Celebration of Equestrian Culture in Morocco
The 25th edition of the Hassan II Award for Traditional Equestrian Arts, known as "Tbourida," culminated in a spectacular display of skill and tradition. Held in Dar Es Salaam, Rabat, from June 15 to 21, 2026, this prestigious event showcased the best of Moroccan equestrian culture under the esteemed patronage of King Mohammed VI. The grand title was claimed by the team led by Mohamed Amine Talhouni from the Casablanca-Settat region, marking a significant achievement in the realm of traditional horsemanship.
In a vibrant competition filled with excitement, Talhouni’s team outperformed other contenders, including the silver medalists, led by Abdelhadi Haloua from the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region, and the bronze medalists, the team captained by Mehdi Anjar from Marrakech-Safi. The event not only highlighted the competitive spirit but also the rich heritage of Tbourida, which is deeply embedded in Moroccan culture.
A Showcase of Talent and Tradition
The competition saw participation from 18 senior teams that battled over four days, with ten teams advancing to the finals. Among the younger participants, aged 12-16, six teams represented various regions, including Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, Eastern Morocco, and Marrakech-Safi. The structure of the competition emphasized both individual and collective displays of horsemanship, where coordination between riders and their horses was paramount. Judges evaluated various aspects such as the riders' posture, uniformity of movement, and overall presentation.
Financial rewards were significant, with the champion receiving 500,000 dirhams, while the runners-up were awarded 300,000 dirhams and 200,000 dirhams respectively. Further down the line, all teams from 11th to 18th place received 30,000 dirhams each, ensuring that all participants were recognized for their efforts. This commitment to rewarding excellence underscores the importance of Tbourida in fostering not only competition but also camaraderie among participants.
The Hassan II Award continues to celebrate Morocco’s rich equestrian traditions and reinforces the significance of preserving this cultural heritage for future generations. The event's success not only highlights the talent of the participants but also the commitment of the Moroccan Royal Equestrian Federation to promote and develop the sport within the country.
As reported by hespress.com.