Syrians chase equestrian glory in sport once dominated by Assads

For weeks, Ziad Abu al-Dahab has been training for gold at an equestrian tournament near Damascus — in a sport once dominated by Syria’s Assad family and their inner circle.

“Results used to be decided in advance, always favouring those close to the government,” the 25-year-old rider said.

“My greatest ambition was to reach third place, but today, I can aim for first and do well with my new horse.”

For decades, former president Bashar al-Assad, his relatives and allies enjoyed wide-ranging…