A popular horse riders show scheduled for today near Bahrain Fort has been postponed by two weeks due to unsafe ground conditions, organisers have announced.
The delay follows concerns raised during a routine practice session earlier this week when riders discovered deep mud holes across the showground.
“It was the first hour on Wednesday’s field practice with our costumes on that we feared our horses would be injured,” said Khalil Al Fardan, the long-time leader of Bahrain’s riders’ network. “We can’t risk it. Safety of riders and horses comes first.”
Authorities were immediately notified, and contractors have since been deployed to assess and begin levelling the area. Work is expected to be completed by October 28 or 29, allowing the show to go ahead on the new date – October 31.
While the postponement was disappointing for the riders and fans, Mr Al Fardan said the extra time is being put to good use.
“This gives us more time to scout female and young riders,” he said. “It’s not just about veterans like me anymore. It’s about the youth – they bring new energy, new ideas, and we need that to keep the show alive.”
This year’s show is placing a strong focus on teenagers, young adults and children, featuring a variety of cowboy-themed competitions, choreography challenges and costume contests.
“We’ve introduced competitions for young adults, teenagers and children in cowboy games, costumes and choreography,” said Mr Al Fardan. “It’s about creating an environment that inspires passion and creativity. We develop, we grow and we progress – it’s an ongoing process.”
Riders who stand out during this season’s events will be invited to represent the group at major national events, including Mara’ee next month and the National Day celebrations in December.
“For National Day, we all wear the national flag as a thoub and perform Bahraini horse dances,” Mr Al Fardan said. “It’s a moment of pride for every rider involved.”
Scheduled shows will include cavalry-themed performances inspired by Ottoman, British, French, Arabian, and “Lawrence of Arabia” styles – alongside Bahraini wedding re-enactments and folklore dances celebrating the kingdom’s deep-rooted equestrian heritage.
“These are just shows. It’s a celebration of who we are, and how far we’ve come,” said Mr Al Fardan. “Hopefully, people enjoy our effort – we’ve put a lot into ensuring it’s the experience of a lifetime.”
Interested riders or volunteers can contact Mr Al Fardan at 33913301 for more information.
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