Twenty-one Tbourida troops from four Moroccan regions gathered Tuesday in Bouznika’s Mehrek to compete in interregional qualifiers for the prestigious Hassan II Tbourida Trophy. The event, organized by the Royal Society for the Encouragement of the Horse and the Royal Moroccan Federation for Equestrian Sports, tested precision, synchronization, and regional traditions.
Key Takeaways:
- Charaf Bahraoui from Marrakech-Safi won first place
- Competition judged on four criteria with 25 points each
- Winners advance to national championship at Dar Es Salam
Bouznika Hosts Interregional Tbourida Showdown
The competition featured sorbas from Casablanca-Settat, Beni Mellal-Khenifra, Marrakech-Safi, and Souss-Massa regions. Riders dressed in ceremonial attire mounted their horses to showcase mastery of the centuries-old equestrian art. First place went to Charaf Bahraoui representing Moul Lbergui commune, while Mohamed El Khourchef and Mohamed-Amine Telhouni secured second and third places respectively.
Strict Judging Criteria Determine Top Performers
Issam Touati, head of the Bouznika Mehrek, explained that judges evaluate four distinct phases. The hadda assesses harmony, rider attire, saddles, and horse breed verification. The laab lbaroud phases examine gunpowder rifle firing, synchronization, and tarika performance according to regional traditions. Each stage carries 25 points, with the talqa collective rifle shot requiring perfect synchronization.
Qualifying Path Leads to National Championship
The competition serves as a critical qualifying stage for the Hassan II Tbourida Trophy at Dar Es Salam. Touati confirmed that troops progress through regional competitions before reaching interregional events. Successful finalists then compete for the Grand Prix of His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Tbourida at the Horse Salon, representing the ultimate achievement for participating troops.
