REMEMBERING MAGDY

Almost a year has gone since our dear friend, Madgy Abdul Aziz, EERA's board and founding member, passed away suddenly aged 55.

This month's race, the "Magdy Abdul Aziz Cup" will be held in his memory. The "Cup" is to be a yearly event to honour and remember an extraordinary horseman and a dearly loved friend.

On Friday, December 17th, we will once again ride the sandy trails he knew so thoroughly, through places he named and hills he explored, remembering his cheerful, slim figure and the countless times we so enjoyed riding in his company. Magdy was a happy man, ever cheerful, always ready to crack a joke. Many of us owe him some of our best moments on horseback. In the brisk winter mornings and the early summer heat he would never fail a ride, and his tall silhouette with its straw hat and impeccable riding gear was so familiar that his disappearance is simply unconceivable. He had the exceptional gift of making each of his friends feel unique and cherished and was an unforgettable, kind and generous man; a genuine giver, with a contagious laughter and a heart full of love. Loyal and caring to his family, friends, and equine companions: Magdy was admired and respected by all who met him. He truly lived in God's spirit, grateful for each new day.

Together with Marianne Gabbani, Magdy had been one of Egypt's earliest converts to endurance. He dreamt of bringing the Egyptian Arabian breed on the international endurance riding scene and spared no effort to make his dream come true. EERA was created largely thanks to his dedication and perseverance. He saw how endurance riding progressed in Egypt, how rides became more organized and horses better trained. We owe it to him to pursue the trail, keep the spirit and ride on… to the finish line.