Saudi Arabia: Amal bint Faisal has become the first licensed Saudi Arabian female to compete as a jockey under Rules in the kingdom, with her first ride resulting in a fourth-placed finish aboard Saanehah at King Abdulaziz racecourse in Riyadh on Friday [March 10].
Although overseas women take part in the annual International Jockeys Challenge alongside their male counterparts at the Saudi Cup meeting, Faisal became the first Saudi woman to gain a jockey’s licence from the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia (JCSA) in October last year.
After riding in Friday’s third race – a one-mile fillies’ maiden in which her mount Saanehah was fourth of 20 behind Moustafeedhah – she now stands as the first and only licensed local female jockey to have competed professionally in her country.
Reflecting on a highly significant landmark moment, Faisal said: “I feel proud that I kept my promise to everyone who supported me and stood by me, and I dedicate this victory to my family, specifically my mother, who has supported me throughout my career since the beginning.
“Prince Bandar and Prince Abdullah bin Khalid overcame all odds and contributed to my goal of achieving this dream. I also want to thank the owner, Abdulelah Al Mousa, for his moral and financial support throughout my career.
“Special thanks to coach Bandar Hamdam, who made me a jockey on the field, I owe this achievement to him. And I do not forget the great role of the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia in preparing all that is necessary to be the first female jockey to actively participate in the races.
“I promise to continue giving and to set an example for all the daughters of the country in riding horses as a professional jockey.”
To mark the occasion, Faisal also wore breeches inscribed ‘FIRST FEMALE’.
• Visit the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia website
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