotr M. Wawrzyniak Ismail El Sily [email protected] Louise Parkes Mohamed Mostafa www.horsetimesegypt.com

HORSE TIMES is a quarterly magazine founded in 1997 by Khaled Assem. HORSE TIMES is a pioneer in its field; it is issued for riders, breeders and horse lovers, nationally and internationally. The views expressed by contributors are their own and not necessarily those of the editors. Issues are complimentary and not for sale by any means. Please notify us if change of address occurs. All rights reserved to HORSE TIMES: reproduction is prohibited without the permission of the Chairman Khaled Assem CONTENTS

SALON DU CHEVAL D’EL SOFITEL HORSE SHOW AT JADIDA FEROUSIA CLUB

THE HORSE, ARTS AND A HOST OF YOUNG FRESH CRAFTS 6 TALENT IN THE HEART OF ZAMALEK 56 ARABIAN BEAUTY ON MOROCCAN LANDS GLOBAL CHAMPIONS LEAGUE A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE 20 VS FEI BATTLE 6 AN EXCEPTIONAL YEAR A LEGAL DEBATE TO COME TO AN END 60 HOME OF THE 2015 ALGERIAN TOUR 22 DREAMLAND EQUESTRIAN CENTER BELGIUM TAKES THE FURUSIYYA 2015 TITLE IN THE OPENING OF A GRAND GRIPPING FINALE ESTATE 66

MEET THE CHAMPIONS 30 TRAINING TIPS 22 LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR FINAL THE INNER PERSPECTIVE OF THE JUMP 70 LUCIANA DINIZ IS CROWNED 2015 CHAMPION 40 THE ART OF CLASSICAL DRESSAGE UP CLOSE & PERSONAL WITH IMPULSION 74 COURSE DESIGNER AHMED TALAAT 48 PHILIPPE LEMIRE 40 RABAB ARABIAN WHEN PASSION TAKES THE CHAMPIONSHIP LEAD 76 INTERNATIONAL S-SHOW SIHAM MOHARRAM RESULTS 50 EXHIBITION AT ACADEMY OF 60 SECONDS WITH ARTS

AMINA AMMAR 54 A NATURAL TALENT 78

56 SALONSALON DUDU CHEVALCHEVAL D’ELD’EL JADIDAJADIDA THETHE HORSE,HORSE, ARTSARTS ANDAND CRAFTSCRAFTS

By Khaled Assem H orsetimes

Moroccan Tbourida

6 7 The equestrian industry, with its various disciplines, represents a dynamic relationship between horses and humans in different social frames. For eight years, Salon H orsetimes H orsetimes Du Cheval D’El Jadida has been the soul of the horse industry in Morocco. Leaping from one level of success to another, the Salon has been creating unprecedented recognition in the development of the industry. Year after year, it has engraved a deep and enduring influence on the socio-economic, cultural, touristic, sporting and recreational levels of our sport.

A WORD FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE ROYAL FEDERATION FOR EQUESTRIAN SPORT (FRMSE) PRINCE MOULAY ABDELLAH ALAOUI:

Held under the High Patronage of HM King Mohammed VI, Le Salon du Cheval d’El Jadida contributes every year, since its inception in 2008, to the development of the equine industry in the Kingdom.

Ms. Mouna Mohattane, the Communication Manager Within a few editions, this event has become an essential meeting place for professionals. Several DR. El-HABIB MARZAK horse-related activities are organised within the framework of national and international competitions of Salon Du Cheval and exhibitions of a high level.

The entertainment program remains in a main feature of this professional fair which solidly combines leisure, cultural, artistic, sporting and recreational equestrian activities.

The importance and diversity of horse-related professions and their positive impact on the economic H orsetimes sector have motivated the choice of the theme of the 8th edition “The Horse: Arts and Crafts”. It reflects the desire to provide a discussion platform and exchange for professionals in the industry.

Le Salon du Cheval d’El Jadida and the horse industry in Morocco cannot develop properly unless the fair gains international recognition. That’s why Le Salon du Cheval has made international cooperation a main focus of development. Thus, this year’s guest of honour is Portugal. The participation of this country in Le Salon du Cheval d’El Jadida is an opportunity to consolidate cooperation ties between the two countries in the horse industry and offers Portugal the opportunity to highlight its equestrian tradition in Morocco. Morocco will get the opportunity to discover the rich and diverse Portuguese equestrian history as well. This partnership might consolidate the exchange of expertise and promote the horse field as well as reinforce the development of equestrian patrimony in these two countries that have an age-old equestrian tradition.

A WORD FROM DR. El-HABIB MARZAK, THE COMMISSIONER OF SALON DU CHEVAL D’EL JADIDA: Nelson Pessoa and Khaled Assem The Horse Fair continues to forge ahead by relying, as usual, on the national and international competitions, the high level championships and contests as well as on the outstanding riders and participants. The purpose is to make this event a springboard for a better reorganisation of this sector, and to serve as a meeting platform for expertise exchange aiming to promote the horse industry that the organisers intend to reinforce over the coming editions.

The 8th edition shed the light on the Moroccan equestrian patrimony that says a lot about the place and H orsetimes H orsetimes culture of the horse in Morocco. From this perspective, the programme comprises many cultural and scientific conferences that reflect the interest of the institutional officials and the operators to promote the crafts related to the horse.

This edition will grant a new lease to this event that gained its reputation thanks to activities which might push the programmes of breeders and their awareness of the latest horse breeding techniques.

Jean-Marcel Rozier Nabila Al Ali

8 9 H orsetimes H orsetimes H orsetimes H orsetimes

The exhibition centre IbrahimIbrahim BisharatBisharat Suzanne Mckane and Nadia Shahby Ismail Shaker H orsetimes H orsetimes H orsetimes H orsetimes

Leina benkhraba Amin Fares The Hamcho brothers Suus Kuyten H orsetimes H orsetimes H orsetimes H orsetimes H orsetimes H orsetimes

Joanne Sloan-Allen and Sameh VAN PAESSCHEN Senior TheThe ringring mastermaster Mr. Badre Fakir Pius Schwizer El Dahan Majid Djaidi

10 11 HORSE ECONOMY IN MOROCCO

H orsetimes The promotion of employment in the horse industry plays a significant socio-economic role that leads to the sustainable development of the rural sector and boosts the activity in the rural regions. Therefore, promoting jobs in this field through training and supervision plays an important role in the success of the strategy of developing the equine sector, which contributes to the strengthening of the horse’s role in the national economy.

INTRODUCING THE CONCEPTS OF HORSEMANSHIP TO THE CHILDREN OF MOROCCO

In an amazing attempt to plant the values of Horsemanship within the youth and to educate them further about the importance of bravery, chivalry, patience, respect, and foremost, being compassionate. The Salon du Cheval invites every year around 20,000 school children free of charge to demonstrate the above values and engrave them in the minds and hearts of the coming generation.

SHOW JUMPING

This was the third leg of the Moroccan Royal Tour. More than 20 nations, represented by prestigious horse-riders, including Olympic Games medallist’s, World Equestrian Games participants and the various continental champions, as well as a host of world stars of jumping.

CSI 3*W

Nadja Peter Steiner Total number of athletes: 60 Number of home athletes: 15

Number of foreign athletes: 45

Number of horses per athlete: 3 H orsetimes H orsetimes CSI 1*

Total number of athletes: 60

Number of home athletes: 40

Number of foreign athletes: 20

Number of horses per athlete: 2

EVENT CATEGORY: CSI3*W PRIZE MONEY: 177, 000 €

Julien Gonin Marrion Hughes EVENT CATEGORY: CSI1* PRIZE MONEY: 18, 000 € TOTAL PRIZE MONEY: 195, 000 €

CSI3*W GRAND PRIX DE SA MAJESTE LE ROI MOHAMMED VI Prize money: 61, 500€

The results of the Grand Prix: H orsetimes 1st place: António Matos Almeida (POR) & NIKEL DE PRESLE

2nd Place: Nadja Peter Steiner (SUI) & CAPUERA II

3rd Place: Ramzy Hamad Al Duhami (KSA) & Al Capone

4th Place: Fabienne Daigneux-Lange (BEL) & VENUE D’FEES DES HAZALLES

5th Place: Abdelkebir Ouaddar (MAR) & QUICKLY DE KREISKER

For full results: www.mrt.ma/en/6th-edition-2015/eljadida.php#

António Matos Almeida

12 13 H orsetimes Driss Benmalek

ARABIAN HORSES

This industry has been growing as it needs years of experience and trials. Dr. Machmoum, an authority in the field has expressed that for this industry to flourish further, the infrastructure has to develop. This lies in training more judges, training more veterinary support, creating an open forum where breeders could discuss their difficulties and their strengths. Those guidelines presented and incorporated within the vision of The Salon du Cheval d’El Jadida. Through such strategies one can positively measure the rate of progress.

For full results check www.salonducheval.ma/details8/competition-championship-results

Mr. Mohamed Oussidhoum & Mrs. Yvonne Lavagne D’Ortigue TBOURIDA AS A CULTURE

As part of the national cultural identity and constituting a strong expression of collective joy, Tbourida is a very popular sport to celebrate national and religious holidays. At the Salon du Cheval, each region, through its Sorba Tbourida composed of 15 riders on beautiful Arab-barbs richly caparisoned, displays its skills inherited from generation to generation. The colourful spectacle of Tbourida is a contest of speed, endurance, grace, discipline and manoeuvrability for Morocco’s horsemen and horses. Driss Benmalek

The word Tbourida is an Arabic term that means ostentation. It derives from the word Baroud, which means the gun powder traditionally put in old muzzle-loading long rifles called Jezzails. It is an event demanding both perfection and cohesion. It is a traditional art, where horse riders charge simultaneously and fire their Jezzails towards the sky at the end of the charge. Bardiya means riders in Arabic dialect and is a word derived from Tbourida, now considered to be a noble art within Moroccan cultural heritage.

