UAE rider Marzooqi seals dramatic win at CSI3* Sharjah Grand Prix

SHARJAH: Sunday evening delivered a thrilling finale as Emirati rider Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi claimed victory in the CSI3* Sharjah Grand Prix presented by Longines, producing a decisive performance under pressure to cap a standout weekend for the Al Shira’aa team.

Contested over a testing 1.55m track, the Grand Prix attracted a strong field of top-ranking international and regional combinations, with just six riders advancing to the jump-off after a demanding first round. Last to return to the arena, Al Marzooqi (158 in the Longines Ranking) rose to the occasion aboard Chacco Bay, delivering a second clear and fast round to secure the win.

The 12-year-old Oldenburg breeding stallion showed his experience and scope at the highest level, mirroring the rider’s composure as Al Marzooqi once again underlined his credentials as one of the UAE’s – and the world’s – brightest stars. While the combination are no strangers to the podium, this victory marks their first Grand Prix win together since Al Marzooqi took over the ride in March 2024. An Olympic finalist, the Emirati athlete has enjoyed an exceptional run of form this season, arriving back in Sharjah fresh from contributing to the UAE’s Nations Cup silver medal the previous weekend.

Speaking of the win, Al Marzooqi commented, “Firstly I’d like to congratulate H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan on this victory. It’s extra special as Chacco is such an important stallion to me and the whole team. He felt amazing and winning a Grand Prix on home soil makes me very proud.”

Sultan Mohammed Khalifa Al Yahyai, President of Regional Group VII, Director General of Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club, and Championship Director, gave away the prizes.

Also present at the awards ceremony was Najib Kiwan, Regional Director of Longines Mena, the official sponsor of the championship trophy.

Earlier in the day, Al Shira’aa also celebrated success in the FEI Group VII 6-Year-Old Finals, where homebred SS Pina Colada claimed top honours under junior rider Mabkhout Owaida Alkirbi. The pair delivered faultless rounds throughout the competition, showcasing the quality of both the breeding and youth development programmes, highlighting the strength of the next generation.

The team now head to the Longines League of Nations and Emirates Jumping Cup in the UAE capital, before returning to Sharjah for the CSI5*-W H.H. Sharjah Ruler Cup.