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Come watch a flamenco dance by horses at Dubai fair

Dubai - 12th Dubai International Horse Fair is on at the World Trade Centre until tomorrow.

The horse is as much a part of the UAE's illustrious tradition as the camel or falcon and this was highlighted at the opening of the 12th Dubai International Horse Fair at the Dubai World Trade Centre on Thursday.
Much to the delight of the visitors, His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai also attended the event.
The event, which happens alongside the 13th Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, is being held under the patronage of Shaikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance, and will run until Saturday.
Horse breeders, equine experts, novice riders, and enthusiasts were treated to an extravaganza of entertainment, including pony show jumping, Spanish dressage show featuring 'horse flamenco,' equestrian art gallery, heritage village, polo demonstrations, and more.
Italian expat Romina Abbas told Khaleej Times: "I'm into the horse industry myself, being a horse trainer and riding instructor, and I brought my little daughters here because I want them to get exposed to horses at a young age."
Kids also had fun at one of the events at the fair called 'gymkhana' (games on horseback). After events such as barrel racing, keg race (also known as "down and back"), flag race, and around the world, 10-year old Dutch expat Lauren Bleeker emerged as the overall champion, besting six other participants.
"You feel your heart beat faster, you think of nothing else and it's an amazing experience," says Bleeker, who reminded anyone who would like to ride a horse for the first time to think safety first. "Always wear a helmet and a body protector and listen to your instructor," she adds. Those who would like to check the event should not miss the Spanish equestrian performers Diego Lopez and Eva Padilla who brought their Andalusian horses to perform thrilling dressage routine, including performing a 'horse flamenco.' Padilla told Khaleej Times dancing flamenco with the horse is a different experience. "The movement is different as you are dancing with both the horse and the rider."
(Photos by Neeraj Murali)
angel@khaleejtimes.com