Dubai Horse Fair to Showcase Equestrian Safety

The region's leading equine exhibition will highlight the welfare of both horse and rider.

As the prize money at international horse championships increases, so too does the value of both horse and rider. In recent years, innovative products, treatments and technologies serving to safeguard this serious investment have come to the forefront of the equine market. See editor's note below.

Abdulla Qassem, Board Member of Higher Organising Committee of Dubai International Horse Fair and Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, said: "We have seen significant advancements in the technologies that reduce the risks associated with equestrianism, while retaining the sport's excitement."

Nowhere is this more evident than at the 6th Dubai International Horse Fair, the region's leading equine exhibition that takes place from March 18 until 20 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, and runs concurrently with the $4 million (Dh14.7m) Arabian Horse Championship.

Qassem said: "Exhibitors recognise that owners, trainers, breeders and enthusiasts in this market are uncompromising in their demand for the highest quality and safest and most technologically advanced products that will ensure horses and riders reach their full potential. With the show coinciding with other high-profile equestrian events in Dubai, the Dubai International Horse Fair provides the perfect platform to reach this market."

In keeping with this demand, some innovative products will be showcased at the horse show.
MK9, the world's first racing simulator for jockeys, which for horseracing professionals combines the essential elements of both safety and practice, will be introduced to the Middle East for the first time. This training tool will provide the jockey with the most realistic riding experience, enabling him to hone his skills and practice unfamiliar or difficult racetracks without risk of injury or distraction.

Specialists in safety and protection equipment will showcase the most technologically advanced safety jackets for riders in dressage, showjumping, eventing and steeplechasing.

Abdul Feroze Kareem, General Manager, Al Awani General Enterprise, the UAE's leading distributor of premier equestrian products and a key exhibitor at the show, said: "The wellbeing of horses in every discipline is of upmost importance to Al Awani and we are committed to providing the best equipment for both horse and rider. The Dubai International Horse Fair is the perfect arena for vendors and suppliers looking for the latest examples of products and equipment shaping the future of the equine industry."

The event will once again run concurrently with the Dubai World Cup, which is to be held just after the exhibition and the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, the preeminent competition in the region for purebred Arabian horses, renowned for their beauty, agility and heritage. With prize money of $4m for 2010, the championship attracts entries of the highest calibre from around the world. More than 200 companies from 30 countries will be exhibiting the latest advancements in the equine industry, particularly in the area of safety, at this year's show.

Editor’s Note: RS Management Limited (RSM), Global General Managers of Richman’s IMC and The Royal Nanjing Jockey Club are in the process of introducing a special range of food supplements for race horses. These supplements, that will be available in China soon, have been proven in Japan and Australia to enhance overall equestrian health and expecially their racing performance. For enquiries please contact RSM at contactrsm@gmail.com