Doha: HE President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) and Chairman of the Doha Equestrian Tour Organising Committee, Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani crowned the winners at the conclusion of the first round of HH the Father Amir Prix, which concluded today at the indoor and outdoor Longines arenas at Al Shaqab, a member of Qatar Foundation.

According to Qatar News Agency, the final day featured seven competitions across categories ranging from one-star to four-star events, with the participation of 248 male and female riders representing elite local and international competitors. The total prize money for the round exceeded EUR 530,000, in an atmosphere marked by high-level competition and outstanding organisation.

British rider Harry Charles claimed the four-star Grand Prix title at a height of 155cm following an impressive jump-off performance, completing the course in 38.20 seconds aboard "Casquo Blue." He narrowly edged compatriot Scott Brash, who finished second in 38.48 seconds riding "Hello Folie," while Thailand's Janakabhorn Karunayadhaj secured third place in 40.14 seconds on "Maxwin."

In the four-star competition at a height of 145cm, Italian rider Emanuele Gaudiano claimed first place with a time of 31.12 seconds aboard "Vasco." Fellow Italian Roberto Previtali finished second in 32.27 seconds on "Chacco," while Britain's Millie Allen placed third with a time of 32.68 seconds riding "Quickly."

The third and final day of competition opened with the two-star event at 135cm, where Italy's Emanuele Gaudiano once again took top honours, recording a time of 66.71 seconds on "Chabrilo." Jordanian rider Ibrahim Hani Bisharat finished second in 68.8 seconds on "I'll Nino," while Roberto Previtali secured third place with a time of 70.7 seconds aboard "Desandro."

In the two-star Grand Prix at 145cm, British rider Oliver Fletcher clinched the title with a time of 33.59 seconds on "Kagos." Millie Allen finished second in 34.02 seconds riding "Quick Diamant," while Germany's Philipp Weishaupt claimed third place with a time of 34.74 seconds aboard "Kalou."

Qatari rider Hussein Saeed Haidan won the one-star Grand Prix at 130cm after completing the course in 32.36 seconds on "De Saucedo." Fellow Qatari Saad Ahmed Al Saad placed second in 34.25 seconds riding "Fashion de Douits," while Ghanem Nasser Al Qadi finished third with a time of 36.43 seconds on "Mokaines."

In the two-star competition at 130cm, Qatari rider Fares Saad Al Qahtani claimed first place in 56.65 seconds aboard "Cavalina." Saudi rider Fahad Al Juaid finished second with a time of 59.62 seconds on "Fatena," while Egypt's Ali Sabour placed third in 62.16 seconds riding "Nintendo."

At a height of 115cm in the same category, Qatari rider Abdulaziz Jassim Al Thani secured first place with a time of 49.21 seconds on "Gabana M." Saudi rider Hassan Al Hadi finished second in 49.33 seconds on "DSB CC," while Qatari rider Ali Omar Al Ansari placed third after completing the course in 50.93 seconds aboard "Nikita."

The second round of HH the Father Amir Prix is scheduled to take place from January 8 to 10 at the Longines Arena at Al Shaqab. The championship comprises four international rounds featuring categories from one-star to five-star events, in addition to dedicated competitions for junior and youth riders.

The second, third, and fourth rounds will include qualifying events for the FEI Group VII Finals, further enhancing the competitive stature of the championship.

The inaugural edition of the tournament is being organised through a joint collaboration between the Qatar Equestrian Federation, Al Shaqab, and the Qatar Olympic Committee, with the support of Qatar Airways as the official carrier and Education Above All Foundation as the humanitarian partner.

Following the conclusion of the championship, the Sword of HH the Amir Showjumping competition will be held from February 11 to 14 at Al Shaqab's Longines Arena. The event will feature elite international riders across one-star to five-star categories, alongside various dressage competitions.

British rider Harry Charles expressed his satisfaction with winning the four-star Grand Prix at the conclusion of the first round, noting that the strong start to the season provides additional motivation to continue competing at the highest level. He highlighted his enjoyment of competing at Al Shaqab and in Doha, praising the excellent atmosphere, the warm reception from spectators, and the high standard of organisation and hospitality.

Charles also indicated that his next objective is to maintain this winning momentum, acknowledging the challenge of doing so, but expressing confidence due to the quality of horses at his disposal. He added that he plans to remain in Doha for two months to take part in upcoming competitions, with the aim of continuing to deliver strong performances.