Promising Qatari rider Salman Mohammed Al Emadi yesterday bagged the biggest win of his career when he guided The Toymaker to Amir Sword title glory at Outdoor Arena of the Qatar Equestrian Federation (QEF).
The popular Qatari rider walked with the Amir Sword and a the key to a brand new Lexus after The Toymaker managed a time of 60.12 seconds against the clock following a time of 79.70 seconds in the first round.
Just when it mattered, Al Emadi produced a speedy routine with the 15-year-old gelding (1 fault) as a huge crowd roared on from the stands of the 135/145 cm battle.
“I am thrilled with this win. It is a memorable day for me,” Al Emadi said. “I was a little nervous while going for my final ride but The Toymaker made it worthwhile,” Al Emadi added.
“I have been in good riding form and to win the biggest crown of the season feels so great,” he added.
“My joy is indescribable. After years of trying, I have finally managed to win this prestigious title. Winning today is the greatest honour in my career,” Al Emadi said.
“I have won various championships, including the Asian Games, but winning the Amir Sword tops all those victories,” Al Emadi said.
“I have been determined to win this title. This year’s competition was tougher than last year,” Al Emadi said.
“The number of riders have made the competition tougher and the title much-sought after. I am happy that I did not make many mistakes in all the rounds. I know that all Qatari riders are benefiting in a major way by competing in these events,” he said.
“Now I will prepare for the coming big events,” he said with a smile.
Mubarkak Al Rumaihi, astride Casal Des Forets, finished in second spot of the QR80,000 event.
Casal Des Forets clocked 44.81 seconds in the second outing but Al Rumaihi lost ground on the winner with 8 faults. Al Rumaihi won QR11,200 for his second-placed finish.
Last year’s Amir Sword winner Faleh Suwead Al Ajami, astride Carport, grabbed the third spot (46.38 seconds, 8 faults). Al AJami won QR9,000.
S I E C Lonnie, who had Qatar’s Hamad Nasser Al Qadi in the saddle, (51.03, 8) finished in fourth spot. Al Qadi won QR7,000.
Mohammed Khalifa Albaker, astride Verona, (51.97 seconds, 8 faults) wrapped up the top five out of nine riders. Albaker won QR5,000 for his efforts.
Saeed Nasser Al Qadi (Andreas SPB Z, 45.24, 12, QR2,800), Okil Sobirjonov (Quatro Junior, 47.17, 12, QR2,200), and Kamil Sabitov (Quintendro, 46.86, 16, QR1,600.00) grabbed the sixth, seventh and eight spots respectively.
