By Abdellatif Sharaa

KUWAIT: Kuwait succeeded in organizing the international showjumping championship, which concluded Saturday at Kuwait Riding Center in Subhan. The excellent organization of the 2-star category championship in which riders from Kuwait, Hungary, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Jordan and Britain participated left a good impression on the ability of the Kuwait Federation headed by Masoud Jouhar Hayat to organize such international activities in Kuwait.

Head of the judges committee Kuwait's Sharon Al-Quoud said Kuwait's organization of the tournament was outstanding and successful, as Kuwait riders had total control over the results in all runs during the tournament's three days, crowned at the end by Ali Al-Kharafi winning the 154 cm grand prize round, as he competed with Kuwait's Abdullah Al-Awadhi. Kuwaiti riders won the top five places in this round.

"The showjumping sport is improving and there are tracks ready to host major international championships. There is a large base of young riders and there is major support from the federation," Quoud said. Judge Ali Al-Shareef from Jordan said Kuwait succeeded in organizing an international tournament with large participation of international riders.

He said what distinguishes Kuwait is the presence of many young riders who have a bright future. He said Kuwait also has an elite group of international judges who compete with international judges, not only in the Middle East but at the global level. Kuwait will host a 3-star category international championship on Thursday as part of the Arab league that qualifies for the world championship.