Al Ain: Al Waha Equestrian and Racing Club will take a giant step in the field of horse racing in Al Ain on August 29 when they will be hosting their first-ever auction for horses.
The club, that has been taking part in horse racing in the UAE for the past few years, is also keen to bolster their participation in the races this season.
“This is the first auction of horses in Al Ain and in the eastern region,” said Rashed Al Ka’abi, the Activity Manager at Al Waha Club, at a press briefing on Saturday.
“The horses are from big houses in Al Ain, UAE and from other countries in the Region. We have even some from Europe,” said Al Ka’abi, also adding that the club is now keen to participate more in endurance and flat races.
Apart from this, they have also introduced training, endurance-oriented programmes for jockeys and race enthusiasts.
The response for the auction from in and around the region has also been tremendous and in all, 72 horses have been confirmed for the auction, revealed Saif Al Shamsi, a member of the organising committee and an expert in the field of auctioneering.
“We are expecting over 500 bidders from the Arabian Gulf to be present and we have got a very good response. Though we are still receiving entries, we are unable to take more entries due to the hot weather. However, we will be conducting another auction at the end of the season as well,” said Al Shamsi, adding that, the actions will be held for show horses, thoroughbred and endurance horses.
Al Waha has also started to tap talent at the grassroots level and various training programmes have already attracted around 45 youngsters, including, women aspirants.
“We have been racing in endurance and flat races but we want to improve on our showing. That can only happen if there is more interest generated. The training of youngsters from Al Ain is one of the ways,” said Suhail Al Naimi, member of the organising committee.
“We have around 45 youngsters training with us here. We have jockeys training both boys and girls. It is a good beginning and a good sign,” added Al Naimi.
