EQUESTRIAN ARABIA n° 59 by EQUESTRIO magazine

No 59

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 AED 20

KING GEORGE VI ASCOT’S NEW QUEEN www.equestrio.com

DUBAI WIN BRITISH OPEN

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E di t o ri al

from the W

hat a fantastic summer! Dubai’s ruling and leading families play such an important role in international equestrian sport that we are happily accustomed to celebrating their achievements. The pleasure of doing this never dims and it was with particular delight that we witnessed two standout triumphs this summer: Ali Albwardy’s high-goal polo team, Dubai, win Europe’s most prestigious polo tournament, the Gold Cup - the British Open - for a fourth time and HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s courageous and incredibly talented filly Taghrooda triumph at Ascot in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes. Superb. Captained for 2014 once again by Ali Albwardy’s youngest son Rashid, who also led the squad to victory in 2010, Dubai’s Gold Cup win is the latest in a remarkable string of high-goal triumphs that spans two decades. Captained by Ali, the team first won the Gold Cup in 2001. Ali’s eldest son Tariq led Dubai to a second British Open title in 2005 with Rashid securing a family hat-trick in the tournament in 2010. The world’s number one, Adolfo Cambiaso, has been the pivot of the squad throughout with this year’s Gold Cup victory being a remarkable seventh for polo’s maestro. Having played with Dubai now for 15 years, Adolfo has been an inspirational figure not just to Ali Albwardy and his sons, but also to players throughout the UAE who have witnessed and shared proudly in the Dubai team’s success and had the opportunity to watch its star in action on two occasions at Desert Palm in Dubai at the UAE Nations Cup. We are sure we echo many of you when we say a heartfelt “thank you and congratulations” to Ali. No sooner had we celebrated Dubai’s success on the polo field than, less than a week later, further cause for delight was delivered courtesy of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s superstar filly Taghrooda. Blistering winner of the Investec Oaks and her other two starts, the homebred daughter of Sea The Stars was a late arrival onto the King George scene. Sheikh Hamdan made the brave decision to switch his favourite for the Darley Irish Oaks on The Curragh to run at Ascot over a mile and a half against the best colts of her generation. It was a great call that saw Taghrooda run her way into racing legend and rewrite 38 years of history. Seeing off seven colts in racing’s midsummer highlight, including another contender for her owner, the Coral-Eclipse winner Mukhadram, along with an Irish Derby winner in Trading Leather, a Breeders’ Cup winner, Magician, and Royal Ascot heroes, Eagle Top and Telescope, Taghrooda won what was a vintage King George impressively, to put it mildly, and with something to spare.

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

editor

Lucy Monro She is only the second filly - since Pawneese in 1976 - to win the Oaks and the King George in the same year. Our congratulations go to all concerned. Of course we bring you full reports on both these thrilling wins within these pages. We also celebrate polo’s largest incarnation, elephant polo, in Bangkok at this year’s edition of the King’s Cup as well as bringing you something of a burst of racing sunshine, literally, from Glorious Goodwood. It’s been a wonderful summer that now leads us into what we are sure will be a thrilling autumn. We look forward to seeing you there…

Publisher and Editor in Chief

Global Private Banking Abu Dhabi • Dubai • Geneva • London www.nbad.com

Driving excellence in wealth management

contents

28 EDITORIAL

BEHIND THE SCENES

DIARY

NEWS

FEI WINDOW

SPOTLIGHT

POLO

SPOTLIGHT

BRITISH OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP FOR THE VEUVE CLICQUOT GOLD CUP

AL HABTOOR ROYAL WINDSOR CUP AUDI INTERNATIONAL DAY

EFG BICENTENNIAL TROPHY KING’S CUP ELEPHANT POLO DUBAI DUTY FREE IRISH DERBY FESTIVAL

62 10

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

EX CIT ING

Speed, power, balance... The emotion of the best derby captured in all its intensity in the perfect anatomy of these purebred, that seem to be suspended in mid-air. A porcelain handcrafted at the Lladró workshops in Valencia-Spain. At the Derby · 35 x 100 сm · Limited edition

At the Derby is available at the LLADRÓ BOUTIQUE: The Dubai Mall · First Level - Star Atrium Tel: +971 4 3398732 · Fax: +971 4 3398744 · P.O.Box: 30069 DXB · lladro.dubaimall@mailmac.net · www.lladro.com

contents LCM PUBLISHING LLC PO Box 50954, Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 351 8380 Fax: +971 4 351 8390 E-mail: arabia@equestrio.com www.equestrio.com @EquestrioLive

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Michael Lahyani

PUBLISHER AND CEO Gerard Belicha

gerard@swissmg.com PUBLISHER AND EDITOR IN CHIEF

90 98

Lucy Monro lucy@equestrio.com DESIGN

Ana Bosaz

RACING

GLORIOUS GOODWOOD

RACING

INTERVIEW

KING GEORGE VI AND QUEEN ELIZABETH STAKES ANDREA ATZENI

104

PORTFOLIO

ESCAPE

QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT BY ANANTARA

HORSTORQUE

THE RANGE ROVER SPORT THE PORSCHE MACAN S

104

EQUITIME

108

SHOPPING

112

HOTEL PARTNERS

117

SPORTING TALK

120

WITH JONATHAN KNIGHT

ana@swissmg.com CONTRIBUTORS

Laura King, Dara Williams, Oliver Eliot, Maán Abdul-Hafeedh.

COVER PHOTO © Matthew Seed

LEGENDS

TAMARILLO

MATTHEW SEED

112

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & ADVERTISING

Ladan Rahbary ladan@swissmg.com

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United Printing Press While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors therein.

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EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

TUSCAN RETREAT & SPA ITALY

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The weight-loss and detox programmes, beauty treatments and moments of true relaxation help restore health and wellbeing. At our two restaurants, guests can savour the elegant cuisine created by our Chef in partnership with a star of the calibre of Gordon Ramsay, accompanied by local specialities and the finest Tuscan wines. For all Polo enthusiasts, the outstanding facilities of the Polo Club Villa a Sesta are only 4 km from our exclusive resort.

