Arabian Horse Times-Jan2015 Vol45 No8

Volume 45, No. 8 $7.50

BAHA

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" F R O M T H E S E E D S O F T H E PA S T S P R I N G S FO RT H T H E H A RV E ST O F T H E F U TU R E . " F ilippo M azzei (1730-1816)

A Al Ayad x Baraaqa AA

Baha's first foals in the U . S . b e g i n a r r i v i n g i n Fe b r u a r y .

inga applequist

(530) 320-5951

rosecrest.arabians@gmail.com

raymond mazzei

(951) 375-6349

furiosofarm @ aol . com

www . rosecrestarabians . com

Magnum Psyche

Managed by Travis Rice - travis.rice@arabianheights.com Steve Lengacher - steve@arabianheights.com

Jamaara FA, by Ali Jamaal

Owned in Partnership by Arabian Heights • Paula & Troy Walker Dr. Greg Van Wyk and Kristian Thorlund

Andrew & Angela Sellman • 715.425.9001 • www.argentfarms.com

2 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

National Champion

Volume 45, No. 8 | 3

Contents Issue 1 • Volume 45, No. 8

52

1Aria

Cover Story: Jeff Sloan—Arabian Horses And The Pursuit Of Excellence ... by Beth Ellen Hunziker

52

The 2014 Salon du Cheval World Championships— The Pageantry Of Paris by Jeff Wallace

69

Arabian Horse Journeys: Cedar Ridge by Anne Stratton

96

Leader Of The Times: Vitorio TO— An Americn Stallion In Poland by Kara Larson

99

Palmetto Arabians And The Sundance Kid V Phenomenon by Anne Stratton

108

Adolf Schreyer: As Modern As Tomorrow by Linda White

118

Breeding Arabians—What’s Going On? Part I by Anne Stratton

123

Illuminating His Path To Greatness—Hariry Al Shaqab

127

Women Around The World: Cathy Vincent by Jeff Wallace

130

Women Around The World: Sigi Siller by Jeff Wallace

134

From Your Perspective—An Interview With Murilo Kammer by Jeff Wallace

32AEPA

Arabian English Performance Association Futurities: Innovation Breeds Change by Kara Larson

187

A Judges Perspective: Shannon Armstrong by Jeff Wallace

1 R O Lervick R O Lervick Arabians—Roger And Linda Lervick Celebrate

40 Years Of Success As Arabian Horse Breeders by Christy Egan 2Tutto

Iron Elegance—Irina Stigler, ECAHO Judge And Breeder by Monika Luft

10Tutto

The 12th Russian National Show, Moscow 2014 by Monika Luft

19Tutto

Al Lahab—More Than A Show Horse by Monika Savier

27Tutto

ROMA—3rd Straight Egyptian Arabian Horse World Championship

50Tutto

Elvis Giughera—If You Dream, Dream Big by Mateusz Jaworski

304

Exhibitor And Judges School: Learning To See What The Judges See by Catherine Cole Ferandelli

306

In Memoriam

6

Comments From The Publisher

88

Faces & Places

92

Amateur Spotlight

190

Winter Photo Contest

RH Triana

303

25 Things You Don’t Know About Me

(ROL Intencyty x Sylviah WLF),

308

Calendar Of Events

314

Looking Ahead

317

Index Of Advertisers

108

Volume 45, No. 8 $7.50

On The Cover:

owned by Aria Arabians.

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by Fabio Brianzoni

Design by: mickĂŠandoliver Photography by: Stuart Vesty

A recipe for success The young breeding star of Alzobair Stud is available in the US for a limited time.

by Psytadel ex Majidah Bint Pacha by AS Sinans Pacha for information about breedings in the USA and Canada contact: Greg Gallun, Phone: 805-693-0083 info@gallunfarms.com standing at Gallun Farms PO Box 1949, 1977 Edison Street. Santa Ynez, CA 93460 owned by Alzobair Stud | leased by Aljassimya Farm www.aljassimyafarm.com | info@aljassimyafarm.com Volume 45, No. 8 | 5

Comments Publisher Lara Ames Operations Manager/Editor Barbara Lee Writers Mary Kirkman Kara Larson Anne Stratton Advertising Account Executive Tony Bergren Walter Mishek Creative Director Jeff Wallace Production Manager Jody Thompson Senior Designer Marketing Director Wayne Anderson Print & Web Design Tony Ferguson Leah Matzke Melissa Pasicznyk Editorial Coordinator Proofreader Charlene Deyle Sales Assistant/ Accounts Receivable Sharon Brunette © Copyright AHT, Inc. dba Arabian Horse Times.

All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

Articles or opinions published by the AHT, Inc. dba Arabian Horse Times are not necessarily the expressed views of the AHT, Inc. dba Arabian Horse Times. AHT, Inc. dba Arabian Horse Times is not responsible for the accuracy of advertising content or manipulation of images that are provided by the advertiser.

ARABIAN HORSE TIMES (ISSN 0279-8125) Volume 45, No. 8, January 2015, is published monthly by AHT, Inc. dba Arabian Horse Times, 20276 Delaware Avenue, Jordan, Minnesota 55352. Periodical postage paid at Jordan, Minnesota 55352 and at additional entry offices. Single copies in U.S. and Canada $7.50. Subscription in U.S. $40 per year, $65 two years, $90 three years. Canada $65 one year, $125 two years, $170 three years, U.S. funds. Foreign Subscriptions: $95 one year, $185 two years, $280 three years, payable in advance, U.S. funds.

Sorry, no refunds on subscription orders. For subscription and change of address, please send old address as printed on last label. Please allow four to six weeks for your first subscription to be shipped. Occasionally ARABIAN HORSE TIMES makes its mailing list available to other organizations. If you prefer not to receive these mailings, please write to ARABIAN HORSE TIMES, Editorial Offices, P.O. Box 69, Jordan, MN 55352.

The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographic materials.

Printed in U.S.A. • POSTMASTER: Please send returns to Arabian Horse Times, P.O. Box 69, Jordan, MN 55352; and address changes to Arabian Horse Times, P.O. Box 15816, North Hollywood, CA 91615-5816.

For subscription information, call 1-855-240-4637 (in the U.S.A.) or 952-492-3213 (for outside of the U.S.A.) Arabian Horse Times • P.O. Box 15816, North Hollywood, CA 91615-5816 • Tel: 952-492-3213 • Fax: 952-492-3228 1-800-AHTIMES • www.ahtimes.com

From The Publisher

Breeding More Horses—It’s Critical At the start of a new year, it is a good time to think about how to improve our industry. One problem we have—the most significant one, in my opinion—is that we don’t, as a group, breed enough horses. We see the average age of our show horses rising, while the supply of young ones coming along to take their places dwindles. The last thing we need, of course, is an overpopulation of horses; that was a problem years ago, after the tax revisions of 1986, when the market fell. However, that is not our present situation. Now, it is more economical for people to buy horses rather than breed them.

Sounds like a good problem to have, right? More demand than supply? Except, what do we do when there is no supply (as will happen if few people breed)?

That part, I think, everyone understands. But the issue is more complicated than that.

It is true that we need more horses, but to sell, the horses have to be useful for what buyers want, so it is not a matter of just putting more horses on the ground. Breeding is a chancy endeavor at best, and doing it randomly just increases the odds of failure.

What we need now is success.

So, the challenge is that we need more people not only willing to invest time and money in breeding Arabians, but also committed to doing their homework and being realistic about producing horses that are suited to jobs that will attract buyers. From what I see, breeders now are doing that; they are animals that are, on the whole, of a higher quality than we’ve seen in the past. We just need more of them.

I wish I had an answer, but I don’t. I do think, however, that now is a good time to put our thoughts together and try to come up with viable suggestions.

I’d love to hear from you. What would it take for you to breed an Arabian in 2015?

Lara Ames Lara Ames Publisher

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Imagine your perfect horse.

Then breed it!

Make an appointment to see Apalo in Scottsdale and discuss his role in your breeding program.

Contact Greg Hazlewood mobile: 602.549.8726 www.HazlewoodArabians.com

Jack & Elizabeth Milam www.RegencyCoveFarms.com

Justify x Gloria Apal Volume 45, No. 8 | 7

M

IDWEST

FARM TOURS OPEN HOUSE

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—

It was a happy day at Midwest's Arabhorse Farm Tour Party, as it has been for some thirty plus years now. A presentation of great Arabian horses to appreciate created an amazing flow of equine eye candy; from already legendary breeding stallions and show horses, to the day's current show string and young and upcoming stars for tomorrow. Those present represented newcomers to our great breed, as well as longtime and astute breeders who along with God, co-created the beauties in the line-up. To take the excitement and theatrical approach to yet a whole new level, a first-ever overhead drone recorded every special moment of the event. Good food and Scottsdale sunshine simply sealed the deal on a masterful and very happy day!

WWW.MIDWESTARABIAN.COM Volume 45, No. 8 | 9

A-JERICHO A Jakarta x Destiny VF • 2012 COLT

Nominated AHA Breeders Sweepstakes, AHBA World Cup, Scottsdale Signature Stallion, Silver Sire Breeders SCID, CA, LFS Clear

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U NITED S TATES N ATIONAL R ESERVE C HAMPION Y EARLING C OLT AHBA W ORLD C UP S ILVER S UPREME C HAMPION Y EARLING C OLT S COTTSDALE S IGNATURE S TALLION C HAMPION Y EARLING C OLT ATH

owned by THE ABEL FAMILY Lacombe, Alberta, Canada

Thank you to the breeders that selected A-Jericho as the sire of their 2015 foals. We are anxious for their arrival.

We invite you to come see A-Jericho during the Scottsdale Show at Midwest Training Centre.

For breeding information,contact: david@midwestarabian.com David Boggs • 612.328.8312 Nate White • 563.663.7383 Judi Anderson • 612.328.1057

www.midwestarabian.com Volume 45, No. 8 | 11

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Volume 45, No. 8 | 13

Bringin’ it.

TF Psymreekhe x Red Flame BRSB

Standing at Argent Farms 92 County Rd. F, River Falls, WI 54022 info@ArgentFarms.com • www.ArgentFarms.com (P) 715.425.9001 • (C) 715.760.2466

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Proudly owned by Morning Sun Arabians PO Box 208, Crossfield, AB T0M 0S0, Canada morningsunarabians@gmail.com (P) 403.946.5292

Breeders Sweepstakes Nominated Sire Scottsdale Signature Stallion SCID & CA Clear

Volume 45, No. 8 | 15

Lara Ames, Publisher of The Arabian Horse Times “The Arabian horse has been a lifelong experience for me and my family. I know what it means to grow up in the business and to lead a life of dedication to the breed.

Every now and then, another lifelong enthusiast emerges and contributes to the breed in unique and impactful ways. Such is the story of Jeff Sloan’s lifelong passion for the Arabian horse. And so, The Arabian Horse Times felt it appropriate to feature Jeff’s unique and inspiring story of success, leadership, and contribution to our beloved breed. We are proud to present his story.”

Jeff and Andrea Sloan

Text and design by Beth Ellen Hunziker | Photos by April Visel, Avalon, Darryl Larson, Javan, Jenni Ogden, Johnny Johnston, Judith, Julie Patton, Kelly Campbell, Lori Ricigliano, Midwest Design, Nate White, Osteen/Schatzberg, Sorvillo, Sparagowski, Stagnaro, Stuart Vesty, Suzanne Sturgill and Wendy. Additional photos are by Sloan family and friends.

Photos by: Stuart Vesty, April Visel , Lori Ricigliano

“The pursuit of excellence is a lifelong endeavor.

Join me in the greatest adventure of all, the pursuit of the finest Arabian horses in the world!�

Jeff Sloan, Aria International

Jeff Sloan is an Arabian horseman, breeder, industry leader, successful entrepreneur, breed ambassador and so much more.

This is the story of his pursuit of excellence with the Arabian horse...

The Sloan family: Richard, Julie, Bernie, Jeff and Deena with Sandal Shahin in 1983 Right: Jeff and Sandal Shahin in 1985

The Beginning On a beautiful, crisp spring day in May 1982, life was about to change for the Sloan family. no one could have expected or predicted it. For it was on this day that Jeff Sloan, in his passion to own an Arabian horse, had orchestrated a “showing” of a handsome young colt he had found and was determined to acquire. The audience of two would become the first of a long and celebrated list of partners who, together with Jeff, would ultimately own some of the greatest Arabian horses in the world.

Jeff recalls that momentous day and the showing of the colt. “i had never been to a showing of an Arabian horse. i had never been to Scottsdale or any other major show. i had not experienced a Lasma sale, or in any way been involved with a presentation of an Arabian horse. Acting on pure instinct, i arranged for my new would-be partners to be seated on hay bales strategically placed just outside the double barn doors of the simple backyard barn where the colt was boarded. inside, i was anxiously holding the lead, ready to kick off

2 • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • AHT

my carefully planned presentation. Right on cue, at my direction, the young groom assisting me swung open the doors. in a flash, out burst the colt—tail up, head up, all four feet off the ground—with me in tow holding onto the lead for dear life!”

Shortly thereafter, Jeff and his partners became proud owners of the colt Sandal Shahin. Moreover, in doing so, Jeff had successfully ignited the interest of brand new enthusiasts and forged his first successful partnership.

Jeff ’s first partners were his mother and father, Deena and Bernie Sloan.

Deena recalls, “We had no idea that Jeff was involved with horses. We thought he was pursuing his college studies in Ann Arbor. And while our natural reaction was shock and disbelief, it was all overshadowed by the sheer beauty of that gorgeous colt.

And then, amazingly, the next thing we knew, we found ourselves in the Arabian horse business with Jeff.”

Jeff ’s journey with Arabian horses had begun just six short months prior to the acquisition of Shahin. his passion for Arabians was born from a deep and powerful drive from

within. he didn’t come from parents who were horse people, didn’t grow up around horses, and yet there was something within, which Jeff himself admits is rare. “i feel a deep and profound connection with Arabians, like i’m somehow connected to their history, and in my own way…a part of it.”

While Jeff did show some interest in horses as a young boy, even attending horseback riding camp for a couple of summers, the catalytic event occurred one evening when in late 1981, while a student at University of Michigan, he watched The Black Stallion movie and for the first time, experienced the magic of the Arabian horse. he was moved by the awe-inspiring beauty and spirit

AHT • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • 3

of the horse and the special connection that the boy, Alex Ramsey, and the horse shared. he woke up the next morning, and instead of going to class, went to a nearby riding stable where they gave horseback riding lessons. Jeff recalls, “i approached the instructor and abruptly announced, ‘i want a horse like the one in The Black Stallion movie.’ The instructor told me it was an Arabian horse, and that was it! My interest in horses became a bonfire of passion for Arabians.”

Just six months after seeing the movie, Jeff was the proud owner of a white Arabian stallion named nejfix, registered as 64122, a son of Serane J and out of Raazna.

By Jeff ’s standards today, “nej” as he called the stallion, would hardly qualify as a world-class Arabian. Yet nej was Jeff ’s first, and at the time, he thought he was the most beautiful horse he had ever seen, and Jeff was enraptured.

While in the throes of his love affair with nej, Jeff admits he spent very little time in class through the rest of that semester. “even when i did go to class, i read horse magazines instead of listening to the professor’s lecture. Being the son of a physician and a college educated mother, both

Sandal Shahin

Ramses Mahal

of whom valued education as a top priority, i was certainly feeling anxious about my new-found obsession and the distraction it caused,” Jeff recalls. “i read voraciously, every Arabian horse magazine, every book i could get my hands on. i started attending local shows on my own. i met local Michigan breeders and trainers, whose guidance and direction i consumed. i quickly learned two things: 1.) nej wasn’t as “beautiful” as i thought he was, and 2.) i needed to find a horse that was. My quest led me to Sandal Shahin, a son of Shaikh Al Badi, and i knew i had to find a way to make him mine. i also had to explain to my parents what i had been doing and why. Then, upon learning the colt’s purchase price, i knew i needed a financial partner. So, i created a plan to show Shahin to my parents on that Spring day in May of 1982. it all turned out better than i could have imagined.”

The eARLY YeARS With the acquisition of Sandal Shahin, things really began to accelerate. The Sloan family’s commitment to their new Arabian horse endeavor included the purchase of a farm in Michigan horse country near the small town of Metamora. They branded their new operation Talaria Farms.

Like all connoisseurs-in-the-making, Jeff began to train his “eye” and to discern the differences between a good Arabian horse and one that is great. early horse acquisitions by the Sloans included

Ramses Mahal, a straight egyptian son of Ramses Fayek, the broodmares Ramses Sadaka and Amurath Chamonix from Plum grove Arabians, as well as the beautiful young daughter of el Shaklan named Cambriaa.

After those early horse acquisitions, the Sloans met and hired a young experienced horse professional named Cindi Murch, whose passion for Arabians was a perfect complement to Jeff ’s. he explains, “hiring Cindi as the manager for our program was a watershed moment for us. She brought knowledge, experience, and access to important industry contacts. Cindi had an intense and demanding work ethic, and we each continually pushed the other to succeed.” Jeff and Cindi had a true hands-on approach at the farm, doing everything from cleaning stalls, painting fences, and foaling out the broodmares, to grooming and conditioning the horses and showing them. in the process, Jeff became a capable horseman and gained a deeper understanding and a greater connection to the horses. in 1982, Jeff attended his first major shows— the Ohio Buckeye and the egyptian event. At the event, Jeff met Judith Forbis and other industry leaders. he attended many lectures and seminars at the event and took a keen interest in learning about the history and significance of pedigrees for breeding. To this day, Jeff maintains this interest as a strong focus of his personal Arabian horse expe-

4 • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • AHT

Cambriaa

rience and now owns one of the most complete private libraries of books on the subject.

Jeff learned early that to win at the highest levels, in addition to having a great horse, one needed a skilled professional to condition, train, and show the horse. And so, right from the start, Jeff forged relationships with master horsemen the likes of Rick Moser, David Boggs, and Michael Byatt, who successfully showed his young stallions, Shahin and Mahal.

The first of a string of early show ring success

by Shahin was a win at the Michigan Futurity.

Further victories came for Shahin: Ohio Buckeye Champion Three-Year-Old Colt, Region 13 Champion Stallion, and the 1983 egyptian event Champion Three-Year-Old egyptianRelated Colt. Mahal was equally successful, also winning Region 13 Champion as a three-yearold and the highly competitive 1984 egyptian event Three-Year-Old Straight egyptian Colt Championship, with approximately 60 entries.

These initial achievements clearly proved Jeff ’s natural ability to select a winning horse and encouraged the Sloans to continue to accelerate their program. in the fall of 1982, Jeff attended his first U.S. nationals in Louisville, Ky., where he watched David Boggs show the great stallion Padron.

David’s skill and commanding presence, as well as his intense desire to succeed impressed Jeff.

Jeff Sloan, Cindi Murch, Padron, David Boggs, Deena and Bernie Sloan 1982 U.S. Nationals, Louisville, Kentucky

Judith Forbis, Ansata Arabians, World Renowned Arabian Horse Expert and Mentor to Jeff Sloan

“I remember meeting Jeff Sloan at the Egyptian Event in 1982 when he attended one of

my seminars about planned breeding. I sensed his enthusiasm and intense passion about the breed at that time, and over the years I have watched him maintain a positive and

influential presence in the Arabian horse community. Some three decades have passed since we first met, and I have noted his continual association with some of the very

finest Arabians in the breed. Obviously he developed a connoisseur’s eye. Success succeeds, it never precedes, and Jeff has persevered and succeeded throughout the ever

changing trends in the Arabian horse community. I am glad to have helped catalyze his passion for Arabians and have enjoyed following his unique accomplishments.”

Walter Mishek, Mishek Arabians, Arabian Horse Expert “This year is my 50th anniversary for Misheks Arabians. Over the years, I have had the

privilege to know most of the great owners and breeders of Arabian horses. I have known Jeff Sloan for over 30 years and sold him the wonderful mare, HED Caramba. But most

importantly, I am proud to consider Jeff a part of my family. I believe Jeff has the same, and maybe even more, passion, devotion, dedication, love and energy as all truly great breeders possess. Jeff Sloan has proven himself to be every bit as influential as the legendary breeders and horsemen of the past who have shaped the Arabian horse breed.”

AHT • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • 5

Shatir in Israel being presented to Jeff Sloan

he recalls, “One of my first great memories in Arabian horses was when David asked me and my family to join him at the out-gate following Padron’s U.S. national Stallion class. i vividly recall David and Padron in the ring together during the class, and then having the privilege to be part of the celebration with David and his team following the victory. This will forever be indelibly etched in my memory. Seeing David and Padron’s victory opened my eyes to the thrill of winning significant awards in competition and fueled my own desire to win at the highest levels.” in 1983, Jeff attended his first Scottsdale Show, as well as the Lasma and Karho sales. The magnitude of the horse marketing programs he saw stunned him. “Being introduced to the sales and marketing activities in Scottsdale,” Jeff says, “really opened my eyes to business possibilities. i learned a lot by watching what worked and what didn’t, and there is no question that many of the progressive programs i offer to introduce new people to the breed were forged by my early experiences in Scottsdale.”

By this time, Jeff was gaining a well-rounded and comprehensive ability to successfully run an Arabian horse business, ranging from horse care, conditioning, and showing at competitions, to managing the business operations of a barn, marketing and promotion, all while adding to his deep knowledge of the history and pedigrees of the horses.

Jeff and Peter Ministrelli in Paris celebrating their win

Also in 1983, Jeff entered the international scene of Arabian horses for the first time. Upon learning of a stallion that had just been crowned the israeli national Champion Stallion, Jeff became intrigued with the idea of importing the horse to the U.S. The stallion, Shatir, was heavily Crabbetbred, and Jeff believed he offered many desirable characteristics, both phenotypically and genotypically, to Arabian horse breeders in America. Jeff and Cindi traveled to israel to evaluate the stallion and shortly thereafter, successfully negotiated the lease of the horse and imported him to America, where he became a U.S. national Top Ten Stallion, as well as a sought after breeding stallion.

Most significantly, during these early years, Jeff would garner one of his most important achievements— a World Championship title at the 1988 Salon du Cheval in Paris for a client whose singular goal was to win that award. Jeff ’s client, Peter Ministrelli, was a successful Michigan businessman. When they met, Peter told Jeff he wanted a superstar show horse, one that could win at the highest level—Paris. Charged with the exciting challenge of finding a horse that could achieve that lofty goal, Jeff began the search, looking at hundreds of horses. his pursuit took him to a small breeder’s farm where, on a cool, damp and windy day, Jeff saw a young filly that captured his attention. She was far from being in show condi-

6 • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • AHT

Left: Peter Ministrelli, Jeff Sloan, Nisrs Gala and David Boggs

tion, but he could see her potential. he phoned Peter to tell him he had found the one they were searching for and to wire the purchase funds immediately. Peter, following Jeff ’s recommendation, did just that and purchased the filly. Jeff recalls, “The filly just had it—she had the conformational quality and the type required to be competitive, but more than that, she had something extra special that made me feel—deep inside—she was the one. i was really excited. i knew i had found something special for Peter, and i was confident that she had what it took to realize Peter’s goal of winning in Paris.”

Following the acquisition of nisrs gala, Jeff phoned David Boggs and audaciously suggested that he show the filly in Paris. David, while dubious, but compelled by Jeff ’s exuberant enthusiasm, got on a plane and flew to Michigan to see the filly at Talaria. To David’s surprise … and delight … the filly was indeed “all that”, and he agreed to

present her at the World Championships. in December of 1988, nisrs gala, Peter, Jeff and David were on their way to Paris. it was the thrill of a lifetime. Jeff recalls how embarking on the adventure became a defining moment for him. “i literally had to pinch myself to make sure i wasn’t dreaming. i had a star client, with whom i’d developed a deep friendship and partnership, a common goal to win in Paris, a filly i really believed in, and i had a handler who could get it done. i could sense that something special was about to happen for us.”

And it did.

Jeff remembers that day in Paris. “it was a dream come true to compete with the elite of the breed at the World Championships. The first time i saw nisrs gala out in that pasture in Tenn., i felt her potential so strongly. in my mind, i saw her winning. When she actually did win, it was one of those incredible moments that one never forgets. i was so thrilled for Peter, and, of course, i was

AHT • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • 7

happy and proud that we had achieved our goal. Most significantly, i remember the intense joy i felt of being able to provide such a unique experience to someone else. Peter Ministrelli was a man who had it all—business success, financial success, and all of the prestige that goes along with it. What can one give a man who has it all? When Peter won that class in Paris, i watched him leap euphorically, raising his fist in victory. i saw him literally cry tears of joy as they played the U.S. national anthem in recognition, and i was awestruck by the power of this experience. it was at that moment that i realized the impact of what i could provide. i knew right then, that i wanted to share this unique experience with others.”

With all of their early success, things were ramping up rapidly for the Sloans’ horse business. What had begun as a passion for Jeff and a sideline business for his parents, quickly become an all-consuming activity. The demands of the business were starting to keep Bernie from his medical practice, and Jeff from completing his college education. At its peak in 1988, Talaria Farms had over 60 horses, an annual foal crop of around 20, horses showing all over the country, and a staff of 12.

With their program having reached its pinnacle of success, the Sloans were presented with a bittersweet dilemma; they received a very attractive purchase offer

on their farm in Metamora. After much debate and discussion, the family agreed to accept the offer. While this was particularly hard for Jeff, he knew it was the right decision, and he knew that one day soon, he would return to his life’s dream and his passion for Arabian horses.

Following the sale of the farm, Jeff returned to the University of Michigan to complete his degree. After graduating, Jeff pursued the commercialization of an invention he created, the “Battery Buddy,” a device which prevents dead batteries on automobiles and for which he received multiple U.S. Patents. he also created a business that remains a major focus of his to this day, “Startupnation,” an online resource which guides entrepreneurs through the process of starting a new business. Jeff and his brother, Rich, became partners in the business. The Sloan Brothers’ Startupnation empire grew to include a nationally syndicated radio show (a show Jeff still hosts today), a business book published

by Doubleday, numerous appearances as guest experts on Cnn, Fox, MSnBC and CnBC, as well as keynoting major conferences such as ebay Live, and hosting the Small Business Administration of America’s annual conference. Through all the hard work to complete his education and to build his new business, Jeff always kept an eye on the activities within the Arabian horse breed.

8 • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • AHT

Jeff and Rich doing weekly StartupNation radio show Below: Jeff and Rich Sloan making front cover business news

Rich Sloan, brother, best friend and business partner of Jeff Sloan “Jeff and I have had great success together in business and in our various avocations.

Together, we’ve raced sailboats on the Great Lakes, played in a country band, authored books, hosted a radio show, helped John Denver with his Windstar Foundation in the 1990s, and, of course, raised and competed with Arabian horses. Jeff is a visionary – a bold thinker. Throughout our brotherhood and partnership, I’ve experienced Jeff coming to me and announcing his next big idea – the next lofty goal that he would challenge us to pursue together. And amazingly, somehow, most of the time we found a way to actually make these big ideas happen! Some highlights for me were assisting Jeff with getting the Breeders World Cup Show in Las Vegas off the ground and promoting the young stallion FA El Rasheem to unique success.”

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Greg Gallun, Gallun Training Center “I have had the privilege to show and manage some of the finest Arabian horses in the breed – many have been in collaboration with Jeff Sloan, including U.S. National Champion Mares Pianissima, Honey’s Delight RB, Scottsdale Champion Mare Elandra, and U.S. National Champion Yearling Colt Conquest BR. Jeff has a great eye and a very unique ability to assess a horse’s potential regardless of its age or condition. His ability to evaluate a horse is among the very best I have come across in my career.

In addition, Jeff has a rare capacity to market and promote horses through innovative and creative thinking, which I believe has had a tremendous influence on the breed. Jeff was instrumental in establishing the Arabian Horse Breeders Alliance and the organization’s highly successful Arabian Breeders World Cup in Las Vegas and he continues to work tirelessly for the benefit of the breed as the Chairman of the Board for this important international event. Jeff’s commitment to the Arabian horse spans three decades. I admire his unrelenting pursuit of excellence and look forward to working with him for many years to come.”

Ted Carson, Ted Carson Training Center “Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with Jeff. One of the things I respect most about him is that he has a great eye.

The horses he selects for partnerships are largely undiscovered or on the cusp of greatness and then he brings together a team to take them to their full potential. Jeff is an incredible ambassador to the breed. Not only has he introduced new people to the Arabian horse, they have become significant participants. Without a doubt, Jeff’s efforts as a founding member of the AHBA and the Arabian Breeders World Cup have benefitted the breed. Whenever I have worked with Jeff, it’s been a very positive and productive experience and I look forward to many more in the years ahead.”

JeFF SLOAn’S DYnAMiC ReTURn TO ARABiAnS One snowy December evening in 2004, Jeff was at home reading a current version of an Arabian horse magazine. he was pouring through its pages when something caught his eye and made him sit up to look closer. he saw photos of a young filly in Poland that had just emerged on the scene. her image was unlike anything he had ever seen before, and he was stunned. he put down the magazine and knew immediately, that he wanted to pursue this filly. Just like that, Jeff was back in the horse business, his ambition pushing him to set his sights on even loftier goals. One such goal was the pursuit of the beautiful filly from Poland that so enamored him that December evening—an individual who many believe is the most uniquely beautiful Arabian mare in the world today—the breathtaking Pianissima.

Jeff put down the magazine and immediately emailed his old friends Michael Byatt, David Boggs, and Kim Jarvis, to ask them if they believed it would be possible to acquire Pianissima. each responded with appropriate and conventional wisdom, saying simply that it was … unlikely. nevertheless, Jeff remained undaunted and focused on pursuing the mare of his dreams, and thus began his quest to bring Pianissima to America.

Jeff attended the 2005 Scottsdale Show with the objective of reconnecting with people who might be able to assist him with his pursuit of Pianissima. While at that show, he visited with greg gallún, and through greg,

10 • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • AHT

he met george Zbyszewski. Jeff had followed greg and george’s successes in Poland in acquiring top horses for their clients from the Pride of Poland sale. he believed greg and george might be just the people to help him on his quest. “After our first meeting,” Jeff says, “george and greg graciously offered to host me and my family on an introductory visit to the heralded stud farms of Poland.”

Leveraging his knowledge, experience and success from his early years, combined with the expertise he had gained from his other business ventures, Jeff formed Aria international in 2005. his vision for the new business was based on the following basic tenets: To acquire only the best of the best Arabian horses; to focus on introducing these elite Arabians to new enthusiasts; to make their experience with Arabians uniquely rewarding for them; to establish a breeding program to preserve the breed characteristics; and to contribute to the breed’s future with his leadership. it was an ambitious undertaking, which he began in earnest. in May of 2005, Jeff, his parents, his brother Rich, and greg and george, arrived in Poland, and toured the stud farms which Jeff had been dreaming about visiting for years. Dr. Marek Trela, the Director of Janów Podlaski, and Jerzy Bialobok, the Director of Michalów State Stud warmly welcomed the group. The pilgrimage to the Polish studs was another landmark for Jeff and his family—it was a momentous visit. On a personal level, the Sloans remain forever indebted to greg and george for giving them the

Pianissima

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Dr. Marek Trela, Director of Janow Podlaski State Stud, Poland “My experience working

with Jeff Sloan has been very

positive. I first met Jeff when he

visited Janow Podlaski in May of 2005 with his family. The Sloans are a very nice family; it was a pleasure to have them visit us and see our horses.

After the visit, Jeff formed

Elandra

partnerships to lease the Polish

National Champion Stallion, Piaff

and the Polish National Champion Mare, Pianissima from Janow.

These leases were very successful for Jeff and his partners, as well as for us. Pianissima was named U.S. National Champion Mare while under his management

and she gained many American admirers.

In 2012, Jeff and David Boggs

leased our Polish National

Champion Colt Pogrom. This was another very successful effort.

Pogrom was Scottsdale Supreme Champion, Breeders World Cup

Gold Champion and U.S. National Champion Stallion. All the horses from Janow had good careers

with Jeff Sloan. We thank him for bringing great Polish horses to

America and we look forward to more great success in the future with Jeff and his program.”

Emandoria

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Piaff and Jeff Sloan at Janow Podlaski Stud in Poland

experience of a lifetime. On a business level, the Sloans, with greg, george, and Jeff ’s new Arabian horse partners, made history. They achieved what others had said was unlikely and even impossible. They successfully secured a two-year lease for one of Poland’s most prized treasures, the Polish national Champion, World Champion, and All nations Cup Champion Mare, Pianissima. Jeff ’s bold vision was fulfilled. in addition, Jeff and his partners secured a lease for emandoria from Michalów and

a lease for the stallion Piaff from Janów Podlaski, which shortly after the lease was transacted, was shown to the title of Polish national Champion Stallion. The partnership also purchased the beautiful elandra and four other lots in the 2005 Pride of Poland sale as well. Pianissima and emandoria, of course, went on to be crowned U.S. national Champion Junior Mares, and elandra was crowned U.S. Reserve national Champion Senior Mare, all three having been conditioned, trained, and shown by greg gallún.

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El Nabila B

One of the most significant acquisitions Jeff Sloan made in the early years of his return included the great el nabila B, who went on to become 2010 U.S. national Champion Stallion. Jeff saw el nabila B at north Arabians in Scottsdale in 2006, and after providing the purchase capital to acquire him, formed a group of partners who would own him, including Michael Weinstein. Jeff recalled the partnership, “i have followed the success of Michael’s family and their great breeding program since the early 1980’s. i was thrilled to have forged a partnership with Michael in the ownership and management of el nabila B. Michael still manages the horse today for himself and a group of new partners who own him, and i think he’s done an amazing job with the horse. While i managed el nabila, my interest in the horse became a personal one for me, not just because of his quality as a breeding stallion, but because of his disposition. el nabila B is a true gentleman, and i loved him. So much so, that my wife and i journeyed to the famed Balbolna Stud in hungary to see where he was born.” in 2006, Jeff won his first major championships at the Scottsdale show and the U.S. nationals, in Louisville, Ky. in Scottsdale, Jeff and Michael Byatt reunited to campaign the colt Baanderos, a spectacular grey son by the legendary parents Marwan Al Shaqab and hB Bessolea, and who the Sloans had acquired through

Andrea Sloan, wife, mother of four, partner and Jeff’s best friend “Jeff is tireless. I’ve never seen anyone work as hard as he does in the pursuit of his endeavors and interests. But the thing that most impresses me about Jeff is, that above all of the big business, show ring success, and all of the logistics and minutia involved in managing our Arabian horse program, he has such a deep concern for the well-being of the horses and the clients he represents.”

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Bottom photos left-right: Andrea and Jeff Sloan seated in front of El Nabila B’s stall at Balbolna Stud, Hungary | Andrea and Jeff Sloan with Tomas Rombauer at Balbolna Stud

Jeff and Baanderos

Michael Byatt when he was just a weanling.

Michael and the Sloan family have a long history as friends and business partners in a variety of successful show horses and breeding stock. At Scottsdale that year, Michael and Jeff brought home two of the biggest wins of the show. Michael showed Baanderos to Champion Senior Yearling Colt and Jeff won Scottsdale Signature Stallion Champion Yearling Colt with him.

Later in 2006, Jeff won his first U.S. national Championship titles, three of them to be exact. Pianissima, shown by greg gallún, won the title of U.S. national Champion Junior Mare. LD Pistal won the title of U.S. national Champion Senior Stallion, and nBW Angel’s Kiss, won the title of U.S. national Champion Futurity Filly - both were sired by Magnum Psyche, and both were shown by David Boggs.

NBW Angel’s Kiss

LD Pistal

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in 2007, another horse of great magnitude was to become part of Jeff ’s life; one of the most dynamic and striking colts the breed has ever witnessed—the incomparable Aria impresario. “i was in new York on business with my brother in January of 2007,” Jeff recalls, “and i received a phone call from Michael Byatt, who told me about a colt of extreme quality that he had just seen. Michael said we should acquire him immediately. i could sense the urgency in his voice and his confidence in the colt.” Although Jeff has a rule that he never makes a purchase without personally evaluating and validating the purchase, especially one of this significance, this was a rare situation in which there was a need to act very quickly or risk losing the opportunity to another buyer.

“A quick but detailed dialogue ensued. i asked key questions about the colt,” Jeff says. “i will never forget the final question i posed during our discussion, and the answer i received. ‘how does this colt compare to the competition he will likely face in Scottsdale,’ i asked, and Michael’s answer was simply, ‘it is irrelevant. This colt is so good that it’s simply irrelevant.’” And with that, the Sloan family purchased the colt, over the phone, and he was on his way to Scottsdale.

Just a few weeks later, Aria impresario earned three of the most prestigious titles of the show: Unanimous Senior Yearling Colt, Unanimous Junior Champion Colt, and Scottsdale Supreme Champion halter horse. it was the first of his two such titles he would win, making Aria impresario the only horse in Arabian history to achieve two Scottsdale Supreme halter horse Championships.

Aria Impresario

Following Aria impresario’s win in Scottsdale, he went on to win the title of 2007 U.S. national Champion Yearling Colt. Michael wasn’t competing that year at the nationals, so he selected Andy Sellman to show impresario. The colt was loaded into the van for his cross-country trip to Andy’s training center in Wisconsin. however, he would not be making that journey alone. Jeff, out of concern for his prized horse’s well-being, was to be his stall partner. Jeff rode the entire two-day trip in the back of the trailer—never leaving impresario’s side—all the way from houston, Tex. to hudson, Wis. Jeff remembers the trip vividly, “Andy and i had really never met before, and i can say with certainty, that he probably had yet to meet an Arabian horse owner for the first time the way he first met me. in the early morning hours of a chilly fall day in 2007, the trailer carrying impresario—and me—arrived at Andy’s training facility. Upon opening the door, Andy saw the beautiful impresario and his disheveled owner peering out at him. Tired, but relieved with the safe delivery of my colt, i extended my hand to Andy and 16 • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • AHT

told him, ‘here we are; let’s go win a national Championship.’ And win he did—unanimously!”

