Italy dominates the final day of the 24th WMC Equestrian at Al Shaqab

DOHA (QAT) - The curtains fell yesterday on the 24th World Military Equestrian Championship, held at the magnificent Al Shaqab equestrian center in Doha, Qatar, after an exhilarating week of competition that brought together the finest military riders from around the globe. The championship delivered not only outstanding athletic performances but also showcased the unique camaraderie and spirit of international military sports.

Italian rider OR4. App. Filippo Codecasa capped off a sensational campaign with a standout performance in the final event, earning 42 points to bring his overall total to a commanding 123 points. This remarkable effort secured him the individual gold medal and the coveted title of World Military Champion. Codecasa’s triumph was a testament to his precision, composure, and exceptional skill throughout the championship.

Joining Codecasa on the podium was his compatriot, OR4. Primo Graduato Emanuele Addis, who delivered a strong and consistent performance to claim the silver medal with a total of 116 points. Adding to the excitement was Romania’s Captain Norbert Schumann-Raducanu, who rode to a well-earned bronze medal with 104 points, displaying resilience and finesse.

Local favorite Ali Al-Attiyah of Qatar delighted the home crowd with an admirable fourth-place finish, narrowly missing the podium with 102 points, while Brazil’s Estevao Grossi Aguiar Da Silva rounded out the top five with 99 points.

The Italian team’s dominance extended to the team competition, where Codecasa and Addis led Italy to a spectacular gold medal finish with a combined score of 302 points. Brazil’s team secured the silver medal with 273 points, while the host nation Qatar earned bronze with 255 points, marking a proud achievement for the home riders and their supporters.

The championship concluded with a grand closing ceremony that reflected the prestige and tradition of military sports. CISM President Colonel Nilton Gomes Rolim Filho and His Excellency Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, presented the medals to the victorious athletes, recognizing their outstanding performances and dedication.

The Local Organizing Committee, the Qatar Delegation to CISM, and the iconic Al Shaqab venue were instrumental in delivering a world-class event. Riders and attendees alike praised the quality of the course, the meticulous organization, and the warm hospitality that made this championship a memorable experience. The competition not only showcased exceptional equestrian talent but also fostered enduring friendships among participants, leaving a lasting legacy.

The 24th WMC Equestrian Championship will be remembered as a celebration of excellence and the shared values of sportsmanship and solidarity. As we bid farewell to this unforgettable event, CISM invites you to join us for the final competition of the year - the 53rd World Military Swimming Championship, set to take place from December 8 to December 15, 2024, in Warendorf, Germany. Another thrilling chapter in military sports awaits!

(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department)