Rashed Khamis Al Mehairi Wins Gold for UAE at FEI Young Riders World Championship
The United Arab Emirates once again stamped its authority on the global endurance racing stage as Rashed Khamis Al Mehairi delivered a stellar performance to win the FEI Endurance World Championship for Young Riders & Juniors 2025 in Buftea, Romania. Riding Shardell Jaeger, Al Mehairi completed the challenging 120km course in 5 hours, 33 minutes, and 1 second (5:33:01) at an average speed of 22.79 kph.
His victory not only brought him individual glory but also helped the UAE secure its fifth consecutive team title at the championship, further cementing the nation’s dominance in international endurance racing.
Redemption After 2023 Runner-Up Finish
Al Mehairi’s win comes two years after his near-miss in France, where he finished second behind fellow Emirati Rashed Ahmad Al Ketbi at Castelsagrat in 2023. Determined to improve on his runner-up result, Al Mehairi stayed within striking distance of the leaders throughout the race, making his decisive move during the fifth and final loop in Buftea—a town located just northwest of Bucharest.
“I was determined to go one better this time,” Al Mehairi said after his victory. “Winning this title is a dream come true, and I am proud to raise the UAE flag high on the international stage.”
Tactical Ride to Victory
The 120km race tested both riders and their mounts across varied terrain and multiple vet checks. Al Mehairi maintained composure, beginning the first loop in third place and holding steady in the top positions.
During the second loop, Essa Abdulla of the UAE took the lead from Bahrain’s Sultan Al Romaihi, while Al Mehairi remained within the chasing pack. By the end of the third loop, Al Mehairi had dropped briefly to fourth, but he regained momentum in the fourth loop, climbing to second place.
The turning point came at the vet gates after the final loop, where Essa Abdulla’s horse, Geste La Majorie, was ruled out due to an irregular gait. That unfortunate elimination opened the door for Al Mehairi to claim the crown.
He ultimately crossed the finish line ahead of Bahraini riders Saud Mubarak Salem and Isa Hameed Al Anezi, who secured second and third place respectively. Out of 84 starters, only 45 riders completed the course, underlining the grueling nature of the event.
UAE Leadership Support and National Pride
Following the triumph, Sheikh Rashed Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Equestrian Club, praised the UAE riders for their dedication and resilience. He credited the country’s leadership for their unwavering support, which has elevated the UAE to a position of global prominence in equestrian sports.
“The UAE’s victory at the FEI Endurance Championship for Young Riders and Juniors reflects our riders’ exceptional skill, determination, and horsemanship,” Sheikh Rashed said. “This achievement not only reinforces the UAE’s dominance in endurance racing but also sets a new international benchmark for excellence.”
UAE’s Endurance Racing Legacy
Endurance racing has become a cornerstone of the UAE’s sporting identity, with the nation consistently producing top riders and horses who excel on the world stage. This latest victory in Romania adds to a long line of international successes that highlight the UAE’s leadership in the sport.
For Al Mehairi, the win represents both personal redemption and a continuation of the UAE’s tradition of excellence. His success demonstrates the importance of strategic riding, rigorous training, and the strong bond between rider and horse.
About the FEI Young Riders & Juniors Championship
The Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) established the Endurance World Championship for Young Riders and Juniors to showcase the next generation of equestrian talent. The event not only provides young riders with invaluable international experience but also highlights the future of endurance racing.
By nurturing riders such as Al Mehairi, the UAE has ensured that its dominance in the sport will continue for years to come.
Conclusion
Rashed Khamis Al Mehairi’s gold medal ride in Romania is more than just a personal triumph—it is a symbol of the UAE’s enduring commitment to excellence in equestrian sports. His victory, achieved with grit, strategy, and horsemanship, extends the UAE’s unbeaten run in the championship to five consecutive titles.
As the country celebrates this achievement, the young Emirati’s success will inspire future riders to follow in his footsteps, keeping the UAE at the forefront of endurance racing worldwide.
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