Equestrian sports are one of the most popular sports in the country.[23] Horse riding is governed by the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (BREEF) which was founded in 2003, having replaced the previous governing body, the Bahrain Equestrian Association.[24] The BREEF is headquartered in the town of Awali, south of the capital Manama.[24] The first ever Endurance racing started on 7 October 2004 with the grand event, of a distance of 120 km, being held on 7 December that year.[24] In 2005, the 'World Championship for Juniors and Young Riders' race was held in Bahrain, attracting international riders and attention.[24]