Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Libya is set to make history as it hosts the sixteenth round of the President of the UAE Cup Series for Purebred Arabian Horses on Sunday. The event will take place at the Al-Watan Shooting and Equestrian Club racetrack in Benghazi. It is part of the 32nd edition of the global series, which celebrates the deep cultural and historical ties shared between nations through the noble heritage of Arabian horse racing.
The UAE President’s Cup Series is one of the most respected global competitions for Purebred Arabian horses. The series aims to support owners and breeders around the world while promoting the preservation of the Arabian horse breed. It is known for encouraging the continuation of traditional equestrian sports that have long been a part of Arab culture. Through this initiative, the UAE continues to show its commitment to heritage preservation and international cultural cooperation.
This year’s Libya round carries great importance, as it marks the first time the Cup Series is being hosted on Libyan soil. The occasion highlights the UAE’s strong efforts to build bridges of communication and enhance cooperation with Libya through cultural and sporting events. It also represents both nations’ shared admiration for Arabian horses, which are considered symbols of pride, courage, and beauty in Arab culture.
The races will take place during the Second Libya Heritage Carnival, a national event celebrating Libya’s traditions, arts, and culture. The inclusion of the UAE President’s Cup adds significant prestige to the carnival and draws attention from horse enthusiasts across the region. Visitors and participants will enjoy a vibrant celebration that blends sport, culture, and national pride.
A total of 96 horses will compete in six races at the event. The races will include entries from some of Libya’s finest Arabian horse studs. The participation of such a large number of competitors reflects the growing interest in Arabian horse breeding and racing in the country. It also demonstrates Libya’s readiness to host major international equestrian competitions in the future.
The highlight of the event will be the UAE President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses, the sixth and final race of the day. The race will cover a distance of 2,000 metres on a sand track and offers a total prize pool of AED 1 million. The competition is open to horses aged four years and older, and it is expected to attract significant attention from the public and media alike.
The event underlines the UAE’s dedication to preserving the legacy of the Arabian horse, known for its endurance, intelligence, and beauty. These horses have been part of Arab identity for centuries, serving as loyal companions in both war and peace. Through such global events, the UAE aims to ensure that the breed’s value is recognized internationally and that future generations continue to appreciate this proud heritage.
Beyond sports, the hosting of the UAE President’s Cup in Libya carries a symbolic diplomatic value. It reflects the UAE’s intention to strengthen ties with Libya and support its cultural revival through peaceful, meaningful cooperation. The event offers a platform for mutual respect and shared heritage, encouraging future collaboration in sports, tourism, and culture.
For Libya, this event represents an important step forward in developing its horse racing sector. The exposure to international standards and the opportunity to compete at a high level will inspire local breeders and riders. It will also help promote Libya as a future destination for equestrian events, bringing economic benefits and fostering a renewed sense of national pride.
The UAE President’s Cup Series in Libya stands as a symbol of unity, cultural pride, and sportsmanship. It shows how equestrian events can connect nations through shared history and traditions. As the horses race across the Benghazi track, the event will not only celebrate victory in sport but also victory in friendship, heritage, and mutual respect between Libya and the UAE.
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