Sheikh Rashid Dalmook Al Maktoum Leads MRM Stables 1-2 Sweep of HH Endurance Cup

MRM Stables were consistent from start to finish and led by Sheikh Rashid Dalmook Al Maktoum they seized an impressive 1-2 finish in the prestigious HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup CEI3* held over the 160km course at Dubai International Endurance City on Saturday, January 11, 2014

Aboard his mount Aghaab, Sheikh Rashid departed for the final loop 14 seconds ahead of teammate Saif Ahmed Al Mozroui on Nopoli Del Ma. At the finished of the 20km final loop the pair were only separated by a mere three seconds, 6:22:44 and 6:22:47.  

A total of 105 international riders, representing 13 countries, competed in the event that also featured the only three riders that had ever won the race. Each of the three had double wins in the race and include: Omar Husain Abdulla Al Bloushi, who won the inaugural ride in 2008 and repeated in 2011, Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri, the victor in 2009 and 2010, who was the first two-time winner and Abdulla Ghanim Al Marri, the 2012 and 2013 winner, was the only rider to win in consecutive years. 

Sheikh Rashid said: “This is an honour to win His Highness Endurance Cup and one that I did not expect. Before today’s race I thought I had a good chance to finish in the top three. The way this horse finished the final loop – it was amazing.

“It was a tough race. The sand is not deep here in Dubai and this course is known for high speed. I am so pleased for our team to take the top three finishes. This is really amazing for our team and I am so proud of everyone.” 

Organised and hosted by the Dubai Equestrian Club, the HH Endurance Cup was presented by Longines, the official timekeeper of Meydan Group.

The roster of riders also included many prominent competitors including Sheikh Hamed Dalmook Al Maktoum, Sheikh Saeed Bin Maktoum Bin Khalifa Al Maktoum and Sheikh Hasher Bin Mohammed Thani Juma Al Maktoum. 

In winning the HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup, Sheikh Rashid was awarded an elegant Longines Conquest Classic Chronograph Automatic Rose Gold timepiece.