Milena Mendez, an accomplished endurance rider, marked the start of the 19th His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Festival with an impressive victory in the festival’s opening event at Dubai International Endurance City on January 6. Her performance showcased not only her riding skills but also her strategic approach and stamina during this challenging competition.
Competing in the Ladies Ride sponsored by Azizi Developments, Mendez overcame an early setback on her horse Goldstream, which is trained by M7 Endurance Stables. The duo excelled on the demanding 120 km course, finishing over three minutes ahead of their closest rivals to claim victory.
Endurance riding is often compared to a marathon for equestrians, testing both the horse’s and rider’s abilities over long distances. This sport emphasizes elements such as resilience, management of pace, and a strong partnership between the rider and horse. The endurance festival, which began in 2008, has grown to become one of the UAE’s premier events, honoring Sheikh Mohammed’s contributions to horse racing and promoting the sport on both local and international stages.
Sheikh Mohammed, an esteemed figure in the endurance riding community, has not only supported the sport but has also achieved significant personal success, including winning the FEI World Endurance Championship individual title in 2012. His influence helps attract top riders and horses from around the world to the festival.
Riding under optimal conditions, Mendez and Goldstream completed the ride with an impressive average speed of 27.51 kph, finishing the event in just 4 hours, 21 minutes, and 45 seconds. Following closely were Shamma Darwish Alshihi, who finished second with SW Ikran in 4:24:49, and Sara Mohammed, who secured third place riding Rushoz Lieutenant in 4:25:11.
The opening 40 km loop proved to be particularly competitive. Starting in eighth place, Mendez and Goldstream quickly made up ground, overtaking competitors during the second loop and retaining their lead throughout the remainder of the race. Alshihi’s SW Ikran also demonstrated remarkable progress, coming from 28th place to ultimately finish second.
At just 21 years old, Milena Mendez is already building an impressive career. Her achievements include participation in prestigious events such as the Ladies Ride at the Dubai Crown Prince Endurance Festival and the 100 km Shaikha Fatma bint Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan Ladies Endurance Cup.
The award ceremony recognized Mendez and her fellow competitors, with trophies being presented by Mirwais Azizi, the Founder and Chairman of Azizi Group, Ahmed Rashed Al Kaabi, General Manager of the Dubai Equestrian Club, and Dr. Ghanem Al Hajri, Secretary General of the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation.
The endurance festival will continue with several high-stakes competitions, including the Private Stables competition on January 7 and the Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares on January 8. The event will culminate with the prestigious HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup, a 160 km challenge for elite riders on January 10.