The success of impresario in his yearling year was just the beginning of the relationship between Jeff and this special horse. To this day, impresario remains an important horse in the Aria program. As a sire, he is consistently at the top or near the top of sires who have sired national and Scottsdale winners.

“When one accounts for the number of get sired in total, impresario is the top producing sire of national and Scottsdale winners,” says Jeff. “impresario sires horses with overall elegance and amazing show attitudes that seem to light up when they’re in the ring. his foals consistently possess beautiful laid back shoulders, elegant neck and throatlatch structure, high straight tail carriage, and dynamic movement and carriage. Breeders are beginning to realize the importance of focusing on these traits and impresario as a go-to source for them in their breeding programs.” in 2012, the Roizner family from Uruguay joined Jeff in ownership of impresario, and it wasn’t long before

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Andy Sellman, Argent Farms “It’s very clear to me that Jeff Sloan is one of the most passionate people currently

involved with Arabian horses. He dreams

big and more often than not, his dreams are fulfilled! I’ve had the pleasure of work-

ing with Jeff since 2007, when I showed

Aria Impresario to U.S. National Champion Yearling Colt and RD Fabreanna to U.S.

National Champion Yearling Filly for him.

I’m not sure that there has ever been an

Aria Impresario

owner who achieved both of those titles in the same year. We all know the achieve-

ments of Aria Impresario since his yearling National Championship. Fabreanna has

turned out to be one of the most outstanding mares of our time as a show horse and a mother. Without Jeff, who knows if she would have achieved this great success?

Jeff is a “get it done” guy! It is a privilege to work with him, and I am extremely

excited about the projects we are currently working on together.”

Mike Wade, Partner “Jeff and I first met at the 2006 Salon du

Cheval World Championships in Paris. Jeff’s passion for the Arabian horse is second to

none. He has been instrumental in introducing many others to this magnificent breed.

Jeff and I were partners in the stallion

Rough Justice, by WH Justice, and have

partnered in other amazing horses since.

We are also involved in various entrepre-

neurial pursuits. Jeff is a born leader who

is out to make a real difference in people’s lives. I am honored to be his friend and

RD Fabreanna

business partner.”

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Rasika by Aria Impresario LLC Fasario by Aria Impresario

RD Versaria by Aria Impresario Jeff Sloan, euphoric over Aria Impresario’s second Scottsdale Supreme Championship

they too, experienced the excitement of this great stallion in the show ring when he claimed the highest honor of all at the Scottsdale Arabian horse show. Jeff explains the significance of the victory, “Aria impresario, led by David Boggs at the 2012 Scottsdale Show, delivered one of the highlights of my personal Arabian horse experiences when he won his second Supreme Championship, a feat never achieved by any other Arabian in history. it was a very important and validating win for me. i’m generally a pretty composed

person, but when impresario’s name was called out as the Supreme Champion winner, i remember bursting into the ring to join David and impresario in celebration, with my feet literally never touching the ground!”

The very next year at the 2013 Scottsdale show, it was the Polish national Champion Stallion, Pogrom, leased by Jeff Sloan and David Boggs from Janów Podlaski Stud in Poland, winning the Supreme Championship. Over the course of 2013, Pogrom was named Unanimous Scottsdale Champion Four-Year-Old

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David Boggs, Pogrom, Dr. Marek Trela and Jeff Sloan celebrating their Scottsdale Supreme Championship

David Boggs, Midwest Training Centre “Jeff Sloan brings so many exceptional attributes to the Arabian horse industry. I appreciate and respect Jeff for the passionate and astute businessman he has become. His ability to appreciate a great horse, while also bringing competent and qualified newcomers into our breed, is unique and beyond valuable. I believe Jeff’s contributions are essential to the future success of this breed. However, most importantly, Jeff and his family are my great friends. For many years, we have enjoyed amazing successes together including the great Polish stallion and triple crown winner Pogrom.

I hope this continues for many more years and many more winning horses to come. I am excited beyond words about the arrival of the very special mare, RH Triana and I look forward to the journey ahead together with her, Jeff and the Triana Partners in 2015 and to the many other great adventures our futures hold in store for us.”

Stallion, Unanimous grand Champion Senior Stallion and Scottsdale Supreme Champion halter horse.

Pogrom quickly followed those wins with another prestigious title, Arabian Breeders World Cup gold Champion Senior Stallion. The ultimate victory came in Tulsa, Okla., where Pogrom was named 2013 United States national Champion Four-Year-Old

Stallion and Unanimous United States national Champion Senior Stallion.

Jeff was particularly proud to be a part of this campaign because it represented another connection to and achievement with, Dr. Marek Trela and the Polish breeding program. in addition to the three Scottsdale Supreme halter Championships won

by Aria impresario and Pogrom, LD

AHT • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • 19

Pistal, a horse whose campaign was managed by Jeff to his U.S. national Champion Senior Stallion honors in 2006, had recently been purchased by the Roizners, and shortly thereafter, also won the Supreme halter Championship title in 2011, further establishing the unique success of the Aria international program at the highest levels of competition.

Neil Braverman, Honey’s Delight RB, Greg Gallun and Jeff Sloan

ARiA AnD JeFF TODAY Another significant moment in the trajectory of the Aria program came when Jeff ’s brother, Rich, introduced him to a successful businessman, turned gentleman rancher in idaho, named neil Braverman. neil owns one of the most beautiful ranches in the country named Black Rock Ranch on Lake Coeur d’Alene.

Under previous ownership, it was a Quarter horse ranch. When neil acquired it, he wanted a new program and his search for that led him to Jeff. “i met with neil at his home in naples, Fla., in January of 2013, and we took to one other immediately,” Jeff shares. Of course, when neil asked Jeff what he could do to make his beautiful ranch in idaho into a

Neil Braverman, Business Partner “In 2013, I met Jeff Sloan through his brother Rich. I had Quarter Horses at the time. Jeff asked if I knew anything about Arabian horses and quite frankly, the only thing I knew about them was from pictures I had seen. However, Jeff piqued my interest. I said I was interested in only the best, a horse that could win at the highest level. The first horse Jeff introduced me to was FA El Rasheem. Jeff recommended that we purchase him, which we did together as partners.

We went to the Scottsdale show and it was unlike anything I had ever seen. I loved it. Jeff really came through with El Rasheem. He is an extraordinary colt that has achieved worldwide success. Since then, Jeff and I have partnered on other horses including U.S. National Champion Mare Honey’s Delight RB, U.S. National Champion Futurity Filly BH Beijing’s Velvet, U.S. National Champion Yearling Colt Conquest BR, Star of Al Zobair and others. Working with Jeff has been an incredible experience. He is a great partner and he has an unbelievable talent to pick great horses. I believe we’ve achieved an unprecedented level of success in just two years – and we’ve had a heck of a lot fun doing it. I have grown very attached to these beautiful horses.”

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viable horse business, Jeff recommended that he consider converting it to one focused on Arabian horses. neil accepted Jeff ’s recommendation and they forged a formal partnership.

The partnership of neil Braverman and Jeff Sloan has powerfully demonstrated once again, that when people get together to achieve a common goal and pursue it with purpose, vision, and determination, great things can happen. And happen they have. in just two short years, neil and Jeff ’s partnership has acquired an elite group of horses, and they have achieved several major Scottsdale, World Cup and U.S. national Championship wins, including three U.S. national Championships with honey’s Delight RB, Conquest BR, and Bh Beijings Velvet.

One of the more notable horses which neil, Jeff, and Rich acquired, syndicate managed, and success-

FA El Rasheem

fully marketed to Dubai Stud in a ground-breaking transaction, was FA el Rasheem. “At neil’s and my first meet,” Jeff remembers, “in addition to recommending that he pursue an Arabian horse program, i told him he could be successful if he focused on acquiring only the best Arabian horse bloodstock, the cornerstone of which needed to be a stallion or

young colt that could ultimately stand at Black Rock Ranch and be a lightning rod to attract attention of breeders and buyers from around the world.” And so a worldwide search began to quietly find that horse. “i left no stone unturned,” recalls Jeff. “i called everyone i knew that might be able to lead me to that horse. i knew neil was important, not only to me,

Chris Young, Business Partner “Three years ago, my friend, Neil Braverman, introduced me to Jeff Sloan and the Arabian horse – I will say it has been an amazing experience. We have become partners on several horses and we achieved incredible success in Dubai, Scottsdale, the World Cup and the U.S. Nationals. Jeff is always willing to share his knowledge and passion for the Arabian horse. He is a teacher, a mentor, a partner, a friend and a great guy. I can’t wait to see what the future brings.”

Marlene Rieder, Breeder of FA El Rasheem “Working with Jeff Sloan has been a great experience. As a small breeder of international champions, I appreciate the challenges of marketing and campaigning young horses to their full potential; Jeff is exceptional in this area. I want to sincerely thank Jeff for giving FA El Rasheem, the opportunity to compete on the world stage. It’s been an honor for a small breeder like me to see a horse I bred achieve so much. I look forward to working with Jeff again.”

AHT • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • 21

but also to the breed. i knew that neil was a person who could make a big impact on our industry. With his business acumen, contacts, and resources, i knew that he could be a great partner and a great member of the Arabian horse community. in the search for the colt neil and i needed, i received countless leads. i poured through pedigrees, photos and videos of horses sent to me. i personally flew to evaluate several horses that were close, but in my opinion, not good enough.

Then, one evening in late January, i received a call from Steve heathcott. he told me that he had a colt coming in for training at his barn in Scottsdale. By the description, i thought it could be ‘the one.’ in the middle of that night, at around 2:30 a.m., Steve called back. The colt had arrived; a bay son of FA el Shawan, and he told me that he felt i should come see him

Sephora PCF

Al Jazzab

Neil Braverman, BH Beijing’s Velvet, Jeff Sloan and Chris Young

Bob and Judy Burton, Breeder of BH Beijing’s Velvet “We have been small breeders for over 40 years. We met Jeff Sloan a number of years ago and we watched his success with interest ever since.

This past year, Jeff purchased our filly, BH Beijing’s Velvet. We met Jeff again at the Nationals and were able to watch her win the title of U.S. National Champion Futurity Filly. It was an incredible moment – it was 40 years of work and dreams come true. We were so proud and honored to witness her win. We are very grateful to Jeff, the partners, and everyone who worked to bring Beijing’s Velvet to her win.”

‘nOW.’ i questioned Steve in every way possible to get to the finer details that he saw in the colt, and after an exhaustive dialogue which went deep into the night, i felt i should see him immediately. early the next morning, i was on a plane bound for Scottsdale to meet my brother and to evaluate the colt. Steve was right; this was the one. Rich and i phoned neil, and told him that we found the colt and recommended that we acquire him

immediately. neil agreed to purchase half interest, and Rich and i committed to the other half. We had our colt.”

“My partnership with neil Braverman goes way beyond business at this point” shares Jeff, “we’ve grown close personally, and neil is a man i respect and admire very much. i know the best is yet to come for the two of us in business and in life.”

Perhaps most significantly for the breed, neil and Jeff have introduced 22 • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • AHT

the Arabian horse to over 20 new enthusiasts who have joined the two of them in partnership. neil introduced Jeff to Chris Young, a successful real estate businessman in his own right.

Chris has become quite active in the horse ventures, and was there to enjoy greg gallún showing Conquest BR to the titles of 2014 Scottsdale Junior Champion Colt, Breeders World Cup gold Champion Yearling Colt, and U.S. national Champion Yearling

Truest

Art Dekko

Tony Shooshani, Partner “My passion for Arabian horses started through my son Tyler. During our first visit to the Scottsdale show in 2014, Greg Gallun introduced me to Jeff Sloan. I knew immediately I wanted to be in business and partner with Jeff. I wanted to be a part of his philosophy, knowledge and dedication to Arabian horses. Today, my son Tyler and I are proud partners with Jeff in the best of the best: RH Triana, Truest, Enigma and Amir Al Ajman. Jeff’s vision creates value in owning these amazing horses and we are excited to be a part of it.

Colt. Chris was also ringside watching David Boggs when he showed Bh Beijings Velvet to the title of 2014 U.S. national Champion Futurity Filly for the partners. Other horses that neil and Jeff are excited about include the lovely filly Sephora PCF, who will be shown by Andy Sellman, and Al Jazzab, a handsome straight egyptian colt of great promise.

Together, neil and Jeff have already won four major U.S. national titles

in just two years and several major Scottsdale titles as well. They have a major breeding program underway at neil’s ranch in idaho and expect some very exciting foals in 2015 and beyond. Together, they will be the sole source of semen to FA el Rasheem going forward. They will continue to develop their young stallions and likely will acquire others. Jeff sums it up by saying, “The future is bright for me and neil and all of the partners AHT • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • 23

we’ve invited into this business. neil Braverman is a great addition to the Arabian horse community. i’m proud to be his partner, and i am excited about our future together.”

And while an amazing group of horses has already been assembled

by Jeff for himself and his partners, he always remains on the lookout for special acquisition opportunities.

Recent additions include 2010 U.S. national Reserve Champion Stallion

Jeff Sloan, FA El Rasheem and representatives from Dubai Stud in Dubai

Star Of Al Zobair

Art Dekko, who Jeff describes as one of the most beautifully exotic Arabian stallions in the world, and the promising colt, Truest, a threeyear-old son of Trussardi who will make his debut at the 2015 Scottsdale show with greg gallún.

Joining the ranks of world-class mares Jeff Sloan has been proud to own is the great Rh Triana.

Jeff has forged a new and exciting partnership for Triana with Tony Shooshani and newcomers, norm Pappas and Jamie Jacob. These gentlemen now have the honor of owning one of the greatest Arabian mares of our generation.

Of course, owning great horses of such caliber in Jeff ’s program can be bittersweet because along with their success, comes buyers from around the world who are interested in acquiring the superstars for their own programs. This was the case with FA el Rasheem, a horse which the Sloans and neil Braverman had every intention of keeping as a cornerstone breeding stallion. however, even the great ones sometimes have a price and Dubai Stud made the partners an offer—a recordbreaking price in the industry—that was just too good to refuse. This was also the case with Baanderos, LD Pistal, heD Caramba, and others.

One such beauty that Jeff would have loved to keep in the program was the lovely filly, Star of Al Zobair, which Jeff, greg, and neil acquired from world famous Brazilian breeders Vila Dos Pinheiros and imported to the United States.

Just a few months after getting her here, they received an offer for the filly, which was again, too good to

Aria Quintessa

Honey’s Delight RB

turn down, and she was sold to her new owner, Al Shahania Stud in Doha, Qatar.

One might naturally wonder, why Jeff emphasizes show ring success. he explains, “Showing our horses is important for several reasons: First, it is a way to validate the phenotypical quality of the horses we’ve selected and intend to include in our breeding program. Second, success in the show ring does translate to success in the marketplace. And third, it’s a great thrill for new enthusiasts to go to a major show and experience all that goes with that; the anticipation, the nervous moments and the thrill of competition. given the success i’ve had in the show ring, i know firsthand the great joy that winning creates. Today, however, my focus is to give that experi-

ence to the partners we have brought into the business.”

An ARTiST’S eYe it is obvious that Jeff has an eye for selecting uniquely special Arabian horses and the expertise to manage them. however, Jeff is very quick to acknowledge his close and long-standing relationships with the agents and trainers who have led him to many great opportunities, and he credits them accordingly. For example, it was Joao Rodrigues who informed Jeff about a yearling filly named Aria Quintessa, a daughter of Trussardi and out of a Baske Afire daughter, that he felt Jeff should consider. Jeff flew to Scottsdale to see her, and acquired her shortly thereafter, and is very excited to debut her at the 2015 AHT • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • 25

Scottsdale show. it was Terry holmes who phoned Jeff one evening to tell him about a then weanling colt that Jeff might want to consider. And again, Jeff flew to evaluate the colt. Upon acquiring him with partner neil Braverman, the colt was named Conquest BR and has become a big part of neil and Jeff ’s future breeding plans. When Jeff saw photos online of a very special mare in Brazil named honey’s Delight RB, he became intrigued. it was Rodolfo guzzo who assisted Jeff in the acquisition of this great Brazilian beauty. “i am truly grateful to these colleagues and others with whom i’ve had the privilege to work with to acquire some really special horses. People like Bob Boggs, a great friend and horsemen. We’ve worked together on some exceptional horses. ” Jeff says. however, Sloan is also quick to state that most of the horses he considers do not end in a purchase. “i realize the immense responsibility that comes with these purchase decisions, not only to our program but to the breed at large. For new enthusiasts in particular, it is critical for their first experience to be a good one. i have to be very disciplined and very exacting in my ultimate selections. Saying ‘no,’ is one of the most important abilities i have mastered. i say no many more

Shael Dream Desert

times than i say yes when considering a horse. it has to be that way, in spite of the natural human desire to want to say yes.”

When it comes to Jeff ’s consideration of a horse, he points out, “horses at the top win and lose by fractions of points. The subtle details make all the difference. i have trained my eye to look for the subtle details that separate a good horse from a great horse. i know the conformational qualities and the elements of type that are required to win at the highest level of competition today. i also know that for a horse to achieve success at the top, it must possess something extra special that comes from within—a brightness, even an arrogance; and a personality that allows them to adapt to the demands of training and showing, and to be able to do it happily. i take all of this into consideration when i evaluate a horse. Frankly, in my opinion, these intangible qualities make the ultimate difference. in rare cases, when i can’t personally evaluate a horse prior to purchase, i’m fortunate to be able to

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rely on trusted relationships. i also rely on my knowledge of pedigrees, my ability to review photos and video of the horse, as well as a process of pressing the agent or trainer who’s made the recommendation to draw out the details i need to make a decision.”

Jeff points out that the execution of a horse’s campaign can make or break the trajectory of a great horse’s success, both in the show ring and in the marketplace. Following the purchase of a horse, Jeff lays out the strategy starting with the ultimate goals and objectives for that individual horse and its owners.

And while Jeff points out that in the end, this is more art than science, every effort is made to craft a great plan and to execute it with focus and diligence.

From the promotion to the selection of the team behind the horse, every detail is thought through. For example, Jeff explains, “i always give great consideration to matching the right handler with the horse. every horse has strong points and weak points. Whether it’s the standup, or movement, or a million other factors, the horse’s best qualities 26 • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • AHT

must be highlighted in the ring. The key to success is to select the handler who is best able to showcase the horse’s most dynamic qualities.” in addition to the right handler, there are many others on the team who contribute to the promotional campaign. Jeff is privileged to work with the most talented photographers and videographers, without whom, he openly admits, he couldn’t get the job done. Of particular importance to the program is Karen Torres, who oversees and manages all of the minute details on Jeff ’s behalf.

Truly knowing and understanding horses, recognizing people’s strengths, and caring deeply about his partners’ goals, allows Jeff to orchestrate and execute the best possible plan. This is Jeff ’s trifecta for success: great horses, great handlers and great owners. The result has been phenomenal success in show rings throughout the U.S., South America, europe, the Middle east and Australia for horses Jeff owns, or has marketed. given Jeff ’s track record of success, he is frequently asked if he will

Lisa Markley and Jeff Sloan

Jiuliusz de Wiec with partners Bob Pomeroy and Jeff Sloan

assist others in their pursuit of great horses, and he is happy to do so. For example, Dick Freeland of Freeland Farm, a dynamic businessman who had amassed great success as a pre-eminent owner of Pizza hut franchises throughout the country, asked Jeff to find a special stallion for his program.

Once again, Jeff set out on an exhaustive search which led him to the beautiful Shael Dream Desert in Brazil. Jeff loved the foals Shael had sired in Brazil and believed the stallion would produce the type of foals that the world market was seeking. So, working closely with Rodolfo guzzo, Jeff made the recommendation to Dick to acquire this horse. Shael Dream Desert was imported to America and has fulfilled the promise of making significant contributions as a sire.

This acquisition meant a lot to Jeff on a personal level, “Dick was passionate about his horse program, and i am so glad i was able to help him acquire this great stallion.”

While Jeff has demonstrated an ability to pick the right horse and manage the complexities of campaigning that horse, he is quick to point out that you don’t win every time. “in the end,” explains Jeff, “showing is a fickle endeavor. Fortunately, for me, the

Montana Firenze

Lenita Perroy, World Renowned Arabian Horse Breeder “Jeff is amazing! He has the eye for a horse – a special horse that will be a big success.”

Lisa Markley, Lisa Markley Arabians “Over the last 10 years and more, I have had the opportunity to get to know Jeff. During this time, we have developed a great business relationship, as well as a personal

friendship. Jeff’s love for the horses runs deep, whether it’s when he visits his mares at my farm, or conversations on the phone about the foals we have coming, or the new star on the horizon, you can feel his excitement. His passion creates such an excite-

ment and positive energy, it has brought many new people to the wonderful world of Arabian horses.”

Suzanne Acevedo, Partners and owner of Al Malik “Jeff and I have been partners on several horses for the past eight years. Jeff has been a great partner, but most of all, he has been a wonderful friend and support for my

breeding program. Our partnership horses have won several National, Scottsdale and

Las Vegas Championships. Jeff has been instrumental in creating many incredible show

and breeding horses in our industry and also was instrumental in creating the Las Vegas World Cup Show. We truly enjoy our relationship with Jeff.”

Montana Henke, Breeder of Montana Firenze “Meeting Jeff Sloan was a pivotal point in my story with the Arabian horse - his support enabled me to achieve some incredible dreams. Jeff is not only a sharp businessman,

he truly has a passion for the horses and he has the unique ability to ignite that passion in newcomers to our breed. My interactions with Jeff have always been energizing and

inspirational - he shares my youthful enthusiasm for the future of the breed we all love.”

AHT • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • 27

enjoyment of the Arabian horse extends way beyond winning and losing in the show ring. i love the romance of learning about the history and the pedigrees; i value the amazing people that i’ve met and with whom i’ve made lifelong friendships. i appreciate the peace of being on a farm and simply enjoy being in the moment with the horses. i am always excited by the promise of a new foal being born and what the future for that foal may hold, and my life has been enriched in countless ways by the exotic travel and unique experiences that the Arabian horse provides to me, my family and my partners.”

WhY PARTneRShiPS? “Living this lifestyle with my family is one thing,” Jeff says. “The excitement of discovery, the thrill of competing, the close connection with a beautiful, noble creature has been amazing. But providing that experience to someone else and seeing their expressions of incredible joy is a feeling unlike any other i’ve ever known.”

That’s why partnerships are an important part of the Aria program.

Jeff explains that not all newcomers want to be in a partnership, and certainly Jeff is happy to have people own horses of their own instead of, or in addition to, partnership participation. “What i do like about the partnership format,” explains Jeff, “is that it allows people to dip their toe in the water and buy into part of a great horse rather than 100% of a lesser quality horse; and/or it also allows people to leverage the dollars they want to spend across a number

of horses rather than in just one.

And most of all, it creates a feeling of camaraderie. it provides a comfortable point of entry which allows people to ease into the experience, and then, should they desire to do so, graduate to ownership of their own horse or horses. it’s an extremely effective way to introduce new people to Arabian horse ownership.

“Partnerships are not just for new people. From time to time, i’ve selectively formed partnerships with friends and colleagues already in the business, and i’ve had great experiences. Bob and Dixie north and i, formed a partnership in ownership of the Brazilian-bred filly Miss el Power, who went on to become the Brazilian national Champion Junior Filly and was successfully sold. The dynamic young breeder, Montana henke, and i, forged a partnership in ownership of the up-and-coming young stallion Montana Firenze, who was recently successfully sold to the great Rohara program. i also partnered with Mike Wade and Joel Desmarteau to promote a colt named Rough Justice, and he was successfully marketed to Saudi Arabia.” Jeff also was partners with good friends Dan and Suzanne Acevedo in ownership of several horses. Jeff describes each of these experiences as extremely rewarding in every sense. “i recently introduced newcomers, Sante Bologna and Joanne gunabalan, to Arabian horses. neil Braverman and i partnered with Sante in a young filly that finished second at Scottsdale this past year and then went on to be successfully sold. And

28 • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • AHT

Elandra

HED Caramba

San Jose Javiera

Joanne and i partnered on a young filly we acquired from the great Mulawa program in Australia, a striking daughter of Aria impresario named impressa Mi. Shortly after that acquisition, impressa Mi won her class in Scottsdale, and while winning was great for me, it was an over-the-moon experience for Joanne.

The text message i received on the evening following the filly’s win says it all:

Actual text message

The ARiA BReeDing PROgRAM TODAY in addition to Jeff ’s focus on showing, he has also quietly amassed a significant group of breeding horses, and anticipates that he and his partners will have approximately 31 foals this year, some from their own stallions, and other select stallions as well.

Jeff is particularly excited about the resources that have been brought to the program by neil and his team at Black Rock Ranch. The ranch program is managed very capably by Andy Osmundson, whose skill and degree of professionalism Jeff greatly admires. Andy and his team have a full service program at Black Rock, including a full reproduction center second to none.

When it comes to the breeding program, Jeff is very serious about the privilege and the responsibility that he has assumed. With an eye toward the future, Jeff is very conscientious about making the selections of breeding stock and the breeding decisions for that stock. Jeff ’s

Facing page: Iconic mares previously part of the breeding program This page: National Champion Mare, RH Triana, a cornerstone of the future breeding program

AHT • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • 29

national Champion nBW Angels Kiss; Canadian national Champion heD Caramba, U.S. national Reserve Champion San Jose Javiera, national Champion Mare gaishea, Falcons Marbella, daughters of Bey Shahs Lady, and others.

Members of the Arabian Breeders World Cup Board Of Directors: Robert North, Jay Constanti, Larry Jerome, Bob Boggs, James Swaenepoel, Jeff Sloan, Murray Popplewell and Scott Bailey. Not pictured, Kimberly Jarvis

Bob North, North Arabians

Kim Jarvis, C. Jarvis Insurance

“I have had the pleasure of working with Jeff Sloan

“I have known Jeff Sloan and his family for more

Alliance and the Breeders World Cup. Jeff and his

to work with. Jeff’s mother and father are very

and AHBA Board Member

most closely through the Arabian Horse Breeders

brother Rich were instrumental in helping to estab-

lish the organization and the event, as well as raising funds and bringing in sponsors. Jeff continues to

have an active role as Chairman of the Board and I look forward to working with him in the future

to continue to make the annual Arabian Breeders World Cup in Las Vegas the best show ever.”

and AHBA Board Member

than 30 years. He and his entire family are a delight special. It’s obvious that their intelligence, positive energy, charisma, engaging and genuine interest

in others has been passed down to their children.

Jeff’s ability to bring new people into our com-

munity has definitely been a positive influence in

the Arabian horse industry, and I look forward to working together for many years to come.”

Murray Popplewell, Rae-Dawn

Bob Boggs, Midwest Station I

“Working with Jeff Sloan as Chairman of the Breed-

“Jeff Sloan is a great guy. He is highly motivated

ence. Although I am new to this organization, I

within the breed he loves. Jeff is a wonderful am-

Arabians and AHBA Board Member

ers World Cup has been a most positive experi-

have been impressed with Jeff’s ability to focus on a problem and keep the board on task during our

and AHBA Board Member

and he executes and makes great things happen bassador for the Arabian horse.”

meetings while also being respectful of the people involved. He is truly a businessman.”

breeding philosophy is based on his desire to breed a complete horse, rather than focusing on a single trait or a subset of traits and characteristics. Jeff explains, “To me, a well laid back shoulder is just as important as a beautiful face. While a strong adherence to Arabian type is at the top of my list, a true balance between the pursuit of extreme type and sound conformation must be achieved. i believe in this, not just

as a philosophy, but as a fundamental duty i have as a breeder.”

The list of horses Jeff has selected from breeders around the world to be part of the Aria breeding program includes some of the most highly decorated champions in the show ring and some of the most beautiful and desirable show and breeding mares in the world. Among them are BhF Dark Angel, dam of U.S. and Canadian 30 • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • AHT

COnTRiBUTiOnS TO The BReeD AT LARge Jeff has always felt the desire to protect and to contribute to the Arabian breed, even beyond the building of the Aria program. Jeff and his brother, Rich, were instrumental in spearheading the development of the Breeders World Cup Show in Las Vegas, and Jeff still serves as Chairman of the Arabian horse Breeders Alliance, the organization which he cofounded and which hosts the World Cup show. “i’m proud to have done my part to make the show the success that it is today, but it took a team to make it a reality. each year, the Board of Directors and the Show Committee, along with many volunteers, make this show happen. it is a privilege to work with such a dedicated and passionate group of people.”

Jeff also assisted Scott Bailey, who Jeff describes as one of the most dedicated and hardest working ambassadors of the Arabian horse breed, with the development of the new Year’s eve Farm Tours in Scottsdale.

Jeff ’s current focus is to bring back some of the grandeur, class, and sophistication associated with the Arabian horse lifestyle. he shares some of his thoughts, “We exist in a highly competitive world with many attractive alternatives competing to capture the recreational dollars of those who have them to spend.

Therefore, the option of participating in Arabian horses must be a highly

appealing one, and the actual experience must live up to the expectation. i’m dedicated to doing everything i can to achieve this goal. “in particular, i have a strong interest now in focusing on improving and enhancing the grass roots shows. i grew up in the 80’s going to local shows, which had strong participation and offered a lot of family fun and camaraderie. Today that seems to have been lost at the Class A and Regional show level. Of course, there are exceptions and some are doing well. however, we need to broaden the base of successful local shows. These shows are where the future participants, buyers, breeders, leaders and contributors will likely get their first exposure to Arabians, and the importance of supporting and enhancing the breed at this level can’t be overstated. i believe Arabian horses are the perfect family activity, and i look forward to doing my part to help re-energize that segment of our breed.

“Lastly, i have plans to accelerate my program to introduce the Arabian horse to new enthusiasts.”

The SLOAn FAMiLY Over the years, the Sloans have made their Arabian horse interest a family affair. not only have they each participated in the business affairs in various ways, together, they’ve visited breeding farms, traveled to shows, and other major breed events. Jeff ’s parents, Bernie and Deena Sloan, and his wife Andrea, are proud of Jeff ’s achievements, share his vision, and are supportive of his goals. Andrea comments, “Jeff is relentless. he never stops. i am always amazed by his drive and dedication. Most of all though, as i observe Jeff in the pursuit of his passion,

Visel photo

The Sloan family: Bernie and Deena, Tammy Graham, Rich Sloan, Honey’s Delight RB, Jeff and Andrea Sloan with their children; Tyler, Dylan, Ryder and Lyric

what i admire most, is in the midst of all of the action, Jeff is always focused first on the well-being of his horses and the happiness of his clients.”

What’s next for Jeff Sloan and his partners? Surely, it will be something spectacular. They recently purchased one of the all-time great mares of the breed, the incredible Rh Triana. As managing partner, Jeff has the responsibility of charting the course for Triana’s future, and David Boggs will have the honor of presenting her in future competition. Jeff cannot contain his enthusiasm. “Triana is a once-in-a-lifetime mare. She is an icon of Arabian beauty and it’s an honor for us to own her. As her guardians, we are committed to providing every opportunity to ensure that Rh Triana becomes all she is destined to be.”

Most exciting to Jeff is that the ownership of Triana includes newcomers whose first experience in Arabians is this ownership of such a grand mare. Triana will be shown under her new ownership for the first time AHT • A R I A I N TER NAT IONA L • 31

in Las Vegas in April at the Breeders World Cup show. And Jeff is equally excited about bringing the incredible national Champion honey’s Delight back to the show ring as well. She’ll be in Scottsdale this year with greg gallún at the lead, and with neil and Jeff hosting a big group of new enthusiasts there to cheer her on! Jeff describes honey as, “perhaps the most complete Arabian horse i’ve ever been around. She just has it all. She’s big, bold, and yet beautiful as they come. her conformation is exemplary, and she’s about as complete an Arabian horse as one could ever see.”

For over 30 years, Jeff has shared his life with the Arabian horse. “i’ve lived my dream,” says Jeff. “When i look back, i’m not really sure how or why all of this happened, but that’s the magic.

That’s the power of the Arabian horse.

When i look forward, i see unlimited potential and boundless adventure. i can’t wait to get up tomorrow and embrace the possibilities!”~ Fini~

The

Contributing to

Future

of the ARABIAN HORSE

FOALS EXPECTED IN 2015

1. ARIA ImPRESARIO X GEmINIS FANNTACEE BY VERSACE 2. ARIA ImPRESARIO X JIuLIzA E BY JIuLIuSz DE WIEC 3. FA EL RASHEEm X JIuLIzA E BY JIuLIuSz DE WIEC 4. FA EL RASHEEm X JmF LOLITA BY GAzAL AL SHAQAB 5. FA EL RASHEEm X JmF LOLITA BY GAzAL AL SHAQAB 6. ARIA ImPRESARIO X HONEY’S DELIGHT RB BY JJ SENOR mAGNum 7. FA EL RASHEEm X HONEY’S DELIGHT RB BY JJ SENOR mAGNum 8. ARIA ImPRESARIO X JJ ASTOuNDING ECHO BY ASTOuND X POISE N IVY 9. ARIA ImPRESARIO X JJ ASTOuNDING ECHO BY ASTOuND X POISE N IVY 10. AJmAN mONISCIONE X RA EmPRESSA BY mARWAN AL SHAQAB 11. AJmAN mONISCIONE X RA EmPRESSA BY mARWAN AL SHAQAB 12. AJmAN mONISCIONE X RA EmPRESSA BY mARWAN AL SHAQAB 13. FA EL RASHEEm X RA EmPRESSA BY mARWAN AL SHAQAB 14. AJmAN mONISCIONE X RA mARWANS ELYGANCE BY mARWAN AL SHAQAB 15. ART DEkkO X RA mARWANS ELYGANCE BY mARWAN AL SHAQAB 16. ARk DEkkO X mISS mREEkHE GG BY TF PSYmREEkHE

BH Beijings Velvet

Psyches Lady Bey

Miss Mareekhe GG

- cREAtINg cHAmpIONS Of tOmORROw

17. HARIRY AL SHAQAB X mAGNEEkA IA BY mAGNum PSYCHE 18. ARIA ImPRESARIO X GG PADRONA ROSE BY PADRON 19. BAHA AA X uLTImATE HIGH BY uLTImATE STAR 20. PETRuS CAROL X GEORGAH BY PADRON 21. AJmAN mONISCIONE X OFW DARk ANGEL BY RSD DARk VICTORY 22. ART DEkkO X CASSIOPIA BY ODYSSEY SC 23. APOLLO X PROmISES kEPT SF BY SIR FAmES HBV 24. HARIRY AL SHAQAB X ARIA ATYNA BY JJ SENOR mAGNum 25. AJmAN mONISCIONE X RAINBOW STAR 26. AL mALIk X ALLuRE WA BY VERSACE 27. AL mALIk X mIRRELL CAROL BY BESSON CAROL 28. mAGIC mAGNIFIQuE X RH TRIANA 29. ENzO X RH TRIANA 30. QR mARC X SEPHORA PCF 31. mARWAN AL SHAQAB X BH BEIJINGS VELVET

I n tern at Ion a l

Contact: Jeffrey Sloan | Phone 248-766-2903 380 N Old Woodward Ave, Suite 290, Birmingham, mI 48009 E-mail: jeff@ariaarabians.com | Website: www.ariaarabians.com Honey’s Delight RB

NBW Angels Kiss

OFW Dark Angel

Falcons Marbella

RH Triana

Mark Your Calendars!

September 12 - 19, 2015

Visit our website for more details!

www.ArabianReiningBreedersClassic.com 50 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

Joining Forces with the ARBC "The ARBC has given the Arabian Working Western community the chance to run for money like never before, and showcase the breed in the open reining community.

It definitely had a dominant presence at Vegas last year and I know this year will only be better!" —Audrey Hart, Non-Pro, Stillwater, OK

Big Money Opportunities!

$77,000 Added Arabian & Half-Arabian Open & Non Pro Futurity $130,000 Added 4, 5, 6 Year Old Derby $110,000 Added 3 Year Old Futurity $100,000 Added 4 Year Old Stakes $10,000 Added 7 & Up Non Pro Maturity $12,000 Added NRHA/DRHA/ARBC Ancillary Divisions NRHA/ARBC Arabian & Half Arabian Open, NP and Youth High Point Divisions

Enroll Your Stallion Or Foal Now! All Late Enrollment Fees Waived For 2014.

Volume 45, No. 8 | 51

The 2014

—The Pageantry Of Paris

by JEFF WALLACE

Could there be a more wonderful setting for this legendary annual event called the Salon du Cheval than Paris? For decades, to win the gold at the Salon du Cheval earns that horse the undisputed right to claim itself as World Champion, and across the board, Arabian enthusiasts from around the globe seem to agree. And the traditions surrounding the annual event, having adapted to the new venue the last few years—at a location just outside of the heart of Paris—were beyond fantastic. With amazing sight lines from every seat, the setting was intimate enough to get close looks at each entry without leaving your spot. The arena was decorated with a simple elegance, that of a runway from a famed fashion show during Paris Fashion Week, with Haute-blooded Arabians parading one by one. Photographers swarmed in and around arenas and work areas, evoking a paparazzi feel in an ‘everything Arabian’ sort of way. The extremely high quality of the entries as a whole was staggering.

Every entry was beautifully conditioned, turned out, and presented regardless of owner, trainer, or country they represented—they were simply ready to take on the equine catwalk of Paris.

52 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

The atmosphere of camaraderie that embraced the entrants and audience in Paris was unlike anywhere else in the world.

