Press release from Al Shira’aa International Horse Show, edited by World of Showjumping

The penultimate day of the Al Shira’aa International Horse Show 2026 in Abu Dhabi (UAE) concluded in spectacular fashion, as the CSI4*-W 1.45m Al Shira’aa Hickstead Speed Derby delivered a thrilling, crowd-pleasing close to Saturday’s competition.

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. The class challenged riders with a fast-paced rustic course that rewarded precision, bravery and bold-decision making.

Sophie Hinners of Germany was among the first to take on the challenge and immediately laid down a strong marker, guiding Come Away Flamingo Z (Cardento x Dollar du Murier) into the lead with a bold and flowing round that set the early pace and would ultimately secure second place. However, it was the French rider, Ines Joly, who went full throttle to steal the spotlight, producing a fearless performance aboard Faylinn de Fondcombe (Lando x Diamant de Semilly) to stop the clock in 108.65 seconds, taking the win. Syria’s Shady Ghrayeb completed the podium in third place riding Cabernet de Mars (Baloubet du Rouet x Dollar Dela Pierre), adding four penalties but still delivering one of the quickest rounds of the class in a thrilling conclusion to the Speed Derby.