This popular art dates back to the fifteenth century and refers to the heroism of the horse riders and warriors, whose praises are sung and glorified by the Baroud with the Jezzail.“ Tbourida was used in the Harkates, which means the attack of a tribe by another” said Dr. Zouzi, president of the association of popular art and social affairs in Skhour Rhamna. During those battles, the horse riders of each tribe had to defend the pride of their tribe against their opponents. To own a horse and to be a Bardi, horse rider at the Tbourida, is a huge honour for the tribe, and each tribe has its own way of demonstrating its pride. This used to be an art reserved for nobles and the wealthier members of the tribe. Nowadays, however, anyone can purchase a horse and join a Tbourida team. “It is an ancestral art that is transmitted from father to son and it is easier to become a Bardi if your relatives and ancestors were Bardi”, said Dr. Zouzi.

The Tbourida today follows specific rules in direct affiliation with its roots. In a bordered field about 200 meters long, teams of three to 20 riders perform for the pleasure of their guests. Spaced around the ground, magnificent tents welcome the contestants and their guests during the days of each festival. Driss Benmalek For full results: www.salonducheval.ma/details8/competition-championship-results

EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHY AND YOUTH ART CONTEST

The Union of Arab Photographers organised a competition in photography devoted to the Arab horse and open to all Arab photographers. Five finalists were selected and received awards during the show.

Art has no age! Salon du Cheval also organised a competition in painting and drawing for children from Rabat, Casablanca, Safi and El Jadida.

14 15 16

Horsetimes Driss Benmalek Driss Benmalek Driss Benmalek

Driss Benmalek Driss Benmalek the -Lorenzo (France): who has performed inmore than 28 countries. artist An international Why is he called Fabien Galle. directedby and Maurice talented artists, the horseshow brought togethernational and international The 8theditionoftheSalonheldonceagainalotmagicandemotion. For show, the mainequestrian EQUESTRIAN NIGHTS production ofrace horsesand Tbourida. inchargeofagriculture. oftheMinistry Itisspecialisedinthe when itcameunderthecivilianauthority roleuntil1946, ofElJadida itspurelymilitary hadpreserved It shouldbementionedthatthestud orsale. sports, equestrian Tbourida, toproducethebesthorsesfor thebestuseswhetherforlivestock the andqualityofthehorses (SOREC), training isalsoprovided for thebenefitofemployees oftheRoyal Society for theHorseEncouragement The studwas createdonanareaof​​ Mohammed Oussidhoum,directoroftheNationalStudElJadida. The establishment ofElJadida has72stallions. insemination. mating andartificial the horseandaccommodationofmares. The National Stud hastop-classfacilities dedicatedtonatural This studfarm offers andefficient modern facilities for thebesttechniquesofreproductionandcare is believed tobeafacility thatisgoingtomake immensechangesinthe practice ofriding. dailytopromotethebreedingofdifferentSociety isworking breedsofMoroccanhorses. The studfarm National StudofElJadida completelyrebuilt andnow operational aftertwo years ofwork. The Royal On the8thsittingofSalonduCheval d’ElJadida, SORECpresenteditslatestcreationtothepress: the NATIONAL STUDOFELJADIDA -KHALID ELKHOUMSIMoroccanreiningartist. andcaptivatingpresented anoriginal performance oftheircavalry. -FAR School: /DGSN/SORECMarrakech Art FAR, School DGSN,SORECandtheMarrakech Art of Lisbon. -The Republican National Guard (Portugal): Presented a carousel, High School shows, the Charanga soldiers.Hungarian by farmers. of the High School of Dressage,They as practiced showed before art us the Hungarian by tradition, showing raceinoldfashion horses, thedressagetechniquesofHungarian harnessed style -Traditional show Hungarian (Hungary): equestrian The troupepresentedperformances oftheHungarian and dressage, extraordinary shows. component inthesocio-cultural life. AccompaniedwiththeirMenorcanhorses,perform equestrian riders -Club Escola Menorquina (Spain): Islands where the horse is an important Menorca is one of the Balearic horses inaperfect andcomplicity. harmony emotionalshow. Itisavery “Flying Horseman”, as well as farmers and people working infarms working withtheaimofimproving the techniqueof as well asfarmers andpeople “Horse Enchanter” 5 hectares.Itsaimistobroadenskillsrelatedthesector. Practical or “Flying French Man”?Heperforms withhis12Camargue “It alsooffers clubbenefits”,said theequestrian 17 DrissDriss BenmalekBenmalek OOfficialfficial photographerphotographer forfor SSalonalon dudu CChevalheval dd’E’Ell JJadidaadida,, TTbouridabourida

In its diversity of subjects, techniques and styles, Driss Benmalek’s international travels led to his photography is considered by many as one of the fascination with the presentation of the Arab horse. fine arts. This art is beautiful when heart, eye and His main objective is to show the real face of the hand work together. Whether as a professional or an Moroccan breeders and breeds. The Moroccan Royal amateur, the photographer tells a story by this act Association of the Pure Arabian Horse Breeders of “drawing with light”. Many talented photographers chose him to be an official photographer because of all over the world use their technical skills to capture his knowledge, international experience and superior the natural postures and poses of horses to create photography skills and HT is proud to present his images which leave their mark on the mind and heart. elegant and skillful work to you.

18 19 AArabianrabian beautybeauty onon MMoroccanoroccan landslands studio delaroque A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE !

By Yvonne LAVAGNE

During Salon du Cheval d’El Jadida, a ridden class for Arabian horses was organised for the first time.

It was a real pleasure for me Then, each horse has two minutes We never know who will win to be invited by Dr. Mohamed to make their individual presentation the competition: for example, Machmoum to come and judge this with the same figures: the three an excellent performance by a new competition in Morocco. For paces, in the order they wish. horse with no type, or a wrong this hard work, I was accompanied They can also make some circles conformation, can finish behind by Dr. Mohamed Oussidhoum. or some volts, stop and rein back another horse that made an average correctly. performance, but has a wonderful Several years ago, the ridden class type and a serious conformation. began in Great Britain, especially for We want to see calm, quiet and well- And the opposite can also be seen. Arabian horses. Now, it is organised mannered horses with obedience in several countries all over the and lightness. The horses must At El Jadida competition, the judging world. It is not a competition of seem easy to ride under classical was very difficult leaving a thin line dressage; as judges, we want to equitation. between several competitors. The see the horses bringing in hand horses were extremely well in hand, with a light contact, driving action of Finally, the rider leaves the saddle made a perfect presentation and hind legs in smooth obedience and to present the horse in three ways: the riders’ level was very high and calmness. still, walking and trotting. so pleasant to see! The demonstration has three As a judge, we have to assign It has been a wonderful experience phases: First, the horses walk all to judge this first ridden class in together under the judge’s orders, four marks: the main mark is for at the principal paces: walk, trot and performance which equals 60 Morrocco. Now, I am sure it was the canter with cadence. The judges points, then a mark for the type beginning of a new chapter with the can ask to extend trot, or canter, to which is worth 15 points, another Arabian Sport Horse. Let us wait with stop or to rein back. Then, they ask 15 points for conformation, and at pleasure for the second competition to change hand and the same work the end the presentation of horse of this new sort of performance test is judged on the other hand. and rider weighs 10 points. for our dear Arabian horses.

20 21 An Exceptional Year Saleh Mustapha HHomeome ofof thethe 20152015 AAlgerianlgerian TTourour

By Engy Adham

22 23 Algerian Tour 2015 is organised by Haras Hocine El-Mansour Equestrian Before leaving, the year 2015 had one last challenge. “I am proud and happy to supervise such events, Centre in collaboration with the Algerian Equestrian Federation which undoubtedly allow riders from different nations to excel in a healthy competition and share their (AEF) under the presidency of Mr. M’hamed Zoubir Metidji. The Ministry On the coast of the Mediterranean, the city of Mostaganem was swathed in a cold morning breeze experiences with fair play and in strict compliance of Youth and Sports and the Wali of Mostaganem M. Hocine Mansour and soft rays of sunshine. Step by step, every street with the rules issued by the International Equestrian Metidji support the tour in its third running, which was held over introduces a new part of the city and each alley tells Federation,” says Metidji. two successive weekends: from 29 October to 31 October 2015 and 4 a story. Following its paths, Mostaganem led us to the heart and soul of the city: Haras Hocine El Mansour In celebration of the development of the equestrian November to 6 November 2015. It hosted 150 horsemen and horsewomen Equestrian Centre housing the 2015 Algerian Tour. activity and fostering a culture of sporting excellence, from countries all around the world: Algeria, Germany, Saudi Arabia, the Algerian Minister for Youth and Sport, his Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Colombia, Spain, France, Italy, Libya, Palestine Background Excellency ElHadi Ould Ali, attended the 2015 and Tunisia. Algerian Tour. Metidji accompanied him in the “On behalf of the Algerian Equestrian Federation remarkably well-equipped spaces of Haras Hocine El (AEF), members of the Federal Bureau and on my Mansour Equestrian Centre. One last surprise from the year 2015! And a ride to sunset own behalf, I express our warmest thanks.” These were the opening words of The President of The The Minister of Agriculture Rural Development Here is a clue. In a beautiful land on the Mediterranean shores Algerian Equestrian Federation (AEF) M’hamed and Fisheries and local authorities of the Wilaya of Zoubir Metidji. Mostaganem headed by the Wali of Mostaganem A beautiful mare Have you guessed it yet? were also a vital support in the preparations for this An international friendship competition was the competition. Full of poetry covered with silk Mostaganem- Home of the 2015 Algerian Tour first international experience organized in 2013, A strong stallion Jumping International followed by a CSI 1* in 2014. These two competitions Join the Action gathered a large number of riders coming from many Awaiting his release 2015 – A perfect year where riders put their hearts nations and were very successful. But “this year is One hundred and fifty horsemen and women attended Both are ready into competitions; they strived for excellence and exceptional,” says Metidji “an exceptional year for the 2015 Algerian Tour. Three days of excitement, carved their way breaking world records to sculpt Algeria organizing a CSI 2* and CSI 3*” - the latter intense competitions and almost non-ending thrills For show-jumping a new victory in the history of the equestrian sport. being a World Cup qualifier. from the best riders from all around the world.