It was as if everyone was somehow on the same team, rooting each other on while still doing their best for themselves. In Paris, breeders came together as comrades and supporters with a like-mindedness anchored in their mutual appreciation and love for the Arabian horse. The elegance of the show ring was reflected in the well-appointed seating areas, and the attentive, anticipatory crowd. Spectators had traveled from all over the world to witness the crowning of a new roster of champions.

The show committee was determined to make everyone feel welcome and appreciated, and they succeeded in reaching that goal. The Arabian horse community is extremely diverse and our industry is flourishing because of it. Steadfastly we have embraced a globalized concept of our industry; working across national boundaries for the benefit of the breed has created a tapestry of breeders and owners around the world. As the ups and downs of reality pulse through our various economies, our diversity protects us because we always have strong markets within our total network. The willingness and ability of owners and breeders to invest in valuable, yet costly bloodstock, has given us one of the most pre-potent and genetically strong populations of Arabians the breed has ever seen.

Distinguished judges for this year’s show were: Dr. Gianmarco Aragno, Italy; Mrs. Sylvie Eberhardt, Germany; Dr. Nasr Marei, Egypt; M. Ann Norden, Sweden; M. Joseph Polo, USA; M. Vico Rocco, Brazil; Mrs. Marianne Tengstedt, Denmark; and M. Marc Veray, France.

The Senior Stallion class was so deep in splendid breeding stallions, it was nearly impossible to rank them. The World Gold Champion Senior Stallion was, Kahil Al Shaqab (Marwan Al Shaqab x OFW Mishaahl). Seemingly more beautiful with every passing year, Kahil Al Shaqab again captivated the crowd with his elegance and classic Arabian type. Not only was Kahil Al Shaqab honored with his Gold Championship, his daughter, Pustynia Kahila, owned and bred by Michalów Stud in Poland, won a World Gold Championship of her own in the Yearling Filly class. He has produced national and international champions who often top the roster no matter where in the world they show up.

World Gold Champion Senior Stallion Kahil Al Shaqab presented by Giacomo Capacci for owner Al Shaqab Stud.

World Arabian Championships 2014 Officials.

Volume 45, No. 8 | 53

Excalibur EA and FA El Rasheem.

It is gratifying to see a sire still capable of bringing home the top prize even after years of breeding service. Giacomo Capacci handled Kahil Al Shaqab perfectly for owner/ breeders Al Shaqab Stud – Member Qatar Foundation, their second World Championship together.

The eyes have it, where World Gold Champion Senior Mare Najdah Al Zobair (Marwan Al Shaqab x JFN Bint Ludhan) is concerned. A beautiful blending of Marwan, *Padron and Ali Jamaal, it is the influence of another ancestor, Gamaar, that gives Najdah Al Zobair her spectacular set of eyes. Gamaar was well known as having the most beautiful eyes in the breed, and he has been extremely consistent in passing that trait on. Tom Schoukens handled the mare for owner/breeder Al Zobair Stud. Najdah Al Zobair is a past World Champion as a young filly. While under the care of Michael Byatt in America, she was named Grand Champion Mare in Scottsdale and World Cup Supreme Gold Champion Mare in Las Vegas. She is the epitome of femininity. Nevertheless, the scoring was very close in the Senior Mare class, with the top two mares tied at the end of voting. The win goes to the mare that scored higher in her individual class, therefore, Najdah. In addition to her show ring honors, she has already produced a top winning bay daughter sired by Eden C. Najdah Al Zobair is a treasure at a very young age, a true gem of the breed.

Tom Schoukens was also the winning handler with World Gold Champion Junior Stallion Excalibur EA (Shanghai EA x Essence of Marwan), owned by Las Rosas Arabians.

Christine Jamar 54 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

Dr. Ghanem and Danielle Mertens with her daughter.

Donna Molta Bella SRA with owner Mr. Bassam of Al Saqran Stud.

Excalibur EA is a beautiful example of traditional Arabian type, with an abundance of elegance, animation and charisma thrown in. He has every element that one would expect in an exemplary Arabian horse: the beautiful head and neck, extreme tail carriage, boundless movement … all set off by his brilliant, gleaming coat. Excalibur EA is carefully managed by a superior team whose very focused approach resulted in an amazing year for this horse, culminating with winning the Triple Crown in Junior Stallions. This exciting young stallion will be delighting Arabian enthusiasts for years to come, in both the arena and the breeding shed alike.

If any horse could claim to have been “the talk of the show” this year, it was Donna Molta Bella SRA (DA Valentino x RD Fabreanna), the 2014 World Gold Champion Junior Mare. Donna Molta Bella SRA came to be, due to the rather whimsical situation of a future embryo being offered at a charity auction benefitting St. Jude’s Childrens Hospital.

The good karma created through that act of kindness is paying off in spades. The winning bidder that day, great breeder/owners Dan and Maureen Grossman, were able to choose any stallion they desired to father the expected foal.

The Grossman’s chose to use their very own stallion, DA Valentino, a most fortuitous selection. Donna Molta Bella SRA is one of the finest offspring DA Valentino has ever produced and is now the prized possession of Al Saqran Stud. Her undefeated record as a yearling and two-year-old speaks for itself. Donna Molta Bella was shown to perfection

by David Boggs in a rare win by an American handler in

Anette Mattsson, David Boggs and Claudia Darius.

Pawel Kozikowski

Paris. Fans were reminded of one of her previous wins, when she took Las Vegas by storm while being named the Gold Supreme Junior Champion Filly there in April this year. No matter what continent she is standing on, Donna Molta Bella SRA is leaving her mark—a mark like no other.

World Gold Champion Yearling Colt Ghazwan Aljassimya (Marwan Al Shaqab x Athina El Jamaal), bred and owned

by Aljassimya Farm showed the prefect combination of two Nazeer sire line branches, those of his sire Marwan Al Shaqab and that of his dam’s sire line through the legendary Ansata Halim Shah. This colt truly represents the term complete via having it all. His future will lend itself to an extraordinary experience. Ghazwan is a perfect example of a breeding program hard at work layering robust stock artfully to combine the qualities the world has to offer.

It is interesting to note that the winner of the World Gold Champion Yearling Filly class, Pustynia Kahila (Kahil Al Shaqab x Pustynna Malwa), is owned by the Polish State Studs. Specifically, Pustynia Kahila is bred, owned, and presented by Stadnina Koni Michalów, one of three State Stud farms run by the Polish government. Polish handler Mariusz Liskiewicz allowed the filly to strut her stuff and showcase herself to her many attributes perfectly, resulting in the gold win. Other than the Polish contingent, all of the top awards went to the Middle East. That outcome is testament to the success that has been achieved when significant knowledge, desire, and resources can be devoted to reaching a goal. With homebred horses now being shown in the global spotlight, farms such as Al Zobair, Athbah, Al Sayed, Aljassimya, Ajman Stud, Al Shaqab – Member Qatar Foundation and Al Nasser, to name just a few, have shown that they not only know how to make astute acquisitions of show and breeding stock, they also know how to breed outstanding Arabian horses who dominate the winner’s circle in nearly every arena in Europe.

Silver Champion Senior Stallion title. He is an incredibly adaptable horse, able to connect with different handlers in different countries, winning championships all over the world. Eden C has earned many of his titles with the talented Greg Gallún of Santa Ynez, Calif. In Paris, he was shown by Glenn Schoukens for Al Sayed Stud.

World Silver Champion Senior Mare Badawieh AA (Laheeb x Bahiha) is one of the most lauded straight Egyptian mares ever born. She has won countless honors for H.H. Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi and his Ajman Stud. This tall, elegant mare is appreciated by people in countries all over the world, for her exquisite type and quality, which she comes by naturally through her dam line to Ansata Nile Mist and her sire, Laheeb.

Laheeb has been a true Ambassador for the breed, having traveled the world as an example of perfect Arabian type which his daughter has taken to an even higher level. The stunning Badawieh AA is the greatest example of a legend born and then a legend made, as her support team through the years of Sh. Ammar, along with Frank and Elisa, have sealed the deal regarding her perfect presentation, time and again.

The image of every young horse lover’s dream, FA El Rasheem (FA El Shawan x Virtuosa MLR) won the World Silver Champion Junior Stallion for Dubai Arabian

Eden C (Enzo x Silken Sable) wowed the crowd, dancing on his hind legs in a perfect imitation of *Padron, who appears prominently on both sides of his stellar pedigree. He also wowed the judges, earning the World Right: Princess Laetitia d’Arenberg and Excalibur EA.

Family member congratulating Princess Laetitia d’Arenberg’s son on their win.

Princess Laetitia d’Arenberg (owner) and Albert Sorocco (breeder), of Excalibur EA.

David Boggs and Mr. Bassam of Al Saqran Stud.

Janice McCrea Wight Volume 45, No. 8 | 55

Horse Stud. With type that is second to none, this young stallion’s exquisite and expressive face is irresistible. FA El Rasheem is already the sire of several young foals that have sold for large sums due to their exceptional beauty.

The blend of Marwan Al Shaqab and Versace that this pedigree represents has produced some very beautiful, typey individuals—Rasheem being the perfect example.

Thought of by many as the favorite to win the class, D-Shahla (Marajj x FT Shaella) earned the notable title of World Silver Champion Junior Mare. She is a daughter of two World Champions, and honors them by being a nearperfect daughter to both. D-Shahla is owned by Dubai Arabian Stud and was shown by Paolo Capecci.

World Silver Champion Yearling Colt Morion (Kahil Al Shaqab x Mesalina) is the most talked about yearling colt to ever come out of Poland, and that is really saying something. Bred and owned by Stadnina Koni Michalów, Morion is reminiscent of the best of the Mitra dam line that former Michalów Director Jaworowski so loved, coupled with the infusion of several crosses to Polish greats *Bask++ and Ellora. Mariusz Liskiewicz handled him

beautifully and this colt is beyond elegant and beautiful, his extreme refinement being complemented by a certain sophisticated, refined, powerful, and magical style. Morion is simply a colt that the entire world is pursuing.

2014 World Silver Champion Yearling Filly AJ Sawari (Marwan Al Shaqab x Siberia SA) is a perfect blend of her bloodlines as well, another example of the magic cross of the enormously successful sire, Marwan Al Shaqab, and Siberia SA, who has proven to be a consistent producer of nothing but extremely elegant offspring of the highest quality. AJ Sawari’s big sister, AJ Sawahi, has also enjoyed victory passes of her own in Paris, having been named World Gold Champion Yearling Filly in 2011 and World Gold Champion Junior Mare in 2012. This cross illustrates one of the qualities that make Marwan Al Shaqab such a dominant sire, with his ability to add his stamp to his offspring while letting the strengths of the dam shine through. With Brazilian roots several generations deep through her dam, AJ Sawari is modern Arabian breeding at its best. Frank Spöenle of Frank Spöenle Show Training presented her beautifully for proud owner/breeder Ajman Stud.

World Bronze Champion Senior Stallion honors went to another glorious, young and promising stallion, Equator (QR Marc x Ekliptyka). Equator is hands down one of the best and most dramatically beautiful stallions bred by the Poles in recent years, and certainly one of their finest sons of QR Marc. Another product of the breeding program at Stadnina Koni Michalów and shown by Mariusz Liskiewicz, Equator is beautifully made, well balanced, and dynamic. He makes a splendid entry, seeming to bounce on air while showing off for the judges and the crowd—a crowd of admirers growing by the thousands every time presented. Equator will have an amazing future in this breed, without question. We will all thoroughly enjoy watching it continue to unfold. Afterall, like *Elkana, *Emandoria, Emigrantka and *El Dorada before him, Equator comes to the arena blessed already with being a member of Michalów’s famous and gorgeous E Line family stemming from the root mare Estokada by Amurath Sahib.

Left: Altis (WH Justice x Albia), presented by Johanna Ullstrom for owners Turban Stud, Ismer Stud and H. Idress.

Ted Carson and Olivia Strauch.

56 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

Marek Trela and Broderick Levens.

Photographers Darryl Larson and Carmin Pinkstaff.

Glenn Jacobs

Kwestura (Monogramm x Kwesta), presented by Frank Spönle for owner Ajman Stud.

Several honorable mentions come in the form of easy gold winners from many other settings and those are: World Bronze Champion Senior Mare Emira (Laheeb x Embra) from the program of Stadnina Koni Michalów, making her the second white swan sired by Laheeb at the very top in the senior mare division.

World Bronze Champion Junior Stallion Kanz Al Nasser (WH Justice x Ftoon Al Shaqab) representing the stud farm of Al Nasser Stud.

World Bronze Champion Junior Mare Esperanzza Al Ventur (FA El Shawan x Honey’s Delight RB) coming from the world-famous program of Athbah Stud, while representing two gorgeous U.S. National Champion parents.

World Bronze Champion Yearling Colt D Mshary (QR Marc x FT Shaella) bred and owned by fabulous breeders, Dubai Arabian Horse Stud; a program that continues to turn out one gorgeous entry after another while developing in the eyes of the world as top breeders, not just owners—very impressive.

continues to make a staggeringly positive mark on the global Arabian horse. Victoria Al Shaqab is a stylish, typey and gracefully long-necked filly that will bring her breeders show ring honors for many years to come.

Sporting events have iconic prizes, revered in and of themselves as beautiful works of art as well as symbols of a prestigious win. For example, the Woodlawn Vase is given each year to the winner of the Preakness Stakes, one of the legs of the American Thoroughbred Triple Crown, and is therefore a cherished piece of art. The towering, intricate, and exquisite vase is widely known as the most valuable trophy in sports.

Part of the allure of the Salon du Cheval is the trappings that are offered to the various winners. For example, at no other show can the Gold Champions walk away with gold saddles donated by His Highness the King of Morocco. Each year, the gorgeous saddles are presented to the winners by the King’s stable manager Dr. Lahsen Fdail. The gifting of these rare and gorgeous saddles is an eagerly anticipated climax to the show year, and they have become symbolic to the winners circle during the Salon du Cheval. As this year’s participants packed up to head back to their respective homes, I am certain that some of them were doing so with the dream of a golden saddle as a goal for the future. Merci, Madame Chazel and team, for yet another year of spectacular pomp and circumstance only witnessed at this level during the annual Salon du Cheval! n

by Henrike Hoermann

World Bronze Champion Yearling Filly Victoria Al Shaqab (Farhoud Al Shaqab x Victoria II HPS) bred and owned

by Al Shaqab - Member Qatar Foundation. Al Shaqab

Baahir El Marwan (Marwan Al Shaqab x HB Bessolea), presented

by David Boggs for owner Al Saqran Stud.

Luciana Fasano

Bart Van Buggenhout

Riyan Holte and George Zbyszewski.

Robin Hopkinson celebrating Ghazwan Al Jassimya’s taking of the title of Gold Champion Yearling Colt.

Lara Ames Volume 45, No. 8 | 57

The 2014

Show Results

World Gold Champion Senior Stallion KAHIL AL SHAQAB (Marwan Al Shaqab x OFW Mishaahl), presented by Giacomo Capacci for owner Al Shaqab Stud.

58 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

World Silver Champion Senior Stallion EDEN C (Enzo x Silken Sable), presented by Glenn Schoukens for owner Al Sayed Stud.

World Bronze Champion Senior Stallion EQUATOR (QR Marc x Ekliptyka), presented by Mariusz Liskiewicz for owner Stadnina Koni Michal贸w.

Volume 45, No. 8 | 59

Above: World Silver Champion Junior Stallion FA EL RASHEEM (FA El Shawan x Virtuosa MLR), presented by Paolo Capecci for owner Dubai Arabian Stud.

Left: World Gold Champion Junior Stallion EXCALIBUR EA (Shanghai EA x Essence of Marwan), presented by Tom Schoukens for owner Las Rosas Arabians.

World Gold Champion Yearling Colt GHAZWAN AL JASSIMYA (Marwan Al Shaqab x Athina El Jamaal), presented by Giacomo Capacci for owner Al Jassimya Farm.

World Silver Champion Yearling Colt MORION (Kahil Al Shaqab x Mesalina), presented by Mariusz Liskiewicz for owner Stadnina Koni Michal贸w.

60 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

World Gold Champion Senior Mare NADJAH AL ZOBAIR (Marwan Al Shaqab x JFN Bint Ludhan), presented by Tom Schoukens for breeder and owner Al Zobair Stud.

Volume 45, No. 8 | 61

World Gold Champion Junior Mare DONNA MOLTA BELLA SRA (DA Valentino x RD Fabreanna), presented by David Boggs for owner Al Saqran Stud.

World Bronze Champion Junior Mare ESPERANZZA AL VENTUR (FA El Shawan x Honey’s Delight RB), presented by Glenn Schoukens for owner Athbah Stud.

62 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

World Silver Champion Junior Mare D-SHAHLA (Kahil Al Shaqab x Mesalina), presented by Paolo Capecci for owner Dubai Arabian Stud.

World Gold Champion Yearling Filly PUSTYNIA KAHILA (Kahil Al Shaqab x Pustyna Malwa), presented by Mariusz Liskiewicz for owner Stadnina Koni Michal贸w.

World Silver Champion Yearling Filly AJ SAWARI (Marwan Al Shaqab x Siberia SA), presented by Frank Sp枚nle for breeder and owner Ajman Stud.

Volume 45, No. 8 | 63

2 DA TRIPOLLI + National xChampion

//

BUCKEYE 2014 CHAMPION COUNTRY DRIVING AOTD

Mike Ferrara Photo

Sire of National Champion OH LIBYA

2014 Canadian National Champion Half Arabian Country Pleasure Jr Horse

nne

a Suz

to

Pho

Jeff Janson Photo

PURE COUNTRY Type...Talent...Temperament

Owned by: Brian McKee McConnelsville, Ohio (740) 962-2081

64 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

Standing at: Siemon Stables New Carlisle, Ohio (937) 849-1487

Sundance Kid V x Pattrice (*Pesniar/*Bask)

Multi-Program Nominated Proudly owned by Laura Koch & Bert Sanders

Standing at Strand’s Arabian Stables Office 319.393.4816 | Mobile 319.360.5997 www.Strandsarabians.com Volume 45, No. 8 | 65

By popular demand, we are proud to present the natural beauty and athleticism of National Champion Zefyr+//.

Be ringside to see him in the liberty class at Scottsdale.

Join us in celebrating this incredible horse!

Watch for class times, stall presentations, and party times during the show!

66 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

In Print • Online • In Touch

A leader in monthly Arabian publications International Show Coverage • Features

Dedicated to the Arabian Horse for over 40 years.

Magazine + FREE Digital Edition

WWW.AHTIMES.COM/SUBSCRIBE 1- 855 -240 - 4637

Volume 45, No. 8 | 67

Presents

The Journey with Cedar Ridge includes not only the written story, but an amazing film proudly posted on www.ahtimes.com, as well. Together they tell the complete story of passion and success with the Arabian horse.

| RAARBI A BI A N HOR SE T I MES 6868 |A A N HOR SE T I MES

Cedar Ridge

by ANNE STRATTON

The Ames family, of Cedar Ridge Farm in Jordan, Minn., began their journey in Arabian horses nearly 50 years ago. For visitors to the farm now, what it was like back then—when Dick and Lollie operated out of a barn in the backyard with their sons for a stable crew—has been lost in the passage of time. Today, the spacious layout could be called a showplace; you have to see it in action to realize that it remains, fundamentally, a working farm, home not only to the family’s Arabians, but also to the even more historic Ames Percherons.

“We had no idea it would get as big as it is today,” Lollie Ames admits (“Not in our wildest dreams,” her husband adds). But beneath the surface, it is as it always has been, just on a larger scale and with more services. From that first small barn has come a comprehensive operation that features a full reproductive facility, a nationallevel training barn, and an instruction program in riding and horsemanship that includes competitive

opportunities. And over it all is an ongoing equine marketing program, as well as a public outreach effort that includes hosting a myriad of tours and events.

Oh, yes, and then there is the reputation that has been honed over the years: they’ve won national awards in nearly every division of the show ring, and their breeding program, which has escalated to encompass the Arabian halter, English and reining divisions, has twice netted them the title of APAHA Breeder of the Year.

Perhaps the miracle is that no matter how beautiful and busy the farm may be, visitors feel at home.

That is because, in real terms, the Ames family has not changed much. “At a horse show, the Cedar Ridge barn aisles are always neatly swept,” says longtime friend Walter Mishek, “and pretty often it’s Dick who is doing it. He’s never lost sight of what’s important in life.”

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The Heart And Soul Of Cedar Ridge: Dick And Lollie Ames Technically speaking, the Percherons, who now represent Ames Construction in publicity, go back the farthest at Cedar Ridge Farm. Dick Ames’ family began breeding them around the turn of the 20th century, and he’s known them all his life. Asked what attraction they hold for him, in light of his commitment to the much lighter Arabians, he responds, “I was raised on a farm, for heaven’s sake! Percherons are a big part of our history because they’re the ones who did the farming before tractors, and I think history is important.” That’s only part of the story; although he leaves the eight-horse rigs to his professional trainers, he loves driving the six-horse teams. As one observer notes, the earth shakes when Dick Ames wheels one of his draft hitches—

Dick and Lollie Ames.

Lara Ames.

70 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

massive, dapple-grey showstoppers—into an arena.

The Arabians came in the late 1960s, when Dick, who showed grade horses in western pleasure as a youth, thumbed through a horse magazine and saw a classified ad for a Half-Arabian palomino gelding.

He purchased Sheracca, a *Serafix grandson, over the phone from Jim Jack Arabians in Fort Wayne, Ind., and put him in training with top Minnesota horseman Bob Powers. “We won everything,” he recalls modestly.

(Mishek, who was around at the time, backs him up.

“Sheracca looked like a purebred,” he says, “like a HalfArabian Saddlebred, but with all the Arabian type in the world—long neck, flat topline, beautiful. He was a champion, caused quite a sensation.”)

Remembering that era now, Lollie Ames confides that she was not too entranced at first. “I was boats and motors and waterskiing and fishing,” she says, “but Dick likes farming. His dad used to laugh, ‘It’s too bad; if she’d taken to the cows as she did to the horses, you would have had a lot of good milk checks.’” She was game, however, and now she looks back fondly on those early days, as they bought their first mares and added breeding to their show activities. “I remember being with Dick one night on foal watch; we were sitting on a bale of hay, and it was so cold—we were covered up with a dirty horse blanket. But we had fun doing it!”

By the time they purchased *Hal Gazal in 1979, she was so immersed in their venture that she did all the

1979 National Top Ten Mare Gai Fawn and David Boggs.

Feramigo with Dick Ames.

breeding—71 mares, she recalls, and it wasn’t AI. But that is getting ahead of the story.

In 1970, the Ames’ went to their first U.S. Nationals, and as Dick tells it, “we were fascinated, and gullible and naïve and we bought into everything.” That is an overstatement, as they soon began attending Lasma sales and even through the nearly 15 years of Scottsdale’s halcyon, high-dollar glamour, they never fell prey to stratospheric prices. They learned and grew, and the friendship with Gene LaCroix that began in those years continues today.

Early on, they acquired a Gainey-bred colt named Feramigo, and when the youngster matured, Dick took him to the show ring, winning consistently in English pleasure and native costume. “I was his personal groom,” Lollie chuckles. “He used to holler at me a lot!

He’d come home from work at night and we’d have the Ford all packed up, ready to go.”

While Dick gravitated to the performance divisions, Lollie especially liked halter and it was there that they scored one of their earliest national titles. It also was

Brass with Lollie Ames.

a milestone for a well known name in the Arabian industry now. In 1973, at Gainey Arabians, Dick had selected a yearling daughter of Gai-Parada as a gift for his wife—a standout filly, everyone recalls, and Lollie loved her. Six years later, she entrusted Gai Fawn to a young trainer they knew locally to show in mare halter.

“She was my first-ever U.S. National Top Ten,” David Boggs remembers, “and the next year, I showed her to Canadian National Top Ten Mare. Dick and Lollie absolutely loved beautiful horses.”

Over the years, there would be more memorable horses, an ongoing parade in the show ring and, significantly, in their breeding program. Among the stallions they stood at Cedar Ridge in the early days, the ones to remember were *Hal Gazal, Feramigo and Taask. In today’s world, probably the best known have been the *Bask son Brass, whose influence—particularly as a broodmare sire— resonates strongly in the breed today, and the Zodiac Matador stallion Matoi, one of the top sires of purebreds and Half-Arabians in the English division.

There also have been plenty of accomplished mares since Gai Fawn, including, among others, Toi Jabaska

Volume 45, No. 8 | 71

and G Kallora. For Lollie, the all-time favorite has been the Brass daughter Ames Mirage, dam of U.S. National Champion Ames Charisma and the exported Sir Marwan CRF, Canadian National Champion and twice U.S. National Reserve Champion. “That mare has just been unbelievable to this farm,” Lollie offers.

“No matter who you breed her to, she keeps putting out winners, even in performance.”

There have been thousands of ribbons over the years, she reflects, but she looks at trophies and awards differently now than when they started. A lot of learning has been involved and a lot of work, but breeding so many has added a dimension that she appreciates more as the years go by: there are so many Cedar Ridge-bred and -raised horses in the ring, and she loves seeing them do well, whether they are showing for her family or for others.

“You know the horses, you know firsthand how much it means,” she says. “At this past nationals, one of our horses was national reserve champion and I was getting a little teary-eyed, and somebody said, ‘You’re actually going to cry.’ I said, ‘Well, those horses out there are like your children, except that when you sell them, they turn into your grandchildren.’”

Ames Mirage and Mike Brennan.

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Cedar Ridge, The Next Step Now, at the opening of 2015, Cedar Ridge Farm is undergoing an important change. The Ames family has long prioritized breeding, but they are taking it a step further. They are spinning off the farm’s training operation and lesson program, which now will operate under the banner of head trainers John and Leah Golladay, with the Ames’ remaining as clients. The object? That the family can concentrate more than ever on breeding and developing young horses to supply the trainers and ultimately the Arabian community.

The Breeding Division The breeding operation has long been the heartbeat, the quiet engine, of Cedar Ridge, as it encompasses far more than just the family’s 30 to 35 mares. Breeding Manager Mike Brennan and his staff also are responsible for the farm’s stallions, as well as the foals, yearlings and 2-year-olds—caring for the mature horses through the different stages of their lives and preparing the younger ones for productive roles when they grow up.

Step one, of course, is breeding. Choosing stallions for the Cedar Ridge mares—the most critical element in those Breeder of the Year awards—is a group effort, usually involving Dick, Lollie, their daughter Lara, John and Leah Golladay, consultant Tom Moore and Brennan. The farm patronizes outside stallions as well as its own, largely because it supports many futurities.

The staff ’s work calendar begins around the first of December, when mares are brought in to prepare for breeding, which begins February 1. They foal out each one that is carrying a baby (“one of us is here 24 hours a day when we know a mare is going to foal,” Brennan notes), and work with the colts and fillies, teaching them basic social skills. Further into the season, they will wean the foals in pairs, teach them to lead, tie and work with the farrier, and also do the first series of vaccinations. When the youngsters have absorbed that opening round of education, they are turned out to grow up for two years, although the team keeps a close eye on them.

Volume 45, No. 8 | 73

The foal care, Brennan says, is as important as the mare care. “Our goal is to make them manageable, where you can be their friend—but without being too friendly, because too friendly sometimes makes them a little harder to train. We want everything to be safe, and have everyone happy and content with what you are asking them to do. We don’t want them scared of things, because life is going to be so much different when they come in for training and start being asked to perform.”

When the youngsters are ready, they head off for training with John and Leah Golladay or, if they are a part of Dick’s reining program, to Brian Welman, in Hastings, Minn., or Crystal McNutt, in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Introducing Golladay Training at Cedar Ridge About 55 horses are in training at Cedar Ridge at any given time, counting everyone from the show string to the youngsters who come in from the mare barn, typically early in their 3-year-old year. There have been

many national-level trainers at the farm in its history; John and Leah Golladay have headed the program for the past five years, and they are the ones who will take it forward as their own operation. “This is an unbelievable opportunity,” John says. “We want to carry on the Cedar Ridge values and everything they’ve set up for us. I think over the next few years you’re going to see some really cool stuff.”

Despite all of the accolades earned by Cedar Ridge horses—and there have been plenty, for horses purchased from the farm and those owned by the Ames family as well—perhaps the most important aspect of the training operation is not just that the horses learn their jobs, but that, as Mike Brennan cited, their relationship with humans has been considered from their earliest days.

The Golladays endorse that perspective. “I like to be pretty hands on, because the foundation for a horse is something they remember for the rest of their lives,” says John. “It’s important that it is done right. Horses

Brass Star with John Golladay and Starr Llight with Leah Golladay.

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Dick Ames, Tom and Elizabeth Moore and Lollie Ames.

Toi Supreme CRF with Lara Ames.

remember everything. You’re always teaching them to do something when you’re interacting with them; whether it’s good or bad, they’re learning, especially Arabians, because they’re so aware and sensitive. It can be a really easy and pretty fun process when the right channels are taken.”

The result is that the Cedar Ridge horses, whatever their abilities and talents, will have jobs in the industry, an expectation that makes the farm a resource for horses on many levels and most divisions of competition. “If an individual’s potential is that it can become a national champion or reserve or top ten, then obviously we want to be a part of that,” Golladay says. “But I think when you take the prize out of it, and your goal is just to fulfill that horse’s potential as a great country horse or English horse—and you make sure there is a balance there, so that they can understand what you are asking of them and not get frustrated—then these horses set their own guidelines and potential. They tell us what they are capable of doing.

“When people push past that,” he adds, “that’s when they get into behavioral issues and confusion and soundness issues.”

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That approach has paid off. At this year’s 2014 U.S. Nationals, under the Golladays’ direction alone, several Cedar Ridge-bred and trained horses brought home titles. Toi Supreme CRF was a U.S. National Champion, while Ames Inspiration, Noble Supreme CRF and Ames Celebration all were reserve. And Toi Fabulous and Noble Bey CRF nailed top tens.

The Ames Reining Program Along with the English and halter horses that have distinguished Cedar Ridge since its inception, the farm has become known for its reining division, particularly

Gone N Dunit RA and Brian Welman.

in the past decade. From its annual foal crops, it sends a selection of young prospects off for training, and ultimately, many are sold to top reining barns around the country.

Over the past decade and a half, Dick Ames has been a key player in the unprecedented growth of reining in the United States. In the history of the Scottsdale futurities—the Half-Arabian competition began in 2005 and the purebred the following year—Ames horses have twice won both in one year (in 2008, Fyre In The Skye in purebred and TR Texas T in Half-Arabian, both trained and shown by Brian Welman; in 2013, the Ames-bred Take A Spin in purebred for owner Amara Spizzirri, and in Half-Arabian, Gone N Dunit RA, with Welman up, for Ames). And to augment the 2008 performance, Dick rode Minding Ps and Qs, a full sister to Fyre In The Skye—and winner of the purebred futurity and the Canadian National Championship the year before—to the title in the Primetime Non Pro Derby. The difference in the two occasions highlights the evolution of the Ames program: in 2008, both winners were owned by Ames but purchased from other breeders; in 2013, both winners were bred by Ames, but one had been sold to another owner.

Dick Ames with TA Mozart (left) and Minding Ps And Qs.

76 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

The program scored again in 2014, when All Maxed Out RA, with Crystal McNutt up, won the purebred futurity for owner Cotton McNutt. Crystal also rode Dunit On Fyre RA to the 2014 Scottsdale Reining Junior Horse Championship for Vallejo III. And there have been plenty of other success stories— national-level contenders Dun With Style RA and Ben There Dunthat RA, Scottsdale Futurity Top Ten Dunit My Way RA, and Dunminding Ps and Qs, who was reserve in the futurity this year with Welman, are among many on the list.

Asked to explain why so many Ames-bred reiners emerging into competition come equipped with real ability, both Welman and McNutt cite the use of horses with demonstrated success in the sport as breeding stock. Many of the champions today are from Minding Ps and Qs, Fyre In The Skye, and U.S. National Top Ten Reining mare Marliera, crossed with top-level, award-winning stallions.

The farm now stands U.S. National Champion TA Mozart at stud, and patronizes other proven Arabian and Quarter Horse sires as well.

Both Brian Welman and Crystal McNutt also value Dick’s perspective. “He is really good to ride and train for,” McNutt says. “He’s realistic in what he expects; he gives you plenty of time, and if you take a little longer with a horse, he’s okay with that as long as you’re honest with him.” The result has been reiners who last a long time, successfully, in their careers.

“I think Minding Ps and Qs has probably been my favorite,” Brian Welman says. It wasn’t just that she was such a talented mare with so much stamina (at some shows, with Welman showing her open and Ames amateur, the mare competed through six classes). It was also that she has proven so impressive as a broodmare.

He has enjoyed seeing the Ames breeding program evolve and mature. More recently, he has liked Gone N Dun It RA, the winner of the 2013 Scottsdale HalfArabian Reining Futurity, who was bred and raised at the farm. He has seen the program come full circle, and the perimeter of its reach continues to expand.

Integral To The Process: Sales For many Cedar Ridge horses, the careful preparation in breeding and training is designed to lead out into the industry under other ownership. “The Ames’ are all about bringing new people into the Arabian breed,” says Gene LaCroix. “If I were looking for an English performance, halter or reining horse, that’s one place I’d have at the top of the list. The integrity of the people is that they’ll tell you if they have something available.”

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Amateur rider Katie Harvey has purchased two HalfArabians, Toi Sensation CRF (English pleasure) and Smoking Gun (reining), from Cedar Ridge, and says she will return to buy in the future. “When I go to a farm, I don’t just look at the horses I’m interested in,” she says. “I look at the entire barn and the horses in their stalls. Is this an operation that is run well and focused on the care of the horses? That’s what I saw when I was there: all those horses are happy and they do their jobs. And I didn’t just look at polished horses—I looked at 3-year-olds, the horses in long lines, and older horses. I think there is a consistency in quality of care in all their horses. And when I’ve gone to Cedar Ridge to try horses, they’re all well-trained.”

At the 2014 U.S. Nationals, Harvey rode Toi Sensation to the U.S. National Reserve Championship in the Half-Arabian English Muturity. “She loves her job, she never puts an ear back, she’s as great on the ground as she is when you’re on her back. That’s great bloodlines, but it’s also training and care and handling. And Smoking Gun is the same way.”

The story is similar in the reining division. “I train for them, but I’ve also bought probably 10 or 12 horses from them,” Crystal McNutt says. “The quality is very good, because they’re breeding specifically for reining.”

At this point, she is into the second generation of hands-on familiarity with some of the lines, and smiles

that some of her frequent winners now (All Maxed Out RA, Gone N Done It RA and Custom Gale) are purchases from Cedar Ridge.

Nurturing Humans For The Horses: The Lesson Program “My family is all about youth,” Lara Ames says.

That was the basis for their starting the riding lesson program at Cedar Ridge more than 20 years ago, although it long ago expanded to include adults as well. The program now, which is run by Stephanie Davisson, offers about 70 half-hour lessons a week for students age 7 and up, all conducted on Arabian horses.

Roughly 10 horses are used for instruction, representing different levels of ability.

“Our goal is to bring new people into the Arabian industry,” says Davisson. A graduate of the University of Kentucky in Equine Science, she worked at the world-famous Hagyard Equine Medical Institute and assisted in training barns before coming to Cedar Ridge three years ago. “We teach them about how special Arabians are and how to care for them.

Basically, what I tell them is that if you want to ride, you have to take care of your horse. The lesson kids and I are the only ones who take care of the horses, and if they don’t want to do that, they don’t get the opportunity to ride.”

Lesson Program Manager Stephanie Davisson instructing client.

78 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

Dick with great-granddaughter, Hadley Ames.

Two fun shows a year at the farm provide an easy entry to competition for the new riders, and if they like it, they can move on to the three or four academy shows the farm attends. After that, there are class A shows for more competition, and Cedar Ridge has horses available for sale or lease (the farm provides the horse and the services, while the lessee pays the expenses).

“I like watching the kids learn, and learn to love the Arabians,” Davisson reflects. “I’ve been riding Arabians since I was 4, so I know what their attraction is to it. It’s fun to learn and grow—and then one day they say, ‘Hey, Mom! I want a horse!’ That’s the best part because they know the work that goes into it and they still want it.”

Now, as Golladay Training debuts in the Arabian community, the lesson program will be part of the new operation. “I’m excited to see where it will take us,” Davisson says. The principles and the standards remain the same. It is simply a new generation carrying the message forward.

The Cedar Ridge Experience Inevitably, some of the lesson riders respond to the challenge of showing, want to move up the ladder, and decide to buy a horse. Janice Morton’s daughter, Laura, who began riding at Cedar Ridge at age 11 and just finished her last year in youth competition, is one.

She now rides with John and Leah Beth Golladay and shows Toi Slamtastic CRF. “Slammy probably has had 14 or 15 national championships since we’ve owned him,” says Morton.

“We bought him as an investment and his first shows were futurities, showing with trainers, but then when Laura was old enough, she rode him. She was 13 or 14 when she started showing him at Youth, and that year she won two unanimous national championships. That has a lot to say for the breeding program as well as the lesson program at Cedar Ridge.”

These days, Laura is not the only family member riding at the farm. “Now I take lessons,” Morton smiles.

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“We own six horses and I love them all, but Slammy’s special—he’s one of the great ones, one that people say comes around once in a lifetime.”

Cedar Ridge, she adds, has been about more than just horses. “The amateur and youth riders there are like family,” she says, “and I think the mentoring that Laura has had from older people, from being around the adults, has been important. Everybody’s equal there; it doesn’t matter if you’re young or old, you’re part of this horse family. She’s very poised and gracious, and I think that has a lot to do with it. She’s grown up there.

Toi Slamtastic and Laura Morton.

