2012 World Endurance Championship News

RECAP OF THE 2012 LONGINES WORLD ENDURANCE CHAMPIONSHIP

Saturday August 25 2012

You never know who you're going to bump into riding in a World Endurance Championship. Like, say, a Prime Minister (who happened to win), or several Princes (one finished second, one finished 6th; one got pulled at the first vet gate, one got pulled at the 4th vet gate), or a King (who finished 38th). You might see previous World Endurance Champions (one finished 4th, one finished 20th). You might encounter a 71-year-old man from Argentina (who rode a beautiful horse but was pulled at vet gate 3), or a 14-year-old boy who's the 2012 Portuguese Champion after starting his endurance qualifications just 6 months earlier (he finished 47th).

Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, the Prime Minister of the UAE, has been gunning for this gold medal win for a long time. His Highness got involved in endurance in the mid-1990's, when he bought Fire and Gold, the horse Valerie Kanavy rode to a second place finish in the 1996 WEC. His Highness's first World Championship ride was in the 2002 WEC in Spain, where he did not complete; in the Dubai WEC in 2005 he finished 2nd after the winner was disqualified; in the USA WEC in 2010, he finished 2nd. This year he won.

Since deciding to participate in endurance, the Shaikhs did it in a big way: they went out and bought up all the best endurance horses around the world. Paid big bucks in some cases. The Shaikhs have, as rumor has it, 'a thousand horses' in each of their stables around the world (if that number is exaggerated, "limitless" might be apt). They employ hundreds of trainers, grooms, riders, and veterinarians, who prepare and maintain their horses for endurance.

The French used to be the Kings of Endurance, until the Shaikhs bought up all their good French horses - possibly that's why the French were only going for the Silver Team medal this year at the WEC. They got it, with their team members Pierre Fleury, Philippe Tomas, and Jean-Philippe Frances finishing 9th, 10th, and 13th. "This was a strong team," said the French team vet, Christophe Pelissier. "Silver was our target and we will be aiming higher next time," he said.

More...

Mohammad is new world endurance champion

Delivers a tactical ride to secure gold and lead the UAE to victory in the team championship

By M Satya Narayan, Abu Dhabi Deputy EditorPublished: 20:57 August 25, 2012

Abu Dhabi: His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, secured a historic double in the Longines FEI World Endurance Championships in the UK Saturday.

He won the individual gold medal and also led the UAE squad to the team gold at the event, which was held at Euston Hall near Thetford, Suffolk.

Riding 12-year-old Madji Du Pont, Shaikh Mohammad galloped to the finish to lead home a 1-2-3 finish of the individual medals, with Shaikh Rashid Dalmook Al Maktoum winning the silver and Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri the bronze.

Shaikh Mohammad covered the 160km distance in a time of 7 hours 00:45 minutes with an average speed of 22.8km, while Shaikh Rashid was clocked at 7:01.04 and Ali Khalfan at 7:01.04...

read more here:
http://gulfnews.com/sport/horse-racing/mohammad-is-new-world-endurance-champion-1.1065965

Thumbs up for endurance champs venue, organisers

By Horsetalk.co.nz on Aug 27, 2012 in Focus

The weekend’s World Endurance Championships at Euston Park have been described as a showcase for the sport, with FEI first vice-president John McEwen declaring it a “wonderful sporting occasion”.

The race was won by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum riding Madji Du Pont, in a ride time of 7hr and 45sec at an average speed of 22.82km/hr. The first three riders home were all from the United Arab Emirates which also won the team competition taking gold ahead of France with Oman emerging as a new force in the sport to take bronze.

Speaking after the closing ceremony held at Euston Hall on August 26, John McEwen said: “I have been involved with endurance riding for nearly 30 years and have watched it grow almost from its infancy – yesterday was a showcase for the discipline and a wonderful sporting occasion. I had the privilege of being out on course for two of the loops and seeing the riders and crews at work and the atmosphere was incredible.

“I also watched the finish and I thought that the horses came in after 160km in superb condition. The level of this sport particularly the standard in managing the horses is extremely high...

read more here:
http://horsetalk.co.nz/2012/08/27/thumbs-up-endurance-champs-venue-organisers/#.UDz6PWie7tE

United Arab Emirates riders sweep the gold medals at the Longines FEI World Endurance Championships

Newmarket, UK – Saturday, August 25 started out pleasant at Euston Park, but throughout the day the weather deteriorated into heavy downpours and severe thunderstorms. Due to the extreme weather, officials had to call the race off for the safety of the horses and riders. In an unusual finish to an endurance race, several riders were placed based on the position they were in at the time that the race was called, but the majority of the riders finished the sixth and final loop.

The U.S. Team made quite a showing against stiff competition finishing in fourth place with a combined time of 24:45:00. Valerie Kanavy (Fort Valley, VA) was the first member of the team to finish with Reach For The Gold in 20th place with a time of 08:00:06. Jeremy Reynolds (Dunnellon, FL) and A Kutt Above were right behind her, finishing in 21st place with a time of 08:00:09. Heather Reynolds (Dunnellon, FL) and Riverwatch finished in 36th place with a time of 08:44:45. John Crandell III (West River, MD) was unable to finish the race when Heraldic did not pass the mandatory re-check at Vet Check 5.

Margaret “Meg” Sleeper (Frenchtown, NJ) and Syrocco Reveille had an amazing day at Euston Park. Sleeper was the first U.S. rider to cross the finish line, finishing in 11th place with a time of 07:49:11. The pair had an average speed of 20.46 kph.

