Ghali Boukaja's Setback at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar
In a disappointing turn of events for Moroccan equestrian Ghali Boukaja, the talented rider had to withdraw from the finals of the individual show jumping competition at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar on November 6, 2026. Boukaja's horse, Alato du la Sance, suffered from a parasitic infection known as babesiosis, which is primarily transmitted through ticks. This condition can lead to severe symptoms in horses, including anemia, fever, and general weakness, ultimately preventing Boukaja from competing in the final round despite successfully qualifying for it.
The competition experienced a brief pause as the judging committee decided to inspect the course and ensure that the jumps were safe for the participating horses before allowing the event to continue to its conclusion. In the end, the title was claimed by Swiss rider Mike Smits, who rode the horse "Barantan du Rampan" and completed the course without any errors in an impressive time of 37 seconds and 81 hundredths. The silver medal went to American rider Lisa Tittle, finishing in 38 seconds and 51 hundredths, while the bronze was awarded to Colombian Alejandro Gutiérrez Alcusir, who also recorded a flawless run in 38 seconds and 72 hundredths.
Ghali Boukaja had secured his place in the final just a day prior, on November 5, by delivering a flawless performance in the second qualifying round, finishing with a time of 79 seconds and 48 hundredths, and concluding the qualifications with a total of nine penalty points. Earlier that same day, Boukaja had also earned a bronze medal in the team show jumping event as a member of the African team, which included riders from Egypt, South Africa, and Senegal. It is important to note that this particular achievement does not contribute to the official medal tally for nations, as the team comprised athletes representing different national Olympic committees.
As reported by africaforpress.com.