Castel Monastero is located in the countryside in the Chianti area of Tuscany. Distances from the main destinations: Siena, 23 km - Montalcino, 48 km - Pienza, 43 km - San Gimignano, 59 km - Firenze, 105 km - Roma, 240 km.

GORDON RAMSAY

For Information and Reservations: +39 0577 570 808 - reservations@castelmonastero.com - www.castelmonastero.com

E di t o ri al

cover story

contributors Laura King needs no introduction to Equestrio readers. From her Dubai base she has travelled the world reporting from racing’s major venues for many years. For this issue she reports from the Curragh, Goodwood and Ascot looks back at the remarkable career of Tamarillo in our Legends feature.

N 59 o

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 AED 20

KING GEORGE VI ASCOT’S NEW QUEEN

DUBAI WIN

BRITISH OPEN

www.equestrio.com

Racing into the light: Matthew Seed

Dara Williams, an international polo writer based in London, is a regular contributor to Equestrio. Braving all that the British weather has to offer Dara is tireless in her pursuit of good polo. For this issue she reports from Guards Polo Club, Cowdray Park and Sandhurst. When not writing Dara designs polo accessories.

master of light and creativity, photographer Matthew Seed is fascinated and inspired by what he describes as “the mystery of the horse.” His subjects rise from blackened backgrounds or are profiled against dramatic skylines. The mood of a sky is as much part of the emotion of an image as the glint in a horse’s eye. One of a dramatic collection of works from Matthew’s impressive portfolio, some of which we showcase in this edition’s Portfolio section, this image is as much about the magnificence of the subject as it is of its mystery.

Tony Ramirez is a man accustomed to the polo field. His images have brought many a polo match to thrilling life within these pages. For this issue he captures the action at Guards Polo Club as the high-goal season rolls on with Al Habtoor Royal Windsor and Coronation Cup and brings us the best of the glorious action at Cowdray Park from the Gold Cup final. www.imagesofpolo.com

www.horse-photograpaher.co.uk

Pat Healy is an acclaimed force on racecourses and polo fields around the world. His photography has brought life and vibrance to Equestrio’s pages since the title’s inception. For this issue he was on the rails and in the paddock to illustrate our Irish Derby, King George and Goodwood features. www.healyracing.ie

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

D i ary

Doncaster St Leger Festival Doncaster, UK 10th - 13th September

The third Classic in the British Triple Crown season, the St Leger is also the oldest of Britain’s five Classics. The St Leger frequently produces greats and although the 2013 edition. This year’s meeting does not hold the promise of a Triple Crown winner but the St Leger will boast a field filled with the stars of the current generation.

www.doncaster-racecourse.co.uk

Cambridgeshire Meeting Newmarket, UK 25th - 27th September

The Rowley Mile, ‘Course of Champions’, will be the scene for three of the finest race days of the year when it hosts the historic Cambridgeshire Meeting in late September. An occasion on which to be enthralled by world class racing action, the meeting boasts three Group Is, a Group II and three Group IIIs.

www.newmarketracecourses.co.uk 16

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

D i ary

Super Nations Cup Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club Tianjin, China 1st - 5th October

Back for a third year the Super Nations Cup will once again see teams from around the world compete for glory against a backdrop of Tianjin’s skyscrapers. Expect hats and frivolity as Chinese polo enthusiasts take to the field. The final is likely to be a closely fought affair.

www.metropolitanpoloclub.com

Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe Longchamp, France 4th - 5th October

The most prestigious race in Europe, the Arc draws together the best middle distance horses from across the continent, usually including French and English Derby winners. Winning the race is a mark of greatness, as superfilly Zarkava proved when routing a top-class field en-route to victory in the hands of Christophe Soumillon in 2008 and See The Stars echoed when he galloped his way to victory in 2009 under Mick Kinane. The feature is supported by a host of other Group Is, including the Prix de la Foret, Prix de l’Opera and Prix Marcel Boussac.

www.france-galop.com

UAE racing season begins Jebel Ali, UAE 31st October

As is traditional the UAE racing season opens at Jebel Ali with the first a bumper season comprising 59 fixtures taking place at the UAE’s most historic racecourse on Friday 31st October. Jebel Ali will host Friday meetings throughout he season. Abu Dhabi will host 15 race nights in the capital, and Meydan in Dubai will hold 19. The country’s newest racecourse, Al Ain, will host an impressive eight fixtures with Sharjah holding six. The Dubai World Cup Carnival will kickoff on 8th January with the Dubai World Cup celebrating its 20th running on 28th March..

www.emiratesracing.com

Breeders’ Cup Santa Anita, USA 31st October and 1st November

The 2014 Breeders’ Cup runs once again in sunny California. The storied California track was the site of Seabiscuit’s last race and Zenyatta’s Classic triumph and has long been a favourite stomping ground for Hollywood celebrities. The self-titled world championships of racing draws horses from around the world to compete for a slice of a bumper purse. The first day, dubbed ‘Filly Friday’ is dedicated to fillies and mares with the boys making their appearance on the Saturday.

www.breederscup.com September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

news

Luke Tomlinson, captain of the England polo team announced his retirement at the grand old age of 37 following the 2014 edition of the Coronation Cup at Guards Polo Club. The 7-goaler can fairly be described as one of England’s truly elite players. In addition to leading the England squad to three consecutive victories in the Westchester Cup, the most recent of which was last year, he has won the Queen’s Cup and Gold Cup and led England to win the Coronation Cup. He announced that he would be stepping down from the position he described as holding when he spoke to Equestrio last year as “an honour” following England’s defeat in the 2014 Coronation Cup at the hands of an Argentine quartet that included the world’s two best players in the world; Adolfo Cambiaso and Gonzalo Pieres. Paying tribute to his opponents at the end of a great match he added that he would be standing down after eight years as England captain, his successor being named as James Beim. “It is time for me to step aside and hand over the reins”, he said. ‘There are a lot of new guys coming on; I’ve done a long stint as captain and we should keep it fresh.”