With a time of 21:22:37, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) claimed Team Gold as well as sweeping all of the Individual medals. France won Team Silver with a time of 23:24:47 and Oman won Team Bronze with a time of 23:55:46. HH Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum (UAE) rode Madji du Pont to Individual Gold with a time of 7:00:45 and an average speed of 22.82 kph, followed closely behind by UAE teammates HE Sheikh Rashid Dalmook Al Maktoum on Yamamah (07:01:04) and Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri on Vendaval (07:01:04). The 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Gold medalist Maria Alvarez Ponton of Spain finished fourth with her WEG partner Nobby. The Best Conditioned Horse was Ikland ridden by Alex Luque Moral of Spain. The pair finished fifth individually.

How the Longines FEI World Endurance Championships 2012 was Won (or lost)

How the Longines FEI World Endurance Championships 2012 was Won (or lost)

by David Marlin

www.davidmarlin.com

How did 2 HH Sh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum know how fast to go to win the FEI World Endurance Championships at Euston Park yesterday (25^th August 2012)? Having ridden around similar courses in competitions run from Euston Park in the past 3-4 years would definitely have helped. Although the course would not have been exactly the same as any used previously, there are a limited number of tracks that could be used. The fact that the area is essentially flat means that the time should be similar to 160km courses used before. Another factor that of course need to be considered would be the environmental conditions. The hotter, more humid, less cloud and less wind there is, the slower the speed. Watching what other riders do is also a factor that needs to be considered when setting out a strategy. You need to be up with the front runners to stand a chance of winning, but running with the front runners increases your chance of elimination.

No two endurance races will be run exactly the same, but if you don’t like leaving things to chance and like statistics and numbers, then looking back at previous times for 160km races rides at Euston Park would seem obvious. And I suspect that this is what many teams would have done in their preparation for the 2012 FEI World Endurance Championships this weekend. But, even the strong evidence of previous times for 160km race rides at Euston as an indicator of race strategy would not give the whole picture. The missing factor? This was a World Championship, and they don’t necessarily have to follow the rules. In a World Championship you have a very high number of horses and riders, and a larger proportion of these than normal would be in with a chance of winning. This usually means that speeds would be expected to be a little faster than normal for such a course. The difficulty we have with endurance is that due to the distances involved, environmental conditions, going (footing), terrain and technical difficulty (e.g. number and frequency of turns) all have a major impact on the speed a 160km can be won at.

So what should we have expected from previous 160km race rides at Euston Park over the past 3 seasons and how did this match up to the race pattern and winning speed for the Longines FEI World Endurance Championships 2012?

The ride data for 2010, 2011 and 2012 for 160km senior rides at Euston Park was analysed. Each Summer for the past three years the rides have been held regularly and over similar terrain.

So the first question I had is “have the 160km race rides at Euston Park (4 in 2010, 4 in 2011 and 3 in 2012 [there was a 4^th 160km race ride in 2012 but it was slow by Euston Park normal standards, only had 4 starters and 2 finishers and so I decided not to include it]) been getting faster over the past 3 seasons?”. The answer to this one is a simple “no”. The fastest time for a 160km at Euston Park over the past 3 years was on the 25^th July 2010 (22.2 kmh), followed by 21.6 kmh on 9^th June 2010. That said, the last two race rides this season at Euston before the Longines FEI World Endurance Championships both posted winning speeds of 21.3 kmh! So over the past 3 seasons at Euston, the average winning speed for 11, 160km race rides was 20.8 kmh, with the fastest being 22.2kmh and the slowest being 18.9kmh.

Thus, with “normal” August conditions this weekend and with good going (i.e. not too soft), I would have to be expecting the winner to complete in a time of 22.2kmh + a little extra to allow for the fact that this is a championship. In fact, 2 HH Sh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum finished with an average speed of 22.8kmh. At this stage I am not clear whether the thunder and torrential rain slowed down the riders on course significantly, so it is conceivable that he would have completed with an even faster time. But the point I think is made. The fact that it was a championship lead to a winning time slightly faster than would be typical for Non-World Championship race rides over 160km at Euston Park. What’s more, using this approach, presumably most teams would have known what speeds they should have been targeting on each loop to keep in contention. Or alternatively, they would have simply tried to keep up with those setting the pace.

So, in conclusion, when it comes to the average speed over 160km for the winner, there are no real surprises. But what about the pattern of the race on a loop by loop basis? Again, this information is freely available and lends itself to analysis to look for patterns based on previous race rides over 160km at Euston Park.

What is clear from this analysis, is that the first loop was extremely fast compared with the average for loop 1 for all the winners of 160km race rides at Euston. Actually, whilst I have used the term “average” , I actually used the median, which reduces the influence of loops that were slower or faster than the “norm”. It can also be seen from the graph that winners at Euston typically have a faster 3^rd loop than the 2^nd loop, but this did not happen for HH Sh Mohammed. This was probably a consequence of the very fast first loop.

At the time of writing, the times for the 5^th and 6^th loops are no available – there was a power loss during the thunderstorms which resulted in a disruption to the timing. (I have to say I’m not sure why given that August is a peak month for thunderstorms that there were not uninterruptable power supplies and surge protectors that would have kept the timing systems up and running in the event of a loss in mains power). As soon as the times for the 5^th and 6^th loops are posted I’ll finish the analysis. My predictions are that HH Sh Mohammed would have completed the 5^th Loop at 21.2 kmh and the final loop at 23 kmh. We shall see!