The President of the Algerian Equestrian Federation (AEF) Mr. M’hamed The President of the Algerian Equestrian Federation (AEF) Mr. M’hamed Zoubir Metidji and Abdullah AlSharbatly, Grand Prix Winner Zoubir Metidji and Fahima Sebiane FEI International Show Jumping Judge

24 25 For three consecutive days, every morning riders, to produce the best show. We were all watching the horse and I am really happy with his performance,” “The AEF intends to make the Algerian Tour an judges, sponsors, breeders, family members and competitions very closely with special anticipation Al-Sharbatly told Horse Times. annual event that will, for the next editions, and if horse lovers gather in the arena getting ready for a being paid to the big event … Yes, the Grand Prix, but the infrastructure-related conditions permit, include marvelous show. first, I will take you to the warm-up arena moments Second place went to the French Dorothee a stage in other cities of the country, including the before the Grand Prix. Amar. She stayed with the fourteen-year-old Nemo capital, Algiers.” For the first time in Algeria, the Algerian Tour adopted De Belou clear in the second round, but in 63.54 a CSI 2* and a CSI 3* World Cup qualifier. Metidji The feeling in the warm-up arena: Horses were seconds. Four faults for Rowan Willis with Blue Movie says, “The objective of the Algerian Tour is firstly to strong, agile with enough space on their back to put them in third place. As for Philippe Putallaz from allow Algerian riders to reach top levels and prepare carry a human, as they have done for centuries. Switzerland, he ended with Quessant De Perhet in Results: for the next international deadlines including the Impatiently waiting their turn to prove their efficiency, fourth place. Last but not least, Faye Schoch, who Mediterranean Games in 2021 in Oran/Algeria, and speed, strength and ability to communicate with their collected thirteen penalty points with the Ravisante 1) Saudi Arabia - Abdullah AlSharbatly with Talan also to discover the equestrian world in Algeria.” riders. As for riders, you can imagine! Tense, excited, De Pleville ranking fifth place. focused and anxious to experience the moment and 2) France - Dorothee Amar with Nemo De Belou As for Algerian riders, this competition is a great capture victory. Both riders and horses were ready Meet the Jury for a run against the clock. opportunity for them to compete against international 3) Australia - Rowan Willis with Blue Movie riders; an opportunity that prepares and qualifies I have to introduce the superb jury. This show wouldn’t them for World Cup championships. Algerian rider The Grand Prix have been the same without them. It included Fahima 4) Switzerland - Philippe Putallaz with Ouessant De Anis Smati is based in France and joined the Algerian Sebiane assisted by Djamel Hamadoune Kerdjadi Perhet Tour for the first time. Smati told Horse Times,“I am During the Algerian Tour 2015 Abdullah Al-Sharbatly Youcef, Alya Mencheri Youcef Mehiri, Moroccan Badr really glad to be here for the Algerian Tour; this is with Talan won the CSI 3*W Grand Prix in Fakir and French Jean-Philippe Ohye. the third year they have organised this show, but this 5) Switzerland – Faye Schoch with Ravisante De Mostaganem. The Saudi Arabian Olympic silver Pleville is my first time it is very exciting to be part of such medallist held with a double clear and came in the Yes, it is 2016, but.. competition.” second round with 62.31 seconds at the finish. Reminiscing on 2015 memories; a spectacular event For full results, kindly check Horse Times website. One by one, each rider performed at his/her best Al-Sharbatly was pleased with his victory. “There and strong competitions brought people from all jumping over 1.30 meter fences. A spectacular are a lot of good riders here. This has been a great around the world. It is time to leave you with final event marked by international and national efforts experience and a tough competition. Talan is a great words of Metidji. All photos by Hamada Hamdy

26 27 28 29 BELGIUMBELGIUM TAKESTAKES THETHE FURUSIYYAFURUSIYYA 20152015 TITLETITLE ININ GRIPPINGGRIPPING FINALEFINALE MEETMEET THETHE CHAMPIONSCHAMPIONS

By Louise Parkes

The Belgium team clinched the Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup™ Jumping 2015 title in the finest of style with a fantastic performance in the final round at Real Club de Polo in Barcelona (ESP). Dirk Caremans

Rolf-Göran Bengtsson (SWE)

30 31 32 a 12-fault result,hittingthesecondelementof Dubbeldam andSFNZenithledtheway with to be. Their super-starcombinationofJeroen scooped upover thelast12months, but itwasn’t and European gold medals they’vethe world well-fancied toaddasecondFurusiyya titleto trophy wouldn’t beeasilywon. The Dutchwere Santiago Varela has been making sure that this many oftheothershowever; CourseDesigner The courseproved for quiteaconundrum crossed thelinesaiditall. she’s got. Melchior’s emotion when the pair day islongandalways gives everything herrider old mare’s jumpingstyle, but sheishonestasthe Z. There’s nothingextravagant aboutthe13-year- fabulous clearfromMelchiorandAsColdasIce vanH&M Armstrong de Kapel was followed by a openingfour-faultOlivier Philippaerts‘ with effort The winnersalways looked competitive when ALWAYS LOOKEDCOMPETITIVE it. two ofjustsix clear roundsonthenighttoclinch Ann MelchiorandGregory Wathelet producing Belgians were theshinieststarsofall,withJudy- the world’s greatest athletes and horses, but the bound withspectacularjumpingfrommany of intothearena.last rider The crowd was spell- and the result once again decided by the very expectations, fluctuatingwildly withfortunes Tonight’s competitionmorethan lived upto Final. stadium for aspecialphoto-shootaheadofthe provided accesstotheworld-famous CampNou Villarubi Vice-President ofFCBarcelonawho Vos, madeaspecialpresentationtoMr. Carles competition beganFEIPresidentIngmarde once again before with open arms world tonight’s welcomed the The cityofBarcelonacertainly seventh aheadofSwitzerlandineighth. on anequalscoreline, whileSweden linedup separated onlyby timewhenthey alsofinished wereIreland andGermany next inline, also when theclock decidedthe final placings. USA, evening, pinningtherampant Dutchback tothird runner-up spotthis whoemergedtofill the British and Sweden intojoint-secondplace. Butitwas Thursday’s openerinwhichthey pinnedGermany They threw down thegauntletwhentopping Opartny Ales(CZE) Dirk Caremans

Dirk Caremans MarlonModoloZanotelli(BRA) stallion UtamaroD’Ecaussines. BenMaher(Diva extraordinarily withhisgreat solidlast-to-gorides podium when Joe Clee producedoneof his were rocketedMeanwhile theBritish ontothe ROCKETED ONTO THE PODIUM thatbonus allforhe hadalsoearned himself. hadn’t onlyclinchedthe2015Furusiyya title,but salute, becausehe inavictory his raised hisarm four-fault result. He had a big smile on his face Conrad deHus, homesafely tocementhisside’s cool headandsteeredtheten-year-old stallion, Just ashedidon Thursday however, hekept a hands. victory,entered thering or defeat, was inhis the penultimate oxer, both fell, so as Wathelet troublesome double attheendoftrack, and poles inplacewithChiara. ofthe Butthefirstpart anchor, Ludger Beerbaum, could leave all the the double, couldstillbediscountedifGerman D’Amour, atthewater andthefirstelementof Daniel Deusser’s double errorwithCornet post theirclearround. before thepairhadeven crossedthefinishlineto that the spectators burst into rapturous applause thefencesclearing withsuchdrama andgrace gelding, Fibonacci,soaredaroundthecourse, Michaels-Beerbaum whosefabulous grey by theperformance ofhisteam-mateMeredith at fence 11,but thecrowd was mesmerised ofplanks when clippingthefirstof vertical and againtoday, saw thatslipfromhisgrasp bonus onoffer jumpingclearon toriders Thursday incontentionforriders acutofthe€200,000 Germany’s Ahlmann,oneofthefour Christian result. the possibilityoffinishingona four-fault final andBelgians,between eachwith theGermans it hadcomedown toagameofcat-and-mouse a clearwhenlastinfor theDutchsidehowever By thetimeGercoSchroderreineditback with REINED ITBACK added anotherfour totheirtally. of thedouble, threefences fromhome, which horse broke intoatrotinfront ofthefirstpart following before vertical losingrhythm whenthe combinationatfencethe triple seven andthe as 33 ll) Jessica Mendoza (Spirit T) had kicked off about the delight she felt at having made such with just four faults a piece, but Laura Renwick, a massive contribution to her country’s victory, substituting for Michael Whitaker, had a much the rider whose father, Leon Melchior, is master