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

Photo: © imagesofpolo.com

Luke Tomlinson steps down as England captain

Memorial for horses killed in World War One

will be a fitting and lasting celebration dedicated to the horse and their valiant service during The Great War.” The larger-than-life bronze sculpture of a typical animal used to transport munitions and men is due to be unveiled next spring. The horse will be raised on a stone plinth and face London Road and Ascot high street. Neil Somerville, senior partner at Ascot Lawyers believes the sculpture will help raise money for important charitable causes. The project has the backing of the Imperial War Museum, equine and military organisations. Excavation work is expected to begin on the memorial in the autumn.

Photo: wikimedia.org

The horrific cost of lives lost in the First World War was not restricted to human deaths. More than a million horses were slaughtered in the four-year conflict and now, 100 years after war was declared in 1914 plunging Europe into horror, those horses will be remembered with a memorial that is to be installed at Ascot. Equine sculptor Susan Leyland has been commissioned to produce “a fitting acknowledgement to the unspoken, uncomplaining and inspirational nobility of the horse.” The memorial is expected to cost about £250,000 with the funding provided by Ascot Lawyers Foundation (ALF) and the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead. Project founder Alan Carr said: “This iconic memorial

September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

Photo: ÂŠ imagesofpolo.com / Tony Ramirez.

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

Po l o

AUDI INTERNATIONAL DAY GUARDS POLO CLUB, UK, 26/07/14

Argentina

deliver showcase Dara Williams

The latest edition of Audi International Day, held at Guards Polo Club, certainly lived up to its reputation of showcasing the finest in high-goal polo. Indeed, many observers declared that the match for the historic King’s Coronation Cup, which saw holders Argentina, defeat England 13-8, was the most exciting game of the British season.

rgentina was led to victory by the world’s top two players, Adolfo Cambiaso and Facundo Pieres, backed up superbly by Francisco Belaustegui and Julio Ruggeri. England fielded the best they had, namely brothers Luke and Mark Tomlinson, James Beim and Ollie Cudmore. CORONATION CONTROVERSY There had been some controversy about this year’s international, Argentina being unhappy that the Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) did not set a deadline for the announcement of team line-ups. England confirmed their 24-goal team after Argentina’s 26-goal squad had been finalised, meaning that, in theory, England should have started with a 2-goal advantage on handicap. The Argentine team had not played together before, although the Cambiaso-Pieres partnership had helped the capture the Coronation Cup, 12-5, in a previous encounter in 2009. England fielded a line-up that had defeated Argentina in the Copa de las Naciones, held at Palermo, Buenos Aires, earlier this year; although only the Tomlinsons and Beim had played for their country on International Day before. In the end, however, it was decided that players should use their international ratings, with Belaustegui playing off 4-goals rather than 3, Mark Tomlinson off 7-goals instead of 6, and Cudmore off 5-goals, rather than his national handicap of 4. This meant that the Argentine aggregate became 27-goals, England 26-goals, with the home team receiving just a single-goal advantage.

SHOWCASE POWER As it happened, the handicapping dispute proved pointless, as even with a goal advantage England never really stood a chance of winning after half-time. Beim opened the scoring in the first chukka, answered by Pieres; and then retiring captain Luke Tomlinson sent through one of his strong 60-yard penalty conversions. At the end of the chukka England were ahead 3-1, but Argentina were to dominate the rest of the game. By treading-in time they had gained an unassailable lead, 8-4, with Cambiaso and Pieres showing exactly how they both came to be rated at the ultimate handicap of 10-goals. Ruggeri and Belaustegui also proved highly talented - it was the first time the two young players, who break and train polo ponies for Cambiaso, had appeared on an English polo field and one shot from Ruggeri in particular stood out. Cambiaso had passed the ball to him, Ruggeri tapping it in the air three times and then scoring from a difficult shot under the neck. Coming back after a half-time talk with their Argentine coach, former 10-goaler Eduardo Heguy, England seemed on improved form. Cudmore celebrated his Coronation Cup debut with a splendid goal, followed up by Mark Tomlinson but then Pieres, going the length of the field, scored again. Luke narrowed the gap in the fifth chukka but it was not long before the visitors regained control, soaring into double figures, with a 30-yard penalty from Pieres and a field goal from Cambiaso going at great speed.

September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

Photo: © imagesofpolo.com / Tony Ramirez.

Po l o

Photo: © imagesofpolo.com / Tony Ramirez.

TEAMS ARGENTINA Adolfo Cambiaso

Facundo Pieres

Julio Ruggeri

Francisco Belaustegui

ENGLAND THE CORONATION CUP IN HISTORY

Luke Tomlinson

Held this year for the first time on a Saturday, rather

Mark Tomlinson

than the usual Sunday, the Coronation Cup is one of

James Beim

the most prestigious trophies in international polo.

Ollie Cudmore

It was inaugurated in 1911, to mark the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary - the king, when Duke of York, had been a keen player - the inaugural winners being a team representing the Indian Polo Association. Until 1939, the cup was played for by the winners of the Hurlingham, Ranelagh and Roehampton Opens and the Inter-Regimental tournament. It was revived in 1951 and again in 1953, the year of Queen Elizabeth’s coronation, at Cowdray Park but then became dormant again until 1971, since when it has been a match between England and a visiting overseas squad.

Going into the final chukka, the score stood at 11-7 to the visitors. Mark Tomlinson sent through what turned out to be England’s last goal, from a 40-yard penalty hit, followed by a goal each from Ruggeri, who had a tremendous game, and Pieres. On the last bell, Argentina rode out the victors by a magnificent 13-8. The Prince of Wales presented the Coronation Cup to a delighted Facundo Pieres, captain of Argentina, who was also named Most Valuable Player. HRH Prince Charles was accompanied to the presentation by Jock Green-Armytage, chairman of Guards, and Brigadier John Wright, chairman of the HPA. In addition, Pieres received the Donoso Trophy and the Best Playing Pony award went to Yun Yun, a seven year old American-bred mare played by Cambiaso and loaned to him for the match by the Dubai team.