Mohammed - Titan of Endurance

Sarah Taryam
August 28 2012

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, raised the UAE flag at Euston Hall in Suffolk, England, on Saturday after winning the FEI World Endurance Championships 2012. The UAE also took 2nd and 3rd place along with team gold.

One hundred and fifty-two riders from 38 countries rode through the beautiful English countryside to cover 160km in just over seven hours. On his 12-year-old French-bred chestnut horse, Madji du Pont, Sheikh Mohammed raced through what he described as “good conditions.”

Sheikh Mohammed and his family’s passion for horses is well known. His father, the late Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, taught him and his brothers how to ride at a young age and in doing so planted a deep love and respect for this magnificent animal.

The efforts and hard work of Sheikh Mohammed for equestrian sports began many years ago and have cemented the UAE’s profile in the equestrian field and established a strong foundation for the sports which has been thriving in recent years.

In 1992 he established the racing stable Godolphin which has grown into one of the biggest, most successful breeding and racing stables in the world. Their results span all over the globe with wins from Australia to America.

The Dubai World Cup was created by Sheikh Mohammed in 1996. In 2010 it became the world’s richest horse race with a prize fund of $10 million. The event draws in equestrian enthusiasts from all over the globe who come to watch the elite of thoroughbreds compete.

Sheikh Mohammed has shown himself to be a true athlete. With many Endurance wins, Sheikh Mohammed has led the UAE Endurance team to high success and they continue to dominate at major championships around the world.

To be able to obtain such results requires both horse and rider to possess great fitness, stamina and be in peak condition. For a man with Sheikh Mohammed’s responsibilities to come out and win such a tough race is admirable to say the least.

He continues to inspire people with his dedication to equestrian sports and knowledge about the animal he holds so dear. His accomplishments are a fine example to the people of the UAE that through sheer hard work, pure ambition and a clear vision one is capable of accomplishing greatness. His horse sense is like a lion’s roar.

WEC PRE-RIDE SOUNDBITES

LONGINES WORLD ENDURANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2012

Emmett Ross – Chef D’Equipe USA
“I think we have some good horses but the competition is going to be very tough, to earn an individual medal it will be very hard, we hope to be in apposition to get a team medal.
“We have the right people and the right team and it requires a lot of strategy but we’re confident.
“We have many experience horses and many have done 100 milers, some have won the Tevis Cup.
“We’re anxious about the vetting as our horses haven’t come yet! But they have all been checked by our team vet so we are confident we should be fine to pass this section of the race.
“There is usually a 40% completion rate across the board and it is generally spread across all of the teams but we are hoping for better than that.”

UAE - Mohammed Essa Al Adhab, Deputy General Manager, Dubai Equestrian Club “The UAE is very happy to be involved in this championship on a number of levels and organisation and we wish all the athletes and teams a good result. The UAE team is one of the strongest at this event and we hope that we can achieve our target.”

USA - Carol Giles, US team selector
“We’re really excited about the race tomorrow. I think we have an outstanding team and we’ve set ourselves up to do really well.
“I have seen some of the course and I think it is of course a little more challenging than prior world championships, definitely more technical. It is going to require more turns and gate changes. Riders with good balance with their horse will have an advantage.
“We do have some concerns about the weather and keeping the horses warm if it does get wet and cold. Since the riders have been here they’ve not managed to see any muddy conditions, so we’ll have to see how we cope if it does get wet. It is a really great venue and we are really honoured to be here. Everyone has been very helpful and welcoming and we had a great view of the fireworks last night at the opening ceremony.”

South Africa - Eoné Willemse, 24, rider with My Wild Irish Gold
“I’m very excited about tomorrow. It’s a nice venue and the trail is well marked, it has some interesting turns to it too.
“From what I have seen of the course it seems soft and nicely footed, although tricky in some parts. The wildlife, venue and scenery are lovely. I am really aiming for a good finish, so we’ll see how the day shakes out.
“If it does rain tomorrow, we’ll have to just pay attention to the horse and make sure he is well balanced and doesn’t slip and slide.
“The opening ceremony was wonderful. The fireworks and the horse show were really something to watch. The entertainment was really well done.”

Great Britain – Tora Thomas, support team member
“The opening ceremony was amazing, probably the best I’ve been to. It was lovely how everyone mingled, it didn’t matter if you were a rider, manager or organiser, it was really inclusive.
“The nerves are beginning to build about the vetting this afternoon. Even if you are totally happy with the horse, all it takes is the horse to step one a stone and that ride is over before you’ve even started.
“It’s a deceptive course, your first impression is that it is quite easy. But there are a lot of different terrains and different going. So although it’s flat everywhere apart from the Red route, what’s under foot is very deceptive. You can be going over hard stoney stuff one minute but deep sand the next. The river crossings are going to be slippery. There are a lot of tree routes, twists, turns and banks. There are things to be aware of every metre of the 160km. It is going to be a really true test of horsemanship.
“Every championship throws up something different. Last year at the Europeans it was probably one of the most strenuous due to the elevation changes, but the going under foot there was much m ore consistent, so you weren’t having to look underfoot all the time. So I think we have been lucky recently in that all of the championships have been true tests but in different ways.”