less comfortable time, her nine-year-old gelding Dirk Caremans Dirk Caremans of the legendary Zangersheide Stud in Lanaken, picking up 16 faults in a round that included a Belgium, said, “you have to go back 13 years very definite refusal to go down to the four-metre- to where it all began with her because she was wide open water at their first attempt. This fence born at our place. We’ve known each other for a played a major role, with plenty of horses making very long time and she makes my life very easy, a splash there. Clee’s clear however negated even in a difficult sport like this. She has a heart that little hiatus and left the British on eight of gold, she gives me everything - she never faults along with the Dutch, but in runner-up spot makes it difficult, she always tries to help, she’s because their combined times left them almost just wonderful!” she said. three seconds faster. Wathelet admitted that “Tonight, I was under the The other eye-catchers of the night were biggest pressure of my life! But I had a good America’s Beezie Madden and Cortes C and feeling because everyone was trying so hard and Ireland’s Cian O’Connor and Good Luck who Judy-Ann had done a great round. My horse did both drew gasps from the crowd as their horses well again, he’s had a great season and this is a put on jumping exhibitions. great end to it; he will have a month off now at least,” he said. But it was the Belgians who would be enjoying the biggest celebration. They topped the Europe AS GOOD AS IT GETS Division one League of the Furusiyya series this summer but, as Chef d’Equipe Dirk Demeersman FEI Jumping Director John Roche, described this said tonight, they had “one bad week” at the FEI week’s competition as “about as good as it gets! European Championships in Aachen (GER) This was team jumping at its very best, in front last month and failed to qualify for the Rio 2016 of a full house and at a fantastic venue. I want to Olympic Games. The taking of the 2015 Furusiyya thank the Polo Club and the city of Barcelona for trophy however has reminded the world that this hosting another great Final and my thanks also country is truly a force to be reckoned with. to Furusiyya for their foresight and support. We are always grateful to our partners, Longines, HOW TOP SPORT SHOULD BE and I’m happy to say we will be back here in Barcelona next year for another great Final!” The winning team manager congratulated his riders, the course designer and the FEI who The week of exceptional sport owed a great deal found this formula - “how top sport should be!” to course designer, Santiago Varela, however he said. “It is good for the welfare of the horses, and Irishman Cian O’Connor was quick to point only two rounds each on different days, and it that out. “When I walked the course this evening I makes for a great competition” he insisted. Jos said you’d need to be an Honours Maths student Lansink, whose eight faults with For Cento was to work it out! But it was one of the best courses the discard today, said “the course builder should I’ve ever jumped - Santiago is a genius!” he said. get a good big bonus - I’ve competed at a lot of events this year but there has never been sport For further information on the Furusiyya FEI like this - it was just fantastic!” Nations Cup™ Jumping Final 2015 at Real Club de Polo in Barcelona (ESP) from 24 to Judy-Ann Melchior’s big hug for her mare as 27 September, visit www.csiobarcelona.com they left the arena today will be one of the iconic or contact Press Officer Isabel Suter, isuter@ memories of this week’s Final. Talking tonight rcpolo.com, +34 760 258 222.

Beezie Madden (USA) Joe Clee (GBR)

34 35 FINAL RESULT: in Barcelona (ESP) tonight.

1. Belgium 4 faults: H&M Armstrong van de All teams started on a zero score, and Team Kakpel (Olivier Philippaerts) 4, As Cold as Ice Z Belgium won the competition outright. (Judy-Ann Melchior) 0, For Cento (Jos Lansink) 8, Conrad de Hus (Gregory Wathelet) 0. Team Belgium Team Ireland Total prize money for tonight’s final competition was €1.5 million with €500,000 going to the 2. Great Britain 8 faults in 223.14 seconds: Diva winners, €300,000 to the runners-up from Great ll (Ben Maher) 4, Spirit T (Jessica Mendoza) Britain, €200,000 going to The Netherlands in 4, Bintang ll (Laura Renwick) 16, Utamaro third place and prize money all the way down to D’Ecaussines (Joe Clee) 0. eighth place. 3. Netherlands 8 faults in 226.80 seconds: SFN Zenith NOP (Jeroen Dubbeldam) 12, VDL 4 riders - Jeroen Dubbeldam (NED), Christian Groep Verdi Tn NOP (Maikel van der Vleuten) 4, Ahlmann (GER), Rolf-Goran Bengtsson (SWE) VDL Zirocco Blue NOP (Jur Vrieling) 4, Glock’s and Gregory Wathelet (BEL) were in line for a Cognac Champblanc (Gerco Schroder) 0. share of the €200,000 on offer to any rider who could jump clear in the first round on Thursday 4. USA 12 faults in 219.61 seconds: Nouvelle and again tonight. (Laura Kraut) 8, Cylana (Reed Kessler) 8, Ohlala (Lauren Hough) 4, Cortes C (Beezie Madden) 0. Wathelet (Conrad de Hus) was the only one of the four to jump clear again tonight so he bagged 5. Ireland 12 faults in 221.64 seconds: All Star the entire bonus. (Denis Lynch) 8, MHS Going Global (Greg Team Great Britain Team Germany Broderick) 4, Molly Malone V (Bertram Allen) 8, QUOTES: Good Luck (Cian O’Connor) 0. Course designer Santiago Varela: “Tonight’s 6. Germany 12 faults in 223.36 seconds: Taloubet course was difficult and technical. I left the riders Z (Christian Ahlmann) 4, Fibonacci 17 (Meredith with many options and after the water jump they Michaels-Beerbaum) 0, Cornet D’Amour (Daniel had a lot of choices right up until the very end. Deusser) 8, Chiara (Ludger Beerbaum) 8. They had to ride really well to make a clear round but we came up with a very nice result and you 7. Sweden 16 faults: H&M Tornesch (Malin can’t ask for more than that!” Baryard-Johnsson) 8, Tinkabell (Angelie von Essen) 8, Unita Ask (Rolf-Goran Bengtsson) 4, Belgian Chef d’Equipe Dirk Demeersman: “the Cantinero (Henrik von Eckermann) 4. horse jumped really good and the riders weren’t so bad - there was such an atmosphere here 8. Switzerland 20 faults: Quorida de Treho tonight. My riders rode very precisely and they (Romain Duguet) 8, Clooney (Martin Fuchs) did a great job - I’m really happy with them.” 4, Bonne Chance CW (Janika Sprunger) 12, Castlefield Eclipse (Paul Estermann) 8. Team Netherlands Team Sweden Belgian team member Olivier Philippaerts: “Judy- FULL RESULTS AT LONGINES TIMING AND Ann and Gregory did two beautiful rounds. We RESULTS had the right team to bring to Barcelona!”

FACTS AND FIGURES: Belgian team member Jos Lansink: “I had a young horse here doing his first Nations Cup - A total of eight nations competed in the second I’m very happy to be a member of this team.” and final round of the Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup™ Jumping Final 2015 at Real Club de Polo This article was first published on FEI.org

Team USA Team Switzerland

36 37 38 39 LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR FINAL LUCIANA DINIZ IS CROWNED 2015 CHAMPION

40 41 Scott Brash on Hello Sanctos Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum on Fibonacci 17

Luciana Diniz and Fit For Fun took the 2015 Championship after winning demanded ultra-precision and concentration from crowd, however all were just caught out by the time the final Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of the season in both horse and rider. In particular, the last line of the allowed. course and the triple combination with two oxers was sensational style. The incredible sporting action went right down to the a strong test for the best riders in the world as they Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum (GER) was the first wire in Doha, Qatar, and the top three contenders had fans on the edge competed to earn their place in round two. The bright to go clear with Fibonacci, and she was delighted of their seats until the final moment of the final round. colours of the fences, often depicting traditional with her 10 year old grey gelding. Soon to follow Arabic designs, were also a test for the horses, and was Qatar’s own Bassem Hassan Mohammed with the stunning floodlit arena set the backdrop for a California, and the crowd erupted as their home rider It was a magnificent finale at AL SHAQAB with all the championship prize giving ceremony along with dramatic 2015 season finale. flew over the last. eyes on the three riders who had battled through the guests in a special cultural VIP tent next to the arena. series to be in with a chance of the championship Course designer Uliano Vezzani produced a fittingly First to go of the title contenders was Ranking leader crown - Scott Brash, Luciana Diniz and Rolf- It was an epic night of top-level sport at full throttle formidable first round course for the final showdown Scott Brash (GBR). He and Hello Sanctos flew Göran Bengtsson. On the night it was Luciana and rounding off a spectacular season. From the of the year. It was described by show jumping around but clipped a fence, picking up four faults her chestnut mare that emerged as the supreme opening moments, when the world of show jumping legend Ludger Beerbaum: “I definitely believe it is to the groan of the audience and his fans around combination of the high octane season. was stunned by the new venue on Miami Beach, big enough, demanding enough. It may not be super the world. The temperature rose as Rolf-Göran the 15-event-circuit powered on to stops including technical but the size is serious.” Bengtsson (SWE) and Casall ASK were the next title The Royal Family of Qatar attended the Longines Shanghai, Monaco, Paris, Rome and the final in contender to enter the ring, knowing that he would Global Champions Tour event for the second day Doha. Fans across the world grew in numbers during FIRST ROUND need to win the Grand Prix to be in with a chance of running and witnessed three strong performances the season watching the increasing international TV the Champion of Champions Crown. from Qatari national riders, including Sheikh Ali coverage and live streaming on GCT TV. The time allowed in the first round was tight, with Bin Khalid Al Thani who rode an impressive double 78 seconds given in total for this challenging course. With the consistency they’ve shown throughout the clear in the Grand Prix. His Highness The Father All eyes were on Doha and the three who could take Doda de Miranda (BRA) was the first to go clear with season, Rolf and Casall ASK rode a stunning clear Emir Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Her the 2015 season title - Scott Brash (GBR), Luciana AD Living the Dream, but picked up an unlucky time - fastest to do so at that point in the competition and Highness Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser Al Missned Diniz (POR) and Rolf-Göran Bengtsson (SWE). fault. He was soon joined by Rene Tebbel (UKR) pushing Scott down to 15th. As the final riders took and Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani The first round course on the sweeping 520m track and Hamad Ali Mohamed Al Attiyah (QAT) who their turn, Edwina Tops-Alexander (AUS) clipped a enthusiastically applauded Sheikh Ali and watched in the AL SHAQAB arena was a formidable test; it rode clear with Appagino, to the delight of his home fence meaning that Scott would go through to the