September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

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13TH KING’S CUP ELEPHANT POLO VR SPORTS CLUB, BANGKOK, THAILAND, 27 - 31/08/14

King Power

win storm charge Eliot Tudor

Beating the elements and their rivals King Power triumphed over Audemars Piguet to secure a third King’s Cup Elephant Polo title. The victory came in a sudden death penalty shoot-out encounter between the long-time rivals. The two great squads now share hat-trick honours with three tournament victories apiece.

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

Photo: Courtesy Anantara.

September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

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eld for the first time in Bangkok, the quite literally massive polo tournament that ranks among Thailand’s most significant sporting events became something of a battle against an over enthusiastic monsoon as well as sporting rivals for all concerned. Ultimately pachyderm power won the day with nature’s gentle giants the absolute stars of the show and the benefactors of the occasion through the funds raised for elephant welfare. A record 16 teams contested the 2014 tournament, among them three-time champions Audemars Piguet and two-time previous winners King Power, the latter competing on home turf as VR Sports Club hosted the event bringing elephant polo to the Thai capital for the first time. Opening proceedings on the first day a very experienced Sarah Story Design trio lined up against Citibank, led for the occasion by Singapore Polo Club’s Rickard Hogberg as the pivot. The Sarah Story trio comprised their patron and namesake supported by Mikey Goodwill who won the 2013 King’s Cup playing with James Manclark’s Bangkok Bank squad. The match was a tough encounter from which Sarah Story Design rode out the victors, 10-8. No surprises there. Meanwhile, on the second field two posses of elephant polo’s most experienced were doing pitched battle as The Peninsula took on Mercedes-Benz. For The Peninsula Sangjay Choegyal, the pivot of the three-time world championshipwinning EFG team, was supported by Simon Race, strongman of 2013 WEPA Olympic Quaiche winners the Pukka Chukkas, and newcomer to the sport, Katja Henke. Their opponents for the occasion were an all-girl line-up comprising Stine Heiselberg, Lucy Monro and Carolyn Syangbo, in other words three out of four members of Tigresses Polo, elephant polo’s most successful ladies team ever. The girls were the first to score and they dominated for much of the match, ultimately holding their rivals to a draw but conceding the resulting penalty shoot-out by one goal. Such is life. Girl power doesn’t always win the day. They looked great though. A rookie, but immaculately turned out, Hong Kong-based trio, Louis Roederer Hong Kong, had the dubious pleasure of taking on three-time winners Audemars Piguet. With Kalaan brothers Uday and Angad supported for the first time by the very experienced Marc William, AP were a tough introduction to elephant polo for the Hong Kong dandies. Not surprisingly the pros rode out convincing victors 12-7. It could have been worse. It was stylish in every way. Simultaneously Bangkok Bank took on Anantara Resorts & Spas. Definite favourites, Bangkok Bank boasted an impressive skillset with multiple world championship winner Col Raj Kalaan in the saddle together with 2006 world champion David Wildridge and 2007 WEPA-veteran Fergus Prentice. Fielding considerably less experience, the Anantara trio was led by Cameron Humphries supported by two novices making their ele polo debuts. It was therefore something of an upset when the Cameron led his newbies to a 6-4 victory. What a way to start. Then came the rain. A monsoon storm of fairly epic proportion stopped play just as the afternoon’s proceedings

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

55 Photo: ÂŠ Lucy Monro.

Photo: Courtesy Anantara.

Spo t l i g h t

DUBAI DUTY FREE IRISH DERBY FESTIVAL THE CURRAGH, IRELAND, 28/06/14

Australia day on The Curragh Laura King

For the second time in three years, the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby was rescued from being labelled a farce by the appearance of a good horse. Possibly a very good horse.

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

Photo:ÂŠ Healy Racing.

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EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

Photo: © Healy Racing.

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J Australia turned on the show that the Curragh crowd wanted.

ust two years after Camelot sluiced through unsuitably heavy ground to save the reputation of Ireland’s premier Classic, his owners, the Coolmore triumvirate, opted again to run their best three year old colt in the Curragh’s showpiece. Otherwise, the race would have been severely lacking in quality, with Kingston Hill, the favourite’s main rival, taken out because of the ground. This time, though, ground conditions were much more suitable for most than in Camelot’s year, so perhaps it was Australia’s huge reputation that meant the Ivestec Derby winner faced just four rivals in his bid to complete the double. Certainly, the colt’s win at Epsom, by an emphatic length and a quarter, promised much for his homecoming and he didn’t let his fans down. Ridden as usual by Joseph O’Brien, the chestnut settled easily behind his stablemates, Kingfisher and Orchestra, in the early part of the race. With 400metres remaining, O’Brien asked him for an effort and he coasted into the lead, leading home a one-two-three for Ballydoyle. Ponfeigh, trained by John Oxx, and Fascinating Rock, for Dermot Weld, picked up the minor cheques for fourth and fifth. It might have been a weak renewal, but Australia turned on the show that the Curragh crowd wanted, and, crucially, should not have had the sort of hard race that might impact him later in the season. Aidan O’Brien, winning the race for the eleventh time, was pleased, and perhaps a little bit relieved that ‘the best we’ve had’ came through unscathed.

September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

Photo: ÂŠ Healy Racing.

