His Majesty King Hamad’s representative for humanitarian work and youth affairs and Royal Endurance Team captain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa has earned the world number one ranking for endurance sport following a series of notable achievements, including the World Endurance Championship title and the FEI World Endurance Championship for eight-year-old horses.
The International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) has published the updated classification of riders and horses involved in the endurance sport at the regional and international levels, and Shaikh Nasser topped the podium after scoring 320 points, comfortably ahead by a wide margin of second-placed Portuguese Leonor Moreira who collected 248 points. Meanwhile, Royal Endurance Team’s Jaafar Merza Abdulnabi Hassan came third with 245 points.
The ranking crowns the illustrious career of Shaikh Nasser in endurance sport, showcasing classy performances and high-level skills that enabled him to top the podium in highly competitive races.
Commenting on the achievement, Shaikh Nasser said: “It gives me immense pride to be ranked the world No.1 rider in the endurance sport. I dedicate this international accomplishment to His Majesty, who has supported me throughout all the championships, stood by my side and shared with me his vast experience in equestrian sports.”
Shaikh Nasser also highlighted the backing of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
He added: “I also dedicate this new success to the loyal Bahraini people who shared with me the feeling of happiness in the achievements, in addition to my teammates in the Royal Endurance Team.”
Shaikh Nasser pointed out that the accomplishment will be a further motivation to win more championships. “It’s a responsibility to maintain it,” he stated.