
Sheikh Hamdan crowned champion of FEI World Equestrian Games
3 finger victory for UAE
Dubai's Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum won the gold medal in the individual championship at the world's biggest equestrian event, which drew a total of 173 of the finest riders from 47 countries.
"Ascending to the peak can only be achieved by diligence and good planning and staying at the helm requires determination and persistence for success.'' said Sheikh Mohammed. Before adding: ''U.A.E. riders have become a hard figure in international competitions given their long experience and high ability which enable them to compete in toughest challenges and win professionally and this is what we experience in the Emiratis who recognised that the first place is only reserved for hard workers and loyal achievers.''
Sheikh Hamdan finished first with an impressive time of 08:80.20 hours – successfully beating the other international riders, though he was facing a tough time after the withdrawal of four UAE knights.
Through this win, the UAE will now keep the gold title which was earned by HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid in the 2012 FIA World Endurance Championship at Euston Park, UK, – retaining the title until 2016.