Sun shines as Hollywood heads to Goodwood Laura King

With an altogether more relaxed and informal air than Royal Ascot, its swankier midsummer rival, Glorious Goodwood is a meeting for the purists; those who like superb racing in a spectacular setting.

erched high on the Sussex Downs, Glorious Goodwood is what the weather makes it. Thankfully, this year’s fiveday extravaganza lived up to the prefix, with sun baking the course for the first four days, providing a huge headache for the grounds team. For Clerk of the Course Seamus Buckley and his team, there was much at stake. If they under-watered, and produced a surface that was too fast, the favourite, Kingman, might well not show up for the meeting’s showpiece race, the Group I Sussex Stakes. It was with relief, then, that Buckley watched Lord Grimthorpe, racing manager to Kingman’s owner, Prince Khalid Abdullah, walk the course and declare it fit for his boss’ star colt. In truth, although this was billed as yet another Duel on the Downs’, Kingman’s fans had few concerns once the two-time Group I winner was loaded safely into the stalls. Toronado, winner of the race the year before, looked a fearsome opponent on paper and in the parade ring. However, refusing to be unsettled by a pedestrian early pace James Doyle on the John Gosden-trained Kingman always had him covered, and the colt sprinted away inside the final furlong to register a decisive length victory.

“He’s so versatile and has all the attributes to get you out of trouble”, said Doyle, who had scarcely looked in any. “He’s got a wonderful turn of foot.” Earlier that day Doyle had unleashed a possible contender for staying honours, when Snow Sky, also owned by Prince Khalid Abdullah, but trained by Sir Michael Stoute, landed a strong renewal of the Group III Gordon Stakes. The determined manner of the win, achieved by just a neck over Windshear, promised much and he might now take his chance in the St Leger. If it was a good week for Doyle then it was an even better one for Gosden, who won both of the Group Is, completed when Sultanina landed Saturday’s Nassau Stakes. The four year old is unusual, having only made her debut in May of this year, and her career record now extends to three wins from four, after William Buick eased her to a length and a half success over French challenger Narniyn. The daughter of New Approach is owned and bred by the likeable Philippa Cooper who was so overjoyed with the victory that she professed she “couldn’t care less” where the filly raced next. “I’m just so happy she’s won today”, she said. “The sooner I can get her back home to the [Normandie] stud, the better.”

September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

Raci n g

GLORIOUS GOODWOOD GOODWOOD, UK, 28/07/14 – 02/08/14

Photo: © Healy Racing.

Raci n g

A GLORIOUS GOODWOOD FOR: JOHN GOSDEN: Three winners, including both of the week’s Group Is, pretty much wrapped up the Championship for the eloquent trainer WILLIAM BUICK: Like his boss, Gosden, Buick had a superb meeting and was crowned top jockey with five wins CELEBRITY-SPOTTERS: Film star Tom Cruise stole all the headlines with a surprise visit on the Thursday of the meeting, while model Edie Campbell once again won the charity race

A LESS THAN GLORIOUS GOODWOOD FOR: CHARLIE APPLEBY: Several from his yard ran well, but there were no winners for the likeable Godolphin trainer GOODWOOD’S GROUND TEAM: Baking hot weather meant that Seamus Buckley’s team were forced to water throughout the night, finishing at 6am

Saeed bin Suroor, winning the Goodwood Cup for the third time, nominated the Emirates Melbourne Cup as the likely end of season target.

home a Saeed bin Suroor-trained one-two in the Group II Artemis Goodwood Cup. One for the old guard, Cavalryman, who is a Group I winner in France and was once third in the Prix De l’Arc De Triomphe, won at the age of eight years old. He appears to be stronger than ever, being pushed out by fellow veteran Kieran Fallon and easily holding off the late challenge of Ahzeemah. Saeed bin Suroor, winning the Goodwood Cup for the third time, nominated the Emirates Melbourne Cup as the likely end of season target for both first and second. From the stayers, to the sprinters, and the week’s main punting race is Saturday’s Stewards’ Cup, which courted controversy this year when re-named the 32Red Cup by its sponsor. The 1200 metre dash was still a furious betting heat, however, and HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s progressive Muthmir was the subject of a huge gamble, going off the 5/2 favourite. He finished fifth, beaten less than three lengths by Intrinsic, who recorded the latest big race win for ‘sprint king’ Robert Cowell. Cowell has enjoyed plenty of success with speedsters in recent years and Intrinsic, who is owned by popular Dubai businessman Malih Al Basti, is unbeaten in three starts since joining his yard from that of Sir Michael Stoute. While the Stewards’ Cup might be the pinnacle of a horse’s career for many, Intrinsic has better in store, and will now head for a Group race. It’s onwards and upwards from here, and the same applies to many who this year graced a truly Glorious Goodwood.

September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

Photo: ÂŠ Healy Racing.

KING GEORGE AND QUEEN ELIZABETH STAKES ASCOT, UK, 27/07/14

Raci n g

Taghrooda defies history to be crowned Ascot queen Laura King

aghrooda, blistering winner of the Investec Oaks and her other two starts, was a late arrival onto the King George scene. Favourite for the Darley Irish Oaks at The Curragh, her owner-breeder, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, decided to switch her to Ascot and pitch her against the best mile and a half colts of her generation... and the ones above her. It was a brave move, especially as Sheikh Hamdan’s Eswaarah, the last Oaks winner to take up the King George challenge, only finished eighth in 2008. Undaunted, Sheikh Hamdan made the call, and Taghrooda lined up against seven colts for racing’s midsummer highlight. Against her was another contender for her owner, the CoralEclipse winner Mukhadram, along with an Irish Derby winner in Trading Leather, a Breeders’ Cup winner, Magician, and Royal Ascot heroes, Eagle Top and Telescope. It might have lacked slightly for international involvement, but this was still a vintage King George. Paul Hanagan, who had the choice between Mukhadram and Taghrooda, opted for the latter and held his charge in seventh place, as pacemaker Leitir Mor took the field along as planned. With two furlongs left to travel, Taghrooda had Mukhadram, running a fine race under Dane O’Neill, and Telescope ahead of her when Hanagan asked her to chase. It was a matter of when, and not if, she got to them and she won with something to spare, putting three lengths between herself and Telescope, with Mukhadram a short head back in third.

