Saad Al-Suwaidi
With the participation of competitors from the Gulf States, the annual HH Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Al Thani Arabian Camel Racing Festival, known as the Founders Sword Festival, began on the 30th of November at Al Shehaniya Camel Racetrack, hosted by the Hjen Racing committee.
The competition, which is one of the most expensive sporting events in Qatar, invites participants to compete for the Sword of the Founding Amir, awarded to the winner of the final event of the festival – HH the Founders Main Race.
With 52 awards to be given throughout the competition, this year’s event registered a record of nearly 7,000 camels, inviting competitors and camels owners from around the GCC.
The competition hosts camels of various types, purebred Arabian camels and Hybrids, and the races are distinguished between male and female, as well as age groups.
The 10 days event is due on the 14th of December, with various VIP’s and dignitaries from the GCC will be attending.