Doha, Qatar – January 24, 2026 – The penultimate day of the Al Shira’aa International Horse Show CSI 4* concluded in spectacular fashion, as the €40,000 Al Shira’aa Hickstead Speed Derby CSI 4*-W delivered a thrilling, crowd-pleasing close to Saturday’s competition, bringing high-speed drama under the spotlights.
Inspired by the iconic Derby format synonymous with Hickstead and Hamburg, Al Shira’aa has reintroduced the class to the UAE calendar following its long-term sponsorship of the heritage class at Hickstead, UK. The class challenged riders with a fast-paced rustic course that rewarded precision, bravery and bold-decision making.
Sophie Hinners (GER) of Germany was among the first to take on the challenge and immediately laid down a strong marker, guiding Come Away Flamingo Z into the lead with a bold and flowing round that set the early pace and would ultimately secure second place.
However, it was French rider, Inès Joly (FRA), who went full throttle to steal the spotlight, producing a fearless performance aboard Faylinn de Fondcombe to stop the clock in 108.65 seconds, taking the win.
Syria’s Shady Ghrayeb (SYR) completed the podium in third place riding Cabernet de Mars, adding four penalties but still delivering one of the quickest rounds of the class in a thrilling conclusion to the Spee
Final Results – €40,000 Al Shira’aa Hickstead Speed Derby CSI 4*-W
1) Inès Joly (FRA) & Faylinn de Fondcombe – 0 – 108.65
2) Sophie Hinners (GER) & Come Away Flamingo Z – 0 – 111.22
3) Shady Ghrayeb (SYR) & Cabernet de Mars – 4 – 112.11
Source: Press Release by Hannah McCabe / Dark Horse Communications for Al Shira’aa Tour
Photo: © Helen Cruden