“One thing we learned at Cedar Ridge that I think is a huge part of everyone’s life is that you win with grace and dignity and you lose with grace and dignity, and you support everybody. If we’re up till midnight watching somebody do the last class and somebody else is in the first class at 8, you’re there. We learned that from Dick Ames—when some of the kids from the lesson program are at a show, if those little kids have a not-so-good ride, he’s there saying, ‘You just did a great job.’”

She recalls a moment at the barn, when one of the riding students was grazing a horse. Dick, looking on, observed, “Isn’t that beautiful? That’s what it’s all about.”

Dick, Lara and Lollie Ames with their Percherons.

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“She was just having moments with her horse, loving on him,” Morton says. “This is not just about the 30 minutes in the ring. It’s about the journey and everything that goes along with it. The people who

are attracted to Cedar Ridge are people who love their horses. The ribbon you win is a bonus; the relationship you have with the horse is what it is all about.”

The Takeaway What makes Cedar Ridge special, it becomes clear, is the level of caring apparent in the people there, and their sense of responsibility not just for the farm but for the breed. It is most apparent in their program, but it reaches beyond the white fences at the edge of the property. The Ames’ equine “civic commitments” are well known, as they have supported nearly every program designed to strengthen the industry in all the years of their participation. Two examples of their involvement would include the Minnesota Arabian Horse Breeders Futurity (Dick was a founder, and he’s been on the bandwagon ever since) and the Youth Nationals (Lollie was one of its earliest supporters and still serves on its show commission). Today, Dick is best known for putting his horses and his money behind reining, where he has founded and funded futurities.

“You can’t just take, take, take,” Lollie says bluntly.

“You have to give back too.”

But it may be argued that it is the personal touch which tells the story best. No one, for example, can get around Dick’s larger than life personality, and his love for Arabians is magnetic. Cedar Ridge is not just a business; it is an affair of the heart. Tales are still told about how, years ago, he decided to take a young stallion named Brass out for a spin with the jog cart.

At the time, Brass was about as strong-willed as his owner and it was a spectacular—if hair-raising—trot down a long lane that wound up landing them both in a ditch, neither one having given an inch. But Dick loved the bay son of *Bask with a ferocity that shows in his voice today, as it does with Lollie and Mike Brennan too. Seven years after Brass’ death at the age of 28, if you ask about him, their voices slow and soften when they answer.

And then Brennan will clear his throat and tell you about how Brass, in his old age, would charm visiting senior citizens, newly off a tour bus, by dropping his head over their shoulders for pictures. And how as the

HORSEFLY FILMS

Lara, Lollie and Dick Ames.

stallion neared the end of his life, the barn staff would take turns walking him for exercise at the noon hour, invariably handing over their lunchtime apples to the demanding old rascal.

It is feelings like that that enable Brennan to shrug off the added duty of conducting those tours. It’s just promoting the breed, he says, and he likes telling visitors about the horses and the breeding program, and seeing the delighted faces on some of the guests in wheelchairs when the barn cats hop into their laps. It’s horses and people, a magic combination. Everyone is important, and besides, he quotes the boss, you never know where your next customer is coming from.

Cedar Ridge: The Future The surest guarantee of Cedar Ridge’s future is that it is a family operation. Dick and Lollie’s daughter, Lara, is responsible for the farm (in addition to her duties as publisher of Arabian Horse Times, a completely separate business); Breeding Manager Mike Brennan is a nephew (the son of Dick’s youngest sister); and Cedar Ridge amateur rider Laurie Husband is Lara’s cousin. And the Ames sons, who long ago groomed and cleaned stalls, have offered grandchildren who are taking to the saddle, and now even a great-grandchild is starting to ride.

Volume 45, No. 8 | 81

threatens her voice. “I don’t know why I’m crying! I love all of this—I’m so proud of being a part of it, and of this breed.”

She pauses and then continues, “I want to say that in the future, Cedar Ridge will still be breeding good horses—Lara will carry it on, and we have some grandchildren coming up that like the horses.”

And she and Dick, who seem timeless? She’s back on her game. “You’re only as old as what you feel, and I don’t feel my age. You’ve got to think young and keep going; you can’t just sit down and do nothing.” She isn’t kidding. The days in her week trip over each other, they’re so full of agenda items, everything from horse shows to fundraisers for fighting children’s cancer to welcoming new horses. It doesn’t stop.

“We want to continue to provide a place that people can come and enjoy their horses and the environment,” she adds. “We love to have people come and visit, and we love our horses.” ■

“This is something we’ve always done as a family,” Lara says. “Basically, we just love horses—that’s my entire life.”

They all appreciate the opportunity to turn over responsibility for the training barn and lesson program to John and Leah Golladay and Stephanie Davisson.

“That will enable us to focus more on our breeding program,” Lara Ames says.

Bottom line, that is their first love. It is where everything begins. “It’s very satisfying when they announce a horse’s breeder or where it came from, whether or not we own it,” Dick says. “I maybe get more satisfaction from that than winning a blue ribbon.”

“I’m really proud to be a part of the Arabian breed,” Lollie observes. “I have my office here in the mare barn, and sometimes I just sit here and look around at all the ribbons and trophies from over the years.” A choke

82 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

“They’ve contributed so much. They continue to be diversified; they breed halter and do performance, and they stayed loyal to the breed when economics might have dictated they do something else. They’re not afraid to try things (for many years, they even tried to keep the auction sale going, and it was certainly not for personal benefit—it was Dick Ames and Gene LaCroix. for the industry).

It’s the working together of the people and the pride in what they do and the work ethic that makes them special.”—Gene LaCroix

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2018 u.s. national champion stallion

stival x aria jamina - pictured at three months of age Volume 45, No. 8 | 87

FACES & PLACES A

NNE WHITAKER AND JT KELLER

were married at the Four Seasons Dallas at Las Colinas on November 8, 2014. Anne hoped the day would epitomize casual elegance—a feel that shines through these lovely photos taken by April Visel.

The wedding guests had a wonderful time while the tasteful and beautiful day reflected Anne and JT perfectly.

Photos by April Visel ➔➔ For latest news and events visit www.ahtimes.com

88 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

FACES & PLACES

K

ELLIE WENDLING AND DALTON BUDD

were married on December 12, 2014, at the beautiful Paradisus Palma Real in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Escaping the Indiana winter and enjoying time with close friends and family in this picturesque beach setting made for an intimate and distinctive entrance into matrimony.

Photos by Tropic-One Photography ➔➔ For latest news and events visit www.ahtimes.com

Volume 45, No. 8 | 89

FACES & PLACES 8t h A n nu a l A r a bHor s e Fa r m Tou r

H

eld December 31-January 4, 2015, the 8th Annual ArabHorse Farm Tour in Scottsdale, Ariz., is the place for one to immerse themselves amongst

prestigious farms, their Arabian horses and all that it entails. Free to the public, there is no better place on earth to experience and meet world-renowned

Arabians and their caretakers. Unable to attend? Here is what you missed …

4.

1.2.

1.

5.

3.

(1) Sandspur Ranch‒ was full of excitement and applause. (2) Ames New Year’s Eve Fundraising Event‒ was not only a warm and festive evening, but a touching few hours in support of Phoenix Children’s Hospital & Cancer Unit. (3) Stonewall Farm‒ trotted out a plethora of beauties for an eager crowd. ((4) Silver Spurs Equine‒ showcased their multi-National Champion Reining Stallion, What It Takes.

(5) Rae-Dawn Arabians‒ depth of quality and commitment was apparent to the smiling onlookers. (6) Gemini Acres Equine‒ showcased generations of beautiful champions.

90 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

6.

FACES & PLACES

7.

11.

8.

12.

14.

13.

9.

10.

15.

(7) McDonald Arabians‒ was sun drenched and beyond enjoyable, coupled with a parade of exquisite Arabian horses.

(8) Arabians International‒ boasted a big crowd and an ongoing show of beautiful Arabian horses. (9) Laurie Martin Performance Horses‒ had a student address a very attentive crowd, gathering performance horses from almost every division!

(10) Culbreth Equine Training and Management‒ wowed the crowd as they brought out high quality stock. (11) Midwest Training Centre‒ was quite dazzling with an overhead drone filming the crowd of enthusiasts and one legendary Arabian after another. (12) Regency Cove‒ showcased the beauty and refinement of head sire Apalo to a wildly appreciative crowd.

(13) Rodrigues Training Center‒ a name synonymous with championship quality Arabians, did not disappoint an excited crowd. (14) Arabian Expressions‒ A very special moment and smiling expression captured. (15) Royal Arabians‒ The royalty was a unique and elegant site for all to see! >> For latest news and events visit www.ahtimes.com

Volume 45, No. 8 | 91

AmAteur Spotlight …

LINDSAY O’REILLY FRENCH What are the similarities between yourself and your horse? James Brown definitely likes things his way, and I hate to admit I’m a lot like that! He’s very loyal to me. He really puts forth a lot of work and effort, but likes goofing off sometimes too, he is a kid at heart. He likes his job ... and I’m lucky to like mine too!

What is your very first memory with the Arabian horse?

When I was 7, I got horseback lessons for my birthday.

Soon after we were trail riding through pasture after pasture bareback with only a halter and a lead rope. Arabians love so deeply, they’d never hurt you, and they spook from everything (which makes the trail rides that much more fun).

What makes you happiest? Being with my family: my husband Justin, our son, Reilly (15), and daughter, Landree (4), my parents, siblings and in-laws all live close, luckily. A close second would be riding a horse.

If you could show one horse from the past, who would you show and why? Countess Vanessa. The epitome of a show horse! I remember everyone waving the blue flags around the arena in Louisville, the energy at that moment, and the victory lap. I kept my flag for quite a while!

What do you most value in your friends? Your horses?

Natural caring spirit. Loyalty. They try their best for you; anything you ask. Horses don’t judge you.

Which living person do you most admire? My dad, David O’Reilly. I admire his work ethic, fatherly advice, giving heart, fun grandpa spirit, and love of our family.

What is your motto? Become the change we want to see in the world. AND … the Golden Rule: treat others the way you want to be treated.

If you could be anyone for one day, who would it be and why? My little girl, Landree. She literally skips through life everywhere she goes. To see the world through 4-year-old eyes again would be so refreshing and exciting. Her heart is so caring and nurturing. My son Reilly is in high school and that’d be a close second because I loved freshman year of high school—new adventures, new friends, and more freedom.

What is your most treasured memory with the Arabian horse? I’ve got two ... the first is close to Christmas, walking in the barn isle and seeing Libby Ferguson standing by a stall door, and as she turned to look at me there was a big red bow on the stall. That’s the night I got my first show horse, Silver Caisson, when I was 9. My second most treasured memory was winning equitation at Youth in 1996, because Libby and I had put in so many hours towards that goal.

92 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

If you could have one super power, what would it be and why? To read minds. It would come in handy in so many situations ... my horse, my husband and kids, in business ...

What is the most memorable piece of show ring advice you’ve ever received? With no disrespect to the judges ...

“It all comes down to just three people’s opinions in the show ring.” So it has to be for a reason more than winning, such as a love to ride, love to show, and love of the people in the industry.

What would be your ultimate dream job? I always thought I’d grow up and work in our family’s business with my dad.

That’s what I went to college for. I’ve gotta’ say though, I’m doing my dream job now: being a mom and owning/ teaching at Dynamic Body. Helping clients live healthier every day and allowing them to move pain free through Pilates, Gyrotonic and Yoga is truly rewarding. I love it!

What do you love most about showing Arabian horses?

I love the show ring. The energy, the excitement, how your horse knows it’s time and kicks it up a notch, and the cheering from supporters and friends. I love all my friends I’ve met through horses ... They are true, good people with friendships that last a lifetime.

Who has had the biggest influence in your involvement with Arabians? My mom was my biggest fan growing up.

She was the best horseshow mom. While my mom is still at shows today, my husband, Justin, has definitely stepped up encouraging and supporting me with horses.

What piece of advice would you give to the 10-year-old version of yourself? Do what you love. Enjoy it all. Trail ride in the fields, ride late at night, make friends, and have fun.

What have you learned from riding and showing that has helped you in other areas of your life? Jason Krohn has taught me recently to let the horse do their job, without hindering their spirit/love of showing. That definitely crosses over to life in that you can’t make people do what they don’t want to do.

Special thanks and appreciation to: Libby Ferguson for teaching me how to ride and show. Shan and Chris Wilson for years of training my horses. Jason Krohn, and all of the Oak Haven team: Matt Krohn, Lauren Grabski, Cassie Banks, and Blake and Genna, for accepting me into their family this year with open arms and teaching me even more about horses after almost 30 years of riding.

Last but not least, to my parents for kick starting my passion at 7 years old. n Volume 45, No. 8 | 93

Where there is love,

Magalad February 2, 1989

94 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

November 23, 2014

there is life ‌

+//

F

or 25 years, Magalad was the love of our lives.

That was also true for all those who knew Magalad, admired him, trained him, cared for him and had his heart touch their lives. Magalad took us on a journey that one could only dream of, but he made it come true.

His 18 National Championships were a testimony to his greatness as a show horse, but his heart was the testimony that created love, passion, dedication, respect and affection for all. Many horses are a part of our lives, but only the great ones leave hoof-prints in our hearts.

Magalad, you will be in our hearts and the hearts of many, forever. —Jack and Janet Roberts

Volume 45, No. 8 | 95

Leaders Of The Times: January Calendar Feature

An American Stallion In Poland

by Kara Larson

Vitorio TO (DA Valentino x Sol Natique).

Vitorio TO (DA Valentino x Sol Natique), owned by Janey Morse of Oak Ridge Arabians and bred by Ed and Maureen Horton of Thirteen Oaks Arabians, stood at the Michałów State Stud in Poland during the 2014 breeding season. During this time, the multi-National Champion stallion bred International Champion mares such as *El Dorada, *Emandoria, and the gorgeous and glorious *Wieza Mocy, who is currently on lease to Oak 96 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

Ridge Arabians and was campaigned by David Boggs to a U.S. National Championship and other top honors this year. The 2015 Vitorio foal crop in Michałów alone, will be around 35 foals and there should be several future legendary show and breeding horses to represent their efforts a few years down the road. Through his success in this global marketplace, Vitorio has proven himself a successful international sire, validated by the greatest

foals showed consistent upright, well-set necks, large eyes, and an abundance of type. This initial success prompted Jerzy Białobok, Director of the Michałów Stud, to inquire about bringing the stallion to Poland for a more concentrated siring effort. And so it began. Vitorio would bring the hugely successful sire line of Mirage to the State Studs of Poland, for the very first time.

His rare journey to Poland signifies a historic moment for the Arabian horse. Vitorio is out of the Solstice daughter Sol Natique who carries two lines to the great Polish breeding stallion Negatiw through sons *Salon and *Naborr. Oak Ridge Arabians and Midwest Arabians are extremely excited about this new partnership and the future of Vitorio TO as a sire, and have incredible faith that Vitorio can follow in the steps of the previous “visiting greats” used in Poland: Palas, Monogramm, Laheeb and Gazal Al Shaqab.

breeders around the world. He has built credential, and though he is a young stallion, his reach is already being felt in the Arabian world.

With the success of the 2014 inaugural breeding season behind him, Vitorio will remain in Poland for 2015. For any American stallion, this is a rarity and an honor. This marks the first time a U.S.-bred and owned stallion will stand in Michałów since Monogramm. This fact has inspired Janey and trainer David Boggs to be incredibly grateful and honored for the promise of Vitorio that is certain to come—–and on a global silver platter, as well.

Vitorio’s achievements extend beyond his breeding endeavors overseas. It is important to note that by the age of four, Vitorio garnered more prestigious awards than most could hope for in a lifetime at the end of a David Boggs lead. Taking home five national championships from the United States, Canadian, and Brazilian National Championship competitions, Vitorio certainly proved his show ring prowess. And this translated into the breeding realm as multiple U.S. National Champion Vitorio’s first

In 2013, Vitorio offspring garnered 46 elite titles. From Scottsdale, Las Vegas World Cup, U.S. Nationals, Regionals, Iowa Gold Star, and more, big winners included horses like AJ Manayer, The Big Bopper ORA, The Godfather ORA, Chantilly Lace ORA, and Victoria Principal M, just to name a few. Greatness continued in 2014 through brilliant performances

by Vitorio TO get. Big winners from the 2014 U.S. Nationals include: Remember The Nyte RMA, who took home a national championship in the Half-Arabian Yearling Colts/Geldings; The Big Bopper ORA, national champion Half-Arabian Two-Year-Old Gelding and supreme national champion Half-Arabian Junior Gelding; The Godfather ORA, who garnered a national championship in the Half-Arabian Three-Year-Old Geldings and two reserve championships in the HalfArabian Junior and Futurity Geldings; Lady Vitorio ORA and MC Vitoria, both top ten Yearling Fillies; and *Vitorino DC, a top ten Yearling Colt.

Through these exceptional examples of the modern halter show horse, Vitorio aims to reproduce himself. And now, as he extends his presence in Poland and throughout the world through a new adventure in breeding, marketing, and showing, the future unfolds with blissful and expectant possibilities for the legacy Vitorio will someday leave behind. n Volume 45, No. 8 | 97

ArABiAn horSE tiMES rEADErS’ ChoiCE AwArD noMinEE for hUntEr horSE of thE yEAr thE ELEGAnCE & GrACE BrED to wEAr roSES ...

+/ Sundance Kid V x SDA Lady Jabask++/

4x National Champion

2014 U.S. & CAnADiAn nAtionAL ChAMPion hUntEr PLEASUrE oPEn with MArJiE BECKEr 2013 CAnADiAn nAtionAL ChAMPion hUntEr PLEASUrE wALK/trot 10 & UnDEr 2011 CAnADiAn nAtionAL ChAMPion hUntEr PLEASUrE JUnior horSE

See her in with Marjie Becker Brett & Marjie Becker 13227 Elster Place, Grass Valley, CA 95949 | 530.477.5588 | info@beckerstables.com | www.BeckerStables.com 98 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

Desperado V x Sweet Shalimar V by Ali Jamaal

Zefyr+//

May Dancer V

Melodie V

Sunsational Kid

Volume 45, No. 8 | 99

Palmetto Palmetto Arabians Arabians And And The The Sundance Sundance Kid V Kid Phenomenon V Phenomenon

by ANNE STRATTON It was one of the most memorable scenes at the 2014 U.S. Nationals: the victory pass in the western pleasure championship, when the black stallions Zefyr and Onyx A, champion and reserve champion, jogged out of the ring together—in harmony, at ease and moving fluidly, like charcoal shadows of each other. Or more accurately, like shadows of their sire, the remarkable Sundance Kid V. Not all of the sons and daughters of Sundance Kid V are movie star black, and not all go one-two for a major trophy at the national level— but a high percentage of them, regardless of color, are very successful at what they do. At last year’s U.S. Nationals, the stallion practically wrote the book in western competition alone, siring not only Zefyr and Onyx A, but two others in the top ten, which translates to nearly half of the class. Then there was the U.S. National Champion in Hunter Pleasure, and the champions in Hunter Pleasure Select, the Western Pleasure Maturity and English Trail AAOTR. Not to mention, a long list of top tens.

By the time the awards were tabulated and leading sires at the 2014 U.S. and Canadian Nationals were ranked by Arabian Horse Times, Sundance Kid V had scored in three significant categories for performance sires.

For purebreds, he was reserve by number of points and third in number of winners; in both purebreds and Half-Arabians, he was third in number of winners; and for Half-Arabians, he was sixth in number of winners.

“Is he going to start a dynasty here?” inquired one observer. “Do you think he could become the next ‘dominant sire’?”

Trainer Rob Bick, who knows the stallion well and has trained his get, replied bluntly, “He already is in western pleasure.”

Frank and Sara Chisholm, of Palmetto Arabians in Timmonsville, S.C., own Sundance Kid V. “He had a good show in 2013, but in 2014, he knocked it out of the park,” Frank says, still a little stunned at the statistics.

“We were hoping and we thought he might have a good one, but we didn’t know he would be this great.”

The Stallion With So Much To Offer

Sundance Kid V, bred by Sheila Varian, welcomed his first foal crop in 1998, and the Chisholms began using him in their program three years later. By that time, they already owned a full sister and a 100 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

Champion and Reserve Honors for Sundance Kid V sons, Zefyr and Onyx A, in the 2014 U.S. National Western Pleasure Championships.

Two additional Top Ten honors went to Maleah Maria and Sunstormm, leaving Sundance the proud sire of almost half of the Top Ten.

few of his daughters, so by the time they purchased him in 2003, they knew what they wanted and why.

“The other thing about him is that the percentage of show horses he puts on the ground is amazing,” adds Bick, who has advised clients to breed to Sundance Kid V. “It’s not like, say, he puts 10 One reason that Sundance Kid V is so easy to like is that his or 12 on the ground and four or five are show-able. The whole contributions as a sire are reliable and clearly discernible: he bestows group is show-able. We rarely get one that isn’t a show horse, and size and good looks (usually enough beauty and type to it’s the same thing with see his offspring through halter ribbons at many stages of the outside people “In today’s culture of training, competition), and he is known for siring a graceful, curvy who breed to him; the horses that really step forward are the ones that train neck that Bick says makes performance easy for his get. they all get show horses. the best and are physically able.”

“That makes a trainer’s job easy,” he grins. “Sometimes the It’s just a consistent ~ Ted Carson more physically talented a horse is, the smarter it seems.” quality about him.

I’ve never sent anyone Bick, who has long served as a source of counsel for Frank to breed to that horse Chisholm on pedigrees, trains and sells many of Palmetto’s Sundance that was disappointed in what they got.”

Kid V offspring. “They’re sweet horses and easy going,” he reports.

“They don’t want to be macho; you don’t have to fight with them. You Bill Buglass, who with his wife, Tracy, owns Windy Gap Arabians show them what you want and they’re very willing.” in Deerfield, Wis., would agree. “Our belief is that the Arabian horse needs to be beautiful—needs to look like an Arabian—and Notably, even with the beauty, conformation and talent that are cited be athletic,” he says. “When we got started breeding, that’s what by nearly everyone who has Sundance Kid V horses, it is that signature we saw in Sundance Kid V.” attitude they talk about most. “In today’s culture And that is what Sundance Kid delivered for them. “the percentage of show horses he puts on of training, the horses that “I think every baby we’ve had by him has gone the ground is amazing. It’s not like, say, really step forward are on to be top ten or better at U.S. Nationals and he puts 10 or 12 on the ground and four or five are show-able. the ones that train the best other places, as either a hunt horse or a western and are physically able,” horse,” Buglass reports. WGA Rose Dancer, 2014 The whole group is show-able.” ~ Rob Bick says Ted Carson, who has Canadian National Champion in Hunter Pleasure observed the stallion since Junior Horse and U.S. National Reserve Champion he arrived in the Carolinas 12 years ago, and has shown some of his in the Hunter Pleasure Maturity the year before, and Coldplay Kid, get. “I think that what a lot of trainers like about the Sundance Kid who won two U.S. National Reserve Championships and a host of horses is that they are mentally and physically very trainable horses.” top tens, come to mind readily—and recently, WGA Very Sunny, On the basis of his own experience, Carson breeds mares to the stallion. U.S. National Top Ten in the 2014 Western Pleasure Futurity. There have been others as well, including their first Sundance foal, a mare Josh Quintus, who trains the Sundance Kid V sons Onyx A and Diesel they retained as a broodmare. She consistently produces youngsters Smoke CBA, endorses their sire as well. “I do like these horses,” that sell well and go on to successful show careers. he says. “They’re very gifted off their feet, and they’re ones who can concentrate a long time. People don’t realize how they have to “We’ve been very fortunate,” Buglass says. “Frank and Sara and concentrate to hold the frame and pay attention to what’s going on, Melissa are a pleasure to deal with, and we happen to think alike in particularly the studs.” what we like in horses.”

Volume 45, No. 8 | 101

“I’m very proud of Frank and Sara for being such thoughtful, conscientious breeders of really good Arabian horses. I could see that they were not always breeding to sell the first generation, and that is an indication that they are breeders—they have a major interest in long term goals, rather than just marketing. I think without a doubt you can consider Frank and Sara Chisholm wise breeders and an asset to the Arabian breed.” ~ Sheila Varian

What Works—The Heritage

Sundance Kid V did not rise to prominence on his own. What is being seen today is a combination of two factors: the depth and quality of his pedigree, which was designed by Sheila Varian and resulted in an individual with all the attributes to breed on, and the careful career guidance of Frank and Sara Chisholm.

The pedigree comes first. In his sire line, Sundance Kid V traces to Varian’s first great stallion Bay-Abi, and in his tail female to one of the program’s foundation mares, *Bachantka. In between are some of Varian’s most legendary names: Bay El Bey, Huckleberry Bey, Desperado V, Baychatka, Moska, Spinning Song, and Sweet Inspiration V, among others—all proven contributors. There is almost no one in the framework of bloodlines that has not produced at the highest level, usually time after time, and the introduction of Ali Jamaal as a broodmare sire adds a dash of the exotic.

“Rob has pounded into us over the years that there are certain lines that are pretty predictable,” Frank Chisholm chuckles when explaining their attraction to the pedigree. “There are certain lines, certain ways to breed that give you athletic, good minded horses.”

So, why would Varian sell a young sire with all that potential?

Because, as Frank argued when he made an offer, Sundance Kid V so thoroughly represented her lines, wasn’t she limited in who she could breed him to among her mares? Sheila, who did not really want to part with the black stallion, could see the reasoning. And, she would add, the Chisholms themselves factored into her decision as well. Over the years that they had purchased horses from her, she had come to know them and seen them grow as breeders; she was comfortable with what they wanted to do, and felt she could trust them with Sundance Kid V. He came to Palmetto in 2003 and has been building his reputation ever since.

Rob Bick notes that the stallion, in the tradition of the sires in his line, has used all the qualities he inherited but defined them his own way. “Sundance is unique,” he says, “and he stamps the babies we get with his own look.”

PA Kid Khan Sundance Kid V x Kharrea PGA 102 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

He tries to explain the evolution of individuality in the line.

“Sundance Kid’s grandsire, Huckleberry Bey, was a great horse and in his time had one of the higher-set necks we saw in the breed,” he says. “He was a saddle seat style horse, and he went on to sire that through Afire Bey V in the English division. This horse is a little different. The Huck influence, as you see it in Desperado V, puts on more of a western style body (and so do some of the Polish horses, like Dar, that you see in his pedigree). So, even though he’s just turned out every day, not worked, Sundance has muscles in his rear

“Our belief is that the Arabian horse needs to be beautiful—needs to look like an Arabian—and be athletic. When we got started breeding, that’s what we saw in Sundance Kid V.” ~ Bill Buglass

end that look like a Quarter Horse that has been working every day.

That’s just how he’s built.”

Bick finally just shrugs to express his appreciation for the stallion.

“Caralyn and I are extremely grateful to Frank and Sara for sending us these nice horses,” he smiles. “They’re a great boost to the program at RBC.”

What Works—The Breeders

Frank and Sara Chisholm bring a unique combination of experience to the Palmetto program. Sara grew up with more hands-on horse experience; as a kid, she was an avid barrel racer in other breeds.

Later, when she and Frank decided to get riding horses as a hobby, it was she who gravitated to Arabians. Her Half-Arabian, “Charlie,” was the magnet which drew Frank in.

Frank, on the other hand, led the way into breeding. He grew up wanting to be a breeder. In the beginning, however, horses were not in the cards for him; through his childhood and teenage years, tropical fish and racing pigeons fit his budget better, but he learned early on the principles that govern selective mating. By the time he became a success in racing pigeons, he had learned not only how to breed winning birds from other people’s castoffs, but also how to socialize and train them to augment their performance enough to win prizes.

When they established Palmetto, Frank and Sara say, they might have ridden a lot, but they had quite a bit to learn about breeding.

From day one, they set out to get educated; they made their mistakes, Frank nods, but after a while, they saw progress. The

truth—and one of the keys to their success, friends say—is that they never forgot that they didn’t know everything. In the 16 years they have had Palmetto, they have never stopped learning and trying to improve, and the strong program they have today has been the reward.

One of the techniques Frank Chisholm mastered in his fish and pigeon breeding was to form relationships with people whose background and knowledge was clear. In addition to Varian, one of their most helpful mentors has been Rob Bick, who, he says, “can look at every horse in a pedigree and tell you everything they did and what they were like.” Add that to their own studies, and the Chisholms navigated the initial learning curve quickly.

Sheila Varian goes straight to the heart of the matter. “As Frank and Sara and I became friends, I could see that they were breeding some fine horses,” she says. “They are probably the sharpest couple I’ve ever had anything to do with when it comes to learning about breeding horses. They’re astute—real students.

They don’t ask a thousand questions; they do their homework, and sometimes they are more quiet than verbal. But I always know they’re listening and learning, and I find them fun to talk to about breeding.

Tulsa 2014

“Sundance Kid V was one of their first major purchases,” notes Ted Carson, “and yet they’ve been able to breed in the same sense of leadership as what Sheila has been doing for so many years.

They’re very quick learners, they pay attention to people who know about horses, and they take note of what they see—and that’s not easy to do, no matter what you spend or what horse you buy. To have that much success so quickly is a lot of credit to them.”

“I’m very proud of Frank and Sara for being such thoughtful, conscientious breeders of really good Arabian horses,” she continues. “I could see that they were not always breeding to sell the first generation, and that is an indication that they are

Pictured Top to Bottom: Multi-National Champion Zefyr++/, owned by Equidont Arabians 2014 U.S. National Champion Western Pleasure Open Multi-National Champion Ladys Dance+/, owned by Becker Stables 2014 U.S. National Champion Hunter Pleasure Open PA Monaco Kid, owned by Lee Cary 2014 U.S. National Reserve Champion Country Pleasure AAOTR Maturity Multi-National Champion Onyx A, owned by Avonlea Arabians 2014 U.S. National Reserve Champion Western Pleasure Open Multi-National Champion Agracie Girl V++++//, owned by Rancho Soñado 2014 U.S. National Champion English Trail AAOTR Volume 45, No. 8 | 103

me, as Always A Jullyen V did; when we saw Always A Jullyen at Scottsdale, Andy Sellman was showing him in the yearling class, and right away, he was the one we wanted to see when we went to Sheila’s the next summer. Now, Kid Khan hits me that way too. He comes out and you say, ‘oh, my God.’ He’s 16.1 hands and he’s a magnificent, striking animal. We have only two foal crops, three or four babies in each one, but he’s done an excellent job so far and we have high hopes for him as a replacement for Sundance.

Sundance Kid V pictured at 20 years young with Frank and Sara Chisholm and Palmetto Arabians’ breeding manager Melissa Bradshaw.

breeders—they have a major interest in long term goals, rather than just marketing. I think without a doubt you can consider Frank and Sara Chisholm wise breeders and an asset to the Arabian breed.”

What Works—Palmetto, The Breeding Program

Both Frank and Sara rode western in their youth, so it was natural that the focus at Palmetto became western and hunter. But some of the reason also was simple practicality. “We felt like we don’t have a huge gene pool in the Arabian breed right now,” Frank says, and adds that when they got in, Afire Bey V was already writing the story in the English divisions. “There seemed to be more possibilities in western and hunter, and they were natural for an Arabian to do. It looked like we would have more flexibility to try different things.”

Although their concentration is on performance, they do not neglect type. It is an inherent part of the equation for success, and they enjoy seeing some of their foals compete in halter. “It is something we play with when they’re young, and then their job is to get under saddle and do something,” Frank explains. “They can win at the regional level and some of the futurities. We love halter, but we’re not trying to play in the big leagues there. We’re trying to breed a beautiful, athletic horse, but not the exotic look it takes in halter now.”

The Palmetto stallion roster includes not only Sundance Kid V, but also, for outcross, Always A Jullyen V, by Jullyen El Jamaal, and SF Sir Real, a son of Sir Fames HBV, from a Versace daughter.

Six-year-old PA Kid Khan, out of a Khadraj NA mare, is the heir apparent to Sundance Kid V; he offers what has been called a slightly more modern twist on his sire, while still retaining his quality. And the new kid on the block is another Sundance Kid V colt, PA Phoenix Kid, who at age 2 will be bred lightly this year to evaluate his potential.

“It’s not all pedigree,” Frank explains of how they selected the stallions. “It’s how the horse ‘hits’ you too. Sundance did that to 104 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

“When we were looking at Sir Real, we were looking for a pedigree that had the ability to produce beautiful saddle horses in every cross in its pedigree,” he continues. “He was the best fit we found. It’s the same with Always A Jullyen; he came out of Amazing Grace V, who produced Stan White’s stallion, Amazing Fame V, that won a couple of national championships. And Jullyen El Jamaal has done an excellent job in the western class.”

On an annual basis, the most important decisions in the program now are which mares to cross with which stallions, a project which inhales afternoons of discussion between Frank, Sara and Palmetto Breeding Manager Melissa Bradshaw. Bradshaw, a graduate of North Carolina State in Equine Science who has studied at Colorado State and Ohio State, provides a valuable third perspective in the process. “All three of us name the foals, too,” Frank says of the teamwork. “But mostly that’s Sara and Melissa, although I have veto power.” He pauses for a moment, grins, and revises the comment. “Well, I can veto Melissa’s choices, but probably not Sara’s. I live with her!”

There is no quick gratification in breeding. It’s looking at what you think will work in how the horses are going to cross, and having the patience and resolve to see it through.

~ Frank Chisholm

The Breeder’s Focus—The Future

It is not lost on Frank and Sara Chisholm that with Sundance Kid V turning 20 this year, identifying an heir is no longer a theoretical goal for the future. It has been on their radar for the past few years, but following the stallion who put Palmetto on the map is no easy task. By November, after U.S. Nationals 2014, Sundance Kid V had become so respected in western and hunter circles that there were no 3-year-old prospects left at the farm to show buyers.

“The scary thing—and the exciting thing—for me is what we do to go forward,” Frank says, and he marvels. “Looking back, it seems like Sundance was pretty easy for us.”

Still, he can’t keep the excitement out of his voice (a feat in itself, as Frank Chisholm is, on the whole, laid back and quiet-spoken) when he considers the next few years of testing PA Kid Khan and PA Phoenix Kid. Kid Khan was fourth in the U.S. National Western Pleasure Junior Horse class last year, and at 6, has two foal crops on the ground. And Phoenix, a grandson of Marwan Al

Shaqab through his dam, also appears to have potential; already experimentation in crossing Marwan mares to both Sundance and Kid Khan has yielded promising results. “The babies are so young they’re not under saddle yet,” Frank cautions, “but we’ll see.

“There is no quick gratification in breeding,” he reflects, sounding every inch the breeder Varian and others believe he and Sara are. “It’s looking at what you think will work in how the horses are going to cross, and having the patience and resolve to see it through. It’s not like in halter; you don’t have a baby that when it hits the ground you know will be a national champion. In western pleasure, you don’t find that out for four or five years.”

So, what is on the horizon in the immediate future? Rob Bick is high on PA Kid Khan, his partner in junior western pleasure last year. “He probably has spent more time breeding in the last two years than he has training,” Bick says, “and yet, he’s simple to train. We’d breed him, throw him right on the trailer to go to the show next to other horses, stable him next to a horse he’s never seen in his life, and have no trouble. He just warms up, goes to the ring and shows. He has the perfect attitude—you couldn’t ask for a better-minded horse than he is, and he’s beautiful. That’s the kind of horse you get from Sundance Kid V.”

“But breeding is something you never sit still with. It is always ‘what’s the next step?’ We’ve had a lot of discussions with Rob and Sheila about that, and we’ve picked what we’re going to try for our next steps. The question is, ‘can they be close to as effective as Sundance has been?’

That’s the big question going forward.

And that’s actually what makes it fun.” ~ Frank Chisholm

Ted Carson is equally approving of PA Phoenix Kid. “He is one of the nicest Sundance Kid horses ever born,” he says. “What I love about him is that his quality is good enough for the halter or performance arena, and construction wise, he just fits the bill. He is such a soft creature, besides having the quality. I think he has a lot of future.

“I think what you’ll see is the next generation of stallions come through for the hunter and western divisions, and it’s going to be Sundance sons,” he continues. “You can kind of see it happening already.”

And Frank and Sara Chisholm? “We know Sundance is a proven entity, and Always A Jullyen V has done really well in the hunter classes,” Frank says. “But breeding is something you never sit still with. It is always ‘what’s the next step?’ We’ve had a lot of discussions with Rob and Sheila about that, and we’ve picked what we’re going to try for our next steps. The question is, ‘can they be close to as effective as Sundance has been?’ That’s the big question going forward.

And that’s actually what makes it fun.” n

Volume 45, No. 8 | 105

Proudly owned by Frank & Sara Chisholm • 4506 Langston Road, Timmonsville, SC 29161

SF

SF Sir Real

By Sir Fames HBV Out of Veronica GA

PA Kid Khan

By Sundance Kid V Out of Kharrea PGA

Sundance Kid V

By Desperado V Out of Sweet Shalimar V

PA Phoenix Kid

By Sundance Kid V Out of Pamila

Always A Jullyen V

By Jullyen El Jamaal Out of Amazing Grace V

Contact breeding manager Melissa Bradshaw at 843.346.5874 • palmettoarabians@aol.com 106 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

2014 Scottsdale Signature Stallion Champion Arabian Western Pleasure Futurity 2014 Canadian National Reserve Champion Arabian Western Pleasure Junior Horse Ruminaja Ali

Ali Jamaal Jullyen El Jamaal

Heritage Memory

Jullye El Ludjin Audacious PS

Misti Morn V

Ludjin El Jamaal NV Justa Dream Fame VF Hal Flirtatious Bravado Bey V

Misti V

Magdalena V

Region 12 Spotlight Stallion SCID & CA Clear

2015 Western Pleasure Jr. Horse with Joe Reser

Proudly owned by Shamrock Farms Garden Ridge, Texas LLC

Standing at: Setting Sun Stables Joe Reser: 574-360-5649 • Michele Reser: 574-862-2231 64399 County Road 3 Wakarusa, IN 46573 Breeding Manager Joshua Biron: 574-334-0490 Breeding@settingsun-stables.com • www.SettingSun-Stables.com Volume 45, No. 8 | 107

Adolf Schreyer

As Modern As Tomorrow

by LINDA WHITE

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Once in a great while, we spot an animal in an old photograph or painting that looks good enough to compete successfully by today’s standards. Most often, however, the horses depicted in those old photos look pretty obsolete, and artists’ conceptions of horses are stiff and stylized, per that period. Think about the horses in the Currier and Ives’ prints: floating along at an improbable trot, like synchronized swimmers, with all four feet off the ground at once. If they had really looked like that, horse breeding would have come to an end long ago!

