Spectators were visibly thrilled to follow the qualifying rounds of the Saluki Race Championship on Saturday evening at Sabkha Marmi in the Sealine Area, as part of the ongoing 16th Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival (Marmi 2025).
The festival, organised by Al Gannas Qatari Society and sponsored by HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, with support from the Social and Sports Activities Support Fund (DAAM), runs from January 1 to February 1.
The saluki racecourse spans 2km, with the organisers having ensured that the track was prepared and paved before the competitions began, prioritising the safety of participants, who follow the races from their vehicles alongside the track.
To motivate the participating salukis, a gazelle is placed at the back of a leading car, securely fastened for safety as protecting the gazelle is part of the sustainability goals pursued by Al Gannas Society.
Saluki Race Committee member Ibrahim al-Tamimi explained that the qualifiers is made up of two categories: male and female salukis, each divided into three groups.
Four salukis from each group advanced, totalling 12 male and 12 female.
Al-Tamimi noted that the final round of the Saluki Race Championship will take place on Saturday evening, January 18.
Khalifa Mohammed al-Muhannadi highlighted the meticulous preparation by the organising committee, ensuring that the racecourse was well-equipped and up to standard.
He said that he participated in the qualifiers for the fourth, fifth, and sixth groups, with one locally bred saluki advancing to the finals.
The qualifiers for the Tal’aa Championship for groups 1 to 5 will start this morning, followed by the continuation of the Haddad Al Tahadi Championship for Group 4 in the evening.