Lithuania - Vidmastas Staskevicius, team vet
“For us it is very important to finish - to pass the first inspection and to enjoy taking part in the sport.
“We have a very good farrier and special shoes, so we aren’t worried about the rain that is forecast for tomorrow. We have been doing this sport a lot of years so we are pretty confident.”

Australia – Peter Toft, chef d’equipe
“At the start of the championships, the pre-ride vetting is going smoothly. We’re amazed at the facility, it is all horse friendly. It is a world championship and there is a lot of activity so the horses seem a little apprehensive about that but it is a very exciting race coming up tomorrow.
“The parts of the course we’ve seen so far are really impressive. It’s a true international course - it may be relatively flat but it is pretty technical, so I expect it will produce a true champion.
“Australia’s endurance at the moment is in a re-build phase, so we don’t have great aspirations for the
“Our training has been quite different this year as we’ve been training for this particular event. We’ve got a lot of mountainous had courses, so we’ve been trying to train on softer ground, to practice going faster for longer.”

Italy - Simona Garrati [Badr Dell’Orsetta] – former Italian National Champion competing at her second world championship
“The course and track look very good, it is the weather that could cause difficulties for us. We are not predicting individual medals but are aiming to have all four team horses home around the top 10.”

Japan – Kiyotaka Yaguchi, assistant chef d’equipe
“Japan is not an advanced country in terms of the sport of endurance so our goal tomorrow will be for all three of our team members to finish so that we can complete the team event. Euston Park is a fast course and lameness can be a factor but we want our horses to continue to the finish so we have no intention of going too fast.”

Equador - Rafaella d’Arquea, 19, rider [Jqishma Beauty] competing at her first senior World Championship
“My horse is from Uruguay and I have only been riding him for two months. He is quite soft and sensible most of the time but doesn’t like to be behind other horses – that’s when he goes crazy. At the start I will be aiming to be in the middle of the field and then see how he goes. I have not seen much of the track but from what I have seen, you have to use your head.” Brazil – Mauricio Bittar, team vet
“Our team of horses and riders is very good. I am very proud of them they have prepared well and I think there is every chance that we could have our best world championship yet. This climate is ideal for us – a British summer is the same as the Brazillian winter back home so we are not worried about the weather – we are totally prepared.”

France - Phillippe Benoit, rider, previous gold medallist with the team in Portugal and Aachen (Akim de Boulve)
“This is my fifth time as a member of the French squad and I came 10th here at the trial event last year so I am very determined. My horse is 14 and so it might be his last world championship so I would like to do it for him. He has been very special, the horse of a lifetime. It will be very difficult for us though because this is a very big championship with some strong teams – the UAE, Qatar. I am pleased to be here – I am now the only member of the French team not working full time as a rider – in my other life I am a farmer.”

Denmark – Tanja Van Willigen, rider (Shajan)
“My hope is to complete in the best possible time for my horse. This is a very technical course with a high level of eliminations through lameness in the past so you have to go carefully. For the last year I have been doing aqua training with my horse – it has made him stronger and more muscular. I have seen that when we are cantering over short distances we are up to 1km faster than before. I am very excited about the start – he is a strong horse who likes to run.”

Norway – Ellen Suhr, rider (Shah Nahim)
“I was very pleased to pass my vetting this afternoon. I am nervous about tomorrow as I think it will be difficult with so many people starting all at once. I plan to chase the lead but go steady, just behind.
“I have only seen the training course, I don’t think the ground is the best so I have to be careful tomorrow.
“I haven’t had much time to train as I have two small children, a one and a half and three year old and work full time. So I try to train every second day and the rest he goes in the horse walker.
“I qualified in the Swedish championship I came second and got best conditioned. Getting that result does make me confident for tomorrow but I am very nervous of the start.
“My horse is quite excited at the moment so I am sending my husband out riding on him this evening.”

Spain – Ignasi Casas, Chef D’Equipe
“We are quite confident as we have a lot of horses who have been doing very well recently at big races, including the Europeans and here at Euston Park last year. “Three of our riders are at a world championship for the first time, for two of them it is their first international competition, but everyone is excited and feeling confident.
“The course is fast and tricky. Lots of turning and changes from grass to track, it makes it difficult for the horse. You think you can go fast but all the time you have to start and stop.
“We’ve been practicing using tracks and making the horses change transitions. Making them learn how to balance on tracks by cantering from grass over tracks and back again. “We plan to push tomorrow and go for a good result - we would like to be first! We’ve been first four times and the conditions are good so we would like a win.”

Longines FEI World Endurance Championships 2012 set to open with a strong field and a flourish

The Longines FEI World Endurance Championships (25th August 2012) will open this evening (Thusday 23rd August 2012) with a lavish opening ceremony in the grounds of Euston Hall near Thetford, Suffolk.

A press conference today (23rd August) heard that the event to declare the competition officially open would celebrate the horse with a sensational display.

Created by Prisme International, the spectacle will include 3D mapping onto the side of Euston Hall following by a breath taking live show including fifty dancers together with performers and opera singers.

Organisers said creator Pierre Markout’s ceremony would also reflect the equestrian spirit of the Championships including a display by Mario Lurashi, one of the world’s leading stunt riders.

The multi-layered ceremony will also be lighting up the skies using a choreographed firework display, laser lighting and a hot-air balloon.

Speaking at the opening press conference, Ian Williams, FEI Director Non-Olympic Sports said: “These Championships will be a benchmark for others to follow in the future. It is a significant step up that reflects the worldwide growth and strength of endurance, which is now the second largest of the FEI disciplines.”

