Jockey voices delight after taking on some of world’s biggest names in his first title event Saudi Arabian jockey Hamoud bin Saleh Al-Badi finished fifth at the Endurance World Championship for junior horses in Sardinia on Saturday. The 120-kilometer race took place over four stages, the first two run over 35km, with the third and fourth each over 25km. Al-Badi, riding Despe Du Fonpeyrol, expressed his delight at claiming fifth place in the world championship. “I am happy to achieve this position, especially since it is my first participation in the world championship. I felt proud when I saw my country’s flag among those of the participating countries.” He added: “The race was not easy, especially against some of the biggest names in the world. Our ambition is to finish in even better positions in future events.” Al-Badi thanked Prince Abdullah bin Fahd, president of the Saudi Equestrian Federation, for his support during preparations for the competition and the event itself.