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[RC] [Endurance Riding: News] UAE: International Riders to compete in AlMaktoum Cup - Steph TeeterWorld’s best in UAE The world’s leading riders descend upon the UAE this week for the inaugural AED1.5milllion HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup 2008 – the world’s most valuable endurance event. Omega is the title sponsor of the FEI CEI*** 160km event held at Dubai International Endurance City on Saturday, and it has attracted three of the world’s top 10 riders, according to the FEI World Wide Rankings, including the second-ranked Frenchman Jack Begaud. The ride is over six loops and starts at 6am and has enticed 26 overseas-based riders in total, as well as many of the top UAE riders. The ride is organized by the Dubai Equestrian Club (DEC), whose General Manager Ali Moosa Al Khamiri, said: “The HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup is set to be one of the top sporting events taking place in the UAE, and we are indebted to the vision of His Highness for making it happen. “Endurance has a huge profile in the UAE, where many of the best riders hail from, and it is fitting that the country hosts such a prestigious event, one which we hope will become the centerpiece of the endurance season worldwide. “We are indebted also to Omega, our title sponsor, and are delighted that they have been rewarded with such a top-class line-up of riders. We wish everyone an enjoyable day, and wish all those taking part the best of luck.” Entrance is free and spectators can sample the action up close on the course as DEC will operate a fleet of 4x4 cars for desert drives. Alternatively, fans can keep in touch with the action via big screens. There will be plenty of action off the track too with a variety of family entertainment and a jazz band that will play throughout the afternoon. A full field of International riders will compete in the 2008 Shk Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum cup. Riders from France, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Great Britain, Italy, Portugal, Norway and Australia include: Jack Begaud Virgine Atger Jean Philippe Frances Sophie Arnaud Philippe Tomas Jean Michel Grimal Philippe Benoit Cecile Miletto Larent Mosti Elodie Le Labourier Julie Lafaure Barbara Lissarrague Marianne Hahnel Sabrina Arnold Ander Mato Garcia Yon Zabalua Karin Boulanger Anna Williams Janice Cockley Adams Liz Taylor Patrizia Giacchero Fausto Fiorucci Gianluca Laliscia Rui Pereira Ellen Suhr Meg Wade -- Posted By Steph Teeter to Endurance Riding: News at 1/06/2008 10:18:00 AM
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