2024 Custodian of Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup
BAHRAIN’S HAMAD AL JANAHI SHOWCASES WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CREDENTIALS WITH STATEMENT SECOND DAY WIN AT 2024 FURSAN CUP
- Sunday’s 160km CEI 3* competition launched the countdown to 2026 FEI World Endurance Championships in AlUla
- Al Janahi claimed first place in SAR 5 million event with a time of 8:27:08
- Federico Ferber of Uruguay finished second just 10 seconds behind Al Janahi; Spain’s Omar Blanco Rodrigo completed top three
AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 11 February 2024:
Audiences enjoyed an action-packed second day at the 2024 Fursan Cup on Sunday afternoon as Hamad Al Janahi sealed a statement victory in the early anticipated 160km CEI 3* endurance competition.
Organised by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) in partnership with the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) and the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation (SAEF), 64 elite riders participated in the SAR 5 million competition – which officially launched the countdown to the 2026 FEI Endurance World Championships in AlUla.
Hot on the heels of Saturday’s epic 120km CEI 2* event which is officially titled “The Custodian of The Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup”, equestrian fans and celebrity audiences were treated to another heritage sports spectacle at AlUla’s Equestrian Village.
Bahrain’s Al Janahi showcased his credentials ahead of the 2026 showpiece with a majestic performance – claiming a famous win with a classified time of 8:27:08 - 10 seconds ahead of Uruguay’s Federico Ferber.
A tremendous effort by Federico Ferber saw the Uruguayan rider take a deserved second-place finish in 8:27:18 He finished ahead of Spanish rider Omar Blanco Rodrigo who completed the podium thanks to a valiant effort which culminated in a 9:00:26 finish.
Speaking after Sunday’s competition, Ziad AlSuhaibani, Chief Sports Officer at RCU, said: “We’ve experienced another amazing competition and the feedback received by visitors today and throughout the weekend has been incredibly positive. Elite riders and a great location and venue, together with meticulous organisation and exceptional partners, have presented audiences with an experience they really appreciate. We extend our congratulations to today’s winner and all who participated out there and made this competition so engaging, enjoyable, and entertaining.”
Dr Anas Hassan, Technical Consultant at SAEF, insisted the 160km CEI 3* competition highlighted that AlUla is the perfect destination for the 2026 FEI World Endurance Championships, adding: “Today was a brilliant indicator for what we’ll see in two years’ time – world-class competition with a brilliant track, infrastructure, and facilities. All the elements are already here for a truly exceptional world endurance championships – and further enhancements between now and then make the event even more exciting for riders, fans, and everyone involved.”
In the aftermath of his famous victory, Al Janahi said: “Winning here today means so much – it’s such a difficult competition. Enjoyable, of course, but very tough – tactics throughout are always key and I’m delighted to have won in the end. I’m so proud and I wish to dedicate this victory to our greatest supporter, His Highness Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, and the people of Bahrain.”
Underlining RCU efforts to empower and involve the AlUla community as part of its wider equine objectives, one local rider also participated in Sunday’s competition as part of the development program under RCU’s equine strategy – which offers training, advice, technical support, and events experience.
The Fursan Cup is one of the marquee sports events in the AlUla Moments Calendar of events and festivals, spanning a large number of other heritage sports events such as the AlUla Camel Cup, AlUla Falcon Cup, the Tent Pegging World Championship and Horseback Archery World Cup.
Shaikha Najla takes 4th place in 120km AlUla race
Sun, 11 Feb 2024
THE Royal Endurance Team participated in the King Abdulaziz International Endurance Cup, under the directives of His Majesty King Hamad’s representative for humanitarian works and youth affairs Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, covering a distance of 120km in Saudi Arabia’s AlUla province.
The event was organised by the Royal Commission for AlUla in partnership with the Saudi and International Equestrian Federations. The 120km race witnessed the participation of 200 riders representing 50 countries.
The Royal Endurance Team’s Shaikha Najla bint Salman Al Khalifa achieved fourth place in the contest after a strong competition in the 120km race. She displayed remarkable performance in completing the race despite the rough terrain and challenging stages...
