The Canadian School Bahrain’s (CSB) latest addition to its campus aims to continue cultivating a culture of health and wellness for its students as they saddle up to gallop towards educational and athletic excellence.
The private school in Diyar Al Muharraq, which is the first certified B C Curriculum School in Bahrain, unveiled its Equestrian Arena yesterday in the presence of members of the school’s board of directors, teachers, staff, students and their parents, as well as members of the media.
The event, that marked the first integration of an equestrian programme into a school in Bahrain, was held under the patronage, and presence, of Agriculture and Marine Resources Affairs Under-Secretary, board member and Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) assistant secretary-general Dr Khalid Ahmed Hassan.
“This marks a significant milestone in the realm of equestrian sports within the educational sector in Bahrain,” he said.
“This initiative sets a remarkable precedent for integrating equestrian training in private schools. I am impressed by the exceptional capabilities showcased by the student riders and the high standard of equine training overseen by specialists in horse dressage.
“This programme is a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering athletic excellence and an invaluable addition to our educational and sporting infrastructure.
“It complements the existing amenities and aligns with our vision of nurturing well-rounded individuals who excel in both academic and athletic domains. The infrastructure and resources available here are conducive to the students’ sporting aspirations. The team and I are fully prepared to support and witness the growth and achievements that will undoubtedly stem from this initiative. We look forward to seeing champions from this school.”
School founder Abdulghaffar Al Kooheji also reflected on the significance of equestrianism, drawing inspiration from the Prophet Muhammad (BPUH).
“The Prophet Muhammad (BPUH) said, ‘Goodness is tied to the forelocks of horses until the Day of Judgement’,” he said as he highlighted the cultural importance of horses and emphasised their critical role in shaping ethics, social, political and military relations throughout history.
He also discussed how horsemanship instils several virtues such as masculinity, adherence to noble morals, courage in challenging situations, a sense of responsibility towards family and community and a commitment to high values, including aiding the distressed, defending the weak, and respecting women.
Mr Al Kooheji expressed his vision that by introducing a global educational curriculum that integrates local customs, traditions and Arab-Islamic heritage, CSB aims to nurture a generation that is aware, cultured and proud of its identity.
The event included a ribbon cutting, a tour of the facilities and a dressage performance by an expert equestrian followed by a showcase from the students.
The horse arena, stables and horse equipment facilities were also unveiled on the occasion.
“This year’s programme will introduce our younger students to the wonderful world of horses with a combination of classroom and ringside instruction,” said CSB’s senior school principal Bill Bartlett.
“The elementary grades in our Rookie Riders afterschool programme will study horse care, tack and safety, leading to introductory riding. Meanwhile our experienced riders will have the opportunity to practice their skills while they learn about stable management, nutrition, and a higher level of horse care.”
Present were Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry’s acting assistant under-secretary for livestock Dr Ibrahim Yousef, Breef secretary general Ghalib Mukhtar Al Alawi and media office director Tawfiq Al Salehi.
mai@gdnmedia.bh
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