DOHA: Qatar Airways (QA) is a sponsor of the third edition of Chi Al Shaqab, a six-day international equestrian competition taking place until March 7 at Al Shaqab, Member of Qatar Foundation in Doha.
Following the success of the contest over the past two years, about 200 of the world’s best national and international riders and 200 horses from more than 33 countries are expected to compete for a prize purse of over 1m euros.
The riders will have the opportunity to showcase skills in five disciplines: Dressage, Vaulting, Show Jumping, Endurance and, Para Dressage, for the first time in the Middle East and Asia.
As the official partner for the contest, QA Cargo will provide transportation for participating horses. The horses, including Olympic winners, will arrive in Doha via three QA Cargo freighters that will ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for them.
Ulrich Ogiermann, QA Chief Officer Cargo, said: “QA Cargo is delighted to again offer support to this world-class event. We take pride in providing five-star services on the ground and in the air for these amazing animals, and we are committed to ensuring that they are handled with utmost care by our team, just as we do with everything we transport.”
QA Cargo transports animals in accordance with International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animal Regulations.
Unlike other small pets such as cats and dogs, horses cannot be transported in the lower deck of regular passenger planes and must be flown on dedicated freighters.
They are loaded into ‘air stables’ or ‘horse stalls’ — special containers that can fit up to three horses side by side, providing safe and secure transport while on the aircraft.
The contest was launched in 2013 under the patronage of H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani and H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. The event, supported by QF, is the first of its kind in the Middle East and Asia.
The Peninsula