As a three year old filly, Taghrooda was in receipt of more than a stone from some of her rivals, but this should not diminish the manner of the victory, which was achieved in the style of a very good horse. The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, which has been won by three year old fillies for two of the last three years, looks a realistic Autumn target, with the daughter of Sea The Stars virtually confirmed as retiring at the end of this season. So we must enjoy her racing days while we still can, and there was a sense among those gathered around a packed Ascot winner’s enclosure that they had seen something, in the words of winning trainer John Gosden, “a bit special. “I’m very glad Sheikh Hamdan made the correct decision”, he continued. “She would have to be the best filly I’ve had over a mile and a half.” Hanagan, winning his first King George, added that the race felt somewhat unusual. “I actually heard the roar as I headed up the straight”, said the quietly-spoken rider. “It was such a buzz and something you never thought would happen.” Sheikh Hamdan, absent from Ascot, was represented by his Racing Manager Angus Gold, who seemed emotional after what is a landmark year for the Shadwell breeding operation that he runs for the Sheikh. “We’ve had a few quiet seasons, and the same effort goes into the good years and the bad years”, he said. “To win with a Shadwell [homebred] filly was particularly satisfying.”

September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

History can be a daunting thing, as can statistics, but both are there to be re-written, which is just what Taghrooda did when becoming the first three year old filly for almost 40 years to win the King George and Queen Elizabeth Stakes.

Ph o t o g raph y

Casting light

on mystery Maán Abdul-Hafeedh speaks to photographer Matthew Seed about his work and his inspiration.

The technical control of light is the essence of Grace, strength, pride and but this was unchartered territory. What followed Matthew Seed’s style. Horses emerge from the was nearly a year of testing and learning how to speed are all attributes use flash lighting safely around horses to achieve darkness or stand against dramatic skylines, submerged in a flood of lights that illuminate their that people love and a sculpted light effect reminiscent of my main tautly muscular anatomy and something else that associate with horses. But influence, the English painter, George Stubbs.” Matthew believes speaks to people from all walks An artist with profound understanding of the for photographer Matthew anatomy of the horse, Stubbs’ ability to depict of life. Mystery. “I feel it’s the mystery of the horse that’s so Seed, it’s the mystery of the them in lifelike glory remains unmatched. It’s endearing”, Matthew says. “As flight animals, the easy to see how Stubbs has had an influence on horse that intrigues. personality of a horse can be hidden especially to Matthew’s style. In both their depictions, strong non-horse owners. You wouldn’t even know what directional light plays a vital role in showing the a horse was thinking unless you knew the signs. My work is sold as horse at his best physical state. Light reveals all, even mystery, as art all around the world to horse owners and non-horse owners alike the horses alone stand out against the background making all other who all love horses.” compositional elements obsolete in the darkness. As a 12 year old Matthew spent hours using his first camera However unlike the artist, the photographer has only a few minutes, photographing and developing negatives in the dark room he built sometimes seconds to capture an image through his lens. Specifically at home. After leaving school, Matthew decided to get hands on in Mathew’s work we see a control over all compositional elements. experience in the field he loved, landing a job as a studio assistant. Which brings up the questions of how he achieves a pristine image “I built sets, painted backgrounds, organised merchandise and within a still yet grand atmosphere. Does he plan his compositions? studied the art of photography by watching, listening and asking “How do you plan for the mystery that is the horse? I quite often don’t pertinent questions”, he says. “The work was fast paced as it was know the location until we get there and, of course, I don’t know the high end fashion, so I became efficient and disciplined. My passion horse either”, Matthew says. “So each shoot is all conceptualised on for photography was, and still is, rooted in the love of lighting, in the day and the spontaneity adds to the whole experience. It is a very particular controlled flash lighting.” fluid process yet extremely technical and precise, which is where the Matthew moved from assistant to photographer to senior skill lies. Horses are not renowned for taking direction ‘on set’ and photographer in a relatively short time and then decided to set up his they often become the art director leading me around the shoot.” own business, Matthew Seed Photography. Though he became highly His subjects include Zara Phillips and her Olympic mount, High successful within the fields of fashion and advertising photography, it Kingdom, who he photographed following London 2012, and team still wasn’t enough. China event rider Alex Hua Tian who was recently appointed as a “My creative and artistic spirit yearned for something exciting and brand ambassador for Gieves & Hawkes. different without a set brief. That was when I decided to bring together No matter the brief or project Matthew returns to his passion of my two greatest passions, horses and dramatic lighting.” horses and photography with the same techniques. It comes down In theory it sounds challenging to combine the art of flash lighting with to two things, light and mystery. that of the temperamental nature of an animal that is shot outdoors. “My inspiration is each and every horse I photograph”, he says. “No Many equine photographers depend on natural lighting and try and two are the same. They are like mysteries that I need to unravel, control much of their image around this source. However when which I can only do by finding a connection with them. This helps me Matthew decided to turn his lens toward horses he was interested to find their true essence and capture these moments in their natural in creating dramatic images outdoors with the use of powerful environment with the drama of beautiful lighting. This is the challenge on every shoot and something I really enjoy, so it’s not difficult to be flash lighting. inspired around horses.” “A lot of people thought it was a crazy idea to bring such powerful flash to horses for the obvious reasons”, Matthew says, “I have to admit I did wonder if it was going to work. I know horses very well www.horse-photographer.co.uk 90

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

Po rt fo l i o With a career spanning more than 20 years as a technical lighting expert and coming from a fashion and advertising background, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no surprise that Matthew Seedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work is arresting in its technical display and artful in the connection he creates between the viewer and the subject. www.horse-photographer.co.uk

September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

Po rt fo l i o

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

Po rt fo l i o September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

Photo: Courtesy Anantara.

E scape

EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

E scape Oliver Tudor

Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desert showcase destination, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, reaches even higher levels of opulent luxury with the opening of the Royal Pavilion Villas. September/October 2014 EQUESTRIO

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EQUESTRIO September/October 2014

Photo: Courtesy Anantara.