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Qatar's Saeed Al Naimi Crowned 2024 Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup Champion in AlUla
● Al Naimi produced a majestic performance to claim victory in 120km CEI 2* competition ahead of Saudi Arabia’s Fares Abu Ras in second; Hamad Al Tamimi of the UAE completed top three
● Five local talents also featured in 200-strong field featuring world’s best riders
● Additional 160km CEI 3* competition locked in for Sunday ahead of 2026 World Endurance Championships
AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 10 February 2024:
Saeed Al Naimi from Qatar sealed a sensational victory in the 2024 Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup on Saturday afternoon, overcoming a strong challenge from runner-up Fares Abu Ras of Saudi Arabia to win the flagship international endurance event in AlUla.
Al Naimi completed the challenging 120km route on his ride Guilen Fantasia in a classified time of 05:22:01, finishing 1:14 ahead of Abu Ras and 23:19 minutes in front of Hamad Al Tamimi from UAE who completed the top three.
Incredible individual displays of speed, stamina, and strategic pace management by the trio saw them take top honors ahead of a 200-strong field that boasted the world’s greatest, most renowned riders.
The riders who featured in the CEI 2* competition represented a total of 50 counties with a total SAR 15 million prize pot on offer. A new world record for an endurance event, these factors – together with regional royalty, VIPs, and global audiences in attendance – further highlighted the ever-growing prestige of the Endurance Cup in this record-extending fifth edition.
Organised by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) in partnership with the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) and the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation (SAEF), the event was an outstanding occasion like always at AlFursan Equestrian Village – providing inspiring shows sportsmanship and equestrian excellence as promised.
Prince Abdullah bin Fahd bin Abdullah, President of SAEF, added: “We extended our congratulations to Saeed Al Naimi and every rider who competed – their performances helped pave the way for an experience that audiences will remember for many years to come. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup is one of the biggest endurance events on the Saudi Equestrian calendar and this edition has shown why such events in the Kingdom are held in such high regard regionally and internationally.”
Abeer Al Akel, Acting CEO of RCU, commented: “The 2024 Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup has been an incredible success in every way possible. From riders and trainers to spectators and partners, everybody involved has played their part in making this edition so special. We extend our congratulations to the champion and all who participated.”
In the aftermath of his famous victory, Saeed Al Naimi said: “I’m really proud to have won this competition and competed against so many talented riders from different countries - it was a very difficult contest but I’m delighted to have made it back first in the end. The track was challenging throughout, but I loved riding out there. The experience was great and I’m already looking forward to coming back in the future.”
Underlining RCU efforts to empower and involve the AlUla community as part of its wider equine objectives, five local riders also participated in the 2024 edition as part of the development program under RCU’s equine strategy – which offers training, advice, technical support, and events experience.
Next up at AlFursan Equestrian Village is an additional 160km CEI 3* competition tomorrow. A prelude to the 2026 FEI World Endurance Championships in AlUla, 67 riders – including one from AlUla – will compete with a prize pot of SAR 5 million on offer.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup is one of the marquee sports events in the AlUla Moments Calendar of events and festivals, spanning a large number of other heritage sports events such as the AlUla Camel Cup, AlUla Falcon Cup, the Tent Pegging World Championship and Horseback Archery World Cup.
For more information and to book tickets, kindly visit experiencealula.com.
For more on the ride see:
http://endurance.net/international/SaudiArabia/2024CustodianoftheTwoHolyMosques/
An unmissable weekend of sport, fun & entertainment: AlUla Moments reveals everything to expect at the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup
AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 06 February 2024:
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup returns to the limelight in AlUla this week and audience anticipation is reaching new heights ahead of another fabulous weekend in the ancient oasis.
Organised by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) in partnership with the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) and Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation (SAEF), the Endurance Cup is a flagship event in the global endurance circuit. Besides the world’s best riders, horses, and trainers all competing, there’s the largest prize money in endurance event history on offer – making this record-extending fifth edition unmissable.
With the wait almost over and the action about to begin, AlUla Moments has now given those attending even more reasons for excitement – detailing everything they can expect to experience during this “sensational spectacle”.
Rami AlMoallim, Vice President of Destination Management and Marketing at RCU, said: “With the 2024 Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup just days away, we can promise that this edition it will be incredible for everybody involved. This isn’t just a prestigious sporting event – it’s a special occasion where we bring sport together with culture, art, heritage, and entertainment for visitors to enjoy. Sporting events have always been about providing fun-filled moments, and this is precisely what people will experience this weekend. We have a sensational spectacle in store for all.”
