Riding the experienced 17-year-old Oldenburg stallion Boeckmanns Lord Pezi Junior (Böckmann’s Lord Pezi x Quattro), Alsharbatly outpaced a world-class field to secure the top spot on the podium.

"It was a significant win," Alsharbatly remarked following the prize-giving ceremony. "The level of competition here is exceptionally high with many elite riders, but I am fortunate that my horse performed brilliantly. This victory truly belongs to him, he gave everything: his heart, his effort, and his trust. That was the deciding factor today."

Alsharbatly also took a moment to acknowledge the collective effort required to compete at this level: "While this individual win stands out, I am proud of my entire string today. Every horse showed their strength, and it is vital to start a tour of this magnitude on such a high note. Today was a testament to teamwork, from the horses to the dedicated staff behind the scenes, everyone plays a crucial role. Their support and belief make all the difference."

The Saudi rider formally dedicated the win to King Salman, Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, and the President of the Saudi Equestrian Federation, Prince Abdullah bin Fahd bin Abdullah Al Saud.

International Contenders Round Out the Top Five

The competition remained tight throughout the class. Italy’s speed specialist Emanuele Gaudiano secured second place aboard Vasco 118 (Vivant), finishing just over a second behind Alsharbatly’s time. Syria’s Ahmad Saber Hamcho claimed the final spot on the podium with Frenchy VDS (Cornet Obolensky), a mare formerly campaigned by Belgian Olympian Niels Bruynseels.

Austria’s Gerfried Puck finished in fourth place with the KWPN stallion Idiaal Special H.J. (Falaise de Muze), while Oliver Lazarus (RSA) rounded out the top five in the irons of Butterfly Ennemmel (Quaprice Bois Margot).

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