Zara Makes History: First Dressage Rider for Iraq

Zara Murad, an equestrian from Shropshire, has made history by representing Iraq in its first-ever international dressage competition at the NAF Five Star Hartpury Festival of Dressage. Competing in the Hazlewoods CDI1* Prix St-Georges with her 17.3hh chestnut Irish Draught gelding Allegro (Leggy) , she scored 61.794%.

Zara, who took dual citizenship in February, holds Iraqi citizenship through her father, alongside her British status. Initially dreaming of riding for Britain, she reached out to the Iraqi Equestrian Federation, which supported her journey, including a meeting with the president of Iraq’s Olympic committee. Iraq’s equestrian federation comprises fourteen riders, primarily showjumpers and endurance riders, making Zara its first dressage rider.

Zara shared her pride in Leggy, originally bred for hunting and a quick learner in dressage. She praised Hartpury’s facilities and the warm welcome, noting the sight of the Iraqi flag as heartwarming, telling the Iraq International News Agency “I am so proud and honoured to be representing Iraq. I was so excited to be riding at Hartpury CDI. I have been a spectator for years, always sitting on the sidelines and cheering along the other riders. To actually be in the ring and ride was a dream come true, and then to make history with my best friend and dance partner, Allegro, was just wonderful. There is so much more to come; I truly hope I can take Iraq to the Olympics in the sport of dressage.”

The competition was an international dressage event, also known as “The Dancing Horses,” attracting participants from around the globe. Alongside Zara and Allegro, were competitors from Spain, Hong Kong, Singapore, the USA, and many other countries showcased their skills, making it a truly celebration of equestrian talent.