Live from AlFursan Equestrian Village, 200 of the world’s best riders from 51 countries will embark on a 120km CEI 2* competition on Saturday in what promises to be the ultimate test of rider and horse against time and terrain.
With the coveted Endurance Cup awaiting the winner, participants must strike a balance between speed, stamina, and strategic pace management while chartering AlUla’s breathtaking yet challenging terrain. More of the same follows on Sunday. An additional 160km CEI 3* distance event featuring 67 riders launches the build-up to the eagerly awaited 2026 FEI World Endurance Championships in AlUla.
However, visitors can expect a lot more alongside thrilling displays of equestrian excellence and world-class enduring racing – with a series of events and activations across culture, arts, entertainment, and more running concurrently on site.
Lovers of all things equestrian sports can lock in a series of interactive talks with riders, experts, and influencers in their diaries. Visitors can hear from speakers on a range of intriguing topics throughout the weekend, with six talks scheduled across areas including endurance racing history, horse welfare, AlUla’s unique endurance terrain, Arabian horses, and more.
Timeless classics back on the big screen
Across Saturday and Sunday, another exciting opportunity awaiting visitors is movie screenings from 6.30 featuring two horse world classics. There’s ‘The Story of Seabiscuit’ starring Shirley Temple and Barry Fitzgerald. Widely considered to be the greatest horse race movie ever made, the 1949 hit follows the career of the legendary champion thoroughbred racehorse Seabiscuit – the top racehorse of the 1930s whose unlikely success saw him become a global phenomenon and enduring icon.
The other classic set for the big screen this weekend is ‘The Horse Whisperer’ starring Robert Redford and Kristin Scott Thomas. Positively received by critics and a box office success following its 1998 release, the film is based on the novel of the same name and sees Redford play a talented trainer (Tom Booker) with a remarkable gift for understanding horses. Booker is hired to help an injured teenager and her horse back to health following a tragic accident in this Touchstone Pictures masterpiece.
Entertainment for the whole family
The weekend entertainment at AlFursan Equestrian Village accommodates people of all ages – with a raft of diverse experiences in store. ‘Arabian Kohl’ is an activation where female guests can learn techniques for applying traditional Kohl from local makeup artists; ‘Henna Art’ is a cultural kiosk where guests can receive authentic henna face or hand paintings from skilled artists; and ‘Harmony Cultural Fusion’ is a transcendent live musical starring an ensemble cast of talented musicians.
Elsewhere on the entertainment line-up, visitors can experience horseback riding and kids pony rides, the rich and vibrant culture of Saudi Arabia through the mesmerizing beats of 10 talented Saudi percussionists, and up to three 20-minute shows daily as talented street performers present live juggling, unicycling, fire eating, and much more.
Visitors can also enjoy photo opportunities in traditional costumes against AlUla’s stunning backdrop, as well as a live set by DJ Leen, one of Saudi Arabia’s most versatile and popular DJs who has headlined various local and international events.
Additionally, those making their way to AlUla for the Endurance Cup weekend will enjoy an endurance-inspired exhibition space and a host of F&B offerings with brands like La Romana, Coyard, Osturi, and Pink Camel. They can also take in AlUla’s extraordinary nightfall setting from fireside spots and a desert camp with comfortable chairs and warm blankets.
On-site brands for all things retail will include OKHTEIN, Nouf Fetaihi, 1886, Surge, Le Monde du Chavel, AlUla FC, and Pattern – a concept store with items from a dozen brands.
For more information on the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup and to book tickets, kindly visit experiencealula.com.
200 Elite Global Riders from 51 Countries Confirmed for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup in AlUla
- The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup returns with record-extending fifth edition on 10th February
- World’s finest riders among those competing in rigorous long-distance challenges, including 5 riders from AlUla participating at the 120km CEI 2* and 1 local rider participating at the 160km CEI3* competition
- 120km CEI 2* competition will decide 2024 the Custodian of The Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup winner on February 10
- Additional 160km CEI 3* competition on February 11 is part of build-up to 2026 FEI World Endurance Championships in AlUla
AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 4th February 2024:
New details were unveiled ahead of the record-extending fifth edition of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup, set to captivate audiences in AlUla with thrilling shows of sportsmanship and equestrian excellence on 10th February 2024.