Ian Williams confirmed that there had been definite entries from 153 horse and rider combinations from 38 nations with 29 teams entered.

Mohammed Esse Al Adhab, President of the Organising Committee said: “Our focus at all times in creating this competition has been the welfare of the horse and rider as the number one priority. The Championships and opening ceremony will be a celebration of the athleticism of the endurance horse.”

Technical advisor John Robertson told the conference that the course would be “highly technical”.

He said: “This is a true riders’ course with lots of twists and tight turns. In some parts the track has been worn away leaving exposed flint stones – this going will need skill to negotiate and will benefit the most balanced horse and rider combinations.”

James MacEwan, Managing Director of Janah Management, organisers of the Championships, paid tribute to the hosting landowners and sponsors. “Without the support of the Duke of Grafton and the Euston Estate together with all the neighbouring landowners this event would simply not be possible and we are grateful to both them and our sponsors for their great generosity in enabling us to produce a competition of this quality and stature.”

Mohammed Al Khayat, Commercial Director of Meydan Group LLC said that Meydan together with title sponsor Longines and fellow supporting sponsor Emaar, was delighted to be involved in the Championships.

He said: “On behalf of Meydan, Longines and Emaar, we send all the horses and riders and their crews all good wishes for a wonderful Championships.”

Duke of Grafton opens Longines FEI World Endurance Championships 2012

The Duke of Grafton has officially opened the Longines FEI World Endurance Championship 2012 set to be held tomorrow (25th August 2012) at Euston Park near Thetford, Suffolk. Speaking at a lavish opening ceremony held last night at Euston Hall, the Duke welcomed 153 athletes and crews from 38 nations. Around 2000 guests included team members, crews and supporters who were also joined by UK Minister of Sport Hugh Robertson MP.

The Duke of Grafton said: “This gathering of 153 of the world’s leading endurance riders from all corners of the globe is the culmination of nearly a decade of development of Euston as a venue for the world’s fastest growing equestrian sport. It has been a hugely enjoyable process and it is a great honour to see you all here.

“At that first endurance ride held here in 2005 – there was a considerably smaller field, but nonetheless, it was my late father’s vision that one day, we would host a World Championship. It is sad for myself and family, that he is not here to see that dream realised, but I know that he would have been proud, to welcome you here today.

“Euston Hall has been the home of the Dukes of Grafton for more than 300 years. Traditionally renowned for their love of horse racing, the third and fourth Dukes could often be seen in this very parkland admiring the many successful horses they bred and trained. The Euston Estate comprises a rich mixture of woods and arable land and this, together with the generous support of neighbouring landowners, we hope will provide a stunning setting for a memorable sporting occasion.

“This wonderful course and spectacular venue would not however be possible without the support of our sponsors and I would like to add my thanks and those of the organizing committee to Longines, Meydan and to Emaar.

“I also want to pay tribute to all those who have worked tirelessly since we were awarded the honour of hosting the championships 15 months ago.

“It has been a fantastic summer of competitive sport with the European Football Cup and we have just enjoyed 16 days of glorious sporting action at the London 2012 Olympics, thanks in no small part to a huge army of volunteers – the Games Makers. Well we have our own team of Games Makers here in Suffolk, as there will be around 100 volunteers involved over the next few days, and I would like to thank them for their efforts.

“Finally to the riders, crews and supporters. To compete for your country at this level takes years of dedication and hard work to develop the special partnership between horse and rider and supreme athleticism to complete that grueling 100 miles in one day.

“I along with all the supporters here wish the very best of luck and great success for this exceptional competition that lies ahead.”

Ian Williams, Director of Non-Olympic Sports for the FEI said: “After so many months of planning, and dedicated hard work, we are now all here at the start of this World Championship.

“On behalf of the FEI President, her Royal Highness Princess Haya, we wish everyone an exciting, competitive and above all safe championship.

“On Sunday we will gather here again to present the FEI medals to those teams and individuals who have excelled at the very highest level of their sport.”

The event will see a star-studded field of riders and horses including three former world champions tackle the 160km (100-mile) championship course in a single day. The 14th running of the championships will see the current holder, Spain’s Maria Alvarez Ponton, attempt to match the USA’s Becky Hart in winning three World titles in succession – a feat first achieved by Hart in 1988, 1990 and 1992 with the great RO Grand Sultan.

Alvarez will partner her 17-year-old superstar Nobby as the pair attempt to make history.

Meanwhile HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, whose son Sheikh Ahmed won the world individual title in 2002 at the age of just 16 and one of the world’s leading racehorse owners, is also taking part leading a strong UAE defence of its world team title for the third time in succession.

A total of 29 teams have entered the championship including the host nation Great Britain who were last on the medal table at the 2000 World Championships in Compiegne, France.

Several landowners and farmers have given access to their land to enable the organisers to create a 100-mile route over the Breckland course covering heathland, forest tracks and open farmland. Hundreds of local volunteers will be involved in the event which is expected to draw around 2000 people including participants, crew, officials and spectactors.

The opening event was devised by show director Pierre Marcout together with Gilles Ledos and Jean Marc Chandoo of Prisme International.

Alongside title sponsor Longines, two Dubai industry giants, Meydan and Emaar Properties are additional supporters of the championships.

Three world champions line up at Euston

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: 19th August 2012

Star-studded line-up for Longines FEI World Endurance Championships 2012 A huge international field of 153 riders from 38 countries is set to line up for next week’s Longines FEI World Endurance Championships next week (25th August 2012) at Euston Park near Newmarket, Suffolk.

