All eyes turn to Doha as preparations are made ahead of the final 2015 Longines Global Champions Tour showdown, set against the stunning backdrop of AL SHAQAB, one of the most beautiful and prestigious equestrian venues in the world. The final round of competition, which will see one of the most exciting show jumping deciders of the year, will take place from the 12th – 14th November, with free entry to the public on Thursday and Friday. More information on tickets to Saturday’s Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Doha, which will see one rider crowned LGCT Champion of the 2015 season, are available here.
With the world’s top riders in action and keen to secure their positions on the LGCT ranking board, and the battle for the 2015 Championship title as close as ever, it’s set to be an exhilarating finale to incredible 2015 season.
LGCT Ranking leader Scott Brash (GBR) commented: “It’s been an incredible season so far, and really competitive at the top. I’m sure it’ll come down to the wire, and you can never underestimate Luciana and Rolf who are on such great form.”
Echoing Scott’s words, second place rider and winner of the penultimate Grand Prix, Luciana Diniz (POR) said: “I have only one chance to beat [Scott], and I need to win two Grand Prix out of the final three. I came second in Rome, and I won in Vienna so I’m pushing, and we’re going to have a lot of fun in Doha. I think it’s going to be really fun for everyone.”
Third place rider, Sweden’s Rolf-Göran Bengtsson spoke of how exciting the final round will be: “We’re looking forward to [the final in Doha]. The Longines Global Champions Tour is very exciting I think, in that it’s not over until the last one has jumped.”
His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the Father Emir of the State of Qatar, founded AL SHAQAB in 1992 to preserve and further develop the Arabian horse in Qatar. In 2004, AL SHAQAB proudly became a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, with a mission to be global leaders in preserving, improving and promoting the Arabian horse through setting the highest standards in breeding, equestrian arts and equine welfare, and encouraging community participation.
AL SHAQAB stands as an enduring tribute to the Arabian horse and the tradition of equestrian excellence that has co-evolved with this breed in Qatar.
The range of equine disciplines and programs at AL SHAQAB ensures that the cultural legacy and appreciation of the Arabian breed meets modern day equestrian arts in the Stud, the Equine Education Centre, the Endurance Team, and also at the soon to be opened state of the art Veterinary Hospital. The variety and values of the sport are also promoted by regularly hosting major international competitions with the world’s best riders.
AL SHAQAB sets new standards for the whole of Asia & the Middle East in the equestrian arts at its iconic landscape and architectural award winning Arenas. With such a stunning destination for the final round of competition in the Longines Global Champions Tour, it’s set to be an incredible end to what has been a sensational season in the world’s premier show jumping series.
For a provisional schedule of events, please click here.
Source: Press release
