HM Cup Bestowed upon Champion 'Falah' in Royal Cavalry's Annual Equestrian Spectacle
Barka, 7 Jan 2026 (ONA) --- At the behest of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, HH Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said presided over the Annual Royal Cavalry Horse Race at the Al Rahba Racecourse in the Wilayat of Barka today, in an event organized by the the Royal Court Affairs (RCA) through the Royal Cavalry.
The horse 'Falah', owned by HH Sayyid Shihab bin Harib Al Said, was awarded His Majesty the Sultan's Cup after triumphing in the fifth race, the Wilayat Barka Race for Purebred Arabian Horses over 2,000 meters. The Royal Cavalry's 'Saad' secured second place, while 'Sunny de L'Ob', also from the Royal Cavalry, claimed third.
Upon his arrival at the main grandstand, HH the chief guest inaugurated the new permanent visual identity for the Annual Royal Cavalry Horse Race. The emblem's design is centered on the Royal Crown, depicted through two opposing horse heads—a symbol of the sovereign's enduring patronage of equestrian sport. It also incorporates the banner of the Royal Cavalry, the body entrusted by His Majesty's noble command with organizing this prestigious event. The logo features a primary deep purple hue, accented by a secondary golden-brown tone.
In the opening Nakhal Fort Race for Purebred Arabian Horses (1,200 meters), reserved for the Royal Cavalry's female jockeys, 'Al-Muheeb', ridden by Ramla Khalil Al Zedjali, took first place. Rayeda Saud Al Bahri aboard 'Hamsah' finished second, and Asmahan Jumah Al Balush on 'Mabhur' came third.
The Hazm Fort Race (1,200 meters) saw a clean sweep by the Royal Cavalry, with 'Yasirah' winning first place, 'Amsilah' second, and 'Al-Muqdam' third.
The Wadi Bani Kharous Race (1,600 meters) was won by 'Bakir', owned by HH Sayyida Nora Mohammed Al Said. The Royal Cavalry's 'Al-Reem' placed second, and 'RB Kinsman', owned by HH Sayyid Saud bin Harith Al Said, finished third.
In the Ain Al Khasfah Race (1,600 meters) for the top-rated Omani-owned horses of the 2025/2026 season, victory went to 'Madmoun' of Marbat Al Reef. 'Dhaawi', owned by Majid bin Ali Al Maamari, was second, and Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Abdulrahman's 'Izmir de Carrier' took third.
The race card was enriched by diverse equestrian displays from the Royal Cavalry's knights and lady riders, accompanied by musical performances. Knights from South Al Batinah presented traditional arts, and school students performed horse riding skills. Further displays featured skilled mounted archery and a poignant segment titled "Insight of a Knight," showcasing the bond between a visually impaired Omani youth and his horse. Exhibitions on equine beauty and small horse-drawn carriages completed the programme.
Nasr bin Hamoud Al Kindi, Secretary-General of the Royal Court Affairs, stated, "Horse racing and equestrianism in the Sultanate of Oman receive the continuous support and patronage of His Majesty the Sultan, reflecting his supreme regard for the sport's historical and cultural significance and its profound connection to the Omani people. This gracious patronage has fostered the preservation of purebred Arabian bloodlines and instilled in Omani youth a deep appreciation for these noble breeds."
He affirmed that the Royal Court Affairs, through the Royal Cavalry, has undertaken sustained efforts to advance equestrian sports by organizing the Annual Race across Oman's governorates. The event commenced in Sohar (North Al Batinah), followed by editions in Nizwa (A’Dakhiliyah), Bidiyah (North A’Sharqiyah), Salalah (Dhofar), and Ibri (A’Dhahirah).
He added that hosting the seventh edition this year in the Wilayat of Barka (South Al Batinah) is of great significance to the participating riders, serving to elevate their prowess and refine their horsemanship. The race consistently attracts an elite cadre of the finest riders from across Oman to compete in its various events.
--- Ends/Khalid
