What is Arabian Racing?

What is Arabian racing? Image of horses racing on a sand track. Image by Mary Pahlke from Pixabay

Arabian racing refers to a type of horse racing that specifically involves purebred Arabian horses. Arabian horses are a breed known for their beauty, endurance, and speed. They originated in the Arabian Peninsula and have been prized by various cultures for centuries.

Arabian racing is a popular equestrian sport that takes place in different parts of the world, including the Middle East, Europe, and North America. The races typically involve flat racing, where horses compete on a straight or oval track to determine the fastest runner. However, there are also endurance races, which test the horses’ stamina over long distances.

Arabian racing events often feature horses bred for racing and are held at dedicated racetracks. The races can vary in distance, from short sprints to longer distances, depending on the specific event and location. Just like other forms of horse racing, this type of racing involves jockeys who ride the horses and compete for victory.

The sport has its own governing bodies and organizations that oversee the breed specific type of racing, such as the International Federation of Arabian Horse Racing Authorities (IFAHR). These organizations establish rules, regulate competitions, and promote the breed and the sport as a whole.

This type of racing showcases the athleticism and elegance of the horse and has a dedicated following of enthusiasts and breeders. It offers an exciting spectacle for spectators and a platform for owners and trainers to showcase their horses’ abilities.

What is the International Federation of Arabian Horse Racing Authorities (IFAHR)

The primary international organization governing the sport is the International Federation of Arabian Horse Racing Authorities (IFAHR). IFAHR is an official body that oversees and regulates this type of sport at an international level. It was established in 1972 to promote and develop the sport worldwide.

IFAHR works closely with national and regional racing authorities to coordinate and standardize rules and regulations for the sport. It aims to maintain the integrity of the sport, ensure fair competition, and preserve the welfare of Arabian horses.

The organization is responsible for organizing and sanctioning major Arabian racing events, including the prestigious Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Cup and the HH Emir’s Sword series. These events attract top horses, trainers, and jockeys from around the world.

IFAHR also maintains a ranking system for Arabian racehorses based on their performance in approved races. The rankings help identify the leading horses in the sport and acknowledge their achievements.

In addition to IFAHR, there are also national and regional Arabian racing organizations that govern the sport within their respective jurisdictions. These organizations work in collaboration with IFAHR to promote the sport at a local level and organize races and events specific to their regions.


Discover more from Everything Horse Racing UK

Subscribe to get the latest posts to your email.

Related posts