Exciting Start to Commercial Bank CHI AL SHAQAB Presented by Longines 2021

Doha, Feb 25 - Commercial Bank CHI AL SHAQAB Presented by Longines 2021, the signature event of Al Shaqab, a member of Qatar Foundation, got off to an exciting start at the iconic Longines Arena at Al Shaqab.

The eighth edition of the international event organized by Al Shaqab is being held from February 25-27. A total of 85 riders from 27 countries are competing in the Olympic disciplines of showjumping, dressage, and para dressage.

The first day of the world-class equestrian competition began with a Team Test in Para Dressage. In keeping with FEI (International Equestrian Federation) standards, all para dressage events are conducted in grades depending on the level of disability.

The winners were Ana Isabel Mota Veiga, riding Convicto (Grade 1); Pepo Puch riding Sailor’s Blue (Grade II); Rixt van der Horst, riding Findsley N.O.P. (Grade III); Rodolpho Riskalla, riding Don Henrico (Grade IV); and Valentina Strobl, riding Bequia Simba (Grade V).

Julian Eppilard of France, enjoyed a triumphant return to Al Shaqab, repeating his first-day heroics of last year’s event, when he triumphed in two classes. Riding Safari d ‘Auge, he emerged victorious in the CSI5* (1.45m) Showjumping Class (Two-Phases Special) in 32.19 seconds. Henrik von Eckerman, of Sweden, finished second on Carlotta in 33.06 seconds , followed by his countryman, Peder Fredricson, who rode Hansson WL to third place in 33.34 seconds.

Olivier Philippaerts, of Belgium, on H&M Legend of Love, scored highest in the CSI5* 1.55m Showjumping Class (Against The Clock) in a time of 60.61 seconds. Scott Brash, of Great Britain, on Hello Vincent, came second in 60.85 seconds, while Philipp Weishaupt, of Germany, on Coby, finished third in 61.07 seconds.

In line with the Ministry of Public Health’s (MoPH) COVID-19 health and safety guidelines, the venue is being restricted to 10 percent of its capacity. As a further precautionary measure, there isn’t a Festival Area this year.

Tickets can be purchased at the venue on event days. Fans unable to access the venue can still catch all the action, as the event will be broadcast live on Al Kass TV and beIN Sports, while it will also be live-streamed on Al Shaqab’s website, alshaqab.com.

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