Saudi jockey aces 100 km endurance race in France

RIYADH: Saudi jockey Razan Al-Rajhi is riding high after completing a 100 km endurance race in France — less than a year after taking to the saddle.

And her achievement in Le Pertre was recently celebrated at an event organized by the Al-Sarim Al-Battar Academy at its stable in Janadriyah, on the northern outskirts of Riyadh.

The academy offers a program dedicated to training female jockeys.

Al-Rajhi told Arab News: “The endurance race in France was challenging, but I was determined to demonstrate that Saudi women are capable of achieving anything.”

Just 11 months ago, Al-Rajhi did not know how to ride a horse but was determined to learn. She raced twice in Bahrain before applying for the event in France, where she qualified and earned her first star.

More than 60 riders from Europe also took part.

Al-Rajhi leads a team of 15 girls. She said: “As beginners in this field, we support and inspire each other. My girls work hard, push themselves, and I’m proud of their dedication.”

For world cup race qualification, she must now complete 120 km for her second star, and 160 km for her third.

Hatem Hassanein, an international referee, coach, and academy owner, said Al-Rajhi, the only Arab female participant in the championship, amazed jockeys, participants, and judges with her skills.

“I teach girls to ride horses while also helping them build bravery and commitment,” he added.

Al-Rajhi is preparing for the 2024 Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup in AlUla, an international endurance racing world cup.