A Grand Celebration of UAE’s Falconry Tradition
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Falconry Cup, one of the most prestigious falconry tournaments in the UAE, concluded with breathtaking races and record-breaking performances. Held at the specialized facility in Al Habbab, the event was organized by the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center and attracted elite falconers from across the region. With a staggering prize pool exceeding AED 23 million, the competition showcased the best talents in the sport, with high-stakes races and dramatic finishes keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
The Elite Contests: A Showcase of Precision and Speed
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum honored the top three winners across six elite races, celebrating the skill and dedication of falconers. Over 200 of the finest falcons competed, demonstrating remarkable speed, agility, and precision. The competition saw tight margins and stunning finishes, making it one of the most thrilling editions of the tournament yet.
Prestigious Cup Races: Record-Breaking Performances
Among the most anticipated events were the ‘Cup’ races, which boasted grand prizes worth AED 1 million each. The Sheikh’s Cup and Open Cup for young falcons brought fierce competition, with top teams vying for supremacy.
- Sheikh’s Cup Winner: The Al Nif team clinched victory with falcon Helman recording an impressive 18.409 seconds, earning a prize of AED 500,000.
- Open Cup Winner: Ghadir bin Ghadir Al Ketbi emerged victorious with his falcon Limitid, setting a time of 18.153 seconds.
- Owners’ Open Cup Winner: Mubarak Matar Al Khaili secured first place with his falcon 11, clocking 18.491 seconds.
Elite Falconry Races: The Best of the Best
The elite category, with a prize pool of AED 1.35 million, witnessed some of the fastest falcons in history.
- Elite Sheikh’s Gyrfalcon Race: M7 team dominated, with their falcons Ramah (14.529 seconds) and T 139 (14.997 seconds) claiming first and second place.
- Elite Open Gyrfalcon Race: The Dubai team shined, with their falcon Tajouri securing the top spot at 14.929 seconds.
- Elite Owners’ Gyrfalcon Race: Rashid Suhail Al Marri’s falcon Nashmi claimed victory with 15.377 seconds.
Falconry: A Symbol of UAE’s Rich Heritage
Falconry is more than just a sport in the UAE; it is a deep-rooted tradition that embodies the country’s rich heritage and cultural identity. Dating back centuries, falconry was an essential skill for survival in the harsh desert environment, helping Bedouins hunt for food. Today, it stands as a revered tradition, connecting generations to their ancestors’ way of life. The UAE continues to preserve and promote falconry through prestigious events like the Mohammed Bin Rashid Falconry Cup, ensuring this noble sport thrives in the modern era.
Leadership Support Elevating Falconry to Global Heights
The presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the event highlighted the unwavering commitment of the UAE’s leadership to preserving and enhancing falconry. His Excellency Rashid Mubarak Al Murkhan Al Ketbi emphasized that the support from the UAE’s leadership has been instrumental in elevating the sport to international recognition, attracting competitors and enthusiasts from around the world.
As each year passes, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Falconry Cup continues to set new benchmarks in the sport, bringing together heritage, skill, and an enduring passion for falconry that resonates with the UAE’s cultural legacy.
