Equestrian Sports Attract Different Age Groups in Saudi Arabia’s Ha’il
(AWP) - Fahad Salman was speaking zealously about the ‘wonderful chance’ offered by a horse-riding club he goes to several times a week in the city of Ha’il, northern Saudi Arabia, where he was practicing an enjoyable hobby and a useful sport like many other people of different ages.
“I’ve always loved horses ever since I was a child. This safe place offers good education and training. Now, I am a good rider and own a horse,” he said.
Salman was not the only one who goes regularly to the Ghizwan club for equestrian sports.
The club keeps an open door all days of the week for anyone who wishes to learn about the equestrian sports and of all ages and families. The club devotes days for the training of women.
Horse raising and riding is in high demand in the kingdom. Many families urge their young people to learn about horse riding and equestrian sports.
Horse staples are spread in the region of Ha’il, which helped promote the equestrian sports for all age groups and offer families a fun experience. Visitors may tour inside the club to watch horses and get to learn about the means to take care of them and the secrets of their raising.
According to press reports, the number of horse staples in Ha’il and other villages of the city is more than 50. Some describe them as ‘Saudi Arabia’s horse raising hub.’
“People in general are interested in horses. We have many subscribers. There are many people who come to the club to understand how to handle horses. It is an old heritage here and we are still keeping it,” Abdul-Rahman al-Qahtani, the club owner, said.
In addition to practicing this useful sport for the local residents in the area, Hala al-Zuwaymel, a trainer, said the club also plays a societal role through providing special programs for autistic patients and persons with special needs.