Occasionally, though, an artist had the sensitivity to see— and the skill to portray—horses as they actually must have looked. The eye of the artist can be fickle, but Adolf Schreyer (1828-1899) had the perception to truly see the Arabian horses he painted. Classically trained in his native Germany, Schreyer’s greatest gift lay in his ability to see not only the animal in front of him, but to visualize far more. While his contemporaries were depicting horses in a manner so artificial that the animals appear slightly ridiculous to us today, Schreyer never embraced the current fads or fashions. Because he could see not only what was, but what could be, Schreyer’s Arabians so

resembled our modern ideal that they might have stepped from a photograph taken yesterday.

“My father was compelled to breed Arabian horses that were athletic in conformation and beautiful in type,” states Gene LaCroix of his late father, Dr. Eugene LaCroix.

“When he discovered the Adolf Schreyer paintings early in his life, the Schreyer Arabian became his ideal.

Schreyer’s horses exhibited unmistakable athletic ability as they appeared perfectly balanced in every position, yet they possessed classical beauty with their dryness, refinement, fire and vitality. They carried themselves extremely high, with long but well-rounded necks and soft polls, well let-down hocks, and they always appeared supple and lively, with great energy and presence.

“Dad studied Schreyer’s work, and came to believe that he must have painted what he saw,” LaCroix continues.

“He said, ‘If that artist could depict a horse like that, there must have been horses like that to inspire him.’

In other words, Schreyer’s horses weren’t something he dreamed up; they were the Arabian horses that Schreyer actually saw in the deserts of North Africa.”

“‘If that artist could depict a horse like that, there must have been horses like that to inspire him.”

- Dr. Eugene LaCroix

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In 1856, Schreyer traveled from Europe to Egypt and Syria, where the Arabian horses he found there utterly captivated him. Earlier, he had accompanied German Prince Maximilian Karl on his travels, which included a visit to Turkey. The desert dwellers there, along with their beautiful, almost mythical Arabian horses, quickly became his obsession. He went back to Europe, but in 1861 he returned to North Africa, specifically to Algiers this time, where he again was profoundly affected by the desert Arabians.

Schreyer’s equestrian art is remarkable for its conformational accuracy, and for his fidelity to the physical, mental and emotional qualities of the animals he saw. He captured the Bedouins’ intensity on canvas, also giving his onlookers a sense of the animals’ grace, and a window into the horses’ emotional involvement in their masters’ activities—in this case, warfare. Schreyer’s total immersion in his subject matter has allowed his work to endure more than a century after his death. His art continues to engage 21st century Arabian horse lovers’ interest to a degree very few equine artists of any age ever achieve.

Photographer Stuart Vesty has been an admirer of Schreyer’s paintings since he first saw the artist’s work years ago. “He no doubt took some artistic license,” Vesty theorizes, “but all his paintings have a vibrant, active quality; he makes his subjects’ movement and energy appear to be barely contained.”

The grace, poise and balance of the horses in Schreyer’s paintings illustrate his inspired use of contrapposto, an Italian word meaning counterpoise, or equilibrium. Schreyer applied the technique to create an illusion of movement using subtle weight shifts and positioning of each subject’s body, limbs and head, thereby suggesting a convincingly organic sense of life. The artist successfully applied the formula the Greeks developed in the early 5th century B.C. to counter the static, “doorstop” pose that so characterized earlier Greek, Egyptian and Middle Eastern sculpture.

“He was ‘way ahead of his time; maybe ‘way ahead of our time.”

- Stuart Vesty

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“Cavalry Approaching an Oasis”

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“Schreyer had given Dad the vision that led him to *Bask …and then, *Bask changed everything.”

- Gene LaCroix

“Everything of Schreyer’s was a dream come true,” says Vesty. “He was ‘way ahead of his time’; maybe ‘way ahead of our time’. Schreyer was like the Impressionist painters who invented a new way of seeing and representing everything. Just as there was ‘postImpressionist’ painting, everything that came after him was ‘post-Schreyer.’ There is always lots going on in a Schreyer painting, so that the eye is constantly searching. The subtle motion: a hand placement, a glance over the shoulder, suggests movement. There was no ‘still life’; no ‘Don’t move! I’m going to paint you!’

There is nothing ‘still’ about a Schreyer painting. He saw what the future could be. His vision became ours for the English performance horse.”

“He captures life, using a glance, a subtle ear turn or hand movement, to convey the horses’ responsiveness to the humans in the picture,” agrees Gene LaCroix.

“In 1962, when we began to see the first Polish imports, Dad said that these could be the horses we wanted.

They were more upright, more athletic, and fierier than the Arabians we were used to in this country.

“We were among the first contemporary American breeders to go to Poland,” he adds. “Dad liked what he saw, but when the Poles brought out *Bask, he looked just like the horses in the Schreyer paintings.

He had that long, rounded neck that he could curl;

112 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

he could round his back and engage his hindquarters.

Everything just fit together. He was fresh off the track, and feeling so good, he would jump straight up in the air, and come down trotting in hand, like no other horse we’d seen in real life!

“My father turned to me and said, ‘That’s the horse we’ve been looking for.’ Schreyer had given Dad the vision that led him to *Bask … and then, *Bask changed everything.”

Call it coincidence, but this story has an ironic subtext which suggests that things may have come full circle.

Dr. Eugene LaCroix’s view of the Arabian horses he loved was profoundly influenced by the vivid, impassioned work of Adolf Schreyer. Schreyer’s own work was heavily influenced by the work of an earlier artist: Eugene Delacroix (1798-1863), an influential, often controversial French Romantic painter whose legacy, the vivid use of color and treatment of often violent subjects greatly influenced the Impressionists and post-Impressionists who came after. Both Schreyer and Delacroix traveled to the deserts of North Africa, where the culture, the desert peoples, their unfettered lifestyle, and their gorgeous Arabian horses mesmerized both men and inspired their subsequent work. Note the similarity of Delacroix’s 1832, “Arab Horseman Attacked by a Lion” to Schreyer’s paintings of like subjects in highly charged situations.

Above: “Fording a Stream” Left: Eugene Delacroix’s 1832, “Arab Horseman Attacked by a Lion”

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“The Arabians in Schreyer’s paintings are the archetype of our most successful modern horses...”

- Joel Kiesner

“I first saw Schreyer’s paintings as a kid at Nationals and Scottsdale,” says Joel Kiesner, “and through the old Lasma Arabians logo, which I learned was taken from a Schreyer painting. The Arabians in Schreyer’s paintings are the archetype of our most successful modern horses, depicted in dramatic settings. His ‘Arabian Patrol,’ for example, features a dark, dramatic setting, where the spotlight is on the horse.

“I still aspire to achieve horses like that: horses that embody that controlled exuberance; that barely contained, high energy. Those images still burn in my psyche. Schreyer’s are the Arabian horses we still strive to create.” Kiesner has had great success with *Bask’s descendants, training and showing them to win national championship after national championship in every high performance division.

“The old Lasma logo was an Arabian from a Schreyer painting that Dad commissioned Gladys Brown Edwards to repaint with *Bask’s markings,” says Gene LaCroix, adding, “Today’s most successful high performance horses very often have multiple crosses to *Bask, and they exhibit the same qualities that drew Dad to the Schreyer Arabians, and through them, to *Bask. *Bask’s first national championship was in 1964 in halter; he then won the 1965 U.S. National Park Championship, with Jerry Smola. *Bask remains today the only Arabian horse to win the U.S. national championships in both halter and park.

“When I rode *Bask into the show arena, I could feel a sensation of the horse rounding his poll, raising up at the base of his neck, lifting his back and engaging his hindquarter with impulsion.

This feeling of true collection, elevation and balance became an inspiration to me in all of my training endeavors.

“The Schreyer horse is still the ideal today—and my ideal any day.”

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“Arabian Patrol”

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“Arab Horsemen,” reminds Joel Kiesner of Hucklebey Berry.

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A living show horse, photographed by Stuart Vesty as this article was being written, that exemplifies the profound influence Schreyer’s vision continues to have on modern breeders of English performance Arabians.

“Every one of the horses in Schreyer’s paintings looks like it could step off the canvas and compete today.”

- Stuart Vesty

Tim Shea has had immeasurable success, training, breeding and showing *Bask-bred performance horses. “I first heard about the Schreyer Arabian in the early 1970s, when I read that Dr. LaCroix’s life quest was to breed horses like them: like the ones he saw in Poland, especially *Bask. In 1973, Sir William Farm sent me out from New York to their Scottsdale, Ariz. farm, which was almost next door to Lasma. *Bask was old then, but he still looked just like the horses in the Schreyer paintings. I remember his chiseled head, square nostrils, tight ears, huge eyes, and skin so thin, the veins appeared to be popping out.

“The *Bask sons and daughters would stand out in a class like corn stalks in a cabbage patch, Shea continues.

“They were beautiful, with clean heads and fine throatlatches, and so refined. They changed everything; we are still trying to breed horses like that. My ideal—

what moves me—hasn’t changed since the late 1960s.

Dr. LaCroix’s vision of the Schreyer Arabian became my vision: the same now as it was almost 50 years ago.”

Stuart Vesty agrees. “When I look at a Schreyer painting, I want to say, ‘I see it, too!’ Schreyer’s gift was that he could allow other people to see and feel what he was seeing and feeling. His work takes you there. Every one of the horses in Schreyer’s paintings looks like it could step off the canvas and compete today. And they don’t tell too many conflicting stories; there are no contradictions.

They are consistently, absolutely Arabian. The Schreyer paintings are all scenes from the same movie.”

“The horses Schreyer portrayed were successful war horses,” Gene LaCroix reminds us. “It all comes down to: ‘Which kind of horse would you choose to ride to war, or for that matter, into the highest levels of competition?’” n

Volume 45, No. 8 | 117

Breeding Arabians—

WHAT’S GOING ON? PART I

by ANNE STRATTON One of the ongoing concerns of the Arabian horse community today is the state of the breeding industry.

“No one is breeding horses!” is the often-heard worry, followed closely by, “What are we going to do for show horses in coming years?” It is not an ungrounded fear; the median age of show horses has risen in recent years. But what is actually going on? And how do we encourage people to breed their horses? When AHT looked closely, we found a number of issues involved—it was anything but a simple problem.

To begin, we looked at the situation in black and white. We often hear the comparison between the 1980s (the high point for the breed in terms of numbers, when it was routine for the Arabian Horse Registry to record 30,000 or more foals a year) and today. That that sort of contrast may not really be productive, however; the truth is that in the 1980s, the horses’ high dollar potential, which attracted more people to breed heavily, was generated in part by tax advantages that evaporated in the 1986 reforms. Just about every horse breed saw its numbers plummet during that time. Some have rebounded better than others, but plenty remain down, so the problem of reduced numbers since the 1980s is not inherent to Arabians.

Another fact to remember is that in the years following the tax reforms, there was a frenzy of sales, flooding the market with horses for which there were fewer buyers. It was a stark reminder of what could happen when too many inexperienced, poorly-advised people bred too many horses; even the good horses sold at lower prices during that time.

So, then, figures relating to how the breed has performed in the recent past probably are more relevant— and over the past five years for which totals are available, 2009-2013, Registry numbers do verify a lack of growth. In 2009, a slim 5,544 individuals were registered. By 2013, the annual number was nearly anorectic: just 3,282 got their papers.

Does this signify a lack of interest in the Arabian breed? Or, perhaps, does it reveal more a lack of interest in the activities which require registration? To some extent, both may be true. While some shows might be struggling, others are not, and other genres are not. For instance, Arabians and Half-Arabians dominate the endurance ranks worldwide, and that sport is growing, as is dressage, where more Arabians are seeing action in open shows. Most competitions do not require registration.

(It is worth noting that with stallion reports again required, the Registry soon will be able to get a better sense of how many mares are bred, as opposed to how many foals are registered. For the moment, however, registrations make up the most reliable statistic for this sort of discussion.)

One ironic point is that most people we consulted—many more than are included here—believe that while numbers may be down, quality is not; better horses are being bred now, they say, than ever before.

So, to begin our examination of the problem, we talked to two of the “biggest” breeders over the past five years about why, in what everyone has called tough times, they continue to breed at the rate they do, and how they make it feasible financially.

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Why—And How—They Do It “To stay on top of our game, the last five years has required a lot of creative thinking,” says Shawn Crews, General Manager of Arabians Ltd., which is owned by Judy Sirbasku, in Waco, Tex. With more than 30 years in the breed, specializing in Egyptian Arabians, the operation historically has been very successful. Its breeding division, Rock Creek Arabians, ranks third over the past five years in number of horses registered, with an average of 24 a year (120 total).

don’t have the luxury of breeding more,” she says candidly.

Surprisingly, she doesn’t believe they are particularly good at “marketing” in the accepted sense of the word; that was the specialty of Judy’s late husband, Jim. They simply use principles that work. “Every year, we focus on how can we expose more people to horses. If we expose enough people, then our sales are going to follow.”

To succeed in today’s market, they are more rigorous than ever in their selection of mares and stallions for breeding, she says. “We used to be able to roll the dice and breed, say, eight young mares to see what would happen. Now we have to be very selective—and not only from a numbers standpoint; the numbers might be down in our business, but the quality of horses is not, so you have to be producing great babies.”

Dean and Terri Wikel, of Pegasus Arabians in Berlin Heights, Ohio, are longtime breeders as well. “I have a passion for the horse, no question about it, and my wife is very similar,” Dean observes, “and we have grandkids who love them too. It’s a great thing to be able to raise a family like that, to be able to expose them to the Arabian horse.”

Their method is to begin educating their prospective buyers about both the horses and the financial requirements So, why do they continue breeding at what would be before sales take place. “We present everything in the most regarded as a strong rate of production? “There has just conservative manner possible: if all the worst case scenarios never been a question happen to you, this in Judy’s mind that is where you will be,” this is what she will Crews says. “We give do in her life,” Crews them the good, the bad replies, and adds that and the ugly. You can’t that is her commitment do it any other way. as well. That does not No one is going to buy mean, however, that an expensive Egyptian they don’t maintain Arabian horse if they sound business don’t understand where practices when they set they came from, what their goals. people do with them, what the markets are What makes it work? today, what it costs to There are two basic keep them, and that reasons: their product they are fully insurable and their marketing. (that’s huge to a lot of “There is always some people). In the end, the part of the market people who buy from us that is flourishing,” do it because they are Judy Sirbasku and Shawn Crews. she notes. “We have absolutely fascinated the newcomer market, and love the horse first. the foreign market and the Egyptian market; if one is really The business part makes sense if they follow certain simple down, there always seems to be one that is flourishing. The business principles that you’d use in any business. main reason for breeding Egyptian horses is that throughout history (as long as those of us who are here now have been “We expose, educate, and then—what is the most time on earth), breeders of other bloodlines have always been consuming and probably what we’re the best at—provide able to dip back into the strength of this genetic pool. You’re support and education after the sale,” Crews says. “We say seeing that happen now.” they have ‘people’ because we are on speed dial for them.”

Marketing is part of the equation because it allows them to go forward. “You have to be good in the market or you

That is why even in challenging times, their breeding commitment remains substantial. Over the past five years, they have registered 93 foals, on average more

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than 18 per year. They breed in the 20 to 25 range annually, Wikel says, with 15 to 20 aimed at the halter division and at least five expected to enter performance ranks. He understands both experiences, he offers, although from a business standpoint, it is the halter prospects who are carrying the biggest load.

“The upper end is still very, very steady and our market is not necessarily in America,” he says. “It’s more overseas. The higher end horses have pretty much—with exceptions, certainly—gone to Europe or the Middle East, mostly the Middle East. We’re breeding for the upper quality.” And since it takes numbers to yield superstars, they mix business sense with experience to succeed.

How would he describe business sense as it relates here? “There is instant gratification with a halter horse in that six months to a year after the baby is born, you’re able to start seeing what you’ve got as far as halter quality goes and whether you can start showing it,” he says. “When it is 2 and a half or 3 years old, you can start riding it.” And, he adds, halter horses who don’t work out in the show

ring often can find careers in other activities and divisions, not always the case in other disciplines. “If you are, say, breeding strictly for English, normally you don’t get something that you can put in the halter arena, and it takes maybe three or four years before you know whether you got it right or not.”

How does their experience play in? “We’ve been in it for 25 years and we have a group of mares that we know what will and won’t work,” he replies. “I’ve got probably eight mares that are just outstanding, and pretty much everything they produce is well above average.”

Even so, he remains conscious of the whole Arabian experience, which includes not only performance, but increasing the horses’ potential for jobs. “We try to break everything out after they are 3 to see what we’ve got,” he says. “I have people who want hunt horses, country English, western and those kind of things. You can start marketing the halter horses at a year old, but with a performance horse it is rare to sell them much before they are 2. Most people want them to be broke and many want them to be trained.”

Pegasus Arabians’ Dean and Terri Wikel with Michael Bills and their 2013 Breeders World Cup Futurity 2-Year-Old Champion Filly Bella Luna PA.

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When evaluating foals, their strategy is to give the fillies time to develop; with their bloodlines and potential for doing other things at some level, there is a stronger market for them even if they don’t ultimately go to the ring in halter. For lower-quality colts, it is a different story. Wikel says that they find homes for or sell at a reduced rate about five colts a year that he feels won’t be successful in upper level showing. “I don’t even register those, but I see to it that they get good homes,” he says. “It costs about $2,500 just to keep one for a year, so if you think a horse isn’t going to be worth $10,000 or $15,000 when it is 3, you might as well give it away at 6 months or a year. Give someone else a chance to enjoy it.”

is pleased for them and glad for the demand. But a closer look at the situation concerns her. “Unfortunately, most of those horses are going overseas, which makes it harder for us as breeders to have access to them. And also, that will get to the saturation point too. We need to be prepared for that.”

“One problem is that few, if any, are concentrating on developing a market for the middle level horses which should be the base of the breed,” she says. “Historically, we always had horses selling for prices that people could afford, but which allowed breeders to make a profit (of course, back then many breeders were using their own stallions or stallions down the road from them, and that is not usually the case now). But we need to remember that that has always been the backbone of the breed.

“I used to be so proud of selling the majority of my babies—which at the time was seven to 10 a year—to new owners,” she says. “That doesn’t happen any more because we are not out there campaigning for it. I’m having four foals this year, and my mission is that I’m going to sell at least two of them to first-time owners.”

The only reliable avenue to increasing breeding, she says, is to increase the owner population, which would boost the number of buyers. “In the past, we had what I call the ‘missionary spirit,’” she says. “We all felt like we had the best breed and we were going to go out and Finally, we spoke to tell people, so that they Denni Mack, the could get in on it too. incoming chair of AHA’s We’ve lost that, I think, Registration Commission. but I hope it’s coming As a breeder herself (she back. AHA’s Marketing owns Koweta Arabians, and Development in Monticello, Ga.) she Committee has plans, we is not one of the larger have a new marketing breeders, but she offers director and also, I’m another perspective that hearing from a few more takes into account the trainers who are setting Registry’s position. up lesson programs.”

Denni Mack with one of her stallions, Al-Marah Fight Fair.

“The Registry itself On a personal basis, she is not out beating the plans to do her part. bushes trying to get people to breed horses,” she observes.

She is fortunate, she says, because her program has been “Obviously, we want that to happen, but it is not something successful in a variety of disciplines, including endurance we have undertaken to do, given the big picture.” The big horses, an area where demand is growing. Also in her favor picture recognizes that most horse breeds are experiencing is that her bloodlines are proven to attract interest, and reduced numbers, and also that increasing numbers needs maintaining two proven stallions enables her to offer more to come in such a way that the horses are marketable. affordable sales.

“The people that are selling in the high market are a small percentage of our population. Those horses will always sell,” she notes, and adds that like everyone, she

This is the first of a series. In coming installments, we’ll ask breeders who specialize in performance horses to speak up, investigate the effects of embryo transfer and transported semen on the breed, look at historical factors and more. And most importantly, we’ll look at what it will take to make the future as successful as the past. n

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RIsIng new staR of tHe yeaR noMInee

ferrara photos

aRabIan speCIaLty HoRse of tHe yeaR noMInee Lindsay Rinehart • Hickory Corners, MI • 269-838-6473 • trotwoodfarm1@aol.com Vote at: aHtIMes.CoM/Vote/

Illuminating his path to greatness.

S C O T T S D A L E 2 0 1 5 S TA L L I O N H A LT E R W I T H D AV I D B O G G S Volume 45, No. 8 | 123

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I N T E R N AT I O N A L C H A M P I O N SCOTTSDALE CHAMPION U N I T E D S TAT E S N AT I O N A L C H A M P I O N WORLD CUP SUPREME GOLD CHAMPION

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We welcome your visit to Midwest in Scottsdale to meet *Hariry Al Shaqab and the magnificent collection of Al Shaqab stallions and their offspring.

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www.MidwestArabian.com 126 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

WOMEN AROUND THE WORLD Cathy Vincent A DA N DY FA R M

GR EEN WOOD, DE, USA

by Jeff Wallace

T

ell us what year you discovered the Arabian horse and please describe the situation a bit. I discovered the Arabian horse in 1968. I had been thrown off of a hunter jumper horse that I was riding, and my dad wanted to find me a horse that was safe to ride. He went to Donald Booth’s Heritage Farms to look at horses for me.

What do you love about the Arabian? Everything!

What is their not to love? Their versatility, athleticism, charisma and most of all, their beauty. They have been my livelihood since 1976.

Describe your most meaningful win and what horse were you showing. 2007 U.S. National Reserve Champion English Pleasure Junior Volume 45, No. 8 | 127

Horse. I was so fortunate to have met Dan and Merrilee Lyons, who entrusted me with The Firelord as well as several other horses that they owned at the time.

When The Firelord was ready to begin his retirement, they asked me to find another English horse that could carry on Fire’s national champion tradition. I traveled to many different farms throughout the country and looked at several different horses, none of which I thought was “the one”. The last farm I stopped at was Battaglia Farms. As soon as they brought Citationn into the arena, I knew he was “the one”—he took my breath away. Bob rode him for a few moments and I

as much as he has. At 13 years young, Citationn still enters the gate with his ears up and his eyes bright, willing to put on a great show.

Tell us about some of your most meaningful client relationships and what you have learned from them.

I have had so many wonderful clients throughout the years. To name a few: Joyce and Jeff Krusen, The Mala family who has entrusted me with their wonderful daughters Alayna and Alicia. Jeff Allen and his family, Harvey Bitler who owned Gitar MF, The Fisher family, Trudy Jones and the Hollowell

C AT H Y V I N C E N T was in love. Bob then handed the reins over to me; when I rode him I knew he going to be the horse that carried on The Firelord’s tradition of a decorated national champion English horse. Dan and Merrilee then completed the purchase of Citationn. I could hardly wait to get him back to the farm to start his preparations for his Jr. Horse year debut. And in 2007, Citationn was named U.S. National Reserve Champion English Pleasure Junior Horse in a very competitive class to the one-and-only Afires Heir! This win meant so much to me; I knew from the minute that I laid eyes on him that he was a winner. I cannot thank Dan and Merrilee Lyons of Silver Stag Arabians LLC enough, for allowing me the opportunity to train and stand such a wonderful horse like Citationn.

family, Congressional Farms, The Knight family, Oma Hodges, Tom Tarrant, Joe Mangone, Jacque and Rod Thompson of Smoky Mountain Park Arabians and one of my favorites, Merrilee Lyons, owner of the great Citationn and The Firelord. I have learned so much from all of them, especially that good friends can be great clients and team players. I’ve missed a few and so many that have passed away including: Virginia Mangone, Patricia Novak, Jean Tarrant, Dan Lyons, Bill Hodges and Melissa Campbell-Jones who were great friends and clients of Adandy Farm.

Is judging horse shows important to you? If yes, why is that. Yes! It is one of the most important things in my life. I want to improve the breed as well as promote it. Judging horse shows is my passion and livelihood.

Do you prefer the industry as it is today or what changes would you like to see take place? I would like to see a variety in the winners circle. There are more than a few winners in our industry. I would like to see less halter classes at U.S. Nationals, I think that there are too many age groups, we need to go back to U.S. National champion mare, stallion and gelding and possibly a junior championship. The other change that I would like to see take place is it being more cost effective for trainers and clients to show on the higher levels. There are so many things that could be addressed another time.

Where did the name Adandy originate? Adandy originated from the very first Arabian horse that I owned. Purchased from Donald Booth’s Heritage farms, his name was Al-Marah Adandy.

What horses in your lifetime have made you cry?

Citationn, He has been one of the only horses in my career that have made me cry. He is truly a hero and has a heart of gold. Citationn has been through multiple adversities through his career. He is an amazing individual; I have never seen a horse persevere 128 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

What is your most favorite film? I don’t tend to watch many movies. I’m too busy enjoying the farm and the horses.

Name your five favorite performance horses of all time. Huckleberry Bey, Alliance, Citationn, Afires Heir and ERA Moonlite Serenade.

WOMEN AROUND THE WORLD

And the five best performance sires of all time?

Bask, Huckleberry Bey, Afire Bey V, Zodiac Matador and Baske Afire.

Cathy, what three women have been great mentors to you in the Arabian breed? My mother, Edith Vincent, Cecile Dunn, and Vicki Bowman.

What is the worst Arabian fault for you?

And the greatest attribute? Pertaining to halter horses: bad legged horses, bad feet and crooked tails.

As for performance horses: poor quality overall and sour attitudes.

Please tell us your top five *Bask++ daughters of all time? Autumn Fire, Ambra, Fire Music, Mi Toska and Bask Melody.

How do great clients keep things going for you beyond financial support? We have a very close camaraderie here on the farm. We are fortunate to have several of our clients live close to us, we are always having a get together to enjoy one another’s company. We are all very good friends here at Adandy Farm.

What is your biggest regret? I don’t have any regrets, I have loved every part of my life and I wouldn’t have done anything different.

If you hadn’t been a horse trainer what career would you have pursued? It has always been my passion and dream to be what I am today, I couldn’t picture my life without horses. I do however enjoy landscaping and interior decorating.

Is family important to you Cathy? Unfortunately, I have lost all of my family. Now my horse family is extremely important to me.

If you could take a trip around the world what 10 places would you stop? Poland, South Africa, Australia, Dubai, Egypt, Spain, Argentina, Netherlands, Thailand and Japan.

What is your favorite “Gene LaCroix Memory”?

He is such a great horseman, I enjoyed watching every victory pass that he made in the Park division.

Citationn and Cathy Vincent.

What living show horse do you most admire today - halter or performance? There are two horses that come to mind: Citationn and Vibrato G—they are both amazing individuals and very special to me. Vibrato (Gitar MF x Starlite Flite) was born and raised on Adandy Farm. He is a decorated national champion himself, and is proudly owned by the Allen Family.

Citationn is amazing as well; all of the challenges he has overcome throughout his career shows he is a true show horse! Both of these horses are on the top of my list, and I couldn’t be more thankful to have the opportunity to show and train both of them.

Do you prefer mayonnaise or mustard? Mustard, tangy and less calories!

Name the three breeders - deceased or living - that you most admire? Shelia Varian, Roger and Linda Lervick and, of course, Marty and Tim Shea.

Are you a “dog person”? If yes why, and name a favorite dog you have owned. I am a complete dog person! I have owned up to five dogs at one time in the home. Merlin was truly my soulmate; they are my children and I’m not a very good dog trainer.

Cathy, if you could bring two horses back to life, who would they be and why. Bask and Bey Shah— they were powerful breeding stallions. Their blood is thinning out in our breeding programs; we need to replenish their power. ■ Volume 45, No. 8 | 129

Sigi Siller with her favorite riding horse Om El Bizan Estopa.

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WOMEN AROUND THE WORLD Sigi Siller

OM EL A R A B I N TER NAT IONA L SA N TA Y N EZ , CA , USA

S

by Jeff Wallace

igi, please tell me about your beginnings with the Arabian horse. I fell in love with Arabian horses when I went to the German State Stud Marbach for a horse husbandry course in 1969. The famous Nazeer son Hadban Enzahi and his herd of homozygous Arabian mares resided there. I was in charge of a 17hh warmblood horse and preferred to admire the Arabian horses there! My father had purchased a bay Arabian mare named Dindara (Karmin x Winarsad), of the old Weil-Marbach breeding. This is how it started in our family...

Please tell me about the day the immortal *El Shaklan came into this world and what his first few years in Europe were like. *El Shaklan was born on August 10, 1975. He was the most ethereal looking colt I had seen so far. First I believed that he was a filly, because he was so beautiful. He did not look like anything breeders had seen up to that time. We brought him to a show in Belgium as a yearling and a friend of mine was judging. He placed *El Shaklan second behind a very average colt and after asking why, I was told, “I could not put your horse first because you are my friend!”

S I G I

he was in England. He influenced the history of the Australian and British breed first. The next year, Pat Maxwell showed *El Shaklan at the same show in Belgium (Vlimmeren), and this time as a two year old he not only won his class, Junior Champion Stallion, but also the Supreme, beating the adult mare and the adult stallion.

Upon return to our farm in Germany one year early due to the untimely passing of his sire, *El Shaklan was National Junior Champion Stallion in Hamburg during the WAHO meetings as a three year old, and his mother *Estopa was National Champion Mare.

World renowned Polish breeder Isabella Zawatzka saw these horses there and said, “My dream is to bring the blood of *Estopa to Poland one day.” (That happened some years later when all Polish State Studs imported the frozen semen of the son of *El Shaklan named *Sanadik El Shaklan to Poland, and the rest is history.) *El Shaklan was European Champion Stallion in Paris and World Reserve Champion Stallion. He was loved wherever he was shown. He bred 58 mares in Germany before his departure to

S I L L E R

Politics in reverse. Pat and Joanna Maxwell saw him there and came to our farm in the Black Forest to buy *El Shaklan. I will always remember how my thenhusband, Heinz, told me that the offer was great and *El Shaklan had to be sold to the Maxwells. This was the first time I had to threaten seriously, “If he goes, I will leave also!” *El Shaklan stayed and we leased him to the Maxwells for the amount of one British pound. He caused quite some excitement not only in England, but also in Australia. Peter Hall and Marion Richmond sent mares to be bred to *El Shaklan while

California—all natural breeding, which was unheard of in these days. He was a very popular stallion!

How did *Estopa touch your heart and your soul? *Estopa and I had a very special bond. This mare was like no other mare I have ever known. Her spirit and fire were beyond description. She was my everything, she taught me to be a horse breeder and have a very deep connection with another being. I brought her with me to Berlin where I was studying at University in 1971 and had her in a riding stable after she had lost Volume 45, No. 8 | 131

this miracle. I never get tired of seeing the result of our breeding decisions. Most of the time, I am able to see immediately how the foal will turn out later.

Sigi and her horse-loving granddaughter Sophia.

her foal in utero with the stallion Ghazal (Nazeer x Bukra). So, she was green broke and I only had a few months of riding lessons—we both learned together.

She was a very wild spirit and I believe I fell off her at least three times. She knew how to talk with me and tell me exactly what she needed and wanted. Despite her fire and animation that she always had in the show ring and in presentations, *Estopa was very gentle with young children. I could put my toddlers together on her back and she took care of them.*Estopa was my companion for 22 years. I never left her alone when she became older and needed me. I had a camera on her and if I was not around for a little while, somebody else watched over her. She received very special food and life prolonging supplements. *Estopa was to be felt and experienced. She made people cry when she presented herself. She will always have a very special place in my heart and I am so thankful to her for what she gave my breeding program and the whole world.

What feelings come over you when assisting one of your mares with giving birth. It is always so inspiring to witness the birth of a foal. For me, this is one of the greatest miracles on earth. I am in awe of this wonderful event and have very deep feelings witnessing 132 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

Sigi, as many of us know, you have battled a serious illness, and like the Arabian horses, the Om El horses and specifically you, are triumphant. Please tell us about your experience, your determination to survive, and what part the horses of Om El Arab International have, and continue to play in this very serious phase of your life. 2014 has been a healing journey for me. I learned so much about how to battle diseases and how to get help from your mind and spirit. I have been blessed to have found the right people for what my body and mind needed to heal.

Actually, my biggest challenge was not the recurrence of breast cancer, it was the fear of losing everything to an unfortunate divorce a couple of years ago. But again, I had the most amazing support from friends and family. I have to say that my horses did the most work in saving their breeding program. When I have problems—I like to call them challenges now—I go for a walk behind our farm and climb a steep mountain that overlooks a large part of our pastures. I would thank every day the universe, God, my angels, or whoever was there at the moment, for allowing me to spend the rest of my life together with my horses on the farm that is the home for my horses, my family and me. The horses did their part; they truly came through for me!

Who are your angels? I have to say that I am very blessed with many wonderful people in my life. They form a nice circle of love, security and support around me and my family. Then every once in a while, the

*Estopa and I had a very special bond. This mare was like no other mare I have ever known. Her spirit and fire were beyond description. She was my everything, she taught me to be a horse breeder and have a very deep connection with another being.

WOMEN AROUND THE WORLD

universe sends you an angel. Mine came in the form of my wonderful friend Diane Brown. Very rarely have I met such a sweet, caring and supportive being who is there for me in my darkest and my most joyful hour.

There is nothing we cannot ask of her and she always gives more than she needs to of herself. Diane bought three geldings from us over the course of the last 12 years and loves them. She is now the proud owner of a gorgeous three year old daughter of Om El Shahmaan named Om El Beshayer out of the beautiful Om El Beladeena and a yearling colt named Om El Brenden she will show at the Scottsdale Signature Auction class.

Quote in my angel calendar today: “How many angels are there? One, who transforms our life, is plenty.”

—Traditional saying.

Then my daughter, Janina, gave me my grandson, Luca. He also has this very special aura about him.

He is the happiest baby I have ever known. I can already see that he loves the horses also!

Please tell us about creating a gravesite for *El Shaklan this year on your property. Part of my healing journey this year was that a friend suggested for me to finalize my mourning in the loss of *El Shaklan. He believed that this loss had something to do in getting me sick nine years ago and again last year. We prepared a gravesite for *El Shaklan at a prominent spot and Janina and I gave him a beautiful ceremony.

We burned his picture and spread the ashes over his grave. (*El Shaklan is really buried in Argentina, but with Federico’s passing, who knows whether his grave and his memory will be respected). This gave me final closure and I feel very good about my stallion. I know that he belongs again to me.

Please tell us what surviving year after year, generation after generation as a breeder has been like for you. My life has been an amazing journey. They say that I have survived more battles and challenges than the average person.

I have learned so much from each How would you like to be Sigi with her beloved creation *El Shaklan. and every challenge and feel much remembered as part of the stronger and so much happier fabric of the Arabian breed? I because of these! My breeding program has had several do not need to be remembered as part of the fabric different chapters and when one ended it usually ended of the Arabian breed. However, I hope that the Om with huge, momentarily insurmountable tasks! Then El Arab horses have contributed to the improvement one has to just look into the future and know it will and advancement in our beloved breed. It is ever work out in the best outcome! I have learned how evolving and changing and I have tried to stay true to to trust and let go. This attitude might come with what I feel is the original Arabian type: quality and experience and time. It is so true that every obstacle disposition. I have always tried to produce horses for and challenge I had ended in my best interest. Of my own taste and liking. It is very fortunate and, of course, being with my horses and my amazing family course, very rewarding that they stayed competitive and friends saved my life many times over! I just have now for almost five decades. to spend some time with my horses, and know then that they will always be here for me.

If you could bring four horses back to life, two of yours and two belonging to others, who would they What is it like being a grandmother? I love being be and why? Two horses from others: *Morafic and a grandmother! First, my son Benni gave me this Nazeer—I would love to breed to these two. You wonderful spirit, Sophia. I believe that she is a very already know my answer to my two horses: *Estopa old soul. Sophie and I have a special bond—she and *El Shaklan. *Estopa has a stone on her gravesite inherited the passion for horses. I just love it when that says, “If tears could build a stairway and she is in front of her favorite mare Om El Bashara memory a lane, I would walk right up to heaven and Estopa and tells her, “Bashara, you are sooo beautiful!” bring you home again!” ■

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FROM YOUR PERSPECTIVE An Inter view With

M U R I LO

K A M M E R

by Jeff Wallace

There are rumors of you moving to Europe. Is this true and if yes why? I would love to, but there are two pending issues in my life that do not allow me to move; my 13 year old divorce and my 90 year old mother. Both require my continuous presence in Brazil.

If I manage to outlive them both, then this will happen.

Horses are going to Europe in anticipation, one by one.

To stay away from political and economic issues, I will just mention the horse-related issues of why I want to move.

• Brazil has lost all the comparative advantage in horse breeding. Horse feed costs as much in Brazil as in Europe, if not more. Labor, that was a major advantage—still costs less—but because of a less qualified workforce and populist labor laws dating from the 1950’s (that make an employer guilty unless proven innocent, which is, of course, impossible), it evens up things. Also, it is necessary to double the labor budget to guarantee the security of staff and horses.

• The inability of the government to enforce health safety standards makes it a nightmare to export horses.