42 43 Rolf-Göran Bengtsson on Casall ASK Sheikh Ali Bin Khalid Al Thani on First Devision

second round, finishing in 18th place and keeping as the class progressed, the riders to follow also had THE JUMP OFF for the 2016 championship final of the Longines his title hopes alive. fences down, leaving Scott at the top of the eight Global Champions Tour, which will include the faulters. The final jump off of the season was kicked off by new Global Champions League Team Competition Luciana Diniz (POR) and Fit For Fun 13 were Sheikh Ali Bin Khalid Al Thani however he had two launching next year. Speaking about hosting the second last to go, and rode a brilliant clear round, The experienced Ludger Beerbaum (GER) and down despite a valiant effort to reach the podium. final again next year, Group Executive Director the quickest of the riders so far and meaning that Chiara were first to go clear, and carried through Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum (GER) rode some Administration of Qatar Foundation and AL SHAQAB the three title contenders would go through to the their four faults after a careful round, but Bertram stunning angles, galloping to the last and flying Fahad Saad Al Qahtani, said: “It is an honour for us, second round as the intensity rose. The heat was on, Allen (IRL) soon pipped his time with the talented home with a formidable time of 36.55s and setting we are very proud of what you achieved.” with Rolf-Göran Bengtsson needing a double clear Molly Malone V. Rene Tebbel (UKR) and Forlap also the bar for the final two to follow. in order to go through to the jump-off with a chance went clear however with their one time fault carried PRESS CONFERENCE of taking the title. over were soon pushed down the order as Sheikh Ali The incredible pair of Rolf-Göran Bengtsson and Bin Khalid Al Thani (QAT) and First Devision rode a Casall ASK galloped around the course, cutting out Group Executive Director Administration of Qatar SECOND ROUND stunning double clear round, watch on by members strides and pushing to beat Meredith’s impressive Foundation and AL SHAQAB Fahad Saad Al of the Qatar Royal Family. The first to ride double time. But it wasn’t to be, and the formidable duo Qahtani said “Let me take this opportunity to The top eighteen went through to the second round, clear was followed by Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum crossed the line in 37.01 seconds just tenths off thank His Highness the Father Emir, Her Highness with Ranking leader Scott Brash and Hello Sanctos (GER) and Fibonacci. Despite a heart-stopping the lead. Last to go Luciana Diniz knew that the title Sheikha Moza, Sheikh Joaan and Hamad Al Attiya, first in and with everything to do to keep his title moment at the double, it meant there would be a was hers, but set out to win the Longines Global the President of the Federation for the support hopes alive. The second layout was, a big but fairly, jump-off. Champions Tour Grand Prix of Doha and did so in they have given this magnificent event. There is no straightforward course with three big fences to start emphatic style, with the brave Fit For Fun 13 jumping doubt, for the people even who are not related to and a generous time of 77 seconds. A rather awkward Rolf-Göran Bengtsson (SWE) and Casall ASK were her heart out for the final, crossing the line in 36.10s. the equestrian industry, they had an amazing time, line to the treble combination would require plenty next to go and rode an unbelievable course earning so we all achieved what we wanted. It was exciting of care and scope and a 1,60m vertical penultimate his place in the final round. His title hopes still open; It was a dramatic final showdown to what is been moment, an amazing evening and it cannot be better fence caught out a few of the top riders. he was followed by Luciana Diniz (POR) who raised an incredible season, with all the emphasis on the than what we have seen tonight. It is an amazing the temperature yet higher still by following him into top level of sport and the high calibre profile of the formula we have achieved tonight and amazing Scott rode a beautiful round all the way up until the the jump-off. Scott was pushed down the order to Longines Global Champions Tour. infrastructure. The riders handled the pressure penultimate fence, just clipping the pole and finishing 8th, meaning he was no longer in contention for the amazingly. The support we had from everybody was one eight faults in total with a time of 62.69s. However 2015 Title and it was a two horse race to the finish. It was announced that AL SHAQAB will be the stage outstanding and we came off with a beautiful picture

44 45 of the sport.” Global Champions Tour and it is a fantastic thing. We go to very nice locations, where we make the President of Longines: Walter Von Känel, “I am sport famous everywhere. I didn’t go directly in the so pleased that my colleague said what he did. It beginning; I started a little but later I have been many is a pleasure to thank the Global Champions Tour, times so consistent. To reach third place in the end, to thank the locals, to thank all the riders and the I’m still happy with that, of course I wanted to win but horses, thank you to all the volunteers and together that’s life.” we made a big push for the promotion of this equestrian land for jumping and this is fantastic. The 2015 Longines Global Champions Tour Silver spirit, the competition, no accident - this, for me, Medallist: Scott Brash said “I had a silly fence in a farmer’s son, is probably the greatest pleasure I the first round, coming out of the double. Ok, this have. I would like to say to Luciana that you and is showjumping so we know it can happen. So I your horse are really a great love story - Fit For Fun started the second round thinking that I had to be is Fit For ‘Love’ with your horse - congratulations. the fastest of the four faulters to have any chance It’s nice to be here and thank you to all the locals so I went as fast as I could and it’s the reason I had and everybody for the promotion of equestrian in a fence down. But Sanctos has been wonderful all this beautiful country.” year.”

Longines Global Champions Tour Founder and “I must say I think Luciana really deserves it, she’s President: Jan Tops “ As trainer of the Qatari squad, been so consistent the whole year, as has Rolf. I they have had a fantastic season, especially this think Fit For Fun jumped unbelievable today, it was year - 5th in the overall, today double clear - to beat actually an absolute joy to watch. They jumped all these people is very difficult, but at least they are fantastic, as did Rolf, so they really deserved it. In in the game, they are getting good experience, they the last three legs of the Longines Global Champions are riding with more confidence and I am very proud Tour they just ran away it, so it’s all credit to both of with the way they have developed the last few years. them.” The aim was to qualify for the Olympics, achieve good results in the Longines Global Champions 2015 Longines Global Champions Tour Gold Tour - that’s what they have achieved.” Medallist: Luciana Diniz said “I was in a winning mood spirit today and riding Fit For ‘Love’ makes “Ten years ago we started with six events, this my life easier. It’s true, if you ride with love and you year we’ve done 15 events, with two new events in believe in what you do it makes your life easier. So Miami and Rome. We have very much established this success to be here, I am not alone in that - I our events this year. The quality is much higher, have to thank all of you as well, the Longines Global we have a great team of people, our followers on Champions Tour, all the supporters, Doha, AL television; the live-streaming is tremendous - it has SHAQAB. And now my team, my fantastic horses, been growing these past years and if you see what Fit for ‘Love’, Winning-mood who has been in great we have achieved in the last 10 years I think it is shape this year. I love this name by the way! I think amazing. We are not tennis, golf or Formula 1 just we have arrived with a different story in our sport, yet, but the gap is not what it used to be. We have with a new image as well for the sport - I’m not constant development for this year and our sport saying it’s going to be like tennis one day but I think has a big future.” we’re respectable now, people are looking for us with a different spirit now and I’m very happy to be “These three riders have been really dominating the here today. These two boys were gentlemen today sport throughout the whole year. Luciana’s horse and let the lady be first so I’m very happy with that.” was on great form to win today and overall, Rolf has been every time so consistent, everybody wanted “Scott and Rolf are so good, if I would think about him to win, he has been second twice. Also Scott, focusing on them and what they are going to do he has won two times but today he wanted to be I would be lost. So I just said I’d focus on myself friendly to Luciana to allow her to win today! I think and what my horse can do and I’m just going to be they have all between them been by far the best of with her there, together we are one and that was my all the riders.” strategy today - just focus on the both of us. Fit For Love was in love with me.” Uliano Vezzani, Course Designer: “For me today was not easy but with the great riders who were This article was first published on: here, it was amazing. I’m very happy, for me, for the Longines Global Champions Tour. We had great http://www.globalchampionstour.com/ sport. The arena was fantastic, we had also fantastic The final took place in Doha, Qatar, from November fences.” 12 - 15 Luciana Diniz on Fit For Fun Rolf-Göran Bengtsson, 2015 Longines Global For full results, see: http://tinyurl.com/q6y76ya Champions Tour Bronze Medallist: “First of all, I All photos © LGCT/Stefano Grasso want to say that I really enjoyed doing the Longines 46 47 A Course Designer on the Go How do you manage being a the first one, you cannot stop. I got Up Close & Personal With course designer and an engineer four tattoos in seven months. For me, My work as a course designer simultaneously? Also, could getting a tattoo is not about a good opens the world for me to travel and you tell us a little bit about your design, it is about something you explore. Just like a traveller, I spend qualifications now as a course already carry in your heart and soul CCourseourse DDesigneresigner AAhmedhmed TTalaatalaat every weekend in a different city, with designer? and believe in at the back of your different people from various cultures. mind. I can answer all questions about Also, when I started working as an I am actually never restricted to why I got this tattoo in particular, but By Khaled Assem architect, I had to travel continuously one place only; my work takes me it will never tell the full story. If it was between Egypt and London, so I am to Egypt, London among other only about the design, I will get bored always on the go. My professional life countries. My business as an of it in couple of months. definitely affects my personal life as architect is basically a full-time job. It A young gentleman living his life between Egypt and London, I have no other option except long takes a lot of my time that I used to One of my dearest passions is distance relationships or whatever dedicate for shows. For example, out cooking. I try to explore and try new an engineer, a course designer with love and passion for you want to call it. I am still searching of 52 weekends a year, I used to do recipes and watch different cooking horses shares bits and pieces of his life, passion, career, for the Mrs; I am still young and the at least 30, now I participate in only shows. One of the role models in my night is still young for me. three to four international shows a life is chef Gordon Ramsay. aspirations and dreams with Horse Times. year. Professional life Also, football is one of my passions. Did that affect your continuous I love Chelsea in particular and What are you doing at the moment intake of experience? Zamalek. in terms of core business? I know that you have quite a big Definitely! However, I am always And it goes without saying, horses of investment in terms of effort and studying in one way or another. I course. H orsetimes achievement in the equestrian always surf the internet and see what field, but I also know you are an other international course designers How travelling added its own engineer so tell us a little bit about do, I watch a lot of shows and I touch both sides. analyse them from my dimension, so I am always up-to-date as to what Living in London has definitely I work as an architect and I do a lot of is happening. It is only when I stop changed something in me. It is a work in Egypt, London and different following, I feel bad as I wish I have city where everything is available. If other countries. As for my equestrian- been part of a great event that I could you want to go to museums and art related work, it has been part of my leave an impact on. On other hand, I galleries, you will find it. If you want life since I was 17 years old, and then have my satisfaction from the other to go clubbing, you will find variety I decided to follow the career path of business that helped me a lot to be of nice bars and lounges and if you an architect to make a good living. who I am now. I am still thanking God want to have a fine diner, it offers the for doing both and if time were to go best quality. Whatever you want, you Once, the course designer Arno back I think I would have made the have the high end of it. Gego asked me why I was studying same choices. engineering. I answered right away Your eyes get used to the nice things, saying that it makes a person Dreams and Aspirations just like riding. If you go to a show for stronger. Engineering, in one way five weeks and you see Steve Garda or another, improves your talent and For the near future, I want to keep riding a seven year old, and then he architecture makes you creative in a learning and improving in what I is riding his Olympic horse in the way that makes you see shapes and am doing. If you ask me about my main arena and then a stopper horse forms with your own eyes. That was dreams, it actually has nothing to in the open arena. When you see only my point of view and Arno Gego do with architecture. I have always this every day for five weeks, your shared with me his philosophy on dreamt to be the first Arab course standards become higher by default. being an engineer. His words were designer in the World Equestrian as follows: It will make you stronger in Games or the Olympics. And horses… decision making as the nature of the business environment comes with I think I was the only Arab to be the I am grateful I had horses as part of challenges and paths to follow. He main course designer in a World my life. My love for horses stopped continued saying your values have Cup qualifier. I might have been the me from doing a lot of bad things my to be your compass. For example, second; I am not sure. I am one of friends went through at a younger if you are only doing business, you the few whose international course age. I learned a lot from my boss and will always say yes to requests designing banners are level three role model Dr. Tarek Nadeem. I met and offers, but it will actually make which is the highest level you can his sons, who are my best friends, you a stronger person to say no if apply for. through sharing a love for horse. something goes against your beliefs. When I look back at everything, This way you will improve because Passions horses have been involved in every you will be the way you want to be, part of my life. I could not be more not the way anyone else wants you I have a new passion for tattoos. It grateful knowing I am in the right to be. is like an addiction; when you get place.