A star-studded field including three former world champions is set to tackle the FEI CEI 4* 160km competition whose title sponsor is Swiss watchmaker Longines. The 14th running of the championships will see Spain’s Maria Alvarez Ponton attempt to match the USA’s Becky Hart in winning three World titles in succession – a feat first achieved by Hart in 1988, 1990 and 1992 with the great RO Grand Sultan. Alvarez will partner her 17-year-old superstar Nobby as the pair attempt to make history. Already unbeaten in four successive championships, with two World and two European titles to their name since 2008, unlike Hart and RO Grand Sultan whose victories came on home ground in the USA and in Europe, Alvarez and Nobby have won over widely differing terrain. Their first victory in 2008 came at the inaugural world championship run in a tropical country which was held after the hours of darkness in Terengganu, Malaysia. They went on to romp home at the Europeans at Assisi in Italy in 2009 and then again over the relatively flat track at the Alltech Kentucky World Equestrian Games in 2010 following this up with an invincible performance over the steep climbs at Florac at the 2011 European Championships. A win at Euston Park would cement the diminutive 148cm-high Nobby’s place as the greatest endurance horse of all time.

Fittingly, Becky Hart stages a return to the USA team for the first time for several years as does her compatriot Valerie Kanavy, a double world champion. Meanwhile HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, whose son Sheikh Ahmed won the world individual title in 2002 at the age of just 16, will lead a strong UAE defence of its world team title for the third time in succession having won convincingly in both Kentucky and Terengganu.

Alvarez’s winning time of 7hr: 35min.44sec at the Alltech Kentucky World Equestrian Games in 2010 will be a target for the winning rider, while teams will be looking to emulate the UAE’s 2010 winning total ride time of 23hr53min36sec – the fastest yet scored a championship.

A total of 29 teams have entered the championship including the host nation Great Britain who were last on the medal table at the 2000 World Championships in Compiegne, France.

Championship organiser James MacEwan said: “We are looking forward to welcoming the world’s leading endurance riders and horses to Euston Park and to what should be a memorable championship in a great year for sport in Britain.”

Alongside title sponsor Longines, two Dubai industry giants, Meydan and Emaar Properties are additional supporters of the championships.

With around 1000 participants, riders, crew and officials, the championship will have a significant economic impact on the area around Euston Park and the Newmarket area during the build-up and immediately post competition.

Endurance World Championship route a 'deceptive challenge'

Route for Longines FEI World Endurance Championships 2012 a true championship test say organisers

Organisers of the Longines FEI World Endurance Championships at Euston Park, near Newmarket, Suffolk, UK have released final details of the 160km track that will test up to 150 riders from around 40 countries on 25th August 2012. The route comprises six loops of between 20km and 38km five of which take riders on different routes around the Suffolk countryside covering heathland, forest tracks, river meadows and open farmland all with the support of local landowners, farmers and the Forestry Commission. Appropriately, the field will be following in ancient footsteps as the route crosses the start of the historic 120mile Icknield Way, Britain’s oldest long-distance path. As a boost to horse and rider, at the end of the ride the final stretch takes the field back out over familiar territory with a repeat of the fourth 20km loop. However, course designers Steve Hulse and Gary Honeywill, say the main aim throughout the ride has been to provide interesting and varied terrain that will provide a true championship test.

Steve Hulse, a former jockey said: “The route may be flat, but it is deceptively difficult and requires real riding to get it right all the way to the finish. “We have created a route over the best going possible, it’s a track that riders will enjoy but it will need care in places particularly around some of the wooded sections. The three river crossings are a real feature.”

Reflecting the degree of difficulty presented, at the Championship test event in July 2011, there were 21 finishers from 71 starters. Riding Aghaab, which is among his nominated rides for the championship, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum won the FEI CEI*** 160km event in 7hr40min06sec, averaging 20.86km/hr.

Championship technical advisor John Robertson said: “The aim in staging a competition of this kind is to provide a track that is both inviting to all but from which the real champions emerge. The Euston Park course flows well but will also present a tough technical challenge.”

Championship host the Duke of Grafton said: “At the first endurance ride held here in 24 July 2005 it was my late father’s vision that one day, we would host a World Championship. It is very sad for myself and family, that he is not here to see that dream realized, but I know that he would be very proud of all that has been achieved.”

Championship organiser James MacEwan said: “We have been running endurance rides here at Euston Park for nearly 10 years and we hope that what we have here will become a benchmark for future championships.”

Reigning world champions, Spain’s Maria Alvarez and Nobby hold the record as the only combination to have claimed two world titles in succession and Spain will be hoping that Ms Alvarez is again among their line-up. The UAE currently holds the team world title. Alvarez’s winning time of 7hr:35min.44sec at the Alltech Kentucky World Equestrian Games in 2010 will be a target for the winning rider at this summer’s World Endurance Championships.

The full list of nominated entries for the competition will be published on 14th August 2012.

Alongside title sponsor Longines, two Dubai industry giants, Meydan and Emaar Properties are additional supporters of the championships.

With around 1000 participants, riders, crew and officials, the championship will have a significant economic impact on the area around Euston Park and the Newmarket area during the build-up and immediately post competition.

World Endurance Championships - Opening Ceremony

11th August 2012

Chair of Endurance GB, Jo Claridge has received more information regarding the Opening Ceremony. Provision will be made for the general public in a "Henman Hill" type area........