E scape

These are the sands crossed by legendary explorer Sir Wilfred Thesiger in the 1940s.

flat screen, slim line LCD screens in the bedroom and lounge areas and a butler pantry. Every culinary wish is indulged with presentations for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests are encouraged to meet with the chef to talk through their meal and enjoy a tailormade culinary journey. As well as in-villa dining the full remit of gastronomic delights available across the dunes at Qasr Al Sarab are but a camel or 4X4 ride away. What better way to travel to dinner in the desert than under the guidance of your own personal ‘camel master’? Activities available are varied and celebrate the glory of the ‘shifting sands’. Enjoy the dunes as Thesiger did on the back of a camel, or do it the modern way in a 4X4. Try sand sailing and meet the traditional hunting partners of the Bedouin, the falcon and saluki. A haven of comfort and pure extravagance, the Royal Pavilion Villas make it possible for today’s visitors to the Rub Al Khali to experience the wonder that is the world’s largest uninterrupted sand desert in luxury Thesiger would never have dreamed possible. www.anantara.com

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E qu i t i me

Paying tribute to those who dared: The Longines Heritage Diver MaĂĄn Abdul-Hafeedh

The world beneath the sea is still considered one of the last frontiers of unexplored territories and, despite modern technology there is still much that remains unknown about what lurks deep beneath the surface. Innovation and bravery were the order of the day for underwater pioneers and it is these qualities that the Longines Heritage Diver pays tribute to.

ongines has a long history underwater exploration. The brand was instrumental in the 1950s in supplying measuring instruments for the Swiss-designed, Italianmade Batheyscaphe Trieste, which set a diving record in 1953. Today, Longines takes inspiration from models originally used by divers in the 1970s and re-issues them in two versions, one with three hands and the other a chronograph. Infusing the new timepieces with the same robustness and reliability that made the originals successful, Longines has also added a few modern touches.

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Celebrating the spirit of daring and echoing the aesthetic style of the original models, both new versions feature a black, satin-finish dial combining red highlights and details enhanced for the 21st century with a Super-LumiNovaÂŽ coating. The new versions share the 43mm case of the originals but with the addition of a bi-directional inner flange. The model with three hands differs from the chronograph version for its daring mix of colours against the black dial. The one red hand and red minute zones, the touches of Super-LumiNovaÂŽ coating and the grey rhodium plating combine to deliver a sports classic chic. Both timepieces are fitted on a black synthetic or rubber strap.

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SHOPPING JAQUET DROZ GRANDE SECONDE

IWC PORTUGUESE TOURBILLON HAND-WOUND Combining traditional nautical instruments with contemporary design and futuristic mechanics, this timepiece has an arched edged front glass and an alligator leather strap that gives it a classical appearance. The IWC manufactured movement inside was first designed for pocket watches in the 1930s and has been continuously improved ever since.

Inspired by one of the brand’s legendary models, the Grande Seconde Quantiéme Ivory Enamel has a new face and movement that incorporates a silicon balance spring and escapement. The timepiece has a modern aesthetic thanks to the fine finishing techniques such as the circular-grained plates, the chamfered wheels and steel parts.

BREGUET CLASSIQUE TOURBILLON EXTRA-PLAT AUTOMATIQUE

The extra thin watch houses an off-centred tourbillon in a titanium carriage. The movement also includes technical innovations in the use of silicon and non-magnetic steel. A blue sapphire set in the centre of the tourbillon bridge echoes the blue to hour and minute hands.

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OMEGA THE SPEEDMASTER One of Omega’s most iconic watches, the Speedmaster has been part of all six lunar missions and comes in a 42.40mm stainless steel case with a matching bracelet. It features a grey dial protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a transparent tachymeter scale which is illuminated from beneath by a fluorescent orange ring filled with Super-LumiNova.

Sh o ppi n g

PERRELET TURBINE DIVER Available in four different models the 47mm diameter steel case is a high technical performance diverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s watch with a unique and interesting design. The 300 metre water resistant timepiece features an inner rotating bezel ring that takes easy immersion time measurements and delivers a highly legible display on a 20 minute segment through a play on colours and volumes.

ROGER DUBUIS VELVET JOAILLERIE AUTOMATIC The part barrel shaped case is set with diamonds that extend onto the bracelet with the central horn with a total amount of 262 diamonds. The bezel holds 66 diamonds adding a halo effect to the timepiece totalling 1.33 carats while the bracelet is set with the remaining 196 diamonds, totalling 1.65 carats. Glamorously elegant the Velvet Joaillerie Automatic is for the modern woman who is suave, sophisticated and possess a unique sense of her own style.

SAINT HONORE EUPHORIA

Refined and graceful, Euphoria by Saint Honore comes in a 35mm cushion shaped case with curved corners. The incredibly feminine timepiece features 11 diamonds as hour markers that illuminate the surrounding mother-of-pearl dial.

BLANCPAIN VILLERET From the Villeret collection comes a new self-winding threehand watch with date display. The timepiece features a remarkable understating of the grand feu enamel technique on the dial. The 42mm timepiece is driven by an in-house Calibre 1335 and fitted with a chocolate toned alligator leather strap.

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Sh o ppi n g

With moccasin stitching, soft grained leather and a signature stripe trim, the Phileas loafers by Paul Smith are perfect for day or night.

PAUL SMITH PHILEAS LOAFERS

KARTELL COMEBACK Inspired by the Windsor style, the Comeback chair is available in a range of colours. It combines different materials such as plastic and wood giving the chairs a country chic look.

DHAMANI RING Truly a stylish and elegant piece. The light yellow princess cut diamond ring set in 18-carat white and yellow gold is studded with 19 pieces of yellow diamonds and brilliant cut round diamonds.

RALPH LAUREN SOFT RICKY Made in Italy from layers of handstitched, ultra-soft Italian nappa leather, the Soft Ricky Suede Mauve bag from Ralph Lauren is roomy and stylish.

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Sh o ppi n g

LANVIN SLEEVELESS TOP From Lanvinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new collection comes this elegant sleeveless top with a soft exaggerated bow around the neck. Origami like in its detailing, it adds a sophisticated edge that is still feminine and chic.