48 49 50

Rabab stud INTERNATIONAL S-SHOW http://tinyurl.com/pyno2vr The Resultsfor the Champ: SeniorMale(Class16)>> The Resultsfor theChamp: Yearling Female (Class11)>>http://tinyurl.com/hrg3xdp The Resultsfor theChamp: Senior Female (Class13)>>http://tinyurl.com/zd3ykxe The Resultsfor theChamp: Junior Female (Class12)>>http://tinyurl.com/hsf8c5g The Resultsfor theChamp: Yearling Male(Class14)>>http://tinyurl.com/ptzd6wa The Resultsfor theChamp: Junior Male(Class15)>>http://tinyurl.com/o26aqxy The Resultsfor theFillies2years B(Class2B)>>http://tinyurl.com/pmmgbw5 The Resultsfor theStallions7years +(Class10)>>http://tinyurl.com/hp9jd99 RABAB ARABIANCHAMPIONSHIP The Resultsfor theStallions4-6years (Class9)>>http://tinyurl.com/gq8wgy2 The Resultsfor the Yearling FilliesA(Class1A)>>http://tinyurl.com/heenhnp The Resultsfor the Yearling FilliesD(Class1D)>>http://tinyurl.com/z7vkb68 The Resultsfor the Yearling FilliesB(Class1B)>>http://tinyurl.com/h9td85k The Resultsfor the Yearling ColtsA(Class6A)>>http://tinyurl.com/zxzbsm4 The Resultsfor the Yearling ColtsB(Class6B)>>http://tinyurl.com/zzqg6op The Resultsfor the Yearling FilliesC(Class1C)>>http://tinyurl.com/jcrs933 The Resultsfor theFillies2years A(Class2A)>>http://tinyurl.com/njyg9kd The Resultsfor theMares7years +(Class5)>>http://tinyurl.com/hwl9qp3 The Resultsfor theMares4-6years (Class4)>>http://tinyurl.com/qgz3pjq The Resultsfor theFillies3years (Class3)>>http://tinyurl.com/nrhppgx The Resultsfor theColts3years (Class8)>>http://tinyurl.com/zqra27b The Resultsfor theColts2years (Class7)>>http://tinyurl.com/zp9xo6j By Aya Amr 51 52 53 Tell us a little about yourself. What was the best advice you were What kind of music do you enjoy My name is Amina Ammar. I was born given? listening to? in Augsburg, Germany on the 19th of To set a clear goal and to believe in my I mostly listen to Pop music. June, so I’m a Gemini! capabilities to achieve it through hard My father is Egyptian and my mother is work, focus and faith. That was the What is your favourite book and German. I have one younger brother. best advice I was given. who is your favourite author? I grew up in Ismailia where I started my Honestly, I am not a big fan of reading riding journey at the Suez Canal Club, What advice would you give to but, when I do, I read mostly about yet all the credit goes to my mother’s young athletes? horses and horse’s nutrition. sister who discovered my passion for It is a long journey to success. It takes horses when I was only two years old a lot of hard work, patience and real What is your favourite food? and that was my first time being on a passion for the sport. horse’s back! Sushi and pizza. Plus chocolate of course! I have graduated from the Suez Canal What is your best achievement? University earning a bachelor’s degree What is the most memorable place in Business Administration. I got Big Ben, my horse, when he was you ever visited? four years old. He was a totally green Can you describe your typical horse, and I took him gradually up from I travel around quite often. But I guess practice? that stage to be one of the Top six in the that Venice was the place that most I go check on my horse, Big Ben, daily. C Class 2013, winner of the Egyptian amazed me. First, I take him for a 30-minute-walk National League and Egyptian Cup in in the track, then back to the arena to the B Class 2014, landing in the A1 What is your strength and what is work him out. And then, I like to let him Class. We’re achieving good results your weakness? free in the paddock and by end of the so far. I am very passionate about what I am day, he gets another 30-minute-walk. doing; I am very ambitious as well. What are the goals that you aspire But I think I need to work more on my Where is your favourite place for to achieve? long-term future plans. practice? My real dream and biggest goal is to There is no specific place that I like; reach and participate in the Olympic What is the biggest challenge you I am fine with any place as long as it Games. have ever faced? has greenery in the area. Simply, a The loss of my beloved grandfather. I Who has been your greatest 6060 SECONDSSECONDS WITHWITH nice, big and well established arena have never stopped missing him. with good facilities for jumping would support? do. What matters most is my horse’s My parents were my greatest support What is the biggest reward you happiness in the place. As long as he at a very young age. They believed ever got? is happy, I am happy. in me and gave me all the love and My parents being proud of me! AAminamina AAmmarmmar support needed at that time. The Describe some of the funny trainers I had at each stage of my life If you had the power to change experiences you have had as well. something in this world, what practicing? Now, I am very grateful for the non- would you change? By Aya Amr Couple of years ago, my horse was still stop support I get from my partner and In Egypt, I would solve the traffic green and I was riding him at a stable best friend who always gives me all the problems - ha! But seriously, I would in Sakkara practicing some flat work possible support and never stopped love to have this power to stop war and as usual. Suddenly, my horse decided believing in me. people killing each other around the COUNTRY: Egypt to take me for a run! He jumped over world. What are your greatest the arena fence, ran as a Ferrari and motivations? If there is something about yourself DATE OF BIRTH: June 19 all of a sudden stopped at the edge that you would like to change, what of a small canal! I just could not do My greatest motivations are my results would that be? STAR SIGN:Gemini anything but slide down his neck, in a and chocolate! very elegant way, of course! landing We are all just humans! Having PROFESSION: Professional Show Jumping inside the dark water enjoying the Who is your sporting hero? our good and bad sides in our Rider lovely smell of it! I won’t forget that evil I do not have a specific sporting hero, personalities, but I would appreciate if smile on my horse’s face while looking but I have an idol who is a French rider; my heart could give some more space at me down in the water! she is called Penelope Leprovost. to my mind when making decisions in my life! Tell us one or two things in your What is your second favourite training that contributed to your sport? If you weren’t who you are today, who would you rather be? success. Horseback riding is MY LIFE! Show jumping is a sport performed by sometimes I jog to stay fit. Nobody else, I am thankful and grateful a rider and a horse. I strongly believe to Allah for who I am. that the best way to willingly get the What is your favourite genre of Finally, which question would you maximum potential out of my horse is movies? ask yourself? by building a strong bond between us I am totally into movies. All kinds of and dealing with my horse as a partner movies are okay with me except horror Have I set achievable goals? Am I not just a tool! movies, I get scared! good enough? 54 55 Jacques Toffi Jacques

SSofitelofitel HHorseorse SShowhow atat FFerousiaerousia CClublub AA HHostost ofof YYoungoung FFreshresh TTalentalent inin thethe HHearteart ofof ZZamalekamalek

By Engy Adham

As the old saying goes, “The five S’s of sports training are: stamina, speed, strength, skill, and spirit; but the greatest of these is spirit.”

