Hussain Al Kaabi: From Hobby Rider to Qatar’s Showjumping Ambassador
Hussain Al Kaabi, one of Qatar’s most devoted showjumpers, has just concluded a successful leg of his European competition season in Italy. As he prepares to return to Qatar for the winter circuit, Hussain reflects on the impact of his experiences abroad, the evolution of equestrianism in Qatar, and his personal journey in the sport.
Having competed in Europe’s top arenas, Al Kaabi has sharpened his skills, continuously pushing himself and his horse to higher levels of performance. “Living the experience of new places and different kinds of shows has made me more experienced in how to ride in every arena type,” he says. “It also taught me my strengths and weaknesses, so I can work more on myself and my horse.”
This exposure to Europe’s competitive scene has shaped his approach to the sport. “Competing outside your home country forces you out of your comfort zone,” he adds. “You learn new things that you wouldn’t discover until you experience them abroad. It has been a tremendous learning experience.”
Al Kaabi’s entry into equestrianism started as a casual hobby but soon evolved into a full-fledged passion, largely thanks to his coach, Diego. “At first, it was just a new hobby until I met my coach Diego,” Italian showjumper Diego de Riu is currently training some of the promising young talents from Qatar.
Hussain explains. “He believed in me from day one, kept my hopes up with day and night training, and was with me through every situation. He even matched me with my perfect mare, Contenta Della Verdina. I owe him so much for his dedication and commitment. If it weren’t for him and the equipped schooling stables we have in Qatar, I wouldn’t have found the right path at such a young age.”
Thanks to facilities like Al Shaqab and the broader support system in Qatar, Al Kaabi believes the nation has everything it needs to foster elite talent in equestrian sports. “We have the best equestrian facilities, very well-equipped with everything the rider and horse need, and the competition shows are incredibly well organized,” he says proudly. “Qatar is already a global competitor in equestrian sport; people from around the world come to ride in Al Shaqab during the Doha tour.”
But Al Kaabi is not content to rest on his laurels. His personal goals are ambitious, driven by a deep sense of national pride and a desire to inspire others. “I aim for more—more wins, more opportunities to compete, and to improve myself in this sport,” he says with determination. “I’m doing it all to raise my country’s flag loud and proud. I want to inspire others to see that it’s never too late to become a professional in any sport. You just have to believe in yourself and start.”
As for the future of equestrianism in Qatar, Hussain is confident that the sport will continue to grow, thanks to the unwavering support of the country’s leadership. “Our wise leaders always tend towards improving this sport in every aspect, and I’m very proud of how every season gets better and better,” he notes.
Looking ahead, Al Kaabi sees great potential for local riders to contribute to Qatar’s rise as a global powerhouse in equestrian sports. “Local riders, like myself, can contribute to that progress by continuing to compete at the highest level and by being ambassadors for our country on the international stage,” he explains. “It’s not just about competing; it’s about showing the world what Qatar is capable of in equestrianism.”
With his European tour behind him and a promising winter season in Qatar on the horizon, Hussain Al Kaabi stands at the forefront of a new generation of Qatari riders. His journey from hobbyist to competitor on the global stage is a testament to his talent, hard work, and the supportive environment Qatar provides for its athletes. And as he continues to chase his dreams, one thing is certain: Hussain Al Kaabi is a rider to watch.
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