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• Strictly on the Arabian horse front, if you want to breed to a high quality stallion, you either have to import frozen semen or the stallion itself.

There is no risk someone else will do it. Buying a quality stallion is out of reach for most Brazilians, and people who have the resources are not willing to make the move. The few who do, are met by a barrage of criticism by the rank and file of backwardness until the horse is converted to pulp.

• Finally, as a kind of sour icing on the cake, Brazil has the most expensive Arabian Stud Book in the world, not by some percentage points, but by some fold.

Who are the most significant breeders in Europe today? Although there are many European breeders who I admire, I have to say that from active breeders today, Karl Heinz Stöckle and Christine Jamar. Heinz has been successful over a long period of time, for his ability to foresee the greatness of Kubinec. His program has provided a number of the breed’s best show horses and some of my favorites, like El Sid, and has helped to build the reputation of several stallions who stood at his farm and are now international superstars, like WH Justice, Al Lahab, Maraaj and Ajman Moniscione.

Christine started from humble beginnings, not with Poland’s best, but her ability to envisage the greatness of Ekstern (before anybody else, I suppose), the use of Ararat’s blood through Extreme, and later of QR Marc and his son Emerald J, have catapulted her program to the very top.

Did you import an ASB stallion to Brazil at one time? What happened with him? I did about ten years ago. English classes in Brazil have always been way below par, a real mockery of the discipline.

How do you feel about Borsalino K going to Poland? Talk a little about him as a sire. It was with a humble and happy heart that I heard of Director Trela’s interest in taking Borsalino to Janów. What an opportunity for any stallion, let alone for an 18-yearold horse bred by a small breeder from Brazil! What a tremendous reward for a breeder who had the luck to be the caretaker of the incomparable Varian-bred mare Keepsake V in the later years of her life. I got a message today from an American breeder that I admire immensely, and I will quote straight from her text: “Borsalino is a horse that resembles his history, yet also portrays the modern qualities necessary to produce relevant show and breeding horses.” Thank you, Erin Naas, I could not possibly put it any better.

What are your thoughts on the Ajman program and how have your horses had inf luence there. Ajman Stud has the most fantastic collection of mares in the world and a strong focus on breeding. The stud spares no effort to search and buy the best available stock.

Year after year, they bring high quality homebred stock to the major shows, and I have been delighted to be able to judge some of them and to visit their fabulous farm. The link between Ajman’s program and mine comes from the mare Felicia, a daughter of Shael Dream Desert and my homebred Camelia K,

by Donatello K (Encore Ali x Liberty Bey C) out of Cameo Bey (Bey Shah x Tsylvestra, by Tsatyr), that I bought from Beverly Page at the age of sixteen.

Felicia was purchased at the young age of six months, and became very successful for Ajman Stud in the show ring, winning the Las Vegas Breeders World Cup, among others. Her first foal was AJ Mardan,

by Vervaldee, also a recurrent winner in major shows around the globe, and Ajman Stud’s up and coming young stallion. A horse of striking looks, size and

Christine Jamar and Murilo Kammer.

Christine started from humble beginnings, not with Poland’s best, but her ability to envisage the greatness of Ekstern (before anybody else, I suppose), the use of Ararat’s blood through Extreme, and later of QR Marc and his son Emerald J, have catapulted her program to the very top.

charisma, I hear the stud is very pleased with his first foals. I had the privilege to see the weanling grey daughter of superstar Emandoria, and she is delightful. Hopefully, the blood of my foundation mares Liberty Bey C and Cameo Bey will be ubiquitous at Ajman Stud in the future.

Volume 45, No. 8 | 135

Talk to me a little about current day Brazil and how it fits in the breed on a global level today. Brazil counts a good number of enthusiastic breeders who try their best, some without enough knowledge of the market, some falling prey to advisers who do not know better, some succeeding and soldiering on.

Because of those, Brazil will produce a number of horses good enough to compete in major shows around the world for the years to come.

Borsalino K at Alzobair Stud in the UAE.

It was with a humble and happy heart that I heard of Director Trela’s interest in taking Borsalino to Janów.

What an opportunity for any stallion, let alone for an 18-year-old horse bred by a small breeder from Brazil!

136 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

When did you first see Brazil become a significant part of the global market?

If I can pick a moment when Brazil became a force to be reckoned with in the Arabian horse world, it was when El Shaklan was imported. That was a serious step and a serious horse. Although El Shaklan’s ulterior inf luence in Brazil can be disputed, the symbolism of this horse’s arrival was certainly a turning point in the hearts and minds of Brazilian breeders. However, the real improvement in quality happened a few years later, when large numbers of high quality stock were imported due to the crisis in the American market generated by Reagan’s government tax reform.

Who were the original foundation stallions in Brazil and are they still important today? From the old days, I would say that Prichal (Aswan x Palmira, by Salon), Sahibi (El Paso x Wind Charm, by Fire Wind) and Delmar (Marsianin x Love Melody, by Aladdinn) are the ones still to be found in many pedigrees. El Shaklan suffered an acute bias against his get in the show ring, as they could not beat the ugly mongrels with long necks. As it happened, most of his lovely daughters got sold elsewhere, in which group I hate to include my lovely Shadra NA (out of Hal Sheena NA,

by Hal Gibby), who could not win a show here but was European Champion mare the year after she was sold to Halsdon Arabians. Then comes Ali Jamaal, rejected is his first few years by the “Aladdinn freaks.” a vociferous group in those days. Then, there were the days when there was almost too much of Ali Jamaal, when every horse with his blood instantly became

FROM YOUR PERSPECTIVE

stallion material, with foreseeable consequences. His blood is certainly quite widespread in Brazil (in my particular case, almost 100% of my horses have Ali Jamaal blood), and one wonders how much more inf luential he could have been, had his owner allowed more breedings to a different cross section of mares.

Some of the most inf luential stallions in Brazilian pedigrees never set hooves on Brazilian soil. Aladdinn had several sons and a few daughters imported, Bey Shah had several daughters and a few sons, and most modern pedigrees here carry those bloodlines.

What stallions have worked best in your opinion with the blood of Ali Jamaal? I don’t think I have a proper answer for that one. With Ali Jamaal-owned daughters I think there is limited experience outside of Haras Meia Lua. I owned two of the most delightful Ali Jamaal daughters ever, Miss El Jamaal (out of Bint Mokhema, by El Hilal out of a Khemosabi daughter) and Scarlet K (out of AD Bey Elegance, by Bey Shah out of a Tornado daughter). Unfortunately, both mares died at a young age and I had very limited production from them.

Ferdinand Huemer was very successful in breeding his El Shaklan son El Brillo to Ali Jamaal daughters. Mares by Ali Jamaal sons or grandsons are quite a different kettle of fish. There are so many different types around and I find it difficult to generalize. Urban legend says Marwan blood crosses well with Ali Jamaal blood. I have seen a few nice crosses to Ludjin daughters (Abha Qatar, ZT Marwteyn), several to Magic Dream daughters (of which QR Marc stands out), by Marwan sons out of Ali Jamaal daughters and granddaughters (of which Marcaaysa FA is my favorite).

When did the transition begin to Brazil using European stallions? In the old days, several stallions born in Europe came to this country. Abbas Pasha, St Simon and Gem Light from England, Dewajtis, Wist and Ibn Bandos from Poland, Prichal from Russia. The Saliba family brought a number of stallions

from Poland as did Dr. Diniz when he bought Palas.

Apart from those, most stallions in the last 20 to 25 years came from the USA. In 2002, I brought El Nabila B from Hungary, and the reception was mixed, to say the least. Very few breeders were enthusiastic about the move. Most people were more anxious to criticize than to recognize the unequivocal qualities of the stallion. History speaks for itself. He went on to become U.S. National Champion Stallion and a superstar breeding stud in his own right. With Shael Dream Desert the same happened. Even some of the partners who brought the horse openly criticized him. I dare saying Shael has been the greatest success story in recent history in this country, with a World Champion filly (Shaela) and a Las Vegas Champion filly (Felicia) under his belt, as well as being undeniably a world class broodmare sire, D Shala and AJ Mardan being living proof of that. Of late, the recognition of WH Justice’s success as a sire and the entrance of breeders with a broader market perception

Watching horses under the Brazilian sun with longtime friend and breeder, Salim Mattar.

Volume 45, No. 8 | 137

come to the farm, are put back into proper health and f lying condition and then released into the wild.

From my times as a breeder of exotic and rare birds, I learned a lesson that applies exactly to horse breeding: the inevitability of Murphy’s Law, particularly when applied to the rarest and the best.

At the Las Vegas Gala Dinner with Pamela Moell, James Swanepoel and Christel Sys.

What are your thoughts on the Las Vegas Breeders Cup show? The Las Vegas show is one of my favorites, never missed one and hope to continue this little personal tradition.

I love the judging system with six categories, the best one in my opinion, although I would still like to see the championships decided with the old “sequential elimination” system that was abandoned at U.S. Nationals, for the sole reason that this system gives no arbitrary values to the placings of the horses. I like the fact that this is a show run by breeders and for breeders—unfortunately, one of a very few in the USA.

Discuss being an owner of a mare like WN Fawn Obsession and a breeder of a mare like Robin K. Being the breeder of Robin K is a combination of beginner’s luck World, All Nations Cup and Dubai Champion Robin K (CG Balih el Jamaal x Sweet Gypsy Rose, by Emperator and out of NV Gypsy Wind). and good sense. I made more good purchases than bad ones over time. (like Haras Cruzeiro, that brought a few stallions from I bought the granddam of Robin carrying her dam, Europe) accelerated the move. But I still think that so all honors go to Michael Byatt, who did the European stallions are still too few in this country. breeding. I bought Balih El Jamaal when he was three. I loved him the moment I saw him; still love What did you learn through breeding exotic birds him today at 24. Old fashioned for this day, but a that you could in turn apply to horse breeding? I great horse, nevertheless. Robin was the third foal of used to have a large collection of parrots from all over Balih’s first foal crop. the world. No longer. I came to the conclusion that it is better to help recover Brazilian wildlife than breed Buying WN Fawn Obsession was a result of a Godexotic animals. Today I have, in partnership with the given good eye and quick decision making. Took 45 Ministry of the Environment and a non-governmental seconds to do the deal. Although, in this particular organization, a release center for birds that are illegally case, not much was required from the good eye, trapped and are recovered by the authorities. They such was the overwhelming quality and breathtaking 138 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

FROM YOUR PERSPECTIVE

beauty of that mare, even in pasture condition and in pouring Las Vegas rain.

These mares graced my life for several years, and I am forever grateful for the moments of joy I had with them.

When you hear the names Gazal Al Shaqab and Marwan Al Shaqab, what instantly comes to mind? When I hear the name Gazal Al Shaqab, what comes to mind is what could have been. When the Gucci herd was dispersed, I was led to believe I was in a very good position to buy Shateyna, Amber Silk, Pikieta and Kajora. As it happened, they ended up in different hands. With hindsight, very good for the breed. For me, although I had the chance to buy Shateyna and Pikieta later, this was a very frustrating event. I am still planning to drown someone for this. Repeatedly.

From my times as a breeder of exotic and rare birds, I learned a lesson that applies exactly to horse breeding: the inevitability of Murphy’s Law, particularly when applied to the rarest and the best.

Feel the same about Marwan. Unfortunately, my ugly divorce started the same year Marwan was World Champion Colt. I loved him then, and like everybody else, I love his progeny now, but never used him. My first Marwan foal is due in 2015.

How did you get into Arabian horses? When, where and why? I had warmbloods of German extraction before, but I have always been fascinated with Arabians. In 1991 I met someone who offered me a mare standing at Michael Byatt’s, just north of Atlanta in those days. A trip was arranged and I was introduced to NV Gypsy Wind, by Bey Shah out of Afrodite, by Aladdin. My life has never been the same. She lived on my farm until the grand old age of 24, and has been the most successful dam line in my program, including her granddaughter, World Champion mare Robin K.

Socializing with celebrities in Belgium!

If you could resurrect two deceased horses who would they be? I would like to resurrect three, if I could. The thought of having Keepsake V, Liberty Bey C and NV Gypsy Wind grazing together in my pastures again is irresistible. Lastly, it would be Alihana El Jamaal to make my dear friend Lucy Whittier happy.

What gratification do you get from judging today, and name one of your favorite judging moments. I started judging late in life, when I retired from investment banking. I have not been judging for a

Discussing horses with Christiane Chazel in Qatar.

Volume 45, No. 8 | 139

long time, but have been fortunate to be invited to almost every major show in Europe. For someone who loves the Arabian horse and tries to understand how the breed is evolving, there is no better place to be than in the show ring in a major show. It is like, I suppose, watching a basketball game from inside the court or an opera from the stage. Judging a major championship with some of the best horses on the planet in the ring is an intoxicating experience that seems to drag you away from reality into a world where you can see only the horses. I remember walking back after judging the mare championship in my first major show in Las Vegas and being smitten by the beauty of those mares. I candidly told my much more experienced colleagues, “I want to do this for the rest of my life.”

I have had several fantastic moments in the show ring, but I have to single out judging Pianissima in her very last show for the Platinum Championship in Paris 2013.

Discuss your thoughts/opinions of the following Paris winners: • Kahil Al Shaqab • Najdah Al Zobair • Donna Molta Bella SRA • Pustynia Kahila • Ghazwan Aljassimya • Excalibur EA As always, this year’s World Championships produced a stellar group of female winners. I did not see Pustynia Kahila showing in Poland, but I

*NV Gypsy Wind, maternal grand-dam to World Champion Mare Robin K.

140 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

FROM YOUR PERSPECTIVE

saw her in Aachen and judged her in the European Championships. After getting a couple of silver medals in those shows, she came back to beat the also wonderful AJ Sawari for the Paris gold. Kahila is an incredibly elegant filly that resembles very much her sire Kahil Al Shaqab at the same age. Being out of an Ekstern daughter, that extra sparkle and willingness to show is also there. It will be intriguing so see how this filly develops into a mare in the years to come.

Donna Molta Bella is exactly what her name says, a very beautiful girl. When I first saw her, coming into the ring in Las Vegas, I said, ‘this is a World Champion filly, if ever I saw one.’ She has the same conformation and elegance as her wonderful dam RD Fabreanna, but was graced with a beautiful head, particularly gorgeous eyes and incredible femininity.

No prizes for guessing we will see a lot more of her in the future.

Najdah Al Zobair has been a favorite of mine, from the moment I saw her as a yearling in Aachen until last time I judged her at Menton 2014. Before her, I loved her dam JFN Bint Ludhan, that I saw winning as a yearling in Argentina, and her success in the breeding barn is a tribute to AB Magnum’s capacity as a broodmare sire. A petite and feminine mare, Najdah exhilarates when she stands up. Her double Gamaar heritage shines through her beautiful eyes, and her Marwan Al Shaqab through her great neck set and perfect throatlatch. A feast for the eyes!

Murillo, when I say the words, Polish Breeding program, what instantly comes to mind for you? The greatest route mare lines of any program throughout the history of this breed coupled with very smart stallion choices throughout the generations. They are truly master breeders.

Tell me how you have seen the Middle East market affect the breed in general and even possibly the current day make-and-shape of the Arabian horse. As it happens with all domesticated animals, horses are what we want them to be. Throughout history, horses have been used in large numbers as instruments of war, transportation and work, and have fallen into disuse after the realization that they could not compete with tanks, automobiles and tractors. In the 20th century, several breeds became obsolete,

Having fun in Paris.

and focus reverted to horses that could provide some sort of satisfaction to man, from paso horses to show jumpers. Arabians are no different. There are scores of reasons for keeping Arabian horses, most of which are perfectly legitimate: for the preservation of one’s heritage or of some particular bloodlines, for the pleasure to own, ride or compete in racing, endurance, halter or performance; for aesthetic enjoyment, for profit, for vanity, just to mention some. If you are one of those, and you hope to sell your horses somewhere, than you should understand what are the driving forces of the market. For the halter horse as we know it, the main driving forces for quite some time and for the foreseeable future are the demand and sponsorship Volume 45, No. 8 | 141

FROM YOUR PERSPECTIVE

A view of Haras Aratinga’s beautiful garden.

Perfect type is not a fixed concept, but a moving target. It moves away from us as we approach it. Many horses that were the quintessence of type 20 or 30 years ago, could not compete in today´s show ring. from Middle Eastern countries. As we know, the prevailing required trait in those countries and in most European and Middle Eastern shows is type, as defined by beauty, charisma and show attitude. Has this led to 142 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

a perfect Arabian horse? By no means, but I have to say that horses with beautiful heads and bad necks and bodies have a lot more difficulty winning today than 10 years ago. Also, it is getting increasingly more difficult to see horses with really bad legs in the major shows.

In Brazil, that for many years used a different system, there are so many horses (and champions, I hasten to say) with such bad legs that they cannot even walk around the ring without stumbling.

Have we had horses with bad shoulders, bodies, tails, and to my great frustration, eyes and ears? Absolutely, but I am sure they will not win in the future.

Perfect type is not a fixed concept, but a moving target. It moves away from us as we approach it. Many horses that were the quintessence of type 20 or 30 years ago, could not compete in today´s show ring.

In another 20 years, the show horses will be freaks compared to today’s horses. ■

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Letter From The President

T

he AEPA had another successful year in 2014. Our classes at the U.S. Nationals were once again the highlight of the show. The AEPA is committed to the Arabian English performance horse. We are striving to make the program ever better, and next year we will add our Amateur Owner Country Maturity at the Buckeye.

Freedmans was welcomed as a new corporate sponsor. They bring quality, innovation, and a sense of tradition, which are the same values that the AEPA is building. Recognizing the tremendous accomplishment of a Top Ten in the AEPA Arabian Horse Times Futurity, Freedmans rewards each of them with a beautiful commemorative vest. Additionally, we hold an in-the-ring live random drawing and one Top Ten winner receives a Freedmans World Cup Super Grip saddle, which is the official saddle of the AEPA. Thank you, David Freedman and Nicole Laver, for your commitment and support.

Buckeye 2015 will debut the AEPA Strawberry Banks Country English Maturity. The class will pay out $20,000.00 in prize money and is open to all 5- and 6-year-old horses that were sired by AEPA stallions (stallions must have been enrolled in the breeding year). This is an amateur owner

class for Country English Pleasure horses. Complete rules and class specifications will be posted on the AEPA website. Thank you, Strawberry Banks Farm and Barbara Chur, for your ongoing support.

The online stallion services auction will be held from January 23rd through February 1st. This is the primary funding for the AEPA, so please get involved and bid.

Remember that auction breeding horses are eligible for an extra 25% in prize money at the Nationals!

We will also auction four stallion breedings at the Readers’ Choice Awards in Scottsdale in conjunction with the Horsemen’s Distress Fund.

Thanks also, to the Arabian Horse Times and the Ames family, and to Halcon Furniture for your continued sponsorships.

The AEPA was created to serve breeders and to promote the Arabian English Performance horse.

Everyone is welcome. Get involved, breed wonderful horses, enjoy the competition, and have these horses in your life.

-Peter Conway AEPA President

WWW.ARABIANENGLISHPERFORMANCEASSOCIATION.COM Volume 45, No. 8 | A.E.P.A. Futurity 27

Arabian English PErformance Association

A Noble Cause (deceased) (IXL Noble Express x Sweet Summer Fire)

Amheirican Made (Afires Heir x Matterial Girl)

Black Daniels

Aregal Heir TRGR (Afires Heir x LA Athena)

Apaladin

(AA Apollo Bey x Amanda of Aerie)

Can Gogh

A Temptation (Tempter x A Love Song)

Baske Afire

(Afire Bey V x Mac Baske)

Candeman

(IXL Noble Express x Victoria Bay)

(Zodiac Matador x Prides Princess)

(Apollopalooza x Starkhana)

Comoshun

CSP Barbancourt

CSP Grand Caymon

(Promotion x Cognette)

(Mamage x CSP Angelfire)

(Mamage x JJ Sioux Hope)

Afire N Flames CB (Baske Afire x Ghreta)

Baskghazi

Afires Heir (Afire Bey V x Brassmis)

Bel Aire V

(Baske Afire x RY Fire Ghazi)

(Bask Afire x Balquelotta V)

Coltrane SS

Come To Poppa

(IXL Noble Express x Brassmis)

Dheir

(Afires Heir x MA Ghazta Trot)

(JR Maximilian x Pheobe Afire)

DS Mick Jagger (Matoi x JJ Sioux Hope)

WWW.ARABIANENGLISHPERFORMANCEASSOCIATION.COM 28 A.E.P.A. Futurity | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

2015 Enrolled Stallions

EF Moonshine (Vegaz x Tainted Luv)

GSF Rizing Son (Apollopalooza x PWA Tusea)

Emperor of Anza

(Apollopalooza x DA Atlantique)

H Mobility H

HA Toskcan Sun

(MHR Nobility x RY Fire Ghazi)

(MHR Nobility x RY Fire Ghazi)

(Hucks Premier V x Crystal Lace)

Nobilistic BF

(Baske Afire x Matoska)

IXL Noble Express

Hucks Connection V

(MHR Nobility x Love Of Wisdom)

Entouragze

(Anza Padron x Empress of Bask)

Noble Way

(IXL Noble Express x Chamorrita Afire)

Pioneer Express

(IXL Noble Express x Pioneer Rhythm)

Fire and Goldd

Gitar MF

(Afire Bey V x Brassmis)

(Afire Bey V x Gitara PASB)

Harlei

Hey Hallelujah (deceased)

Mamage

Man About Vegaz VA

Prosuasion

Proximus CA

(Baske Afire x Heavenlei)

(Zodiac Matador x CF Fire Magic)

(Huckleberry Bey x Hallelujah Bask)

(SF Specs Shocwave x MZ Kitty)

(Vegaz x Moonbeam DGL)

(Afire Bey V x DA Triffire)

WWW.ARABIANENGLISHPERFORMANCEASSOCIATION.COM Volume 45, No. 8 | A.E.P.A. Futurity 29

Arabian English PErformance Association

QH Serengeti

(Black Daniels x My Love Song)

SHF Encore

(Apollopalooza x SMS Forever Bay)

VCP Magnifire (Afire Bey V x RY Fire Ghazi)

ROL Divine Style (Afire Bey V x IXL Miss Firefly)

TC Miyake

Saxton DGL

(Afires Heir x Sweet Summer Fire)

The Capitalist

SF Aftershoc

(SF Specs Shocwave x SF Sweet Elegance)

The Renaissance (ML Afire Dream x Fire Essense)

(Zodiac Matador x Miss Cognac)

(SF Specs Shocwave x CP Madison)

Vegaz

VJ Heir Apostle (Afires Heir x MA Ghazta Trot)

(Afires Heir x MA Ghazta Trot)

Majesteit

Nutcracker’s Nirvana

Undulata’s Nutcracker

(Apollopalooza x SMS Forever Bay)

SF Specs Shocwave (Afire Bey V x Spectra PR)

Thunder Struck LR (SF Specs Shocwave x Berre Striking)

VJ Royal Heir

ASB & DHH Enrolled Sires

(DHH) (Immigrant x Henriette)

(ASB) (Undulata’s Nutcracker x Kingwood’s Harlem Harlem)

(ASB) (CH Caramac x Christmas In New York ERB)

WWW.ARABIANENGLISHPERFORMANCEASSOCIATION.COM 30 A.E.P.A. Futurity | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

Over $155,000

in prize money was paid in 2014! $10,000 BUCKEYE AEPA YEARLING IN-HAND

2014 CHAMPION

ELEESA LR

(Tryst CCF x BA Inspiration) Ex: Jaime Nutter, B/O: Lindsay Rinehart

$100,000 ARABIAN HORSE TIMES ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY

2014 CHAMPION

NOBLE FFYRE

(IXL Noble Express x Foxy Afire) Ex: Joel Kiesner, O: Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc.

www.ahtimes.com

$50,000 HALCON FURNITURE HALF-ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY

2014 CHAMPION

DAVINCI REFLECTION WA

(SF Aftershoc x The Davinci Code) Ex: James Stachowski, O: Whispers Acres, Inc.

www.halconcorp.com

HARNESS & SADDLERY

saddle & Top Ten Vest sponsor

Breed to an A.E.P.A. Nominated Stallion and get in on the ACTION! WWW.ARABIANENGLISHPERFORMANCEASSOCIATION.COM Volume 45, No. 8 | A.E.P.A. Futurity 31

THE ARABIAN ENGLISH PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION

FUTURITIES

Innovation Breeds Change

by Kara Larson

Everything that the Arabian English Performance Association (AEPA) aims to accomplish resides in their bright and unassuming vision for the future. Their vision reads: “We are at a time in our breed that the future can be shaped. Our future can be whatever we dream it to be.

Envision a future that has new owners enthusiastically breeding, buying, and showing Arabian English horses.

Huge prize money will generate publicity, add interest, and attract new participants. The judging will be transparent, the results traceable. Most importantly, people will brag to friends and strangers about our wonderful Arabian horses and the exciting things they do with them.”

With the dream of carrying out this bold vision, the AEPA has set up the following six opportunities to alter the current and future Arabian English performance horse for the better.

1. Created a Futurity class for 4-year-old purebred Arabians that pays the most prize money ever in an Arabian class ($100,000.00).

2. Created a Futurity class for 4-year-old HalfArabians that pays ($50,000.00).

3. Created a Purebred Country English Pleasure AOTR Maturity Class for 5- to 6-year-olds, that pays $20,000.

4. Developed a judging system that gives numeric scores for the performance of an English horse compared against a standard (n/a to Buckeye Maturity class), and numeric scores for the evaluation of specific attributes in yearlings against standards.

5. Included in all of the classes are individual performances so each horse can be properly evaluated.

6. Set into place an organization and fund-raising system that will insure the integrity and longevity of the Futurity beyond the involvement of the founders.

32 A.E.P.A. Futurity | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

A Brief History

With three AEPA futurities to choose from, which include Arabian and Half-Arabian saddle seat performance competitions for 4-year-olds and a Country English Maturity premiering at the Buckeye this year, the AEPA got its start in 2007 at the Scottsdale show.

The Arabian performance event came first, and in 2012, a Half-Arabian division was added and they both made their debut at U.S. Nationals.

From the beginning, the futurities have been innovative.

In the aspect of judging, the system requires numeric scores comparing a horse’s performance to an English performance standard. This provides transparency and a way for the viewing public to understand better, the requirements and talents of the English disciplines.

The structure and format of the performance classes also provides a unique exhibition of English talent. The classes are divided into two phases—the first requires each entry to perform individually, executing a pre-determined pattern that displays English ability. The top ten horses are selected from this phase and those ten move on to the second phase, which consists of a normal rail class.

How is the Stallion Service Auction beneficial?

The AEPA Stallion Service Auction began in 2007. All horses participating in any AEPA class must be sired by AEPA enrolled stallions. Any stallion may be enrolled, and all enrolled stallions must participate in the Stallion Service auction (with the special exception of deceased stallions with frozen semen which may choose to enroll for a $1,000.00 fee). All (100%) of the proceeds from the Stallion Service Auction are retained for prize money payouts.

AEPA FuturitiEs

The website adds, “The AEPA strongly encourages owners to enroll their stallions in the program. The donation of that one breeding to the Stallion Service Auction makes every foal from mares bred that year eligible for AEPA classes. The opportunity to compete for significant prize money as 4-year-olds, and Purebreds again as 5- to 6-year-olds, greatly enhances the value and marketing opportunities for all foals sired by enrolled stallions. All foals of enrolled stallions are eligible to compete in the 4-year-old futurity and Purebreds in the 5- to 6-year-old maturity.”

How is the AEPA class at U.S. Nationals changing the game?

The AEPA manifesto illustrates the history of the Arabian English horse, what the division looks like at present, and how they hope to impact the division in the future. The manifest reads, “The history of the English Pleasure division has been one of constant change, with the standard being set by outstanding individuals that have become national champions. As history has shown, the first improvements that led to victory were head and neck carriage changes. Those horses that developed relatively more upright necks with the plane of the forehead being more or less vertical evolved to be the winners. The differentiation between first and second places was the grace and ease that each horse displayed while wearing the bridle in this manner. The winner was lighter in the bridle and brighter. The class was simply a saddle seat class that was defined by manners and presentation.”

The manifesto continues to explain that within a few years, more than just one or two horses started carrying and maintaining the higher frame and motion. This is also when the style of that motion became important and controversial. The flatter, stiffer, foot flinging motion that was defined as “Arabian” style gave way to rounder, more graceful motion.

And in the current stage of evolution for the division, the manifesto offers, “Presently, the class has evolved to the point that, while the frame and style are very important, the elite of the English Pleasure competitors are producing even more motion, sometimes at the expense of lightness in the bridle, exquisite timing

and finesse. More importantly, the elite are setting a standard that has become difficult, if not impossible, for lesser gifted horses to emulate without falling apart and abandoning the signature criteria that defines English Pleasure and separates the class from Park.”

From this current state, the AEPA was inspired to create a specific scoring system for this Arabian English Futurity class. The scoring system accounts for cadence, delivery, responsiveness, expression, manners, quality and Arabian English type. The elements to be scored are grouped into 4 main categories. They are Movement, Carriage, Mental Aptitude, and Quality.

From here, there are subcategories to rate front movement, hind movement, cadence/overall delivery and head and neck, and body responsiveness, expression, and manners.

The manifesto concludes, “The format for this system of judging an Arabian English horse is unique, as is the performance class that it is intended for. Within the entire concept, including the design of the elimination round, the final class, and weighting the categories, the premise is that the actual talent and potential of the horse is being judged, and not the training they received. This is not a “training” class. It is a futurity to reward the breeding and athletic ability of fine horses suitable for this division. It is conceivable, however, that this structure of presentation and scoring system will impact the training for this division as the future unfolds.”

What does it all mean?

Bottom line, the Arabian English Performance Association has set out to make change for the Arabian horse. Their website boasts a well-thought and concise manifesto, a new “Marketplace” tab that features breeding stock, show horses, prospects, and other stallion services, tips on increasing your exposure and getting involved with the Stallion Auction, and a very impressive Enrolled Sire list. Their goals are big and their means are enlightening because for the AEPA, their ultimate vision is in the building of a community of informed, passionate, and progressive Arabian English owners, riders, and breeders for the future of this great horse.■

Volume 45, No. 8 | A.E.P.A. Futurity 33

THE 2007-2014 ARABIAN ENGLISH PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION’S

Arabian and Half-Arabian Saddle Seat, and Yearling In-Hand Futurities To date, since 2008, the Yearling In-Hand program has paid out $124,000, and since 2007, the Saddle Seat Futurity Program has paid out over $968,000!

ALMOST ONE MILLION DOLLARS!

AEPA Top Ten Money Earners BRAVE AND NOBLE – Champion - $40,000

HEIRS NOBLE LOVE – Champion - $30,000

ROL FIRE MIST – Champion - $40,000

NOBLE FFYRE – Champion - $30,000

SF AFTERSHOC – Champion - $40,000

NOBLE EMPRESS – $22,000 Reserve ($20,000) and 3rd ($2,000)

2008 ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE FUTURITY CLASSIC AT SCOTTSDALE Sire: IXL Noble Express, O: Marty Shea, Trainer: Joel Kiesner, Breeder: Marty Shea 2010 ARABIAN PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION SADDLE SEAT PLEASURE FUTURITY Sire: Baske Afire, O: Strawberry Banks Farm, Trainer: Brian Murch, Breeder: R O Lervick Arabians 2009 ARABIAN PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION SADDLE SEAT PLEASURE FUTURITY Sire: SF Specs Shocwave, O: Alicia Guzman Pace, Trainer: Peter Stachowski, Breeder: Alicia Guzman Pace

SIN CITY – Champion - $40,000

2007 ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE FUTURITY CLASSIC AT SCOTTSDALE Sire: Baske Afire, O: Joseph Kinnarney, Trainer: Joel Kiesner, Breeder: Venture Farms, Inc.

BEL HEIR LR – Champion - $30,000

2012 AEPA $100,000 ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY Sire: Afires Heir, O: William Blankenship, Trainer: Joel Kiesner, Breeder: Lindsay Rinehart

CP SHENANIGAN – Champion - $30,000

2011 ARABIAN PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION SADDLE SEAT PLEASURE FUTURITY Sire: Anza Padron, O: Katherine Kirby, Trainer: James Stachowski, Breeder: California State Polytechnic Univ.

34 A.E.P.A. Futurity | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

2013 AEPA AHT $100,000 ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY Sire: Afires Heir, O: T. Karlton Jackson, Trainer: Joel Kiesner, Breeder: T. Karlton Jackson 2014 AEPA AHT $100,000 ARABIAN FUTURITY Sire: IXL Noble Express, T: Joel Kiesner, O/B: Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc.

2008 ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE FUTURITY CLASSIC AT SCOTTSDALE Sire: IXL Noble Express, O: Todd Peterson, Trainer: Shawn Rooker, Breeder: Maroon Fire Arabians 2009 ARABIAN PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION SADDLE SEAT PLEASURE MATURITY ATR O: Kellie Frye, Trainer: Kellie Frye

SOMMELIER – Reserve - $20,000

2007 ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE FUTURITY CLASSIC AT SCOTTSDALE Sire: Baske Afire, O: Elvin Berkheimer, Trainer: James Stachowski, Breeder: Windabrae Farm

TOP BRASS CRF – Reserve - $20,000

2010 ARABIAN PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION SADDLE SEAT PLEASURE FUTURITY Sire: Brass, O: Cedar Ridge Farm, Trainer: Eric Krichten, Breeder: Cedar Ridge Farm

TURN IT UP – Reserve - $20,000

2009 ARABIAN PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION SADDLE SEAT PLEASURE FUTURITY Sire: Baske Afire, O: Robin Porter, Trainer: Shawn Rooker, Breeder: Shawn and Carmelle Rooker

AEPA FuturitiEs

Baske Afire

IXL Noble Express

by Number of Winners

1. Baske Afire . . . .

2. IXL Noble Express 3. Afires Heir . . . .

4. Afire Bey V . . . .

5. SF Specs Shocwave 6. Apollopalooza . . .

Vegaz . . . . . . .

7. A Temptation . . .

MHR Nobility . .

Noble Way . . . .

Triften . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

by Number of Winners

Afires Heir

AEPA Top Ten Sires

. . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

.30 .24 .15 . 14 . 7 . 5 . 5 . 4 . 4 . 4 . 4

1. Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc.. . . 11 2. Conway Arabians, Inc. . . . . . 9 3. Cedar Ridge Farm . . . . . . . 7 Smoky Mountain Park Arabians 7 Marty Shea . . . . . . . . . . . 7 4. Nick and Juliet Carden . . . . . 6 Lindsay Rinehart . . . . . . . . 6 Prestige Farms LLC . . . . . . 6 Strawberry Banks Farm . . . . . 6 5. Calif. State Polytechnic Univ. . 3 Dolorosa Arabians Ltd. . . . . . 3 Robin Porter. . . . . . . . . . . 3 R.O. Lervick Arabians . . . . . 3 Carmelle Rooker . . . . . . . . 3 Venture Farms, Inc. . . . . . . . 3

by Payout

1. Baske Afire . . . .

2. IXL Noble Express 3. Afires Heir . . . .

4. SF Specs Shocwave 5. Afire Bey V . . . .

6. Apollopalooza . . .

7. Anza Padron . . .

8. Vegaz . . . . . . .

Brass . . . . . . . .

MHR Nobility . .

Triften . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

$254,500 $195,000 $132,750 $67,000 $66,500 $41,500 $35,000 .$25,000 $25,000 $25,000 .$25,000

by Points Champion = 10 pts.,

Reserve = 8 pts., Top Ten = 5 pts.

1. Baske Afire . . . . . . . . .

2. IXL Noble Express . . . . .

3. Afires Heir . . . . . . . . .

4.Afire Bey V . . . . . . . . .

5. SF Specs Shocwave . . . . .

6. Apollopalooza . . . . . . . .

7. Vegaz . . . . . . . . . . . .

8. MHR Nobility . . . . . . .

Noble Way . . . . . . . . .

9. A Temptation . . . . . . . .

Triften . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

185 157 88 79 53 41 33 23 23 20 20

. . . . .

.88 .54 .25 .43 .38

. . . . .

.38 .38 .35 .30 .23

AEPA Top Ten Breeders

by Payout

1. Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc. $99,750 2. Marty Shea . . . . . . . .$64,250 3. R.O. Lervick Arabians . $60,000 4. Nick and Juliet Carden . .$56,500 5. Lindsay Rinehart . . . . .$48,750 6. Venture Farms, Inc. . . . .$47,000 7. Alicia Guzman Pace . . .$45,000 8. Cedar Ridge Farm . . . .$42,500 9. Calif. State Polytechnic Univ. . . . . .$40,500 10. Prestige Farms LLC . . .$38,500

by Points Champion = 10 pts.,

Reserve = 8 pts., Top Ten = 5 pts.

1. Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc..

2. Conway Arabians, Inc. . . .

3. Lindsay Rinehart . . . . . .

4. Nick and Juliet Carden . . .

5. Cedar Ridge Farm . . . . .

Smoky Mountain Park Arabians . . . . . . . .

Marty Shea . . . . . . . . .

6. Prestige Farms LLC . . . .

7. Strawberry Banks Farm . . .

8. R.O. Lervick Arabians . . .

Volume 45, No. 8 | A.E.P.A. Futurity 35

Maroon Fire Arabians - Dave & Gail Liniger, Marty & Tim Shea

Joel Kiesner

Conway Arabians, Inc. - Peter & Lori Conway

AEPA Top Ten Trainers

by Number of Winners 1. Joel Kiesner . . .

2. Shawn Rooker. .

James Stachowski 3. John Diedrich . .

4 Rob Bick . . . . .

Michael Miller .

5. Joel Gangi . . . .

6. Chris Wilson . .

7. Dalton Budd. . .

Jessica Clinton. .