There will be large screens and loos for anyone who wants to see the ceremony and get involved in the atmosphere.

Jo says.......

Unfortunately there is physically not enough room to accommodate everyone round the area and those ticketed seats are reserved for competitors and official guests.

The logistics of accommodating an unknown number of visitors are proving very difficult for the organisers and I do hope that you can all understand the problems. Until the final declarations of entry are made it is impossible to estimate the number of competitors and all their entourages!

Janah Management Ltd is determined that no-one should feel left out and that provision is being made to allow everyone to enjoy the occasion as far as possible.

As Chairman I do urge you all to support this fantastic event - we have thoroughly enjoyed the Olympics - now we have our own version just for Endurance! There will be hiccups and disappointments - but please do come with a positive attitude!

Everyone is working really hard to make this a really enjoyable event - we have a fantastic Team representing Endurance GB - we just need your support!

Any suggestions for a more suitable name will be welcomed - "enclave" means an area or territory surrounded by another territory - seemed appropriate!!!!!!!!!!

Looking forward to seeing lots of you soon! Cheers, Jo

Euston Park hosts final qualifiers for Longines FEI World Endurance Championships 2012

Euston Park hosts final qualifiers for Longines FEI World Endurance Championships 2012

Sh Rashid bin Dalmook Al Maktoum and Kurajong Concorde from the UAE headed a strong field to win the penultimate qualifier for the Longines FEI  World Endurance Championships (25th August 2012) at Euston Park, near Newmarket, Suffolk, UK.  The pair completed the FEI CEI 3* 160km competition over August’s World Championship course in a ride time of 7hr30min14sec at an average speed of 21.32km/hr.

They won by a nose after a tight finish with Mohd Ahmad Al Subose and Kedjari Des Serres (UAE) in second place. Compatriot Mohd Saeed Mohd Al Faresi and Ainhoa Tijmili crossed the line six minutes later.

A total of 28 combinations took part in Sunday’s 160km qualifier run over the Euston Park course in the build-up to the Longines FEI World Endurance Championships.

Organised by Janah Management, Sunday’s programme featured a CEI 3* 160 km, CEI 2* 120km, a CEI 2* YR 120km and a CEI 1* 80km, with classes on Monday including a CEI 3* 160km and CEI 2* 120km.

The ride was completed in tough conditions with strong winds and bursts of heavy rain affecting the going.

As the penultimate qualifying ride for the World Championships ahead of the deadline on 26th June, the event attracted riders from around the globe. Having aimed to qualify ZT Richshakfy for a place on the British team, Susan Hawes sadly opted to withdraw on course on the fourth loop putting paid to her chances of qualifying for a place on the championship team in August.

"It’s a shame but he was not feeling quite right so it wasn't worth continuing - he's only 11 and there'll be another day. This course is really challenging and it will find out any niggles. I have huge respect for the horses that are out in front and still going strong - they are awesome," she said.

The other British contender Melanie Davison and CS Khan contesting their first 160km had aimed for a steady completion but also withdrew at the fourth vetgate. “This is definitely a championship course and very technical -  one minute you are in sand and the next mud and then harder tracks which means you really have to concentrate - it is tricky."

The UAE’s Saeed Ahmed Murad Al Khattal riding the Al Aasfa Stables-trained Glendaar Greystar captured the CEI 2* 120km class in fine style having led all the way from the first vetgate. The duo’s time of 5hr43min57sec was completed with a consistent performance across all five loops at an average speed of 21.28km/hr. They were chased home by fellow UAE riders Saeed Saqr Mohd Qabir Al Ameri with Saxon of Bedain and Spain’s Nuria Serrabasa Fabre and Nasik Des Fabries. Chris Wray, riding his first 120km with Takwenya was among four British contenders in this class finishing in 12th place behind fellow Briton Caroline Cowley with Summer Mistral.

His crew Georgina Bull said: “Takwenya only did her first 80km ride back in March and won it so we felt she was ready to do a 120km class.”

Georgina the British team riders’ osteopath said Chris, who bred the nine year old palomino, is aiming to get the horse onto the elite squad by 2014.

Georgina added: “The wet weather did not bother them. Chris found the going deep in places but just pushed on when he could and slowed down where necessary.  We used less water than we would on a hot day and mostly rugged up to keep her warm after the vet gate.”

Saeed Mod Khalifa Al Mehairi of the UAE and Gem El Gem took the top slot in the CEI 2** YR 120km at an average speed of 21.28km/hr

The 14th running of the FEI World Endurance Championships will see around 160 riders from up to 40 countries lining up for the contest around the deceptive Euston Park track.

Ian Williams, FEI Non-Olympic Sports Director, said:  “This was the third event held as part of the preparations for the Longines FEI World Endurance Championship.

“Despite the difficult weather conditions, the vetgate stood up to the test and ran incredibly well as did the course. The electronic timing system had its final live test and lived up to all expectations.

“Representatives from many nations had taken this opportunity to make their final recce of the course and venue and I can only believe that they found it to be a true championship test and will be returning home excited about beginning their countdown to the main event in August.”

Alongside title sponsor Longines, the Championships has the support of Dubai industry giants, Meydan and Emaar Properties as additional supporters. With around 1000 participants, riders, crew and officials, the championship will have a significant economic impact on the area around Euston Park and the Newmarket area during the build-up and immediately post competition.

