Saluki dog race starts with heated competition at Sbkhat Marmi, Sealine

The qualifiers for the 15th edition of the International Saluki Race Championship, organised by the Al Gannas Qatari society, took place Saturday evening with three preliminary rounds at Sbkhat Marmi in the Sealine Area within favourable weather conditions.Organising committee member Ibrahim Khalil al-Tamimi said that the qualifiers for the 15th International Saluki Race Championship saw with intense competition among the participants.The qualifiers were only determined in the final distance of each race, while in some rounds, certain Salukis demonstrated clear dominance from the start, pulling ahead comfortably.Al-Tamimi said that the organising committee decided to qualify the top four Salukis from each of the three rounds, bringing the total number of finalists for the grand finale, set to take place on February 22, to 12 Salukis.He noted the strong presence of the participants from the GCC countries among the qualifiers, adding that they are expected to be strong contenders in the final race, given the number of qualifiers from these countries.Saeed Rashid al-Nuaimi, member of the logistics committee of Al Gannas Qatari Society, highlighted the committee’s efforts in preparing and paving the race track using large machinery to provide better conditions for the Salukis.He also pointed out that the entire 2km race track was fenced off to ensure the safety of the participants, who follow the races from their vehicles along the track.Al-Nuaimi further said that special care is given to the gazelle, which is securely fastened at the back of a vehicle, serving as the lure for the Salukis.He added that protecting the gazelle is part of the sustainability goals pursued by Al Gannas Society.The Saluki race is considered an integral part of the cultural heritage of the region, alongside falconry, as Salukis were traditionally used for hunting.