Organised by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) in partnership with the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI), and the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation (SAEF), the Endurance Cup stands as a flagship event in the global endurance circuit. Returning to the ancient oasis, this upcoming edition boasts the largest prize money ever offered for an endurance event and features some of the world’s finest riders, horses, and trainers, as well as distinguished dignitaries and international patrons.
"We eagerly anticipate the arrival of a stellar line-up of talents for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup – a line-up that solidifies both its popularity and prestige," said Ziad AlSuhaibani, Chief Sports Officer at RCU. "The success of this event extends beyond regional acclaim, resonating on the global endurance circuit. With immense excitement, we look forward to hosting one of the most thrilling and action-packed Endurance Cups to date. Audiences are assured of two days of awe-inspiring displays of endurance and sporting excellence."
Reflecting its reputation as the ultimate endurance horse event, the 2024 Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup will host the top 20 endurance riders in the FEI world rankings alongside a host of professional female riders and other elite performers from the GCC and further afield.
On Saturday, February 10, 200 riders from 51 countries – including five from AlUla – will engage in a challenging 120km CEI 2* competition with the the Custodian of The Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup awaiting the winner.
The following day, February 11, 67 riders – including one from AlUla – will compete in an additional 160km CEI 3* distance competition that people can enjoy watching. This event will serve as a prelude to the highly anticipated 2026 FEI World Endurance Championships in AlUla.
The distinguished presence of regional royalty and VIPs will also add to its ever-growing prestige as attendees enjoy an incredible Arabian horse live experience in the Middle East’s premier endurance sports hub.
A new home of world-class events, facilities, and rapidly growing infrastructure, AlFursan Equestrian Village is part of RCU’s wider equestrian strategy to develop and expand the sport locally, as well as to position AlUla as the ultimate destination for heritage sports.
AlUla has emerged as a leading hub for equestrian excellence, while also fostering sports diversity and prioritising the welfare of the horses. Embracing inclusivity, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup allows both men and women to compete on an equal footing, with nearly 20% of the 200 riders in the 2024 edition being women. While the competition involves timed rides, the primary focus remains on ensuring the well-being of both rider and horse, emphasising the importance of completing all loops in optimal condition rather than pursuing sheer speed.
With a vision to bolster modern and heritage equestrian sports in AlUla, the Equine Training Programme based in the AlFursan Equestrian Village is building on the region's rich legacy within this field, with training initiatives established to empower local riders and professionals such as veterinarians, coaches, and grooms. As a result of the training programme, this year will witness the participation of 5 local riders at the 120km CEI 2* competition and 1 local rider at the 160km CEI 3* competition.
The Endurance Cup has empowered Saudi Vision 2030 since its inception. Besides playing a starring role in AlUla’s emergence as a premier endurance sports hub, the event has supported economic development locally and nationally, welcoming tourists and creating new job opportunities in line with the aspirations of the Kingdom's leadership. It’s also inspired more Saudi nationals to engage in stewarding and veterinary support roles while fostering a route for local and regional enthusiasts to engage with equestrianism as a future hobby or potential career.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup is one of the marquee sports events in the AlUla Moments Calendar of events and festivals, spanning a large number of other heritage sports events such as the AlUla Camel Cup, AlUla Falcon Cup, the Tent Pegging World Championship and Horseback Archery World Cup, in addition to the other sports events; AlUla Tour, AlUla Trail Race and Tough Mudder infinity.
For more information, kindly visit experiencealula.com.
Watch for race updates at:
http://www.endurance.net/international/SaudiArabia/2024CustodianoftheTwoHolyMosques/
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup returning to AlUla with record-extending fifth edition
• The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup is a flagship event in the international endurance circuit • Around 200 of the world’s finest riders competing in these rigorous long-distance challenges while maintaining the stamina, and strategic pace management
• 120km FEI 2* and 160km FEI 3* distance competitions over two days
• Event runs from 10-11 February
AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 25 January 2024:
AlUla’s unique desert landscape will once again stage the ultimate test of man and horse against time and terrain as 200 of the world’s finest riders compete in The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup next month.
Organised by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) in partnership with the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) and Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation (SAEF), the Endurance Cup is a flagship event in the international endurance circuit. It returns to the ancient oasis for a record-extending fifth time from 10-11 February with the biggest prize money for any endurance event on offer.
