THE horses from the Irish and British teams takingh part in the Nations' Cup have entered their huge boxes in the fully air conditioned stables at Abu Dhabi and are looking quite happy, reported the organisers today (Tuesday). Even though Europe is in the middle of a very cold winter, Spring is “in” for horses and riders from 11 countries at the first CSIO5* in Abu Dhabi, “The President of the UAE Showjumping Cup”.

The 120 by 80 metre grass ring will be the stage for the Nations Cup event in Abu Dhabi, offering a total of 500,000 Euros in prize money, and The Emirate is equipped with one of the largest and most complete areas for equestrian sport. Classic show jumping will take place from February 3rd to 6th where normally polo and racing dominate.

A total of six international competitions belong to the five-star event and Saturday’s grand prix offering 300,000 Euros in prize money is the ultimate highlight. In addition to the CSIO5* competitions there are CSI1* competitions which will bring many riders from The United Arab Emirates and neighbouring countries to the very modern facility.

At 4 p.m. (local time) Friday afternoon it will be getting serious for the Nations Cup teams from Denmark, Egypt, Great Britain, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Saudi Arabia, The Netherlands, Qatar, Sweden and The United Arab Emirates while the Longines Nations Cup will begin – offering 100,000 Euros in prize money, it is the first of this scale for Abu Dhabi.

“The President of the UAE Showjumping Cup” starts Thursday at 12:30 p.m. local time with a two-phase competition for the CSI1* competitors, the Maximus Air Cargo Trophy. It is followed by the opening competition for the international elite, also a two-phase competition, and then spectators and participants will be able to enjoy the opening ceremonies which will start at 7 p.m. local time. Since it is already dark by this time the final competition of the day, a speed class, will be held under the floodlights.