AlUla, February 23, 2025 – In a thrilling display of skill and perseverance, Saudi equestrian Muhannad Alsalmi emerged victorious in the prestigious Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup, securing first place in Level 2 of the global endurance competition held at AlFursan Equestrian Village in AlUla. The race, covering an impressive 120 kilometers, featured 200 top riders from across the globe, each vying for the honor of being crowned champion in one of the sport's most renowned events.
The Endurance Cup, recognized as one of the leading endurance races worldwide, boasted a prize pool of SAR 15 million, marking it as the largest in its category. The event, which unfolded in a fiercely competitive atmosphere, tested the stamina, strategy, and precision of both horses and riders over a challenging course. Prince Abdullah bin Fahd bin Abdullah, Chairman of the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation and Head of the Sports Sector at the Royal Commission for AlUla, presented Muhannad Alsalmi with the coveted Cup, celebrating his exceptional achievement.
Alsalmi finished the race with an average speed of 23.6 km/h, completing the 120-kilometer course in a remarkable 13 hours, 9 minutes, and 15 seconds. His performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he narrowly surpassed Emirati rider Abdullah Al-Amri, who finished second with a time of 13 hours, 8 minutes, and 43 seconds. The battle for the top spots was tight, with Emirati rider Saif Al Mazrouei claiming third place, completing the race in 13 hours, 9 minutes, and 29 seconds.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup is not only a celebration of athletic excellence but also a testament to the Kingdom's growing role as a hub for equestrian sports. The event, hosted in AlUla – a region known for its rich history and stunning landscapes – underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to promoting sports and equestrian culture, in line with its Vision 2030 goals.
Looking ahead, the championship continues with an even more grueling challenge. Tomorrow, Sunday, sees the commencement of the Level 3, 160-kilometer endurance race, where 100 riders will compete for an additional SAR 5 million prize pool. The competition promises to bring more excitement and fierce rivalry, as riders push their limits in the ultimate test of endurance, skill, and determination.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup not only draws equestrian enthusiasts from around the world but also showcases Saudi Arabia’s dedication to supporting and elevating the global equestrian community, as the Kingdom continues to be a key player in the development of equestrian sports at the highest level.
