Saudi Falcons Club Hosts Melwah Race with SAR750,000 Prize Pool

The Saudi Falcons Club announced today that it will organize the Melwah Race from October 7 to 12, 2024, at its headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, with a total prize pool of SAR750,000. The event, which is officially organized by the club under the patronage of the relevant Saudi authorities, underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage and promoting traditional sports aligned with its national identity.

Context and Background

The Melwah Race is a key component of the Saudi Falcons Club’s broader mission to preserve the heritage of falconry and pass it on to future generations. This race serves as a qualifying event for the prestigious King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival, a major cultural highlight on the Kingdom’s calendar. By supporting such traditions, Saudi Arabia reinforces its role as a custodian of Arab heritage while also promoting cultural tourism and international engagement.

Key Details

During the race, falcons will compete to cover a distance of 200 meters in the shortest possible time. This year’s competition will feature a specific category of “farkh,” which includes breeds such as Hur, Shaheen, Gyr Pure, Gyr Shaheen, Gyr Taba, and Mathlooth Gyr. A total of SAR750,000 in prizes will be distributed among the 18 winners in each of the six rounds. Club spokesperson Walid Al-Taweel confirmed that the Melwah Race will coincide with the International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition, which starts on October 3 with over 400 exhibitors from 45 countries.

Implications and Impact

The Melwah Race not only highlights Saudi Arabia’s dedication to preserving traditional sports but also serves as a platform for international cultural exchange. The concurrent International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition, featuring participants from 45 nations, positions the Kingdom as a global hub for falconry and heritage tourism. This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and promote non-oil sectors, including cultural tourism, as part of its long-term development goals.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The Melwah Race exemplifies Saudi Arabia’s commitment to achieving the goals of Vision 2030, particularly in preserving national heritage, fostering cultural tourism, and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens and residents. By investing in traditional sports and cultural events, the Kingdom is building a vibrant society that honors its past while looking forward to a prosperous and diversified future.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the Melwah Race?

A1. The Melwah Race is a traditional falconry competition organized by the Saudi Falcons Club where falcons compete to cover 200 meters in the shortest possible time.

Q2. When is the Melwah Race taking place?

A2. The race is scheduled from October 7 to 12, 2024, at the Saudi Falcons Club headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh.

Q3. What is the total prize pool for the Melwah Race?

A3. The prize pool for the event is SAR750,000, distributed among 18 winners in each of the six rounds.

Q4. Which organization is hosting the Melwah Race?

A4. The event is organized by the Saudi Falcons Club, an official entity under the Saudi government dedicated to preserving falconry heritage.

Q5. What is the purpose of the Melwah Race?

A5. The race aims to preserve the heritage of falconry and pass it on to future generations while serving as a qualifier for the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival.

Q6. Which falcon breeds are featured in the race?

A6. The race features specific “farkh” category breeds, including Hur, Shaheen, Gyr Pure, Gyr Shaheen, Gyr Taba, and Mathlooth Gyr.

Q7. How far do the falcons fly in the race?

A7. The falcons compete to cover a distance of 200 meters in the shortest possible time.

Q8. How many winners are there in each round?

A8. There are 18 winners in each of the six rounds of the Melwah Race.

Q9. What is the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival?

A9. It is a major Saudi cultural festival celebrating falconry, for which the Melwah Race serves as a qualifying event.

Q10. Who is Walid Al-Taweel?

A10. Walid Al-Taweel is the official spokesperson for the Saudi Falcons Club, who provided details about the race and related events.

Q11. What other event coincides with the Melwah Race?

A11. The Melwah Race coincides with the International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition, which starts on October 3.

Q12. How many exhibitors are participating in the International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition?

A12. The exhibition features over 400 exhibitors from 45 countries, showcasing global and local falconry and hunting traditions.

Q13. Where is the Saudi Falcons Club headquarters located?

A13. The headquarters is located in Malham, north of Riyadh, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Q14. How does the Melwah Race support Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage?

A14. The race helps preserve the traditional practice of falconry, a key aspect of Arab and Saudi heritage, by engaging new generations.

Q15. What is the significance of the “farkh” category in the race?

A15. The “farkh” category includes specific falcon breeds that are traditionally valued in falconry, ensuring the competition reflects authentic practices.

Q16. Is the Melwah Race open to international participants?

A16. While focused on Saudi heritage, the race is part of larger events like the International Exhibition, which involves global participation.

Q17. How does the race contribute to tourism in Saudi Arabia?

A17. By hosting international events, Saudi Arabia attracts cultural tourists and enthusiasts, supporting the Kingdom’s tourism diversification goals under Vision 2030.

Q18. What role does the Saudi Falcons Club play in society?

A18. The club organizes events to preserve falconry, educate the public, and promote environmental and cultural awareness linked to Saudi heritage.

Q19. How are the prize funds distributed in the Melwah Race?

A19. The total SAR750,000 prize pool is distributed among 18 winners in each of the six rounds, rewarding excellence in falconry.

Q20. What future events are linked to the Melwah Race?

A20. Success in the Melwah Race qualifies falcons for the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival, a larger cultural event celebrating Saudi Arabia’s falconry traditions.

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