Purebred Arabian horses compete in high-stakes race in Hurriya

NAJAF — Horse enthusiasts gathered in the town of Hurriya, southern Najaf governorate, to watch a spirited race featuring 35 purebred Arabian horses at the Hoor Ibn Najm track. Riders from Diwaniya, Karbala, and Hillah joined local competitors in three fast-paced rounds celebrating Iraq’s equestrian tradition.

In a standout performance, a horse named Samra won her heat, edging out 13 contenders in what organizers described as one of the toughest rounds.

“I’m the owner of the horse Samra, who won first place at the race held in the Hoor Ibn Najm track in Hurriya,” rider Malek al-Aaradi told 964media. “This was Samra’s first time competing in such a race, and it was one of the hardest. She took first place among 13 horses.”

Al-Aaradi said Samra has previously competed in Najaf, Nu’maniya, Samawa, Khameesiya, and Kifl. “The race today was very intense, the competition was tough, but Samra managed to win,” he said. “I hope to compete with Samra across Iraq and even internationally. Our pure Iraqi Arabian horses, the Jazira breed, deserve to represent the country abroad.”

Race organizer Waddah al-Safi said the event featured three main heats: the first for colts aged three years and under over a 2-kilometer distance; the second for purebred Arabian horses standing 154 cm or shorter over 3 kilometers; and the third for hybrid Arabian horses, also over 3 kilometers.

Prizes, including commemorative cups, were awarded to the top three finishers in each category.

Rider Dhiab al-Aaradi also claimed a win with his horse Shumukh. “The race was excellent. Shumukh has previously raced in several tournaments in Najaf, Nu’maniya, Samawa, Khameesiya, and Kifl,” he said.

Al-Aaradi expressed a desire to compete abroad but noted challenges in doing so. “I hope Shumukh will race internationally, but so far, we haven’t received any backing for this sport,” he said.