The 2016-2017 Endurance Season started today with an 80-km qualifying ride with 154 jockeys from all the stables across the country taking part in the event.

The season kicked off in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President’s Representative and Chairman of the Emirates Heritage Club, which organised the event.

The endurance competitions are being held at the Bouhib Endurance Village in Abu Dhabi.

"As in all equestrian competitions, attention is focussed on the health and welfare of horses during this season," H.H. Sheikh Sultan said in a statement to Waha TV.

"Efforts are being made by entities, technical teams and individuals to advance this sport in accordance with the rules set by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports, the governing body of equestrian sports," he said in another statement to M6, a French TV channel.

The Arabian horse is among the best breeds in the world, and is famous for its unique beauty, shape and speed, he said.

"Horses are unique and highly sensitive animals. They have always been associated with human civilisations," he added.