Gabe DeSoto . .

Brian Murch. . .

Gordon Potts . .

Allen Zeller . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

.13 . 9 . 9 . 8 . 7 . 7 . 6 . 5 . 4 . 4 . 4 . 4 . 4 . 4

by Payout

1. Joel Kiesner . . . .

2. James Stachowski .

3. Shawn Rooker. . .

4. Brian Murch . . .

5. Peter Stachowski .

6. Joel Gangi . . . . .

7. Rob Bick. . . . . .

8. Jessica Clinton. . .

9. Gabe DeSoto . . .

10. Gordon Potts. . .

. . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . .

. $220,500 . $116,500 . $110,750 . $57,000 . $45,000 . $40,500 . $28,000 . $27,500 . $26,500 . $23,500

by Points Champion = 10 pts.,

Reserve = 8 pts., Top Ten = 5 pts.

1. Joel Kiesner . . . . . . . . .

2. James Stachowski . . . . . .

3. Shawn Rooker. . . . . . . .

4. John Diedrich . . . . . . . .

5. Michael Miller . . . . . . .

6. Rob Bick . . . . . . . . . .

7. Joel Gangi . . . . . . . . . .

8. Allen Zeller . . . . . . . . .

9. Chris Wilson . . . . . . . .

10. Brian Murch . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . .

.96 .68 . 61 .49 . 41 .40 .33 .30 .28 .25

AEPA Top Ten Owners

by Number of Winners

1. Conway Arabians, Inc. . . .

2. Smoky Mountain Park Arabians . . . . . . . .

3. Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc..

4. Boisvert Farms LLC . . . .

Strawberry Banks Farm . . .

5. Elvin Berkheimer . . . . . .

6. Cedar Ridge Farm . . . . .

Dolorosa Arabians Ltd. . . .

Tracy Dowson . . . . . . . .

Robin Porter. . . . . . . . .

Lindsay Rinehart . . . . . .

. . 11 . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . .

9 7 6 6 4 3 3 3 3 3

by Payout

1. Maroon FireArabians, Inc.$62,750 2. Strawberry Banks Farm. . $61,500 3. Joseph Kinnarney . . . . .$55,000 4. Boisvert Farms LLC . . .$40,500 5. Elvin Berkheimer . . . . $40,000 Alicia Guzman Pace . . $40,000 Marty Shea . . . . . . . $40,000 6. Conway Arabians, Inc. . . $35,750 7. Karlton Jackson . . . . . .$35,000 8. William Blankenship . . .$30,000 Cedar Ridge Farm . . . .$30,000 Katherine Kirby. . . . . .$30,000

36 A.E.P.A. Futurity | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

by Points Champion = 10 pts.,

Reserve = 8 pts., Top Ten = 5 pts.

1. Conway Arabians, Inc. . . .

2. Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc..

3. Smoky Mountain Park Arabians . . . . . . . .

4. Strawberry Banks Farm . . .

5. Boisvert Farms LLC . . . .

6. Elvin Berkheimer . . . . . .

Lindsay Rinehart . . . . . .

7. Robin Porter. . . . . . . . .

8. Nick and Juliet Carden . . .

Tracy Dowson. . . . . . . .

. .64 . .60 . . . . . . . .

.56 .40 .33 .23 .23 .21 .20 .20

CHAMPIONS from the past 2013 $15,000 BUCKEYE AEPA YEARLING IN-HAND

2013 CHAMPION

NOBLE BACHARAH

(IXL Noble Express x Bonita Afire) Ex: Allen Zeller, B/O: Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc.

2013 $100,000 ARABIAN HORSE TIMES ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY

2013 CHAMPION

HEIRS NOBLE LOVE

(Afires Heir x Noble Aphroditie) Ex: Joel Kiesner, O: T. Karlton Jackson

2012 $12,000 AEPA BUCKEYE YEARLING IN-HAND FUTURITY

2012 $100,000 AEPA ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY

2012 CHAMPION

2012 CHAMPION

WP STATE OF SHOCK

(SF Specs Shocwave x Play Girl MSC) Ex: Rob Bick, O: David and Cindy Bandy

BEL HEIR LR

(Afires Heir x JKF Wistful) Ex: Joel Kiesner, O: William Blankenship

2013 $50,000 HALCON FURNITURE HALF-ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY

2013 CHAMPION

A THOUSAND STARS

(Baske Afire x Kalarama’s Celeste) Ex: Jim Stachowski, O: Kimberly Jarvis

2012 50,000 HALCON FURNITURE HALF-ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY

2012 CHAMPION

NUTCRACKER SWEET PF

(Undulata’s Nutcracker x Ames Deja Vu) Ex: James Stachowski, O: 6D Ranch Ltd.

WWW.ARABIANENGLISHPERFORMANCEASSOCIATION.COM Volume 45, No. 8 | A.E.P.A. Futurity 37

Arabian English PErformance Association 2011 AEPA BUCKEYE YEARLING IN-HAND FUTURITY

2011 CHAMPION

NOBLE FFYRE

2011 $100,000 ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY

2011 CHAMPION

CP SHENANIGAN

(IXL Noble Express x Foxy Afire) Ex: Allen Zeller, O: Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc

(Anza Padron x CP Dance Card) Ex: James Stachowski, O: Katherine Kirby

2010 $100,000 ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY

2010 ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT MATURITY

2010 CHAMPION

2010 CHAMPION

(Baske Afire x Firlite DGL) Ex: Brian Murch, O: Strawberry Banks Farm

(IXL Noble Express x Mystic Bey V) Ex: Jill Sherman, O: The Martin L. Sherman Jr. Family Trust

ROL FIRE MIST

EXPRESSAMO

WWW.ARABIANENGLISHPERFORMANCEASSOCIATION.COM 38 A.E.P.A. Futurity | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

CHAMPIONS from the past 2009 AEPA BUCKEYE YEARLING IN-HAND FUTURITY

2009 CHAMPION

NOBLE HALO

(IXL Noble Express x Hidee Afire) Ex: James Shea, O: Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc.

2008 AEPA BUCKEYE YEARLING IN-HAND FUTURITY

2008 CHAMPION

HA SAHARA AFIRE

(Baske Afire x OCT Tassahara) Ex: Andy Sellman, O: Claire and Margaret Larson

2009 $100,000 ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY

2009 CHAMPION

SF AFTERSHOC

2009 ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT MATURITY

2009 CHAMPION

GSF AMBIENZE

(SF Specs Shocwave x SF Sweet Elegance) Ex: Peter Stachowski, O: Alicia Guzman Pace

(Apollopalooza x PWA Tusea) Ex: Juliet Carden, O: Nick and Juliet Carden

2008 $100,000 ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY

2007 $100,000 ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY

2008 CHAMPION

2007 CHAMPION

(IXL Noble Express x Sweet Bravada Bey V) Ex: Joel Kiesner, O: Marty Shea

(Baske Afire x Las Veghaz) Ex: Shawn Rooker, O: Joseph Kinnarney

BRAVE AND NOBLE

SIN CITY

WWW.ARABIANENGLISHPERFORMANCEASSOCIATION.COM Volume 45, No. 8 | A.E.P.A. Futurity 39

Afires

Heir

x

MA

Ghazta

Trot,

by

El

Ghazi

It is a year for royal families, and this English family is no exception. Coming off his U.S. National English Pleasure Open Championship at just six years of age, VJ Royal Heir is living up to his heritage in the show ring. With his first foal crop on the ground in 2013, he is exceeding all expectations with his breeding responsibilities with incredible foals combining the tremendous, traditional quality with the modern “groove” for today’s evolving performance arena.

Thank you to the breeders who have chosen VJ Royal Heir for their aristocratic breeding programs.

www.VJRoyalHeir.com

Breeders Sweepstakes Nominated Sire AEPA Enrolled Sire Proudly owned by Southern Oaks Farm Kelli Aguirre, Jupiter, FL Standing at Kiesner Training Louisville, TN Barn: 865-984-5245 Joel’s Cell: 865-556-0413 Ashton’s Cell: 865-556-0412

www.KiesnerTraining.com

Baske Afire x Ghreta, by El Ghazi

Breeders Sweepstakes Nominated Sire Scottsdale Signature Stallion • AEPA Enrolled SCID & CA Clear

Proudly owned by Jim, Alison & Caitlin Pigott A Family of Highland Pride Arabians, La Habra Heights, CA • www.HighlandPrideArabians.com For breeding information contact: Cynthia Burkman at 805-350-0342 or Rick Nab at 602-524-3959 Standing at the Burkman Centre • Cave Creek, Arizona • www.BurkmanCentre.com

A JUDGES PERSPECTIVE Shannon Armstrong

by Jeff Wallace

W

hat qualities do you emulate about each of your parents not only because you admired them but out of honor as well?

My mother had strong artistic qualities and she loved the romance, the beauty and the symmetry of Arabian horses. She spent most of her later days watching her beautiful bay mares in the pastures outside of her dining room window. My father was a student of all horses his whole life and bought their first Arabian horse in 1942. He loved to ride and drive horses both for show and with a working purpose and was an avid advocate of form to function. I spent twenty-five years of my life as a professional horsewoman so I bring my own practical experience into my judging with a mixture of the principles that I learned from both of them when I was growing up.

My father was fortunate enough to judge *Bask at the Scottsdale show in halter. He came home raving about him. I remember him telling my mother with a great amount of delight in his voice, “*Bask will ALWAYS

win, because he won’t ALLOW the judges to look at any other horse in the ring!”

Shannon, why do you love the Arabian horse? I love Arabian horses because of their absolute beauty; the good ones are so good and the great ones are just in a class of their own in the horse world. The Arabians that I fell in love with touched my soul and I felt privileged in their presence. I was fortunate in my long journey to have some beautiful and amazing horses in my care.

Does the ocean or the desert speak to you more and in what way? The ocean speaks to me with its power and weakness, and the constant fluctuation between the two. I love to watch the big waves rise and crash in rage and power, then weaken to a small blanket of water that washes over your feet, and it all begins again.

Tell me about the history of your current email address. I was fortunate enough to spend several judging assignments with Jim Fisher and I count those Volume 45, No. 8 | 187

days as some of my very favorite experiences in center ring and beyond. I have judged many, many horse shows in my twenty-five year career and many were just a blur with the length of day and the large number of horses. But I remember so many specific horses, classes and quotes from shows where I worked with that man. I am smiling right now just thinking about the crazy, hilarious and often prophetic things that he had to say. He would listen, as well, and even though he was larger than life, he was interested in those around him and he knew me pretty well. One time he told me, with a twinkle in his eye and in that Southern drawl, “You know, you should not be named Armstrong. You

judges at the 45th Annual Victorian Classic. I loved this judging experience. The show was held outside on the grass in beautiful sunshine; perfect conditions for the horses to feel good about themselves and show to their best advantage.

My assignment was halter and I was very impressed with both the horses and the handlers. There was a minimum of hazing outside the ring, yet those horses trotted in with attitude and ego like they were excited to be at the show. They trotted freely without being shanked, just looking around and enjoying themselves. In turn, I enjoyed watching them. Their

SHANNON ARMSTRONG should be named Head Strong!” Then we both just laughed and laughed, and I always remembered it.

When I set up my email account several years ago, I thought—well, Jim will get a kick out of this one.

Here it is: head-strong@comcast.net. Rest In Peace, Mr Fisher. You know we all loved you.

What stallion has been most influential in the history of Arabians in America? Without a doubt, *Bask changed the history of Arabians in America. His style and look changed both the performance and halter divisions and his influence is just as strong today as it was in the first generation of his foals here.

What countries would you most like to visit and judge in? My judging career has taken me twice to Australia, South Africa and Brazil. I have been to Uruguay and been invited to judge in several other countries in South America, but the dates didn’t fit with my schedule. I am looking forward to going to Poland this year to be a spectator. It has been on my bucket list for years. I will always be a student and admirer of Arabian horses so who knows where else they may take me?

Please tell me about your very recent judging experience in Australia? I just returned home from the most amazing trip to Australia. We spent the first four days as accidental tourists in Sydney and then drove south along the ocean and through beautiful farm land for four days to Weribee, just outside of Melbourne, Victoria. Once there, I was one of the 188 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

standup was exactly what was needed for me to assess their conformation up close without the “extreme standup” which is often unnecessary. A great deal of our evaluation is at the walk when a horse is showing us its true conformation and overall balance. The Australian breeders want their Arabians to be ridden and stay sound so it is in the list of criteria put forth in their specifications. Purebred Arabian halter specifications are type, saddle horse conformation, movement, substance and quality, and suitability as a breeding animal. It just makes perfect sense to me. The fact that they value form to function is evident in the overall structure and leg structure of their beautiful Arabian horses. The purebreds that I judged are not only beautiful Arabian horses, but each has the potential to be ridden and enjoyed for years to come.

The exhibitors are great sports and praise each other to the end, so the feeling is positive and it is fun to be a part of it when you are awarding the ribbons. The judge awards the ribbons to each horse so it puts you there at the end of the class instead of being removed from it.

The Australian judges are students of the Arabian horse and very serious about their duties. All over the world, judges want the exhibitors to succeed, not fail. It is hard to make so many important decisions in a short amount of time with only minutes or possibly seconds of the present to assess and it is a universal standard to really try to get it right. The judges in Australia were helpful and kind. I had not judged their Derivative

A JUDGES PERSPECTIVE

division before. I received the class list and their individual breed standards a few weeks before the show to see that I would be judging seventeen Derivative yearling classes the first morning. It’s not the first ‘baptism by fire’ judging experience in my career, but it can feel daunting. I studied, they answered questions and at the end of the day, I found that I had enjoyed the experience. Seeing the positive influence of the Arabian breed on so many other types of riding horses including Anglo Arabians, Arabian Warmbloods, Quarabs and Arabian Stock Horses was very gratifying. I loved the Arabian Ponies and the Arabian Riding Ponies. There were several high quality individuals in the Supreme Championships that I would have happily tucked in my suitcase and brought home to my grandchildren.

Who is your favorite non-Arabian horse? My favorite non-Arabian horse was named Champ. He was huge and white and my first real teacher outside of school. Champ was very well trained, but would not do anything well until I did something right. He would put up with my nonsense for hours, but at one point, enough was enough, and he would toss me off and run back to the barn and wait for me. It seemed to give him the break that he needed, then I would drag him over to the fence and climb back on and away we would go again.

Did you enjoy judging Las Vegas this year, and please expound on the quality and consistency of your entries? Without a doubt, judging in Las Vegas at the Arabian Breeders World Cup Championship was one of the highlights of my career. The judging panel was diverse with very different backgrounds and experiences, but our common trait being absolute fans and lovers of the Arabian horse. It amazed all of us that the scores were close, but delighted us at the same time. As we watched the age groups unfold and the top horses earn the right to come back on Sunday, we were all extremely excited to get on with the championships. It was an honor and a delight to stand in center ring with so many beautiful horses in one gathering.

What halter horse in the last few years has most affected you in a positive way? When *Wieza Mocy

trotted into the ring at Las Vegas, I was awestruck. She is the best of everything the Arabian gene pool has to offer right now. She had me with her beautiful trot, then she walked past us with beautiful balance and correctness and I was totally smitten. The closer you get to her, the more you appreciate about her. Her level of quality is extreme; her skin, her eyes—it was just an amazing experience to be in center ring with her. She deserves our respect and has my admiration.

Please name your Top Five *Bask daughters of all time. Fame, Fire Music, Amurath Bandeira, Bask Melody, FF Summer Storm and Scarlet Lace.

More is better.

Name three judging mentors and why they are that to you. Izabella Zawadska. When I spent a week with her in Australia several years ago, I asked her a million questions. She was patient and kind to me.

Jim Fisher. Beyond being a knowledgeable horseman, he could give “on the spot” perspective and saw the humor in all situations.

Bob Armstrong. He loved being a judge and took it very seriously. Daddy is always with me.

If you could bring horses back to life today who would it be and why? I would want to bring back Barbary for more beautiful athletes with heart. He sired Nationals Champions in halter and performance on a routine basis. His grandson, Millennium LOA, is a horse I would love to see return to complete his destiny as a sire. A National Champion in both halter and performance, the closer you got, the more beautiful he was. Also, the great aristocratic broodmare Bint Sahara.

Selfishly, I wish I could have one more day with my gelding, Sarsur, to apologize for my restless youth and all the “new training methods” that he had to endure.

Then we could go for one last gallop up the trail. One more … let’s bring back My My, so we could all watch her fly around Freedom Hall in the flesh and let the moment bring us to our feet. ■ Volume 45, No. 8 | 189

Winter Photo Contest

It may be cold outside, but the following images certainly warm the heart—the moment coming to life in our eyes.

Our equine friends don’t seem to mind the chilly weather; in fact, they appear to rather enjoy this part of the year.

We asked you to share with us your beloved and most treasured members in a winter wonderland, and you responded—all winner’s in someone’s eyes.

1

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th

2

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Arabian gelding BH KhouRaji Arabian mare August Melody Empres++/ (Monogramm x Empressa) in Manitoba Jazzmeen (Essteem x Jasmyne) from Arabian Stud Europe Arabian gelding BB Don Amigo Matio (Zodiac Matador x Aristo Amy) and Teal Dowling Dancin Heiress ridden

by Todd Ehret Taken at Victoria Cross Farm in Michigan Straight Egyptian mare Silome El Masr “Lace” from Tappan Lake, Ohio

4

5

6

7

8

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Volume 45, No. 8 | 191

Honorable Mentions

192 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

Volume 45, No. 8 | 193

R O Lervick Arabians—Roger And Linda Lervick Celebrate 40 Years Of Success As Arabian Horse Breeders

by CHRISTY EGAN

R

oger and Linda Lervick began their epic journey with Arabian horses in traditional fashion, with a horse crazy daughter and an indulgent grandpa. “Our daughter Tammy was horse crazy at birth,” laughs Roger. “I swear, her first word was ‘horse’, and my dad told her that if she got straight A’s, he would buy her one when she was ten

years old. Well, she was a straight A student and when the time came, he asked me to find her a horse, so I did. I rode horses when I was a kid and admired the Arabians I’d seen, so we found her a 20-year-old grey, Arabian gelding and that’s where we started. It wasn’t long before we found ourselves with more Arabian horses, then a farm, and then a bigger farm. We met and worked with Dr. Kale and Ron Palelek and bought more horses. We got a trailer and then, a bigger trailer.”

Stanwood, Washington • www.rolervickarabians.com

A member of the El Hilal Syndicate in the early 1980’s, the Lervicks

had precedence over the halter,” says Jeff. “How beautiful he

quickly became breeders of fine Arabian halter and breeding

was. Halter skills were not his forte, but what an amazing ‘over

horses. One of their first, big home-bred winners was Bai Moon

achiever’ … you asked and he immediately gave you 110%. There

(El Hilal x Shilow, by *Naborr), 1983 Canadian Reserve National

were 16 seriously ‘titled’ horses in the final group for top ten that

Champion Futurity Colt and the sire of national winner Crimson

year at U.S. Nationals. Talk about great for MY career. He was a

Bai+. Their second national winner was another El Hilal offspring,

real eye-catcher. The first horse I ever got on a magazine cover!”

Scarlet Moon, 1985 Canadian National Champion Futurity Filly.

Their program was successful, but it quickly became obvious to the

Cytosk+++/’s sire, Mi Tosk, was a full sibling to numerous national

Lervicks that they wanted to breed Arabian horses that were every

winners and producers, including Mi Toska, national champion

bit as functional as they were beautiful.

or reserve in mare halter, English pleasure and pleasure driving, and Toi Soldier, a stallion that became a legendary producer

“We bred to a number of fine stallions and produced some

of outstanding broodmares. Their dam Toi, one of the leading

wonderful show and breeding horses by top stallions like El Hilal

American Arabian broodmares of all time, is a special, not-so-secret

and Fame VF+,” says Roger. “I remember our young trainer, Dennis

ingredient in the Lervick recipe for success. Roger tried to buy

Wigren, discussing with me at the time, that we should add great

Cytosk for a number of years, and in 1991, he finally succeeded.

performance Arabians into the mix. He thought it would make a

The stallion arrived at the Lervick farm north of Seattle just in time

positive change in our breeding program and in the marketing. He

to breed some mares, and then headed back to Albuquerque for

was right.”

the U.S. National Show. With master horseman Ray LaCroix in the irons, he came home with Reserve National Championship honors

At the 1989 U.S. National Championships in Albuquerque, Roger

in the open English pleasure, and then officially took his place as a

saw a horse that was destined to set the standard for the R O

foundation sire for R O Lervick Arabians.

Lervick Arabian. “His name was Cytosk+++/ (Mi Tosk x Cyster),” Roger recalls, “and I remember thinking how impressive it was

Cytosk+++/’s first national winners, Tosk-A-Fire, 1993 Youth

that he was a U.S. National top ten in informal combination in

Reserve National Champion English Pleasure JTR, and MM Cylent

1988 and now, here he was taking top ten honors in stallion halter.

Flyer++//, 1993 U.S. National Top Ten Stallion AAOTH, were

Also, Cytosk’s sire, Mi Tosk,

foaled before Cytosk’s arrival at

was in the ring receiving a

Lervick’s, but by 1996, Lervick-bred

top ten in halter stallions

Cytosk+++/ sons and daughters

alongside his son. I was

were making successful trips to the

impressed. That struck me as

national shows. Horses like ROL

pretty rare.”

Cyzzle+/, multi-top ten country English, costume and show hack;

Jeff Schall handled Cytosk

ROL Cylencer+// six-time national

to that 1989 top ten and he

and reserve national champion

remembers the handsome,

western pleasure and western side

chestnut stallion well.

saddle, and Cygn Of the Zodiac+//,

“His career as a driving

13-time national and reserve

and combination horse

national champion, began to turn

Tague Johnson, Lisa and Dennis Wigren, Cytosk and Roger and Linda Lervick.

Out Of Cyte

First Cyte at 18 years of age.

heads and inspire visits to the Pacific Northwest. The first Lervick Arabian foal crop also produced the magnificent black stallion, Out Of Cyte, who promptly became their second foundation stallion. Out Of Cyte started at the top, his first foal being First Cyte+, Canadian National Champion Futurity Colt; U.S. Reserve National Champion Futurity Colt, and both Canadian and U.S. National Champion Stallion.

First Cyte+, who has been owned by Donna Hentges of Greymoor Farm for 18 years, is an extremely typey and beautiful Arabian and the sire of national and international champions. His daughter, national champion Drama Qyeen, is the dam of her own national champion daughter, Euphoryia. Yet another superb halter stallion and sire by Out Of Cyte, ROL Intencyty, was the 2005 Canadian National Champion Futurity Colt and is the sire of the fabulous 2011 U.S. National Champion 3 & Under Filly, RH Triana. ROL Intencyty is owned by Robin Hood Farms.

Over the years, Cytosk+++/ offspring have become national winners in English ROL Intensity

pleasure, hunter pleasure, halter, country English pleasure, show hack, dressage, western pleasure, side saddle, native costume and country pleasure driving. R O Lervick show horses, under the direction of trainer Dennis Wigren, are consistent winners at the national level. Year after year, they have appeared in the top ten of the performance futurity classes and as strong contenders and national champions in open competition. And there’s a real frosting to this exceptional record, Cytosk’s daughters are growing into legendary dams of national winners.

The very first Lervick-bred foal by Cytosk+++/ was Cymply Red. Foaled in 1992, she was a stunning Half-Arabian mare who began by winning the title of Canadian National Champion Half-Arabian Futurity Filly and eventually became the leading producing dam of champions in the Lervick broodmare band. The producer of 17 foals, her nine national winners are Cylent Ally++++//, Reddy To Rumble+/, Incyde Scoop+//, ROL Out In Style, ROL Cymply Spot+++/, Cycret Agent+/, ROL Shades Of Red, ROL Red Alert and ROL Candy Girl. One of the best purebred Cytosk superstar broodmares is Singularcylection. A 2000 U.S. National Top Ten in the

Cymply Red at Canadian Nationals.

2 • R O LERV ICK • AHT

Cygn Ofthe Zodiac and Kristi Guyton.

HA Toskcan Sun and Jim Stachowski.

ROL Fire Lily and Dennis Wigren.

English Pleasure Futurity, she has produced ten foals for the Lervick’s and her national winners include ROL Firecracker+// (Afire Bey V), 11-time national and reserve national champion, and his full siblings, ROL Fire Lily+//, three-time national and reserve champion; ROL Lets Dance, three-time national champion, and ROL Pure Asset, a three-time national top ten.

“ROL Firecracker is truly one of my favorite all-time horses,” says Ashton Kiesner. “Beginning with me, Firecracker has won national championships with every single owner who has ridden him.”

“I just got ROL Lets Dance in the barn last year,” says leading English trainer, Jim Stachowski.

“She’s a lovely mare and the perfect amateur/country horse for owners Steve, Suzie and Katherine Kirby. The Lervicks breed progressively, take excellent care of their horses and do a wonderful job. I personally go up to their farm every year to look at and buy top show horses for my customers.”

Certainly Jim Stachowski’s genuine enthusiasm for the Lervick-bred horses was undoubtedly heightened by the arrival in his barn a few years ago of the Lervick-bred show horses Black Daniels and HA Toskcan Sun. U.S. National Champion English Pleasure Junior Horse in 2012 and U.S. Reserve National Champion English Pleasure Open twice since

Black Daniels and Jim Stachowski.

then, HA Toskcan Sun is owned by Scott and Michelle Harris and was purchased by them in embryo from the Lervicks. 2010 U.S. National Champion English Pleasure Junior Horse and 2014 Scottsdale Pleasure Driving Champion, the dynamic Black Daniels, is owned by Bryan and Joanne Grossman.

Another current national superstar sired by Cytosk and bred by the Lervicks, ROL Cycret Service+/ is 2012 U.S. National Champion Country English Pleasure AAOTR Maturity. Like most of the Cytosk offspring, he is diverse and smart. Seven top ten awards include English pleasure junior horse, amateur country English, and amateur show hack. His owner, Melanie Ronen, has lots of praise for the chestnut gelding she calls “Austin”. “I owned my first Cytosk gelding in 1996,” Melanie explains. “His name was Cyde Show+/ and he and I had a great time showing that year. I saw Dennis riding ‘Austin’ at the 2010 U.S. Nationals in the English futurity and fell in love. Dennis graciously let me ride him between the cut and the finals. He’s always looking to please and do things right. We’ve gone from top ten in the English junior horse (with trainer Jim Lowe) to country and show hack. We have lots of room to grow as a team!”

ROL Lets Dance and Katherine Kirby.

AHT • R O LERV ICK • 3

ROL Cycret Service and Melanie Ronen.

ROL Cylencer and Lauren Harris.

ROL Firecracker and Ashton Kiesner.

Cylent Ally with Donna Preston and the R O Lervick supporters.

ROL Divine Style and Kaitlyn Garland.

Cylk Stockings and Martha Murdoch-Rattner

Like potato chips, it seems as though once you have one horse from

trainers, amateurs, and junior riders. Breeder and horsewoman

the ROL family, you simply have to have another. Dr. Robert Kelly

Nancy Delisi, of Delsan Arabians, has three R O Lervick horses,

is a prime example. He has three. All are Cytosk daughters bred by

including ROL Divine Style, two-time national reserve champion

the Lervicks, and all three are national winners. He initially acquired

English pleasure.

ROL Timeaftertime and then, two years later, ROL Lyte My Fyre.

Most recently he has been riding ROL Skys The Limit+. Multi-top

“We have a very special horse in ROL Divine Style,” Nancy says.

ten winners in country English amateur under saddle and driving,

“Cedar Ridge Arabian’s trainer, John Golladay called him a ‘true

Robert and ROL Skys The Limit+ were the 2014 Canadian Country

Arabian’ and said that he would ‘… go through fire for you!’ We

English AAOTR 40 & Over Reserve National Champions.

agree. Roger and Linda have bred a mare to him and the mare that keeps beating him [Karlton Jackson’s Heirs Noble Love (by Afires

“I am proud of these horses,” says Kelly. “Easy to train and smart,

Heir)] is bred to him as well. His first foals are due this spring.”

ROL Lyte My Fyre is also the dam of RS Afire Inside (by Afires Heir),

Nancy also has two Lervick-bred fillies, full siblings to national

the best horse I have bred. He was a 2014 U.S. National Top Ten

champion Black Daniels.

Country English Futurity. Rick and Laura Gault own him and are so excited about his future.”

Certainly, considerable credit must go to Roger and Linda’s foundation bloodstock choices. “The Cytosk horses have been

The very diversity of the Lervick Arabian horses is part of what

great foundation horses in all ways,” Roger says. “They have been

makes them so popular with horse owners. Their universal appeal

beautiful halter horses and talented, trainable performance horses.

has found enthusiastic support among breeders, professional

They are smart, gentle and have great big hearts. When people

4 • R O LERV ICK • AHT

The winning R O Lervick team at Canadian Nationals.

would come to visit the horses, you could take anyone into

their name, the Lervicks have produced 222 champions, of which

Cytosk’s stall, including small children. They would feed him

104 are national winners with 117 national and reserve national

carrots and he was so careful with them. There is a sense among

championships. Together, they have been honored with over

their handlers and owners that these horses give everything to

495 national top ten awards. In 2014 alone, 25 R O Lervick-bred

the job at hand, making a sincere effort for their human partners.”

Arabians and Half-Arabians won national awards at the Youth, Canadian, Sport Horse and U.S. National Championship Shows.

What Roger and Linda Lervick have achieved over four decades

They took 60 top ten awards, five national championships and

is a rare accomplishment by anyone’s standards. Many people

nine reserve national championships. The diversity of these

breed Arabian horses; some for years, and they produce horses

horses is almost as stunning as their sheer numbers. They won

with national awards. But very few can point to 40 years of

honors in everything from walk/trot to halter. However, the

consistent success, culminating in an impressive group of horses

largest percentage of Lervick-bred horses achieved their 2014

now at the height of their abilities and popularity. Their success

national ribbons in country English, English pleasure and driving

stories have redefined their lineage, as well as their breeder. With

competition, with hunter pleasure and show hack the next

fewer than 400 registered Arabian and Half-Arabian horses to

strongest category.

AHT • R O LERV ICK • 5

If you ask Roger, Linda, or their farm manager-trainer, Dennis Wigren, they are quick to give lots of credit to their staff, assistants and Lervick’s outstanding team of amateur and youth riders.

Dennis Wigren, part of the Lervick team since he was fifteen, sums it up well. “It’s true. Initially I rode the school bus to work at the Lervicks,” Dennis laughs, “got married while working here and am raising my family. I know I have the perfect job, and lots of credit goes to the staff that Roger has assembled. Breeding manager Tague Johnson, keeps our broodmare band and babies in optimum condition and he’s recently added outside broodmare care and foaling to Lervick’s services. As breeders, Lervick knows what works and Roger listens to and works closely with his staff. Our Arabians are raised to sell, and with luck, our young horses, full siblings to national winners, are even better than their famous relatives. People buy them and we train them, or the next trainer polishes them, enjoys the kudos and we cheer them on! We are known for our breeding program but our marketing success is considered among the top farms. We build and support our nationally respected training and amateur program, a great success story with owners of Lervick and non-Lervick Arabians for several decades. A full service, state-ofthe-art facility and team, Lervick Arabians functions like a fine watch.

Roger’s personal motto has always been that ‘honesty and integrity is the key to life and to business’, closely followed by ‘keep your customers happy!’ You can say, Lervick’s have had good luck with Arabian horses, and they have … but they’ve also lived life well and decently. Sometimes karma comes around.”

6 • R O LERV ICK • AHT

■

Cytosk

+++/

Mi Tosk x Cystyr, by Cytarus ~ 1983 Stallion SCID clear ~ Breeders Sweepstakes nominated sire Scottsdale Signature Stallion nominated sire Renai nominated sire ~ Frozen semen only

Out Of Cyte Cytosk x Amandi, by KJ Jordgee Boy ~ 1992 Stallion Cooled or frozen semen available ~ SCID, CA clear Breeders Sweepstakes nominated sire Scottsdale Signature Stallion nominated sire

Live foal guarantee Multiple breeding discounts available

P.O. Box 699, Stanwood, Washington 98292 • Phone: (360) 652-0108

Toll Free: (800) 669-2745

Fax: (360) 652-9615 • E-mail: cytosk@whidbey.net • www.rolervickarabians.com

AHT • R O LERV ICK • 7

Lervick bred, First Cyte is a Multi-National Champion stallion and the sire of both National and International Champions.

He has produced 7 National winners and 2 National Champions for Greymoor Farm.

First Cyte’s daughter, Multi-National Champion Drama Qyeen, has already produced her first National Champion daughter, Euphoryia, thus launching the second generation of our breeding program. First Cyte has proven himself to be both an exceptional show horse and a phenomenal sire.

Donna Hentges, Owner- Greymoor Farm “First Cyte has a champion percentage of 80% of get shown! 75% of First Cyte's champions have won on the regional and/or national level.”

Arlene Magid, Pedigree Research, 9-2-14

MULTI-NATIONAL CHAMPION STALLION FIRST CYTE

r o o m y e Gr Farm

Out Of Cyte x ROL Wild Flower ~ 1995 Stallion

GREYMOOR FARM ~ Donna Hentges ~ Elko, Minnesota ~ 952-461-3311 ~ www.First-Cyte.com 8 • R O LERV ICK • AHT

Industry Leading Programs ...

Shada and the stallions, multi-National Champion First Cyte and National Champion ROL Intencyty, have become indelibly etched into the history of the Arabian breed.

It seems like just yesterday that the crowd roared while Jeff and Jerry Schall and these magnificent boys garnered National Champion titles.

All of us at Shada congratulate owners, Greymoor Farm, Robin Hood Farms and breeder R O Lervick Arabians. We thank them for the opportunity to be a part of their journeys.

Jeff Schall ~ 612-308-8006 ~ JRShada@gmail.com ~ Jerry Schall ~ 612-865-9202 ~ JerryShada@gmail.com SHADA INC. ~22630 Sugar Bush Road, Elk River, MN 55330 ~ 763-441-5849 ~ www.ShadaInc.com AHT • R O LERV ICK • 9

Congratulations, Roger and Linda, on 40 years of breeding great horses! We wish you continued success, and we look forward to more great foals in the future.

—Robin and Drago

NATIONAL CHAMPION

Arabian Breeders Sweepstakes Scottsdale Signature Minnesota Medallion Nominated Sire

Standing at Shada Inc. Elk River, Minnesota 763-441-5849 www.ShadaInc.com Out Of Cyte x Intensive QCA ~ 2002 Stallion ~ Bred by R O Lervick Arabians ROBIN HOOD FARMS ~ Drago & Robin Kragulj ~ University Park, Illinois ~ www.RobinHoodFarms.com 10 • R O LERV ICK • AHT

Congratulations to R O Lervick Arabians on 40 years of an outstanding breeding program.

2010 U.S. National Champion Arabian English Pleasure Junior Horse 2010 Scottsdale Champion Arabian English Pleasure Junior Horse 2014 Scottsdale Champion Arabian Pleasure Driving

BLACK DANIELS LIMITED TIME BREEDING SPECIAL Save $1,000 per breeding Stud fee: $5,500 Discounted fee: $4,500 OFFER EXPIRES FEBRUARY 28, 2015

Contact Stalmare Arabians for breeding information.

951-505-3063 blackdaniels112@gmail.com IXL Noble Express x Victoria Bay, by Huckleberry Bey ~ 2005 Black Stallion ~ Bred by R O Lervick Arabians STALMARE ARABIANS ~Bryan & Joanne Grossman ~ Lexington, Kentucky ~ www.BlackDaniels.ca AHT • R O LERV ICK • 11

3-TIME U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPION

ROL

Lets Dance

Congratulations to R O Lervick Arabians on 40 years of breeding top Arabians like ROL Lets Dance. Thank you for being a great source for talented horses.

—The Kirby family and Jim Stachowski.

2014 U.S. National Champion Arabian Country English Pleasure Maturity 2014 U.S. National Champion Arabian Country English Pleasure AAOTR 19-39 2013 U.S. National Champion Arabian Country English Pleasure AAOTR 19-39

Trained by Stachowski Farm, Inc. Mantua, Ohio 330-274-2794 www.Stachowski.com Afire Bey V x Singularcylection, by Cytosk ~ 2008 Mare ~ Bred by R O Lervick Arabians KIRBY ARABIANS LLC ~ Sioux Falls, South Dakota 12 • R O LERV ICK • AHT

U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPION 2-TIME NATIONAL RESERVE CHAMPION

HA

Toskcan Sun

CONGRATULATIONS, R O LERVICK ARABIANS, ON YOUR 40TH ANNIVERSARY AND FOR BEING NOMINATED FOR BREEDER OF THE YEAR! We thank you for assisting us with our breeding program through the acquisition of Matoska, dam of HA Toskcan Sun, and Firelite DGL, as well as your mentor-ship and for supporting Toskcan by breeding your exceptional mares to him!

Happy Anniversary!