A prelude to the 2026 FEI World Endurance Championships in AlUla, the 2024 Endurance Cup will see riders embark on 120km FEI 2* and 160km FEI 3* distance competitions over two days. Like always, participants must prioritise stamina and strategic pace management in these rigorous long-distance challenges.
“We are honored and proud that The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup is returning to AlUla for a fifth time,” said Mr. Ziad AlSuhaibani, Chief Sports Officer at RCU. “What began few years ago as an ambitious project has become a mainstay in the international endurance circuit. The event has been brilliantly received by audiences and the wider equestrian community alike – and the fact that more than 200 riders are competing across two competitions really illustrates its ever-increasing profile and popularity. We are very much looking forward to what promises to be another brilliant spectacle in a few weeks’ time.”
"In the rich tapestry of AlUla's history, the presence of horses has long been a testament to our enduring ancient heritage, exemplified by the ancient inscriptions of horses on the rocks of AlUla. With a profound commitment to preserving and revitalising this deeply rooted cultural tradition, we embark on a journey to instill its significance in the hearts and minds of future generations. By hosting premier events in the equestrian domain, we aim not only to celebrate the majesty of this heritage sport but also to underscore our dedication to fostering a legacy that stands as a proof of AlUla's timeless connection with the equestrian world." He added.
A testament to its status as the ultimate endurance horse event, this year’s Endurance Cup again welcomes some of the greatest riders, horses, and trainers from all around the world.
The distinguished presence of regional royalty and VIPs will also add to its ever-growing prestige as attendees enjoy an incredible Arabian horse live experience in the Middle East’s premier endurance sports hub. All of the action gets underway from AlUla’s Equestrian Village with the 120km FEI 2* and 160km FEI 3* distance competitions taking place on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.
A new home of world-class events, facilities, and rapidly growing infrastructure, AlUla’s Equestrian Village is part of RCU’s wider equestrian strategy to develop and expand the sport locally, as well as to position AlUla as the ultimate destination for heritage sports.
"We aspire to host the largest events in equestrian sports in alignment with the Kingdom's vision and aspirations. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup stands out as one of the most prominent events, having achieved significant success in recent years," stated Mr. Fouad Bin Fahad Ibrahim, Executive Director of the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation (SAEF). "Our goal is to establish it as one of the most prestigious and lucrative competitions globally, attracting endurance riders from around the world annually. We take pride in our esteemed partnership with the Royal Commission for AlUla, which has played a pivotal role in orchestrating equestrian championships with exceptional organisation. This is owing to the enchanting nature and rich historical legacy of AlUla."
AlUla has emerged as a leading hub for equestrian excellence, while also fostering sports diversity and prioritising the welfare of the horses. Embracing inclusivity, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup allows both men and women to compete on an equal footing, with nearly 20% of the 200 riders in the 2022 edition being women. While the competition involves timed rides, the primary focus remains on ensuring the well-being of both rider and horse, emphasising the importance of completing all loops in optimal condition rather than pursuing sheer speed.
With a vision to bolster modern and heritage equestrian sports in AlUla, the Equine Training Programme based in the AlFursan Equestrian Village is building on the region's rich legacy within this field, with training initiatives established to empower local riders and professionals such as veterinarians, coaches, and groomers. As a result of the training programme, this year will witness the participation of 6 local riders participating at the 120km FEI 2* and 1 local rider participating at the 160km FEI 3*, who have been trained for all year round to get prepared for this thrilling competition.
The Endurance Cup has empowered Saudi Vision 2030 since its inception. Besides playing a starring role in AlUla’s emergence as a premier endurance sports hub, the event has supported economic development locally and nationally, welcoming tourists and creating new job opportunities in line with the aspirations of the Kingdom's leadership. It’s also inspired more Saudi nationals to engage in stewarding and veterinary support roles while fostering a route for local and regional enthusiasts to engage with equestrianism as a future hobby or potential career.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup is one of the marquee sport events in the AlUla Moments Calendar of events and festivals, spanning a large number of other heritage sport events such as the AlUla Camel Cup, AlUla Falcon Cup, the Tent Pegging World Championchip and Horseback Archery World Cup, in addition to the other sports events; AlUla Tour, AlUla Trail Race and Tough Mudder infinity.
For more information, kindly visit experiencealula.com.