https://arab.news/2nsps
RIYADH: Several local falconers have won the first rounds of the AlUla Falcons Cup 2023, one of the largest falconry completions in the world.
And competitors said that the ancient city’s moderate weather helped the falcons to shine, state news agency SPA reported on Saturday.
The cup, held until Jan. 5, is staged in partnership with the Saudi Falcons Club and the Royal Commission for AlUla at Mughira Heritage Sports Village in AlUla. It is offering the largest rewards in the history of falconry competitions, with a total prize fund of SR60 million ($16 million).
Falconer Sultan Al-Yami, who won first place in the Qarnas Mallak heat category, said that winning the race was difficult with strong competition from nearly 120 falcons. He said that it was one of the most important races for him.
Al-Yami said that he intensified his preparations for the cup after competing in the King Abdulaziz Falcons Festival. The best falcons were selected to participate in AlUla, where the weather was suitable for the birds to easily cover a distance of 400 meters in the Malwah races.
Barghash Al-Mansouri said that winning the Pure Jeer Farkh, Qarnas Professional and Mallak Open races on the second day of the AlUla Falcons Cup was a successful start for him and his falcons.
Al-Mansouri said that the atmosphere of AlUla Square and the village of Mughira was ideal for the Malwah races.