MAX MARA CAROLA SHOE With simple, feminine details the Carola Shoe from Max Maraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new innovative collection is a mix of urban, grungy and glamorous.

DHAMANI JEWELLERY SET The set, made up of a ring, necklace, bracelet and earrings, is regal and subtle at the same time. A rare combination of 70-carats of quality oval shaped emeralds are set in 18-carat white gold and studded with 65 pieces of white oval brilliant cut diamonds.

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PO Box 39999 Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: + 971 2 6909000 Fax: +971 2 6909999 e-mail: reservations.emiratespalace@kempinski.com website: www.emiratespalace.com

PO Box 131277 Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 895 8668 Fax: +971 2 886 2086 e-mail: reservationsqas@anantara.com website: www.anantara.com

OPERATED BY LUXURY hotel group Kempinski, Emirates Palace showcases the beauty of Arabian culture, adhering to traditional themes and has a natural affinity with the national identity of the UAE. Hosting 302 luxury rooms and 92 suites, it is the most impressive resort and conference venue ever to be built in the Middle East and houses the most luxurious and technologically advanced meeting facilities in the region.

LOCATED AT THE heart of the Liwa Desert, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is a five-star luxurious resort situated among the highest sand dunes in the world. Inspired by the indigenous desert culture the property reflects true Emirati lifestyle. Just a 90-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport, Qasr Al Sarab features 206 luxurious appointed rooms, suites and villas and is the ultimate experiential getaway with a luxury Anantara Spa, outdoor pool, children’s playground, a wide choice of desert excursion and conference facilities.

PO Box 7631 Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 3034222 Fax: +971 4 3439696 e-mail: almaha@emirates.com website: www.al-maha.com

EMIRATES AL MAHA RESORT ★★★★★

QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT BY ANANTARA ★★★★★

EMIRATES PALACE ★★★★★

UAE Hotels

EMIRATES AL MAHA Desert Resort & Spa, tucked away in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, is just 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport and allows guests to experience all the desert has to offer in traditional but luxurious surroundings. Spread across vast sand dunes, the small, ultraluxurious,cameo resort offers 40 individual suites with private, temperature-controlled swimming pools. Al Maha’s policies to reintroduce endangered local wildlife, and its ambitious habitat management schemes, serveas a model for environmental protection.

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Part n ers H o t el

Find Equestrio in suites in selected

T alk S p o r t in g

With Jonathan Knight

CEO, Al Khayyat Investments, Retail Division Historically La Martina is a polo brand, its DNA is all about the game of kings. How important is La Martina’s polo heritage to the brand? It is extremely important. With La Martina deeply rooted in the sport since the early 80s the philosophy is simple: walk into a La Martina store anywhere in the world and you walk into the heart of polo. La Martina’s association with polo has gone beyond the field as well, becoming a whole way of living, a culture, a lifestyle and a style choice. In recent years the brand has become more of an upmarket fashion brand. Is the intention to retain the polo heritage of the brand? And if so, how? The spirit of La Martina is dedicated to the sport of polo and this aspect of its heritage will always be retained. La Martina continues to be the key outfitter to the most prominent polo events across the world including here closer to home in the UAE.

As CEO of the Retail Division of Al Khayyat Investments (AKI), the holding company for polo retail brand La Martina, Jonathan Knight is a man who understands the demographics and behaviour of the discerning customer in the Middle East, He talks to Equestrio about La Martina’s involvement in the region and the polo world.

La Martina sponsors the Queen Mother Trophy. Can you explain that relationship and why La Martina is involved with the event? As mentioned earlier, La Martina is the official supplier for major polo tournaments across the world, having the blessing of the Queen Mother who cut one of our first ribbons when La Martina opened its store at Guards Polo Club, the club most closely associated with the British royal family. How and why did the La Martina Argentina Polo Cup come about in Dubai last year? Tell us about the event. When La Martina was introduced in the UAE in 2009 by Al Khayyat Investments (AKI), as part of its strategy it partnered with the Embassy of Argentina to bring the homeland sport [of polo] to the UAE. The event has since developed from being a simple family event to one of the premier polo tournaments and key event on the social calendar not only of the UAE but also of the region and even the global scene. The La Martina Argentina Polo Cup tournament has changed venues for this year. Why? And what other developments can we expect from the tournament? As the event has grown in participation and attendance over the years we have selected a new venue to accommodate this increased interest. While we can’t share many details at this stage, we can confirm that we are fully committed to deliver an exciting luxury event in collaboration with our valued partners. It will be a memorable tournament and a celebration of polo. What core values does polo share with the La Martina brand? La Martina boasts of a style that is closely linked to sports. A philosophy that combines equestrian conditions, individualism innate to Argentine countrymen, with sophistication, cosmopolitan taste and British fair-play. A style represented by a unique prototype: the Argentine polo player. At La Martina we approach our business in the same way that a high-goal player approaches the challenge of polo: with passion, devotion and total commitment to excellence.

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M ESUR E ET D ÉMESUR E *

TONDA METROGR APHE

Steel Automatic chronograph movement Hermès calf strap Made in Switzerland www.parmigiani.ch

LES ATELIERS PARMIGIANI BEIJING, LONDON, MOSCOW, SHANGHAI LES STUDIOS PARMIGIANI BEIJING, DUBAI, GSTAAD, KIEV, MACAU, MUNICH, PORTO CERVO, SAO PAULO, SINGAPORE, TIANJIN DUBAI DAMAS, BURJ AL ARAB, DUBAI MALL, MALL OF THE EMIRATES, MINA A’SALAM, WAFI CITY MALL, EMIRATES TOWERS, JUMEIRAH ZABEEL SARAY ABU DHABI MOHAMMED RASOOL KHOORY & SONS, EMIRATES PALACE MUSCAT AL-QURUM JEWELLERY, OPERA GALLERIA DOHA AL MAJED, VILLAGGIO MALL, AL MAJED SHOWROOM