56 57 Spirit was indeed the hallmark of the Sofitel of their mistakes and, accordingly, could Cairo El Gezirah Hotel Horse Show held improve. in late November in cooperation with the Ferousia Club under the auspices of the The training workshop came to an end with Egyptian Equestrian Federation (EEF). Not a theoretical session sharing the “dos and only did the gathering of the riders, families don’ts” of horse riding in order to grasp a holistic approach to thinking before the and friends create a warm and friendly competition. The competitions started on atmosphere, but the cultural fabric of the November 20 at 5 p.m. Eyes have been on event was a true symbol of the long lasting riders competing and performing at their bond between the Egyptian and French best. More than 50 riders competed at culture, through the involvement of Sofitel. the Show; family and friends of the riders enjoyed the newly renovated spaces of The French Olympic rider Thierry Pomel, Ferousia Club. the winner of the Grand Prix in Egypt in Merit Fanous explaining the course to the audience and the children The prize giving 1997 and a team and individual silver The event included three levels. The first medallist at the World Equestrian Games one was the pony level where young riders in Rome in 1998, was a special rider invited had to do cavaletti work. The second level to participate in the event and his presence reached a height of 80 – 90 cm. As for demonstrated a revival of Egyptian/ the third level, it has been set to 1 to 1.10 French bond through mutual interest in the meter. The course had been customised equestrian sport. to meet, yet challenge, the abilities of the riders. As for fences number eight and Three days before the horse show, nine, believe me, they were the ones that representatives of Sofitel, in cooperation needed full control. After a turn that slow with the Ferousia Club with the support of down the pace coming onto three related the French General Manager of UNIC Jean distances. Yves Camenen, organized a technical The show celebrated the Ferousia Club’s training workshop to prepare the riders renovations with soft ethereal light shining for the competition. The technical training through freshly watered trees. As for workshop was led by Thierry Pomel. the arena, it has been nurtured with the In celebration of the young and fresh talent, right amount of sand mixed with enough 20 riders received an intensive technical stabilising fibre along with enough water to training workshop during the 17, 18 and produce a perfectly consistent arena and perfect footing. 19 November. Pomel gave his helpful Hana El Gharabawy riding Habiba Thierry Pomel, Mr. Laurent Betourne and his daughter, Ms. Charlotte instructions, instructive feedback and At the end of the day, special thanks go to precise tips for each rider. Pomel designed the General Manager of Sofitel, Laurent a training course for the riders starting Betourne, and board members of Ferousia from tricky turns, challenging track and Club for making such an event happen and obstacles that required optimum control of for the President of the EEF for supporting the horse in between fences. the Ferousia club and equestrian sport. “Keep your balance, control, keep him An announcement of the grand prize straight, control, make every transition winners marked the end of the Show, count, keep your pace slow, control, keep flashes of cameras captured special your hands soft, and control.” This was moments of winners celebrating the horse Pomel’s voice resonating around every show and the deep and abiding Egyptian/ corner in the arena. French equestrian bond was documented in the memory of an equestrian community. Pomel gave step-by-step advice to each rider to make sure they were fully aware All photos by Sherif Alyamany

Gen. Said Moawad, Thierry Pomel, Mr. Jean Yves Camenen, Mr.Ramy Iskander, The young children during their course Mr. Bakr Hashem and Mohamed Selim Zaki Junior

58 59 GGloballobal CChampionshampions LLeagueeague vsvs FEIFEI battlebattle AA LLegalegal DDebateebate toto CComeome toto anan EEndnd

By Piotr M. Wawrzyniak

Horse Times presents its second in a series of articles addressing legal topics affecting the equestrian world. Mr. Wawrzyniak of the firm US-European Equine Lawyers provides a very timely expert legal analysis of the outcome of the GCL/FEI battle for control.

INTRODUCTION of stakeholders in the equestrian them binding on all participants in community these fears seem to be those events. Without these rules, Global Champions League (GCL) is rather unfounded. In the end the FEI we have no way of safeguarding a new league and team competition remains the international governing the welfare of horses and athletes developed by the owners of the body of Olympic equestrian sports participating in such events, or Global Champions Tour. This new league and competition led to a consisting of national federations. of protecting the integrity of the major dispute between the FEI and Preserving its monopoly, however events.” the organisation of GCL. In June goes way too far when it comes to 2015, GCL filed a complaint and organizing international equestrian “We are confident that the requested the Belgian Competition events by formally prohibiting riders European Commission will accept Authority (BCA) for measures to to compete in any non-FEI event. that legislation on unsanctioned suspend the FEI exclusivity clause events is not against the EU anti- with regards to GCL. This FEI Unsatisfied with the outcome of the trust rules.” exclusivity clause prevents riders proceedings the FEI challenged the who competed in the events that Bca Decision of the Court of Appeal LEGAL PROCEEDINGS were not approved by the FEI from in Brussels that had upheld that taking part in any FEI event for a decision. The FEI believed that the Bca period of six months. Decision caused serious and FIERCE REACTION FROM THE immediate prejudice to the FEI The BCA suspended the FEI FEI and to the common good. They exclusivity clause with regards to argued that the provisional GCL, but the FEI was not happy The decision was given on 22 measures established under the about this decision and appealed it October, 2015 and led to a fierce Bca Decision would further hamper to the Court of Appeal in Brussels. reaction of the FEI. For instance, the the very function of the FEI in its FEI commented upon the decision capacity as the governing body of The dispute has now only been of the Court of Appeal in a press equestrian sport. Moreover, they compounded by the recent decision release issued on 10 November, would damage the reputation of of the Brussels Court of Appeal 2015 with the following statement: equestrian sport, the FEI and all on 22 October, 2015 by which the National Equestrian Federations preliminary decision of the BCA “Horse welfare and sporting that are members of the FEI. was upheld, striking down the integrity are the two key principles exclusivity clause. of the unsanctioned events rule, The common good, the welfare and these principles can only be of horses, riders and the general The BCA Decision AND THE protected and promoted by putting public would be compromised by COURT OF APPEAL in place rules, including anti- the Bca Decision, which would The Bca Decision was welcomed doping and veterinary regulations, allow equestrian events to be run by by a vast majority of riders and and by making acceptance of GCL, and invites other organisers to horse owners. At the same time it international events onto the official do the same, without: i.) veterinary apparently fuelled the FEI’s fears calendar conditional upon the controls ii.) anti-doping tests iii.) about losing its dominant role in the Organising Committee adopting betting controls iv.) controls of equestrian world. To a large group all of those regulations and making compliance with the rules of the 60 61 sport, fair play and uniformity of the according to the Code of Ethics for of the FEI. rules of the sport. the Welfare of Horses, Veterinary Regulations, the Equine Controlled The Court of Appeal, as an outsider The FEI further argued that, Medication Regulations of the FEI to the equestrian sport, correctly “With the abolition of the rule on and the integrity of competition evaluated the FEI arguments. the non-FEI approved events, (the Anti-Doping Rules for Human They are basically non-arguments, organizers of such non-FEI Athletes and the Equine Anti- especially when one realizes who approved events would not, in Doping and Controlled Medication the driving forces are behind the practice, be bound to adhere Regulations). Moreover, parties GCL. to any of the rules of the FEI in in the proceedings themselves respect of the protection of the have committed to adhering to Going forward welfare of horses and the integrity the regulations of the FEI relating of competition, as the FEI has to horse welfare and the integrity The Bca Decision is not of general application. It concerns no control whatsoever over the of competition during the Global only the GCL. Though, it may be actions of those participating Champions League and to a precedent in the equestrian in non-accredited competitions submit to the controls of the FEI world leading to new leagues and including GCL.” According to at their own expense. The Court tours being organized outside the FEI, the Bca Decision would of Appeal also observed that of the FEI. Evidently, the FEI is have the effect of undermining the the Statutes and Regulations of currently enjoying a predominant credibility of the governing body the Global Champions League role in the equestrian world and would enable the riders to stipulated sanctions (penalties and fulfilling many roles at the same choose whether or not to comply disqualifications) to anyone found time. It’s a governing body and it with the rules of the FEI. to have violated horse welfare or mistreated a horse and liability for is an organizer and a marketer of It is hard to organise and structure fines and other penalties, including equestrian events. Facing the Bca the official schedule of competitions disqualification from the event or Decision the FEI probably realises with a view to maintaining a balance exclusion from the League. that its own financial interest is at between the various interests at stake. stake. The Court of Appeal also considered that the FEI failed to demonstrate All photos by Cymon Taylor The Bca Decision would further how the organizing of the GCL prevent the FEI from establishing would adversely impact “protection CONTACT US an official schedule of competitions of horse welfare and of the integrity US- European Equine Lawyers that enables the national teams to of the sport” and or would create “a improve their performance with a risk in respect of the showcasing of Dr. Hub van Doorneweg 181 view to qualifying for regional and international competitions”. 5026 RD Tilburg world competitions and the Olympic The Netherlands Games and could trigger a chain These negative effects on horse [email protected] reaction. welfare and integrity of the sport seem to be from our perspective +31 13 511 4420 FEI ARGUMENTS DISMISSED rather non-existent. If the FEI is really concerned about these References: The arguments of the FEI were issues and would like to mitigate this dismissed by the Court of Appeal. alleged risk the FEI could propose Piotr Wawrzyniak is a practicing The Court of Appeal considered to carry out controls during the lawyer at Schelstraete Advocaten that the upholding of the Bca GCL events to ensure compliance in Tilburg (Netherlands). Decision does not relieve GCL of a respective event with the Code “FEI Bureau Agrees Unanimously of the obligation to comply with of Ethics for the Welfare of Horses, to Take Strong Stance on GCL the rules of the FEI relating to the Veterinary Regulations, the Equine Case.”FEI. 10 Nov. 2015. protection of the welfare of horses Controlled Medication Regulations

62 64 65 Jacques Toffi Jacques

DREAMLAND EQUESTRIAN CENTER THE OPENING OF A GRAND ESTATE

By Aya Amr

Dreamland, the brainchild of Dr. Ahmed Bahgat, is one of the largest integrated urban development projects in the Middle East. A gated community situated in a unique location overlooking the majestic pyramids of Giza, Dreamland provides world class residential, recreational and commercial services, transforming the landscape of 6th of October City and how its most distinguished citizens live, work and play.

