The AlUla Falcon Cup, hosted by the Saudi Falcons Club in collaboration with the Royal Commission for AlUla until January 5th, stands as a testament to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to preserving its rich falconry heritage. Beyond being a thrilling international competition with SAR60 million in prizes, the event serves as a crucial platform for passing down the legacy of falconry from one generation to the next in AlUla and across all regions of the Kingdom.
Preserving Heritage through Competition:
Falconer Eid Al-Anazi, a prominent figure in the world of falconry, highlighted the significance of organizing the AlUla Falcon Cup. As the largest international competition in the field, it not only offers substantial prizes but also serves as an inspiration for falconers to involve their children in the competition. This involvement enables the younger generation to connect with the legacy of their ancestors and carry forward the time-honored traditions of falconry.
Historical Significance of AlUla:
Al-Anazi emphasized the historical importance of AlUla as the land of migratory falcons. Falconry, deeply rooted in hunting, has been passed down through generations in AlUla. Al-Anazi himself traces his falconry lineage from his grandfather to his father and then to him and his siblings. Now, their children are actively following in the footsteps of their forebears, ensuring the continuity of this rich cultural practice.
Passing the Torch of Falconry:
Eid Al-Anazi's son, the young falconer Abdullah bin Eid, shared his falconry journey that began under his father's guidance at the tender age of seven. Abdullah received comprehensive training on various aspects of falconry, including the delicate art of handling and feeding falcons. His father's commitment to taking him along on training and hunting trips has provided invaluable hands-on experience in the intricate world of falconry.
Similar sentiments were echoed by young falconer Saad bin Tayyan, who expressed his deep love for falcons, nurtured by his close relationship with his father. Engaged in falconry competitions, hunting endeavors, and the various responsibilities associated with caring for falcons, Saad is a living example of how familial bonds contribute to the development of passion and skills in falconry.
Guidance from Fathers:
Abdulilah Al-Azmi, another aspiring falconer, proudly spoke of his love for falcons, inherited from his father. Under his father's tutelage, Abdulilah received training encompassing diverse technical aspects of falconry, hunting techniques, and even participating in falcon races spanning a distance of 400 meters. This guidance and mentorship from fathers have instilled in their children a deep appreciation for falconry and equipped them with the skills necessary to excel in this captivating pursuit.
The AlUla Falcon Cup not only stands as a thrilling spectacle in the world of falconry but also serves as a vital link in the chain of passing down the Kingdom's falconry heritage. Through the mentorship of experienced falconers, the younger generation is not only preserving traditions but also evolving as skilled and passionate custodians of this timeless cultural practice. The AlUla Falcon Cup is a celebration of legacy, family, and the enduring spirit of falconry in the heart of Saudi Arabia.
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