Saudi horse trainer Abrar Alobeisa has loved animals, especially horses, since childhood. She was taught to ride by international trainers and has become proficient over the years in riding and handling horses. Her love for the majestic hoofed creatures of the Equidae family motivated her to become a horse riding instructor seven years ago and despite the challenges she faces, working in a male dominated environment, she has trained several Saudi riders who have made her proud. During her career, she has endured many injuries but she is still committed to fulfilling her aspirations.

We met with Alobeisa to discover more about her equestrian career and her hopes for the future



Q: What do you aspire to do?

A: My aim to be well known in the equestrian field someday and to see many riders graduate from my school. I also aspire to own a stable and horses and spread awareness for this sport. My goals are big, but I lack material and psychological support, and this makes fulfilling my ambition difficult.



Q: Are you a fully qualified trainer?

A: I did not expect to become a trainer, but my love for horses is what motivated me; I am also good at riding. Love and experience are what made me a trainer; the certificates and qualifications are an added benefit.

Q: What does your family think about your work?

A: Initially, they were shocked, especially by my father who refutes it. My mother objects because it is a sport that needs strength; she thinks it is more suitable for men. She fears that I could fall and injure myself, as horse riding can be dangerous in some cases.



Q: So who supports and stands behind you?

A: My trainer Sarah Fatayrji, an American citizen, and coach Hassan Saif. I have benefited and learned a lot from them, with their generous support. Also, my sister Amal always encourages and supports me.



Q: Are you a horse rider, trainer or a tamer?

A: A rider is often the one participating in competitions, but trainers don’t have to be riders, although it is important they master riding. A horse tamer is the one who works with a horse from a young age to prepare it for riding. I’m a trainer.

Q: Did you ever train a rider who became famous?

A: Yes, they are my pride. Abdullah Nahlawi, who participated in competitions and climbed the podium, and Nayef Al-Harthy are among them.

Q: How many training sessions does a person need to become a good rider?

A: This depends on the learners and their relationships with horses. Plus there is a difference for those who want to ride for fun and those who want to become professional riders.

Q: What steps should people follow to deal well with horses?

A: It is important to build a good relationship with the horse and to be calm. Horses worry and fear if people don’t give them enough attention. In addition, people should be patient with this beautiful creature.

Q: How many times did you fall off a horse?

A: There is a difference between normal falls and falls that injure. I have fallen a lot and I have been to the hospital four times; it is a sport like any other and one might be exposed to injury.

Q: What criticism have you faced?

A: Our society sees it as sport that does not suit girls; this is negative talk and I don’t pay attention to it because I think of it like any other profession, like a doctor, engineer, designer and so on.

Q: What characteristics do girls lack in this area?

A: The strength and determination to win challenges and to face society and not to pay attention to gossip and rumor. They shouldn’t fear people, they should confront them and stop anyone who tries to put them down.

Q: How do you see the equestrian world?

A: In fact, it is pure, true, beautiful and strong, just like horses. But it has become distorted by others’ behavior, their unwillingness to see the success of others and their jealousy of others due to selfishness.

Q: Do you witness animal cruelty?

A: It hurts me so much to see those working with horses often lack mercy in their hearts, not to mention the obvious injust actions of some stable owners. Often the simplest (animal) rights are not implemented.



Q: Why are there so few female riders or trainers in the field?

A: Women in this profession face a lot of harassment.

Q: Can you name a specific experience with horses which you will never forget?

A: Two years ago, I owned a horse and I considered it as my friend. When I was sad it would comfort me, it was the most beautiful feeling, I will not forget it.