In a spectacular display of equestrian prowess, Emirati rider Mohammed Rashed Mugheer Al Ameemi captured victory at the prestigious His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Festival on Wednesday. Piloting his nine-year-old mount Zeus FF through 120 kilometers of demanding terrain, Al Ameemi secured a narrow six-second triumph over rival Mohamed Salem Al Hammadi in one of endurance racing’s most thrilling contests.
The dramatic Private Stables ride, held at Dubai International Endurance City in Seih Al Salam, unfolded as a masterclass in strategic pacing and horsemanship. Al Ameemi’s winning time of 4 hours, 30 minutes, and 38 seconds culminated a remarkable comeback after sitting fourth midway through the competition. The victory marked a significant achievement for Al Mugheer Private Stables against a field of international competitors.
Al Hammadi, representing Alfawaris Private Stables, finished closely behind at 4:30:44, while Lebanese rider Aya Ali Akkoumi claimed third position aboard At Dial Range Sharjah with a time of 4:31:11. The race saw early leader Eisa Hamoud Alkhayari disqualified following veterinary inspection, highlighting the sport’s rigorous animal welfare standards.
The festival, which honors UAE Vice President and Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum—himself a world champion endurance rider—drew prominent equestrian figures including Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Rashid bin Dalmouk Al Maktoum. Their presence underscored the event’s significance within the UAE’s sporting calendar.
Al Ameemi described the victory as ‘a dream come true,’ praising Zeus FF’s ‘incredible stamina and heart’ throughout the grueling competition. The win continues a strong showing for private stables following Milena Mendez’s triumph in Tuesday’s Ladies Ride.
The festival continues through Saturday featuring the Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares and the premier 160km Sheikh Mohammed Endurance Cup, maintaining Dubai’s position as a global hub for elite endurance racing.