A glitzy cast of jumpers will saddle up their mounts and compete in the 2024 Al Shira’aa CSI4* International Horse Show at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club from January 9-14. One of the main stops on the international show jumping calendar, the Al Shira’aa International, in its seventh year, will witness the likes of British riders William Funnell and Joe Stockdale going head-to-head against a group of talented riders from around the world, including those from the UAE National Team that have qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The Grand Prix, sponsored by Longines, is the pinnacle of this prestigious event, where only the best of the best will compete over a complex 155cm course, with the winner walking away with a staggering €38,750 in prize money. In a one of a kind twist, equine and automotive horsepower will be on display in the Ride and Drive class.
The top ten riders from the first two days of competition will be invited to compete for €11,000 by completing a round of 115cm jumps before riding shotgun in a sports car and making a dash for the finish line. The event has generated good footfall over the years and the 2024 edition too is expected to attract a large audience with organisers planning to entice not just equine sport lovers, but entire families. Visitor numbers topped 5,000 at the show’s previous event in January 2023, with a further 17,000 online viewers on the global equestrian steaming service ClipMyHorse.TV.
On the sponsorship roster for 2024 are Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Majesticq Royal Care, Al Hawajer Equestrian, Cavalor, Bolesworth, leading international horse transporters Equitrans Logistics LLC and the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation (UAEERF). Young visitors will be catered to in the dedicated ‘Kids Zone’ within the Al Shira’aa Village, which includes pony rides, face painting, a carousel, a sustainability area and skill games. The village also includes multiple food trucks and retail outlets, as well as the venue’s two restaurants for those seeking a sit-down meal.
