Chi Al Shaqab 2016 – a regal equestrian tournament

Under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Thani, incumbent Emir of Qatar and Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa Bint Hamad Al Thani, the fourth edition of the world-class equestrian competition took place from the 2nd until the 5th of March 2016 in the Al Shaqab Equestrian Center in Doha, Qatar.

The equestrian center was specifically designed to honour the distinguished classic beauty as well as the treasured and versatile skills of the Arabian breed. Situated in a stunning 980 000 m² horseshoe shaped design, Al Shaqab has many distinctive architectural elements. A central water feature, significant green areas and the landmark main area create a welcoming environment for both human and equine visitors. It comprises a fully air-conditioned indoor riding arena of 100 x 60 meters for
6 000 spectators and an outdoor arena which is semi-roofed with a riding ground of 120 x 80 meters.

Al Shaqab houses a veterinary centre, separate comfortable accommodations for competitors and the staff of Al Shaqab, various stately stables, a breeding & show center, an equestrian club as well as an educational center for visitors.
There is no shortage in entertainment for the entire family during a tournament. Fashion and horse enthusiasts are invited to browse through the commercial village and play in the fun area created for the whole family. A selection of delicious foods is on offer in the exquisitely decorated VIP lounges, restaurants and food courts.

The Chi Al Shaqab 2016 is one of only four international annual equestrian competitions that showcase three or more equestrian disciplines in one event. In this event the disciplines were Show Jumping, Dressage and Para-Dressage where the best national and international horses and riders were to battle for one of the most coveted titles in the equestrian calendar. The event is also the final opportunity for riders to gain the maximum amount of points for the Rio Olympic Individual Rider’s ranking. Well known riders like Ludger Beerbaum and Philippa Johnson-Dwyer appeared on the long list of competitors as well as members of the Al Thani family.

Chi Al Shaqab once again put on an impressive performance worthy of its stellar international reputation attended by members of the Qatari Royal Family, members of royal families from across the GCC (Golf Cooperation Council) and regional and international VIPs from the equestrian and business worlds.

Elie Salameh, project manager of Al Isteklal IAC Qatar and responsible for the sound system explains: “We felt absolutely honoured when having been asked to supply the sound system for this very prestigious equestrian tournament. But we knew that we couldn’t go wrong with TWAUDiO. For the outer arena with its filigree roof structure we required a visually discreet system which was nonetheless capable of delivering an utmost intelligible and clear sound for the announcements.
24 x VERA10 were deployed on truss towers combined with 12 x B30 subwoofers.

The system for the entertainment tent consisted of 8 x VERA10 in combination with 4 x B30 subwoofers together with 4 x T24, used as a delay line. The acoustical requirements in the Fun Zone were covered by 8 x VERA10 with 2 x BSX.
For the VIP area 16 x M8 loudspeakers were put in place to deliver an uncompromisingly subtle sound for the guests while watching the tournament from this partly glass paned space.
All in all it was an extraordinary successful event and our client was extremely pleased with the outcome.”