The desert sands of AlUla witnessed an extraordinary spectacle from 16th to 18th December – the inaugural Tent Pegging World Championship in Traditional Sport Dress and AlUla Horseback Archery World Cup. This three-day extravaganza brought together enthusiasts of equestrian sports from across the globe, offering a unique glimpse into the ancient Arab tradition of horse riding known as Furusiyya Arts.
Boldly striding into this world of tradition and skill, Saudi Arabia emerged as a formidable force. The Saudi team claimed top honours at the AlUla Horseback Archery World Cup, with individual accolades adding to their glory. In this comprehensive article, we delve into the heart of this event, celebrating the champions and exploring the cultural significance of Furusiyya Arts.
The AlUla Horseback Archery World Cup: Triumph and Glory
The AlUla Horseback Archery World Cup, a grand spectacle in itself, showcased the precision and skill of archers on horseback. Here, Saudi rider Hisham Al Tamimi etched his name in history, earning the prestigious title of world champion in the individual competition. Alongside him, Abdul Malik Al Kharif secured the runner-up position, demonstrating Saudi Arabia’s equestrian prowess.
The Saudi Team’s Victory
The Saudi team, comprising Hisham Al Tamimi, Abdul Malik Al Kharif, Abdul Hamid Al Aboud, and Muhammad Al Dhafyan, left no room for doubt. Guided by the expert hand of coach Fahd Al Kharif, they clinched the team competition title at the AlUla Horseback Archery World Cup, solidifying their reputation as champions of this age-old sport.
A Year of Equestrian Achievements
This victory adds another feather to Saudi Arabia’s cap in a year filled with equestrian triumphs. The nation was crowned the fourth tent-pegging world champion in South Africa, and the Saudi show-jumping team secured two gold medals at the Asian Games. Saudi Arabia is emerging as a powerhouse in the world of equestrian sports.
Going Beyond Sport: A Cultural Immersion
Beyond the thrill of sporting events and competitions, the AlUla World Championship provided an opportunity for attendees and the local community to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Saudi Arabia. Traditional outfits, action-packed bouts, and hands-on experiences awaited all who attended.
Workshops and Heritage Preservation
Specialized workshops allowed participants to step into the shoes of equestrians from the past. They learned the art of handling swords for tent pegging and the bow and arrow for archery. These workshops offered a profound insight into ancient sports, fostering a deeper understanding of Saudi Arabia’s rich culture and heritage.
Engaging the Youth
Over 100 students from various schools and universities participated in the event, bridging the generational gap and engaging directly with athletes. This interaction highlighted the community’s passion for these heritage sports and emphasized the enduring appeal of preserving these integral elements of the region’s culture and tradition.
The Thrill of Horseback Archery
The Horseback Archery competition drew inspiration from traditional horseback hunting. Archers were challenged to navigate a 99-meter course while shooting arrows at targets of varying distances. This thrilling sport combined precision, speed, and horsemanship, making it a spectacle.
Tent Pegging: A Test of Skill
On the other hand, Tent Pegging showcased riders galloping along a 99-meter track, spear in hand. Their goal? To skillfully pick up targets from the ground with speed and precision. It’s a test of rider and horse, requiring perfect coordination and timing.
Ziad AlSuhaibani’s Perspective
Ziad AlSuhaibani, Chief Sports Officer at the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), emphasized the event’s significance. He stated, “This groundbreaking event marked a first for AlUla and proved a tremendous success. AlUla fosters connections and offers a distinctive experience rooted in our precious history, keeping it evergreen.”
Partnerships and Commitment to Heritage
Held in partnership with the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation, International Tent Pegging Federation, World Horseback Archery Federation, and World Martial Arts Union, these events align with AlUla’s transformation into a premier heritage and modern sporting events hub.
AlUla’s Expanding Equestrian Calendar
These unique events mark a significant expansion in the equestrian and sporting calendar in AlUla. They are part of AlUla Moments’ calendar of events and festivals, which also includes the Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup, further solidifying AlUla’s reputation as a global destination for cultural and natural heritage.
Conclusion: A Tapestry of Tradition and Excellence
In conclusion, the inaugural Tent Pegging World Championship and AlUla Horseback Archery World Cup were not just sporting events but celebrations of tradition, skill, and cultural heritage. Saudi Arabia’s victories were in the arena of preserving and promoting the rich legacy of Furusiyya Arts. As AlUla continues to evolve as a global heritage destination, these events serve as shining examples of its commitment to tradition and excellence.
In a year filled with triumphs and traditions, the inaugural Tent Pegging World Championship and AlUla Horseback Archery World Cup stood as beacons of excellence. Saudi Arabia’s equestrian prowess shone brightly on the global stage while AlUla continued its transformation into a cultural and sporting hub. As the desert sands settle, one thing remains clear – the legacy of Furusiyya Arts is alive and thriving in the heart of AlUla.
