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How did your passion for horse riding begin ?
My passion began when I was 10 or 11 . I was playing football around Al Shaqab and we noticed just behind the fence there was a group of people riding horses . I was with my brother and cousin and from that moment my passion for horse riding began . The next day we decided not to play football and instead go horse riding . I started formal riding three times a week and then began participating in endurance races and show jumping .
What do you think the future of horsemanship and equestrianism looks like in Qatar , and the world ?
Al Shaqab organises five-star show jumping competitions , including the Longines Global Champions Tour Doha and CHI Al Shaqab , with many top riders participating in these events . Continuing to organise these events and teaching the current generation to ride and lead the Arabian horse , I believe will expand equestrianism in Qatar and keep Qatar in the lead .
How does Al Shaqab ensure that traditional methods and skills are passed down to future generations ?
Can you tell us about some of the key achievements that Al Shaqab has attained in the global equine field ?
When Al Shaqab started , they were educating people on breeding Arabian horses . However , a few years later , they established the riding academy . Both departments are essential to pass equestrianism to the next generation , as they help the community in Qatar , locals and even people from abroad to learn about horsemanship .
Could you give a brief history of horsemanship in Qatar ?
The best way to explain horsemanship in Qatar is with the founder of Qatar , Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani . In his time , they brought the best horses from around the region to Qatar for trade , and even battles . The care of the Arabian horses began in that time and , gladly , it continues until now .
The first stallion bred by Al Shaqab was Al Adeed Al Shaqab , born in 1995 . The success of Al Shaqab started from there , and then with Ghazal Al Shaqab , who also became a world champion . Then came the legend Marwan Al Shaqab who was born in 2000 and became world champion three times in three categories . He also produced more than six world champions and was the lead breeding stallion for ten years .
Would you say that there is a tradition of horse riding or horse breeding in your family ?
Not only in my family , I believe this tradition is inherited by all Qatari families . If you look around , you find that in their history , all families were involved with horses . It ’ s a part of Qatari culture .
I believe this tradition is inherited by all Qatari families .
On a personal level , as well as in your capacity as a manager at Al Shaqab , how do you hope to pass on your passion for equestrianism ?
I hope for myself and Al Shaqab to pass the legacy of equestrianism to the next generation through achievement and success . We hope that the next generation can continue and keep Qatari equestrianism and Al Shaqab in the lead .
KHALID AL JAHNI Breeding & Show Manager at Al Shaqab
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