66 67 The Equestrian centre’s stables The trophies

Mr. George Valladier giving his speech and Dr. Ahmed Bahgat

Mr. George Valladier congratulating Manaf Elgabry receiving his prize money from Mr. & Mrs. Ahmed Bahgat, Omar Bahgat and the President of Dr. Ahmed Bahgat and Ezzat El Alaily Manaf Elgabry thethe EgyptianEgyptian EquestrianEquestrian Federation,Federation, Gen.Gen. HeshamHesham HatabHatab

From Dreamland’s broad portfolio of exceptional facilities for trainers and riders alike. PEC has a is a project that has no equivalent in the world; our competition with the name of Dreamland.” projects, Pegasus Equestrian Center lies in a league clinic, with a vet consultant, that makes periodic visits new addition to the project is the Equestrian Center. of its own. Located on a 30,000 sq. meter property, from abroad. On staff they have available grooms, a It took a very long time for this club to come to light The six-bar-showjumping competition was the the equestrian center is lavishly designed to host 63 blacksmith and a certified trainer. with this quality; our aim is to develop the idea of highlight of the recent opening. PEC celebrated 30 horses at an extravagant level of comfort and safety, the equestrian sport in Egypt.” He added that the riders through a majestic opening performing at their providing each box with robust ventilation and 24 By nature of its features, the center is well equipped equestrian sport will add a lot to our society through best with confidence, determination and faith to win. hours video surveillance. It contains a 10,000 sq. to host both local and international competitions. the value of horsemanship. It started at the height of 1.40 metres and ended at meters show ground, complete with a Spring Garden Through the top level modern infrastructure and 1.95 metres. The competition was very intense and, and furnished with a fiber main arena, as well as a international staffing with multilingual possibilities to George Valladier, the designer and executive of the at the end, it was Manaf Elgabry with his chestnut, 1,500 sq. meter warm-up and dressage arena. serve local and foreign clients, focus on customer project mentions, “I think of this club as a palace. Locko, the champion of the day. care and services and the quality of comfort provided I included all the elements that will make this a The grounds and arena are surrounded by a circular for the horses, Dr. Ahmed Bahgat said in an interview destination for international championships, and track one km long, providing luxurious unique with HT: “We are very proud to say that Dreamland we have the intention of creating an international All photos by Right Click

68 69 horse. So the aids are an effective smooth turns allowing the rider to gravity as well. trainingtraining tipstips ingredient and acceptance is gallop calmly to a big fence and another effective ingredient. to feel and manage his take off As a unit, the centre of gravity point while the horse responds of the horse and rider must stay During the course, the horse willingly. in vertical alignment otherwise TThehe IInnernner PPerspectiveerspective must show total obedience, the equilibrium will be adversely actually a better term is Most importantly, the horse has affected. acceptance, as tension will not to accept moving forward in a allow the horse to show his full straight manner to harness his These are some deeper ofof thethe jumpjump potential whether before, over full power using both of his legs considerations and variables that or after the jump. A rider must together on take-off while staying affect the general performance By Khaled Assem ensure his own acceptance, straight all through. and purity of a successful jump. confidenceand calmness to All photos by Cymon Taylor be able to communicate these On a further note, there is another The goal is to help the horse to between the horse and rider is There is a continuous through to his horse. important element to the jump About the author: maintain a calm attitude while a special language based on the bond between the that we must consider; a rider Eng. Khaled Assem is a certified moving forward utilizing well his aids of the rider and the memory rider and his horse. Another essential ingredient with his own centre of gravity plus Level 2 FEI trainer. He has body and muscles while staying of the horse. This language and This bond is based on to the success of the jump is that of the horse, both combined been training for over 15 years, attentive to the riders’ aids. those aids will never take solid mutual understanding, the willingness of the horse. in continuous motion. The horse competing internationally for 10 hold unless they are received with common training and Willingness to respond to the and rider act as a projectile over years and locally for 25 years. acceptance. The mode of communication acceptance and trust from the aids of the rider to allow for the fence subject to the forces of

70 71 72 73 Impulsion is the movement of a horse when it is going forward with TThehe AArtrt ofof CClassicallassical DDressageressage controlled power. Related to the concept of collection, impulsion helps a horse effectively use the power in its hindquarters. To achieve impulsion, a horse is not using speed, but muscular control; the horse exhibits a relaxed spinal column, which allows its hindquarters to come well under its body and “engage” so that IImpulsionmpulsion they can be used in the most effective manner to move the horse forward at any speed. By Emad Eldin Zaghloul The concept and term was first be working with impulsion when more elastic, light and expressive, written about by practitioners of it pushes off energetically from but provides the animal with the dressage, but an ability to move the ground and swings its feet power needed to perform the with impulsion is a desired goal in well forward.” The USEF states, required movements. This is most other equestrian disciplines. “Impulsion is the term used to especially true for those requiring Jacques Toffi Jacques Impulsion occurs when a horse is describe the transmission of an collection, such as passage, under human control and is one of eager and energetic, yet controlled piaffe, pirouette, tempi changes. the desired goals in horse training, propulsive energy generated from In jumping poor impulsion is often but it may sometimes be exhibited the hindquarters into the athletic linked to horses failing to clear by a horse in a free and natural movement of the horse. Its obstacles state. Impulsion allows any horse ultimate expression can be shown gait to be more elastic and light. It only through the horse’s soft and Good riding is needed to create also provides the animal with the swinging back to be guided by impulsion in any horse, although power needed to perform complex a gentle contact with the rider’s some horses may be built in movements, including the piaffe hand.” such a way that they can more and the airs above the ground. naturally create impulsion (such Within the dressage world, there In competitive dressage circles, as those with an “uphill” build). is an unresolved debate whether impulsion is defined by the German The horse must be forward, yet impulsion can only occur in gaits Training Scale, which states that relaxed, and coming correctly “on which have a period of suspension, impulsion is only possible in gaits the bit” by coming up through the the trot and canter, or if it occurs at having a moment of suspension, back. Additionally, a horse must be any gait, including the walk and the such as the trot and canter, but straight, with “throughness.” The ambling gaits. not the walk. This is the current rider should use correct driving position of the USDF However aids, and contain the energy DEFINITIONS others differ, however. Oliveira created by the engaged hind described impulsion as necessary legs. Ideally, this is accomplished There are competing definitions at all paces: “If your horse goes through persuasion of the horse, of impulsion. The 2007 USDF from walk to trot without changing not bullying. rule book defines it as“ ...Thrust. the head and neck position, the Releasing of the energy stored walk had good impulsion.” Outside Impulsion occurs in all gaits: the by engagement. The energy is the world of competitive dressage, walk, the trot, plus the canter transmitted through a back that is impulsion is considered necessary and even the ambling gaits of free from negative tension and is at all gaits, encouraged in gaited gaited horses. Because the walk manifested in the horse’s elastic, horses and in horses used for has no moment of suspension, whole-body movement.” The western riding. Impulsion at the it is a difficult gait to perform with classical dressage trainer Nuno walk is encouraged and judged impulsion. Impulsion at various Oliveira described impulsion as, in many lower level dressage and gaits may not always appear the “...A mental and physical state combined driving competitions same. In the walk, it is seen when of the horse to obey the rider’s that do not necessarily follow the the hindquarters are engaged and demands as fast as possible, to current trends in international the gait is “purposeful yet relaxed.” move forward and to maintain his judging. The USEF describes impulsion at forward impulsion without support the piaffe as follows: “The piaffe from the aids...” and “Impulsion PURPOSE AND REQUIREMENTS must always be animated by a means to maintain the energy lively impulsion and characterized within the cadence.”Another Impulsion is very important in all by a perfect balance. While giving definition is that“ a horse is said to equestrian disciplines, because the impression of being in place have impulsion when the energy good impulsion allows the horse there may be a visible inclination created by the hind legs is being to effectively utilize the power to advance, this being displayed transmitted into the gait and in its hindquarters. Impulsion is by the horse’s eager acceptance into every aspect of the forward particularly important in dressage. to move forward as soon as he is movement. A horse can be said to It not only makes the horse’s gait asked. 74 75 PPhilippehilippe LLemireemire WWhenhen PPassionassion TTakesakes thethe LLeadead

By Engy Adham H orsetimes

The horse loving French photographer Philippe Lemire has found his way to the world of equestrian sport through his lens. Following Lemire’s professional timeline, you can see that he has a heart full of love for horses; it was only a matter of time for this spark to flourish

From a full time computer instructor, director of horse stables, then to a national equestrian coach, Lemire found his heart and soul in photography. Since then, Lemire and his camera have been inseparable. Lemire started his journey in the equestrian world teaching children principles of breeding, cleaning and dressing a young horse. He has been coaching and preparing novice horse riders to be able to join the big competitions. He accumulated experience that qualifies him to organize competitions. Lemire’s rich journalistic history equipped him with great experiences. He started as a photojournalist for many French newspapers and publications such as: France Soir newspaper, VSD magazine and Paris Match magazine. For 25 years, he has been heavily involved in photojournalism in France until he owned his own stable. Since then, he merged his love for journalism and photography with his passion for horses; he has been accompanying famous riders and travelling around many countries shooting equestrian events and competitions. He has featured Abdelkebir from Morocco and many others from Cuba, Canada, USA, Mauritius and many other countries. Lemire’s passion for photography has been crowned by many international events he showcased through his lens. Philippe Lemire has captured the beautiful moments of the 2015 Salon du Cheval d’El Jadida in Morocco, CHI Geneva 2015 and the 2015 Longines Global Champions Tour in Paris. The latest of his work simply shows that the making of a photograph requires more than a good camera and an excellent lens; it requires passion. 76 77 Madam Siham has been painting since 1959. Her very and personal life, and I stopped painting for 25 years,“ meticulous touch and passion for the art has led to the Moharram continues. “I started painting again using development of an impressive oeuvre of more than 60 oil colours with my original wood burning to further paintings. improve and develop my artwork.”

“I have pursued my lifelong dream of being an artist She uses the art of “drawing with fire” to tell the story of and I am now enjoying the results of this success with her love and passion for horses. my family through such exhibitions held nationally and internationally,” Moharram said. The Academy of Arts is a large educational complex in Cairo established by the Ministry of Culture to The Director of the Academy of Arts and Dean of the reinforce the importance of the Egyptian culture and Higher Institute of Ballet Dr. Ahlam Younis and the revive it through various disciplines of arts. Director of the 25/30 Hall for Graphics and Fine Arts Dr. Mohamed Azab escorted Madam Siham, along with her All photos by Islam Khaled distinguished guests, at the opening of the exhibition. FOR more information and for “I have been painting since I was in high school, but I COMMISSONS,CALL: got busy with my studies along with my professional +2 0100 999 6920

Siham Moharram at the exhibition

Siham Moharram Exhibition at Academy of Arts A NATURAL Talent

Egyptian professional wood burning artist Siham Moharram was showcased at the Academy of Arts this past December; the exhibition gathered many reputed and distinguished artists and art aficionados in the art scene in Egypt.

Dr. Ahlam Younis

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