HICKSTEAD: British Showjumping has presented a special award to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan for her outstanding contributions to the sport of showjumping in the United Kingdom and globally. The award recognises her enduring support of equestrian sport and was presented during the prestigious CSIO5 King George V Gold Cup, now part of the Al Shira’aa Tour.
Sheikha Fatima, who chairs the Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, Abu Dhabi Ladies Club, and Al Ain Ladies Club, is also the founder of Al Shira’aa Arabians and a key figure in global equestrian development. Her influence spans from breeding elite stallions in the UK to mentoring emerging Emirati riders on the international stage.
The award was handed over by Hickstead Directors Lizzie and Edward Bunn and was received on her behalf by Mohamed Ahmed Al Harbi and Khaula Al Nuaimi. In her statement, Sheikha Fatima expressed gratitude, saying, “It is an honour to be recognised by British Showjumping. Our mission with Al Shira’aa has always been to elevate the sport and support riders in reaching their highest potential, wherever in the world they may be.”
Under her leadership, Al Shira’aa has become a global force in equestrian sport, promoting talent development and sponsoring elite-level events. At the King George V Gold Cup, Al Shira’aa riders Omar Al Marzooqi and Abdullah Al Marri delivered top performances, finishing second and sixth respectively.
The Al Shira’aa Tour continues with the Young Horse Championships at Hickstead before heading to Germany’s CSI4* Turnier der Sieger from 21–24 August. The award is a testament to Sheikha Fatima’s vision and her deep-rooted commitment to advancing equestrian sport both in the UAE and internationally.
