Omar Al Marzouqi’s Journey to the Olympics

Omar Al Marzouqi’s journey to the Olympics is a tale of dedication and dual commitment, seamlessly balancing his rise in showjumping with academic pursuits. Last October, soaring over fences in Hangzhou, China, he marked his place in history. Meanwhile, back in Abu Dhabi, his sister attended a Zoom lecture in a foreign language, trying to take notes on his behalf.

At just 21, Omar is already a rising star in UAE’s showjumping scene. His achievements at the Asian Games in China, where he clinched individual silver and team bronze medals, underscore his prowess. Amidst globetrotting for competitions, he managed to complete a dual bachelor’s degree in philosophy and sociology from Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, navigating different time zones and rigorous schedules in his final year.

Reflecting on his journey, Omar credits his family’s unwavering support, describing their encouragement as instrumental in achieving his goals. Showjumping runs deep in his veins, starting with his first pony ride at three years old. Mentored by his father, himself a former rider and trainer, Omar has emerged as a standout talent under his tutelage. Their shared passion for the sport extends to running their own stable.

Dedications and A lot of Hard Work

While Omar admires top international riders like Switzerland’s Steve Guerdat and Germany’s Christian Ahlmann, it’s his father who remains his greatest inspiration. The tears of pride shed by his father in 2018, when Omar secured a silver medal at the Youth Olympics in Argentina, marked a historic moment for UAE equestrian sports.

Now, poised to make his mark on the biggest stage at the Paris Olympics, Omar will proudly carry the UAE flag during the opening ceremony on July 26. This milestone isn’t just personal but significant for his country, which sees the Olympics as a platform to showcase its rich equestrian heritage. Horses hold a special place in UAE culture, symbolizing strength and tradition, and Omar is honored to continue this legacy.

Keep Grinding

“Show jumping is more than a sport for me; it’s a way of life,” Omar reflects. “It requires immense focus and control, not just of the horse’s physical abilities but its mindset too. Every minute in the arena demands perfection and dedication.”

As Omar prepares to compete against the world’s best in Paris, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of excellence, driven by a deep-seated passion for showjumping and a desire to inspire the next generation of riders in the UAE.