Longines named as title sponsor for FEI World Endurance Championships 2012

Swiss watchmaker Longines has become the title sponsor and official timekeeper of the 2012 Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) World Endurance Championships (25th August 2012) at Euston Park, near Newmarket, Suffolk, UK.

The FEI CEI 4* competition over 160km, organised by Janah Management, will officially be known as the Longines FEI World Endurance Championships.

The 14th running of the FEI World Endurance Championships will see around 160 riders from up to 40 countries lining up for the contest around the undulating Euston Park track.

Reigning world champions, Spain’s Maria Alvarez and Nobby hold the record as the only combination to have claimed two world titles in succession and Spain will be hoping that Ms Alvarez is again among their line-up. The UAE currently holds the team world title. Alvarez’s winning time of 7hr:35min.44sec at the Alltech Kentucky World Equestrian Games in 2010 will be a target for the winning rider at this summer’s World Endurance Championships.

Walter von Känel, President of Longines said: “Longines is proud to be title sponsor and official timekeeper of the FEI World Endurance Championships. Thanks to its long dedication as official timekeeper of equestrian sports since 1881, Longines is considered as an essential partner to a sport which embodies the brand’s values.”

The Swiss watchmaker is a significant partner of the sport of endurance – the HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup presented by Longines is now in its fifth year.

Ian Williams, FEI Non-Olympic Sports Director, said: “The Longines FEI World Endurance Championships 2012 will be an event of the highest sporting quality and we are grateful to the title sponsor for their support.”

Championship organiser James MacEwan said: “We are fortunate to have the support of such a prestigious company at such a high level. We are looking forward to producing a memorable championship in a great year for sport in this part of the world.”

Alongside title sponsor Longines, organisers welcomed two Dubai industry giants, Meydan and Emaar Properties as additional supporters of the championships.

Ahmad Al Matrooshi, Managing Director, Emaar Properties, said: “Equestrian events are part of the Arab world’s heritage, and Emaar has a strong history of supporting such noble initiatives.

“We are honoured to support the FEI World Endurance Championships, which brings together participants from over 40 countries, underlining the strong global interest in the event.”

Saeed H. Al Tayer, Chairman of Meydan Group said: ““The opportunity to support the 2012 World Endurance Championships compliments the focus of the Meydan Group, as the sport of Endurance riding is a great part of the equestrian legacy of the UAE and Dubai.

“We are pleased to serve as one of the event’s sponsors and welcome the opportunity to promote the great sport of Endurance riding in Dubai and across the world.”

With around 1000 participants, riders, crew and officials, the championship will have a significant economic impact on the area around Euston Park and the Newmarket area during the build-up and immediately post competition.

For media information, accreditation or images, please contact Longines FEI World Endurance Championships PR, Elizabeth Peplow;
Tel: +44 07917 647663, Email: wec2012media@gmail.com

CRITICAL DATES - These dates are subject to approval of the FEI Schedule

Qualifying Dates:
Earliest date for qualifying: 25th August 2010
Last date for qualifying: 25th June 2012
Refer to FEI Article

Entries in Principle: 1st April 2012

Nominated Entries: 24th July 2012

Definite Entries: 14th August 2012 by 1200 hrs local

All Federation Approved Entries To Be Sent to the Organising Committee by fax or email: +44 1638 731319 / tpick@janah.co.uk

ARRIVAL / DEPARTURE DATES

Earliest Arrival Date: 20th August 2012 – 1200 hrs local

Latest Arrival Date for Horses: 24th August 2012 – 1200 hrs local

Latest Departure: 27th August 2012 – 1200 hrs local

Please see Stable Entry Protocol for the arrival procedure which must be adhered.

STABLE OPENING TIMES S

table Opening Times: 0700 hrs local to 2300 hrs local
All horses must be in their dedicated stables outside of these times.
Stables will also be closed between 1200 hrs local and 1400 hrs local daily

Stables come under FEI Control from 0800 hrs local on 22nd August 2012 and only accredited personnel will have access to the stables from this point.

TRAINING TIMES

Morning Session: 0800 hrs local to 1200 hrs local
Afternoon Session: 1400 hrs local to 1800 hrs local

Horses must remain within the stable compound at all times unless being ridden on the training tracks. A rider vest and corresponding bridle disc will be given to you by the Stable Manager which must be worn when training.

VETERINARY TREATMENT

All veterinary treatment will be at the cost of the competitor and accounts must be settled prior to departure.

All veterinary surgeons must be registered with the RCVS if working in the UK. For more information please see the veterinary services page.

CAMPING FACILITIES

Camping facilities for accredited team members will be available from 1200 hrs local on Monday 20th August 2012 until 1200 hrs local on Monday 27th August 2012. The cost is STG£60.00 inclusive of VAT per unit irrespective of length of stay. Payment is due in advance with the entry fee.

FEED AND FORAGE

Feed and forage will be available for purchase from Horse Requisites. Horse Requisites will have an order point outside the stable compound however we recommend that you pre order your required feed and forage in advance. A list of feed available and an order form will be available shortly. Please note payment is required at the time of ordering.

2 bales of shavings per stable will be provided free of charge. Any additional shavings required should be purchased from Horse Requisites.

SPECTATORS

Admission to Euston Park, car parking, access to the viewing grandstand and trade stands is free.

HOSPITALITY CHALETS

Please contact Tammie Pick tpick@janah.co.uk if you are interested in having a hospitality chalet at Euston Park for the World Endurance Championships.