—Scott and Michelle Harris, Harris Arabians 2012 Unanimous U.S. National Champion English Pleasure Junior Horse 2013 & 2014 U.S. National Reserve Champion English Plesaure Open

Standing at Stachowski Farm, Inc. Mantua, Ohio 330-274-2794 www.Stachowski.com Baske Afire x Matoska ~ 2007 Stallion HA TOSKCAN SUN LLC ~Scott & Michelle Harris and Helen Lacey Reed ~ 951-313-6740 ~ www.HarrisArabians.com AHT • R O LERV ICK • 13

U.S. NATIONAL RESERVE CHAMPION ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE FUTURITY AEPA ARABIAN HORSE TIMES $100,000 ARABIAN FUTURITY "Thank you for your longstanding commitment to breeding the future generation of Arabian English National Champions!" 窶年ancy

Afire Bey V x IXL Miss Firefly, by MHR Nobility ~ 2009 Stallion ~ Bred by R O Lervick Arabians DELSAN ARABIAN LLC ~ Nancy De Lisi ~ Naples, Florida ~ 646-824-7914 ~ nancy.delisi@gmail.com Standing at: CEDAR RIDGE ARABIANS ~ 952-492-6590~ www.Cedar-Ridge.com 14 窶｢ R O LERV ICK 窶｢ AHT

U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPION

ARABIAN HUNTER PLEASURE OPEN ~ MULTI-REGIONAL CHAMPION

CYLENT LIGHTNING CCA+// “I am so proud and privileged to have been involved with the Cytosk+++/ and Lervick-bred horses for most of my career as a trainer. Including my first National Champion Cyty Slicker, followed by ROL Cymply Hot ++/ and later, Cylent Lightning CCA, there have been over a dozen Cytosk offspring in my life for over a decade.

They have all been great-minded, kind, and perfect for amateurs and youth of all ages. I recommend them highly!” — Cari

Cytosk x Bakkaratta ~ 2003 Stallion

STANDING AT: TRAINING

Located at Sandspur Ranch ~ Scottsdale, Arizona ~775-450-1718 ~ www.CariThompsonTraining.com AHT • R O LERV ICK • 15

R O LERVICK NATIONAL CHAMPIONS & TOP TEN WINNERS SIRED BY AFIRE BEY V

ROL EBONEE FIRE+ (x Ebonee by First Class) ROL FIRECRACKER+// (x Singularcylection by Cytosk+++/) ROL HIGH SOCYETY (x Socyety Girl by Cytosk+++/) CANT BUY ME LOVE (x Basks Genie by *Bask++) ROL FIRE LILY+// (x Singularcylection by Cytosk+++/) ROL LETS DANCE (x Singularcylection by Cytosk+++/) ROL PURE ASSET (x Singularcylection by Cytosk+++/) ROL DIVINE STYLE (x IXL Miss Firefly by MHR Nobility)

Shea Stables and Maroon Fire Arabians congratulate R O Lervick Arabians on their 40th Anniversary. We’re very proud to be an important contributor to the Lervick breeding program.

Afire Bey V has sired eight national winners for the Lervicks, five of them out of Cytosk+++/ daughters. Afire Bey V sons have sired four additional national winners and IXL Noble Express+, the sire of national champion Black Daniels!

MAROON FIRE ARABIANS ~ SHEA STABLES~ St. Clair, Michigan ~ www.AfireBeyV.com 16 • R O LERV ICK • AHT

ROL

Code Red+//

3-TIME NATIONAL RESERVE CHAMPION 5-TIME NATIONAL TOP TEN WINNER Multi-Champion in Arabian Country Pleasure Driving Open and Amateur Arabian Country English Pleasure Open and Amateur

"Thank you, Roger and Linda, for your support of us and ROL Code Red. Congratulations on your excellent breeding and training program."

— Mary

Cytosk x Ebonee ~ 2005 Gelding ~ Bred by R O Lervick Arabians MARY NAPIER ~ Hillsborough, California AHT • R O LERV ICK • 17

NATIONAL CHAMPIONS DEBRA SMITH AND THE R O LERVICK WINNING TEAM WITH

RH

Gladiator

+//

Mamage x Lakeview's Savoir Faire 2003 Half-Arabian Gelding

4-Time National Champion 4-Time National Reserve Champion in Country English Pleasure, Country Pleasure Driving and Ladies Side Saddle English AHT Readers' Choice Nominee Half-Arabian Versatile Horse Of The Year

Kohlminer

++++//

RA Hot Every Nite x Orriya ~ 2002 Half-Arabian Gelding

7-Time National Champion 3-Time National Reserve Champion in Country English Pleasure, Country Pleasure Driving, Ladies Side Saddle English, Show Hack and Gelding In-Hand

Thank you to Dennis and Lisa Wigren for all of your time and commitment to our horses.

— Debra

KEN & DEBRA SMITH ~ Cataldo, Idaho 18 • R O LERV ICK • AHT

MULTI-NATIONAL CHAMPION

ROL

Fire Lily+// 2 National Championships 1 Reserve National Championship and 11 Top Tens in Country English Pleasure and English Pleasure

Thank you, Roger and Linda, for creating such a great breeding program over the last 40 years out of your love of the Arabian horse.

Because of your horses, many dreams have come true. Besides your wonderful breeding program, you also have a barn of great people who are our "horse family." Thank you from someone whose dreams have come true, due to you.

—Judy

Afire Bey V x Singularcylection, by Cytosk ~ 2006 Mare ~ Bred by R O Lervick Arabians MITTENTHAL ARABIANS ~John & Judy Mittenthal ~ Sammamish, Washington AHT • R O LERV ICK • 19

ROL

Movin Out

3-TIME REGIONAL CHAMPION IN COUNTRY ENGLISH PLEASURE AND NATIONALS BOUND

Congratulations Roger and Linda!

Thank you for sharing your passion in breeding and raising the kindest and happiest horses I have ever owned.

Our lives are enriched by the pure joy our Lervick horses have brought us.

Your training team cares for each horse as if they were their own.

Dennis and the team, as well as the other clients, are the best.

Best Wishes, Nancy Healy & Robert Newman

ROL

Cytosk x Room To Move ~ 2007 Half-Arabian Mare ~ Bred by R O Lervick Arabians NANCY HEALY ~ Puyallup, Washtingon 20 • R O LERV ICK • AHT

Forever Tango

Black Daniels x Ask Her Quick ~ 2013 Colt Bred by R O Lervick Arabians

SO MANY SUCCESSES ...

CYGN OFTHE ZODIAC+// (CYTOSK+++/ X MATALOVE)

15-TIME NATIONAL WINNER WITH BOTH MOTHER AND DAUGHTER

Cygn Ofthe Zodiac

Cygn Ofthe Zodiac

Cygn Ofthe Zodiac

JAM MASTER JAY+// (CEASE FIRE+++ X SYMBOL’S SPIRIT) 15-TIME NATIONAL WINNER

AND A BRIGHT FUTURE …

Victoria Express+ (IXL Noble Express+ x Victoria Bay) Full sister to Black Daniels, with two foals on the ground, sired by Undulata's Nutcracker (2013) and Nutcracker's Nirvana (2014)

Thank You!

to R O Lervick Arabians and all the amazing trainers, friends and horses who have taught and helped us both, in and out of the ring! —Sigrid and Kristi

Cygn Ofthe Zodiac

Jam Master Jay

Victoria Express

SIGRID & KRISTI GUYTON ~ Shoreline, Washington AHT • R O LERV ICK • 21

MULTI-NATIONAL CHAMPION +/

Journey X

3-National Championships 2 Reserve National Championships Scottsdale Champion plus numerous Top Ten and Regional awards in Hunter Pleasure, Halter, Showmanship and Hunt Seat Equitation.

COMPETING AT SCOTTSDALE 2015

Congratulations, Roger and Linda, and thank you, Dennis Wigren and the R O Lervick team, for making my dreams come true!

—Kaylee Markonich

Odyssey SC x Marissa Bey ~ 2004 Gelding KAYLEE MARKONICH, OWNER/RIDER ~ Enumclaw, Washington 22 • R O LERV ICK • AHT

Blue Skyes

+//

Six National Top Ten Awards Nine Regional Championships Eight Regional Reserve Championship Five Regional Top Five Awards Six Scottsdale Top Ten Awards

Competing in Half-Arabian Western Pleasure Amateur, Open and JTR Half-Arabian Western Ladies Side Saddle

Thank you, R O Lervick team, for your support, and congratulations on your 40th Anniversary!

MA Gallant Ladd x Dipped In Dreams ~ 2003 Half-Arabian Gelding JOREEN & JOHN GIVENS ~ Kennewick, Washginton AHT • R O LERV ICK • 23

Katrina Thyme SA+

Musk Be Amazing HA

Pyrme Thyme x Khurina Y ~ 2006 Mare

Amazing Fame V x Muskadot ~ 2004 Gelding

U.S. and Canadian National Top Ten Country English Pleasure Available for purchase

Regional winner and National Top Ten winner in Open and Amateur "My Treasures do not clink together or glitter; they gleam in the sun and neigh in the night." — Arabian Proverb

DEBORAH LEE ~ Surrey, BC ~ Canada

ROL

KRISTI WAGGONER ~ Dayton, Washington

Feeling Fancy

Cylent Ally++++//

Cytosk x Ask Her Quick ~ 2009 H/A Gelding ~ Bred by R O Lervick 2012 National Reserve Champion H/A Futurity Gelding 2010 Region 4 Champion H/A Breeders Sweepstakes Colt/Gelding

Allionce x Cymply Red, by Cytosk ~ Bred by R O Lervick Shown to Multi-National U.S. & Canadian wins by Donna Preston.

Currently owned by Sierra Reyes

It has been such a learning experience coming to the Lervick training barn. They have helped and motivated me to achieve life-long goals, and given me confidence I never knew I had.

With the purchase of Cylent Ally's sibling, we are looking forward to seeing younger brother CYLENT ALIBI follow in his big brother's footsteps!"

I feel so honored to have purchased my new rising star from such wonderful people who share their passion for the Arabian horse through their breeding program.

Thanks for the memories, Dennis, Roger and Linda!

—Donna Preston & Heidi Buerger

Thanks to all, Roger and Linda, Dennis, and the whole team. —Brydget

BRYDGET FOREST ~ Lewiston Idaho

DONNA-MARIE PRESTON & HEIDI BUERGER Westbank, BC ~ Canada

Rising

Stars

P.O. Box 699, Stanwood, Washington 98292 • Phone: (360) 652-0108

Toll Free: (800) 669-2745

Fax: (360) 652-9615 • E-mail: cytosk@whidbey.net • www.rolervickarabians.com 24 • R O LERV ICK • AHT

17 years with you

ARABIAN HORSE TIMES SPECIAL EDITION

Text by: Monika Luft Photos: Bukra Foto The pictures were taken in the Hunting Residence of Counts Castiglioni of 1230 Photo shoot art director: Mateusz Jaworski 2 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

Iron Elegance Irina Stigler, ECAHO A judge and breeder. Born in Moscow, she

now resides in Italy on Lake Como, where she created a charming hideaway in which both people and animals feel good, especially Arabian horses originating mainly from Polish and Russian lines.

RUSSIA: DISCIPLINE AND EDUCATION

it when I was three. I was practicing regularly until thirteen.

Before she found her unique place on Earth, she tackled

It was very hard for me because I was a very lively child

a long and difcult road all the way from Russia. When asked how would a lm about her begin, she stops to think for awhile. „It can be a scene in black and white as

and to be sitting at the piano six, eight hours when I was ten, was a challenge. Other children called me: Irina, come to play with us outside and I was not allowed to. I had to

I had a difcult childhood” – she answers. “My parents

practice many hours a day. And they were checking my

were scientists. My education was strict as half of my

progress at the end”. Used to hard work and discipline,

family comes from Germany. My father was German –

Irina did not stop at just studying humanities. She was also

even his name Stigler indicates it – and from my mother

into sports, though her family was not fond of such activity.

side, my great-grandfather was also German, his name

„My father did not allow me to do any kind of sports as

was Koch.

I was playing the piano. He was always telling me: take care

My father came to Russia to teach philosophy at the university. So I have international roots, mainly German

of your hands. You can be a very good concert pianist. But a little bit later I started fencing. I had to hide myself with

blood. I had a broad education when I was a child,

this passion in the beginning but as I was a very dynamic

I started going to school a year and a half earlier than

person, I liked it a lot. I started working out in a sport

my schoolmates as I was considered talented by my

club when I was nine. When I was fteen I was a junior

parents. They made me study many things, among them

champion of the USSR. But I could not get acceptance

languages – obviously Russian as my mother language,

from my family. Even now my mother cannot understand

Italian, English – and music. Everybody in my family played

how I can be close to horses, clean them, ride them – she

the piano so I was supposed to play it too. I began learning

thinks it’s something dirty”.

Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 3

photo: home archive photo: home archive

ITALY: A NEW BEGINNING Arabian horse appeared in her life right after departing from Russia. But rst she studied psychology and linguistics at the Moscow University. As a 23 year old Irina receives a chance that she decides to take a bet on. „I was working as an interpreter at exhibitions, just to earn some money because my family could not help me a lot” – she says. “Just after I graduated from the University I got a phone call from Clementoni, the widely famous games for children producer. He invited me to come to Italy where they were organizing a joint-venture company to collaborate with Russia. I was very young, no commitments, so I said ok, let’s see what happens.

So I arrived in Italy, in Milan, with no family, no friends.

That was a difcult time. People working in the ofce were much older than me, everything was very expensive, I could not afford almost anything. But I admit it was a fruitful experience.

photo: home archive

I also worked in a sport club teaching children fencing and participated with them in several competitions.

I even took part in the All Nations Cup, in Como, against Margherita Zala, a very famous foilist, multiple Word and Olympic champion and I was losing only by one point! After six years of no training. That was a big achievement for me”.

Though she does not have it easy – no friends, loneliness, communication problems – as the spoken language, when you move to a foreign country, is not the same as the one that we learn at the university – poor nances, as she was sending the money she earned to her family in Moscow during hard time for Russians immediately after Perestroika, it is at that moment that Arabians appear in her life. „I went to Verona to the European Arabian Championship and I saw the Arabian horse – Piruet.

I knew immediately what kind of horses I would like to have in the future – she recalls. “I think it’s all about taste and elegance. It’s a kind of family heritage – the beauty was important for my parents, they were very good looking, they dressed elegantly.

And my grandfather was breeding horses, so it might be that this passion came to me with the genes”. And so with

4 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

her very rst larger paycheck Irina buys a horse. “It was an Arabian stallion. The rst horse and rst Arabian in my life. Everybody was against me, telling me that I was crazy as the horse had a really hot blood, he was kicking and behaving very badly. He already changed ve or six owners, even though he was only three. But we became friends and I rode him very successfully. We competed in some endurance races together with good results. His name is Idet and I still own him. He is 22 now and he still is my favorite horse. When I have some spare time, I put a saddle on him and I go riding, just alone. Some walk, some trot, just for pleasure. I can think, I can plan, I trust him totally”.

BREEDER AND JUDGE: LIVING OUT OF A SUITCASE It didn’t end on one horse and endurance races in the mountains. Irina decided to set up a breeding farm. „When you are studying psychology you also have some medical courses. So I studied genetics, I liked it a lot and was good at it” – she explains. “If I had not gotten into Arabian horses, I would probably choose some genetic development – I am a doctor in the end.

I enjoy also dogs, I like them because of their elegance and intelligence, but I am not able to be into everything, so I don’t breed them. King poodles are very clever, they are considered to be the most clever breed. Sometimes I let somebody show them, the chestnut one is a father of World Champions, but I don’t follow it much”. Horse shows are something different. Here Irina participates as either judge or breeder. When she acts as the latter, it’s sometimes hard for her to keep calm. “I am very nervous like any other competitor. Every breeder wants to win”.

She achieved a big success recently as her stallion ASH Dream of Glory (WH Justice – Donna Diva/Ekstern) became Gold Senior Champion Stallion at the Italian Nationals in Citta di Castello (12.09.2014).

Is judging a pleasure or hard work? According to Irina – both. „A judge should also be a teacher, a person who is able to give the right direction to the breeder. He should see correctness mixed with beauty. For sure it is a pleasure too as it means traveling, meeting people, new

Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 5

Irina and the stallion ASH Dream of Glory

friendships, great hospitality. It’s a big family”. However the frequent travels are a challenge. Irina is always on the road, living out of suitcases, always in a hurry. “I have three suitcases always prepared, open in one room” – she reveals. “Winter, summer and the middle of the season.

Sometimes I change something inside, buy something new. I am lucky because I can see beautiful horses so close, I can study the pedigrees and decide what to do and what not to do. Traveling is a very good experience, a very good lesson, because breeding is endless”.

A place where she will always eagerly return to is Syria.

“Great culture, great hospitality, good food, open minded people, still simple, which I prefer. Nicely dressed, with good taste. And the desert – I love Palmira. I feel the great space, great size, something big. I can imagine horses and camels walking across. The breeders there are very different, high level, low level – we can nd everything for every taste. I am waiting to be able to go back there. My name Irina is a Greek name which means “Peace”. I wait for the peace in Syria”.

6 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

Despite her love for the desert the key moment for Irina as a breeder was a trip to the US and meeting the stallion Padrons Psyche. She visited him in his stable after the show in Las Vegas. He made a huge impression on her. “He is the stallion of the century” – she says with a deep conviction. She also admits to being a lover of the chestnut coat color. “In the famous „Kniga ob arabskoj łoszadi” by Szczerbatov and Stroganov, published for the rst time in 1900 in Sankt Petersburg, I read that chestnut horses are better movers that the greys and bays. So I am happy because I have several chestnut horses. And they move like hell!”

RUSSIA: THE TRADITION Though she lives outside of her homeland, she is a Russian patriot. “I am strongly connected to my home country, I travel there often, my country gave me education and prepared me for my life abroad”. Irina also pays close attention to Russian breeding – she is a co-organizer of the Russian National Championships.

Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 7

“The Russian Tersk Stud and other breeders were very

I can evaluate the result of my decisions, the weak points,

famous in the past and big amount of money was paid

the strong points. Of course nobody can know how they

for Russian horses. After many years of stagnation the

will develop. But for sure you can see immediately the

breeding program was suffering a lot and the horses

quality. It’s difcult to explain how, it’s a kind of talent – to

were receiving poor treatment. But I think that now

see it or not to see it. You just catch a glance and you

people like Igor Bochkarev are investing money and time

are able to predict a little bit if it’s a future champion or

in development. Next year we would like to organize

not” – she explains.

a big international event, probably in Sankt Petersburg to give more vision to Russian breeders. Russian people like to read, they remember the history, they look back

SADDLE AND MOUNTAINS: MOMENTS TO HERSELF

and into the future. The tradition is a living tradition, it’s

Horses are not the only professional activity of Irina. Not

not dead at all. I am personally helping Russian breeders to return to the international arena, for example by offering breedings, as many of them cannot afford the fashionable stallions. In some years they will be very competitive. Education needs time but some day the market will be much more open”.

many people know that she is still active as a psychologist, runs a pet store and rides horses regularly. “I am most familiar with dogs, then with horses. The only time when my mind is completely clear, when I can think and do the planning is when I ride my horse in the park. I am happy when I put on the saddle – a big military saddle – and go

At her stud Irina has horses mostly with Polish and

alone with my horse. It is a special collaboration between

Russian blood. “I have a lot of Polish-Russian blood,

two beings – me and him. He has to understand me,

mostly Russian, 75%. Russian horses are descendants

I have to understand him. And we are close to nature

of Polish horses – as we know, Polish horses have been

– which is important too”.

taken during the war – but then different stallions were

Many frequent show observers associates Irina as

used in both countries. So they are similar to a certain point. Egyptian blood gives a lot of renement but at the end of the day I think the winning combination is not

being the most elegant judge. She always turns heads with original attire, excellent accessories and attention to detail. “Probably it’s coming from my father” – she

pure breeding, but some kind of mix. You are very limited

smiles. “He was always very well dressed, playing piano

if you work only with pure breeding. And I am looking

or organs, giving concerts. And I like to be different –

for a correct horse, strong movement and a beautiful

I am an anti conformist with everything, also with clothes.

eye”. Some say that it is not possible to breed a horse

So it’s probably genetic. I hear sometimes “Oh, you are

that would be both correct and blessed with a beautiful,

the most elegant judge we have ever seen. Where do

exotic head. But Irina thinks that it’s worth to try. „I am

you buy your clothes?” Living in Italy helps for sure – we

looking for a combination of good legs and beautiful

have many elegant shops here. The funny thing is that

head. Is it possible? It’s hard but we have to try. Fashion

Lenita Perroy pictured me as a Polish Queen!”.

is changing, people are realizing that bodies and legs

Irina can allow herself to feel satised. She is professionally

are difcult to repair. It’s difcult but it’s an everybody’s dream. Nothing is impossible. If we say “it’s impossible” we have to give up. So it comes slowly, but a clever breeder can achieve it if he is lucky. He can have a dream horse”.

fullled, knows how to make her dreams come true and she may very well be in the best time of her life right now.

“I would repeat everything I did in my life” – she sums up. “The only thing is maybe the quality of the people – would be nice to repeat it with higher level people that

She emphasizes, that for her the best time in the year is

are not playing behind your back. But even hard times

when the foals are born. “I really wait for the new foals.

can open new doors for your future life”.

8 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 9

The 12th

RUSSIAN NATIONAL SHOW, Moscow 2014

T

here were plenty of attractions for the participants and guests of the 12th Russian National Arabian Horse Championships (September 7th), which coincided with the Days of Moscow. Russia’s capital celebrated its 867th anniversary and the wonderful weather encouraged both tourists and the city’s inhabitants to come out onto the streets in great crowds. The Russian Nationals were

held on the premises of the All-Russian Exhibition Center (Всероссийский выставочный центр), a huge exhibition and recreational complex, spread across 237 hectares and employing 3 thousand personnel.

The complex was initially open to public in 1939 as an All-Union Agricultural Exhibition (Всесоюзная сельскохозяйственная выставка – ВСХВ), renamed in 1959 to the Exhibition of the Achievements of the National Economy of the USSR (Выставка достижений народного хозяйства – ВДНХ). The National Championships were part of a greater venue called “Konnaja Rossija”, which also included a trade fair – similarly to Verona and Paris, though on a much smaller scale – and the World Championships for AkhalTeke Horses. The organizer of the whole event was the National Arabian Horse Society of Russia (NOAL, with president Igor Bochkarev and Dr.ssa Irina Stigler responsible for international cooperation of Noal).

Text by: Monika Luft Photos: Ekaterina Druz, Monika Luft Translation by: Joanna Krawczyk

10 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 11

Irina Stigler and

her mother Elena

Moleva

junior and senior mares, as well as for the junior and senior stallions. The top three horses from each class qualified for the podium. The judges – Janice The competition saw a total of 29 horses (out of 32 entered), which is a good result compared to previous years, when 22 horses showed up in 2013 or just 15 in 2011. Four classes were held: for the

McRea (USA), Jerzy Białobok (Poland), Aleksandr Klimuk (Russia) and Irina Stigler (Italy), who stood in for the Polish judge when there was a conflict of interest in the senior mares’ class where horses bred by Michałów State Stud were competing – used the comparative method to choose the gold, silver and bronze medalists from among the three highest scored horses in class. There was also prize money: 1,000 euro for the gold, 500 for the silver and 300 for the bronze.

Such studs as Valentina, Equiline Lada-Konsul and Veles were most represented through their charges. Horses from Tersk were a no-show, probably due to the great distance, but also because this well-known stud, now privatized, is on the threshold of making important decisions regarding its future and direction that it should take.

Aleksandr Klimuk, Jerzy Białobok, Nils Ismer (DC), Janice McRea

12 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

The public lled the stands and VIP tables to the brim, there were also plenty of photographers. The horses were more slender-looking than those seen at European shows and the foreign visitors were slightly surprised by their way of showing, which differed from what everyone is used to on the Old Continent. The horses rarely stood still, they were moving. But when they began to trot, the handlers immediately halted them. However already the previous day, during the Akhal-Teke championships, you could observe that this is common practice. The Akhal-Teke horses were let loose onto the arena, in Liberty style and were clearly All-Russian

not trained to extend their necks or pose like a statue.

Exhibition

Center

The junior mares’ class (1–3 year olds) was won by the year old Ecstasy (Ghazal Al Hummar – Edit Piaf/ Pobieditel), bred and owned by KK Valentina and it was her who became Junior Champion Mare before her Ekaterina Druz Horse Photography

Ester (Best in Show). On the left: Marina Romanova (Equiline Lada-Konsul) and Igor Bochkarev (NOAL). On the right Irina Stigler

Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 13

Karolina, Bronze Champion Mare Ekaterina Druz Horse Photography

stablemate, the also year old Napoleonika (Ghazal Al Hummar – Niksa/Karat). The sire of both llies is the son of the Qatari-bred Shamekh Al Shaqab by Ansata Sinan. The bronze medal went to the two year old granddaughter of Laheeb, Valeria (Leran AA – MP Saghira/Maysoun) from Israel and owned by V.V. Minaev.

Also in the junior stallions’ category the gold medal was awarded to a yearling. Here victorious was Esenin (Nubiec – Ezabella/Lumiar Amadeus), from second place in class. The dam of the UK-bred Ezabella is Janów’s Epifraza by Pepton, a full sister to Ecaho. And so a third medal was claimed by Valentina Stud. The silver was awarded to class’ winner, the grandson of WH Justice, the year old Arni (Nizami – Ariel/Aja Shakakhan), bred

by B. Markarian and owned by S. Ermolov. The bronze

14 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

was claimed by the 2 year old Israeli-bred Prince of Galilee (Nader Al Jamal – Nawal AA/Al Maraam), owned by E. Goman.

Denitely standing out in the senior mares’ class (4 years

Esenin, Gold Champion Colt

old and above), especially due to their shapely heads, two charges of Michałów: Złota Baśń (Gaspar – Złota Orda/Pesal) and Karolina (Laheeb – Kwesta/Pesennik), owned by M. Timin. Last year both of them were Silver Champions. This time in the nals the rst again took the silver and the second one – the bronze. They were bested by the perhaps not as typey, but correctly built, ea-bitten Ester (Toreador – Esmeralda/Esplendor) from Equiline Lada-Konsul, a representative of a Russian racehorse family. Her sire Toreador (b. 1995), a halfbrother to Derby winner

and numerous stakes winner

take, (Guineas, Topol Stake, kes) Great All Russia Stakes) nik), Parusnik),

(Kempton Park, England), as well

sful also had a successful

as 1990 European Champion (Lier,

Trepet

(by

track career. And he did ng not lack beauty, being ed a son of Drug, named se European Racehorse

Belgium). His sons were victorious at the track (Madiar, Matador) and the sshow arena (Morjak, Padisah, Abhat).

90 of the Year in 1990 er and 1991, a winner y, of the Russian Derby, Coupe

e d’Europe

(Evry) and the All Nayan International

Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 15

Nizami, Gold Champion Stallion Ekaterina Druz Horse Photography

Among the senior stallions triumphed (and also took

victorious stallion is the sire of the earlier awarded Arni.

the trophy for Best Head) the Tersk-bred Nizami

The silver went to the Israeli-bred Leran AA (Laheeb –

(WH Justice – Nairobi/Balaton), shown by the

Latifah AA/Al Maraam), owned by V.V. Minaev, the gold

reliable Jan Calis and owned by Stacey Shreider. The

medalist from last year and the sire of Bronze Champion Valeria. The bronze was handed to the sire of the victorious yearlings, Ghazal Al Hummar (Shamekh Al Naseer/Mujahid), Sheqab – Reem Al Nasee ee er/Mujahid), er/Muj er/Mujahid)

16 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

Złota Baśń, Silver Champion Mare

Ecstazy, Gold Champion Filly Ekaterina Druz Horse Photography

Ekaterina Druz Horse Photography

descending from Jordan and owned by Valentina Stud,

There were a lot of Middle Eastern sponsors this year:

located about 100 km from Moscow, not far from the

Al Khalediah Stables (the main sponsor, patron of the

city of Ruza. In the nal showdown for the Best in Show

show), Albidayer Stud, Al Shaqab Stud, Al Muawd Stud,

title emerged Ester, to the great joy of her breeder and

Dubai Stud, Ajman Stud and Al Nayfat Stud.

owner of Equeline Lada-Konsul, Marina Romanova. The stud stud, consisting of 20 broodmares, is located near Abi Abinsk of Krasnodar Krai, known also as the Kuban reg region (the name taken from the Kuban River).

The most known city of this region, located in the pic picturesque landscapes of the Black Sea and the Se Sea of Azov, is Sochi, the city of Winter Olympic Ga Games 2014.

“The Russian Tersk Stud and other breeders were very famous in the past and big amount of money was paid for Russian horses. After many years of stagnation the breeding program was suffering a lot and the horses were receiving poor treatment – said Irina Stigler in her interview for Tutto Arabi. “But I think that now people like Igor Bochkarev are investing money and time in development. Next year we would like to organize a

W What does the future hold for the Russian National

big international event, probably in Sankt Petersburg to

C Championships? “Unfortunately there are not a

give more vision to Russian breeders. Russian people

lo lot of quality horses left… It will need time, but

like to read, they remember the history, they look back

th the market can be very big and I am working

and into the future. The tradition is a living tradition,

o on it. Let’s say we’re working in small steps!”

it’s not dead at all. In some years they will be very

ssays Irina Stigler with a moderate optimism. The

competitive. Education needs time but some day the

h hope that the show will grow is not unjustied.

market will be much more open”.

Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 17

BE SMART & QUICK wit h us

ADVERTISE YOUR STUD AND HORSES

T S A L B L I EMA OUR EMAIL BLAST WILL BE SPREAD TO THE LARGEST PUBLIC COLLECTED BY TUTTOARABI OVER THE 17 LAST YEARS

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www.tuttoarabi.com

JOA

AL LAHAB

MORE THAN A SHOW HORSE Text MONIKA SAVIER Lay-out: MARIO BRUNETTI

September 2014: Once again, Al Lahab participates in one of the three biggest shows in the world: the All Nations Cup in Aachen, Germany.

Presenting himself in good condition despite his 16 years of age, he displays all the know-how of a highly experienced show horse. Meanwhile, he is almost the only Straight Egyptian competing in the Open Class of an A show event – with the intention of winning, of course!

JOANNA JONIENTZ

Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 19

Al Lahab is a refined, extremely typey Siglawy stallion, a harmonious combination of Arabian noblesse and charisma – properties that are ever more hard to find in today’s stallion classes as they are being eliminated by criteria such as frame and a spectacular trot. For a show stallion, he is an old one, but for many spectators, what he embodies is modern times, is wishfulness, is the come-back of the elegance that has been lost: a flea-bitten grey stallion with huge eyes as black as coal, 20 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

and with his mouth so refined he might drink water from one of those small demitasse coffee cups. Which is probably one of the reasons why he has an enormous fan community made up from all factions that exist in Arabian horse breeding. And even though his competitors chomped at their bits, keen on taking over, there were still enough judges in Aachen who took delight in his noblesse and chose him to be All Nations Silver Champion.

JOANNA JONIENTZ

But you wouldn't do Al Lahab justice if you only saw him as an extreme successful show horse or breeding stallion. This horse is much more than that! For his owners, Al Lahab is a once in a lifetime horse. He is a rare and precious jewel that has a special place in the Friedmanns' life and that they take care of with all of their heart.

The Friedmanns are aware of owning an excellent stallion with many talents. On the Lunzenhof stud farm in the Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 21

southern part of the Black Forest, they made him a home worthy of the renowned horse. Al Lahab is the unchallenged king of the Lunzenhof farm. Here he can hold court, breed his mares, but also enjoy a carefree life, simply being a horse, and time and again discover the beauties of the Black Forest landscape while taking relaxed rides with his horseman.

One of the reasons why he was so successful in the show ring, obviously coping well with the enormous stress level show horses are exposed to from show training, presentations, or long road and air transports, has always been his home stud in Germany’s Black Forest area. This is where could get his feet back on the ground and re-establish his relationships within his herd, the Friedmann family included.

However, what makes this stallion is more than his extreme type and the floating movements that serve so well to demonstrate elegance and Arabian noblesse. Al Lahab also convinces with his outstanding character. There are horses that have an especially big heart and a very sensitive way to show their friendship and their trust in people. Al Lahab is one of those very special horses. „We never own a horse, it is entrusted to us.“ This old Arab saying is what Inge Friedmann uses to describe her relationship with Al Lahab.

His most important victories led him all around the globe. Even as a yearling, he became Junior Champion at the Asil World Cup and achieved the Reserve Champion title at one of the most prestigious shows in Europe, the All Nations Cup in Aachen. Only one year later, then two years old, he was able to name himself European Champion, winning the Junior Champion title at the European Championships in Verona in Italy. At the beginning of the year 2006, he took a plane to the USA. To the delight of his owners Al Lahab topped his stay there with a historical win at the 2006 Egyptian Event staged by the Pyramid Society in Lexington, Kentucky. Everybody who saw Al Lahab live in the show ring then will remember for life. Two outstanding stallions met one another, father and son. Laheeb left the ring as Reserve Senior Champion Stallion. Al Lahab will be remembered in Kentucky as Supreme Champion, living up to the grand name of his father. As Al Lahab's stay in the US drew to a close, Inge and Hans Jürgen Friedmann and their handler Frank Spoenle began to organize the return of their stallion to the European show rings.

Only a few weeks later, the stallion competed at the prestigious Elran Cup in Borgloon where he charmed audience and judges. He returned as Senior Champion Stallion. However, that was only the beginning of the incredibly successful return of Al Lahab. Just a week later, the white horse outclassed all of his competitors at the A show in Towerlands, UK, and won himself the title of Senior Champion Stallion. At the end of September he dared to face one of the hardest shows in Europe, the All Nations Cup in Aa22 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

AL LAHAB and Miss Fanny Volkert

JOANNA JONIENTZ

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Paris 2006

chen. And again Al Lahab proved himself as the graceful stallion full of type he is by winning his class with an incredible score. Once again outclassing his competitors, Al Lahab left Aachen as brilliant All Nations Cup Winner.

At this point, there was only one more step to go for Al Lahab to finally reach the top and enter history as one of the best Arabian horses ever: the World Championships in Paris. As this big moment drew nearer, the excitement grew to an unbelievable level. Al Lahab was ready to go and confirm himself as World Champion Stallion. The stallion entered the show ring as if he knew what price there was to gain. Majestically, with incredible presence and elegance, he won the hearts of the judges and crowd in Paris. The audience was thrilled by the show he put on. With a huge score, with 20s in type, head and neck, and movements, he won his class, leaving all doubters to reconsider! By now it

was obvious that this had been the perfect show of the coming World Champion. Inge and Hans J端rgen Friedmann experienced unforgettable, moving moments when their great dream finally came true. Al Lahab was World Champion 2006! Al Lahab had reached the top!

In the spring of 2007, after a deserved break, the stallion reached the Middle East to participate at the famous Dubai International Show. There again he, as usual, displayed his qualities and won the title of Supreme Champion Stallion.

In addition, he was awarded with the Dubai Gold Cup title for being the most successful European stallion at all important European shows. Al Lahab had nothing to prove anymore! During his unparalleled show career, such as in 2007, he won important titles and achieved great honors. His offspring are following their renowned sire's footsteps in show rings all over the world. But once again, Inge and Hans J端rgen Friedmann wanted to call the challenge for their undisputed star and share their great stallion with the world once more. One last time Al Lahab was to enter the most important show rings in Europe and work his magic. So, in 2009, Al Lahab would once more prove his outstanding reputation and show why he is amongst the best stallions in the World.

Al Lahab knows what to do. He is aware of his aura and he loves to display his natural grace. With his power and charisma he came to Menton, France, and left as a winner. The freshly minted Senior Champion of the show in Menton indicated that he would be a serious if not unbeatable rival at the All Nations Cup in September 2009. And he made come true what not only the Friedmann family but also all his countless fans had dreamed of: crowned with dozens of yellow roses, Al Lahab left the show ring of the Aachen All Nations Cup as Senior Champion.

And once again the successful Al Lahab Team dares to call the challenge: for the second time after 2006, he was prepared for the 2009 World Championships in Paris.

Once again Al Lahab faces huge competition, as he tries to confirm his title as World Champion. However, during this World Championships in 2009, in Paris, things went differently: in a thrilling and much discussed fight for the title, Al Lahab became the World Reserve Champion.

In 2010, Al Lahab finally returned home to his barn on the Lunzenhof farm, to regenerate on the green pastures back home in the Black Forest, and to cover the many mares that were already waiting for him. So in 2011, Al Lahab was the big star again, an approachable stallion, an iconic figure of Egyptian Arabian breeding, a model, and a childrens' favorite. Thousands came to see and celebrate him when the Friedmann family invited for the 15-year-anniversary of their stud in the summer. In 2012, his owner Hans-J端rgen Friedmann was gravely ill, so this was a quiet year for the stallion, serving mares and relaxing on the vast paddocks of his home stud.

THE FAMILY OF U.P. TAMANNY the oldest foundation mare

F TAYYAR IBN AL LAHAB

JOANNA JONIENTZ

(Al Lahab x F Tahani Bint Shamaal) Int. Show Champion

In the summer of 2013 however, after the health comeback of his friend and owner, people were also wondering out loud about Al Lahab`s comeback. In October, he flew to the Emirates, to Ajman, accompanied by his trainer Frank Spoenle, to be prepared for taking part in some selected shows in the Middle East. Would he be able to become Champion once more? He was able, as even during the Sharjah Egyptian Event, Al Lahab was made Senior Champion. In 2014 in February, at the age of 15, he outdistanced his junior competitors once more and became Gold Champion in Abu Dhabi again. Later on in Dubai, during one of the biggest shows in the Middle East with 400 horses participating in the different classes and disciplines, he became Bronze Champion. Although this time and after so many Championship titles, he was not able to leave the ring as the winner, the exciVolume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 23

JOANNA JONIENTZ

F TABASSAM

F JALAJIL BINT AL LAHAB (Al Lahab x Faras Jamila)

filly *2013 (Al Lahab x F Tahimaa)

tement in his favor was touching. For several minutes, an enthusiastic audience applauded with standing ovations, refusing to let him leave the indoor arena. They had probably understood that this was a farewell, with the next appearances of Al Lahab to be held in the context of displaying his offspring. But things happened differently, after all.

For at the wish of his owner and friend Hansjürgen Friedmann, Al Lahab was to make his last appearance at a place where he had been able to celebrate a lot of successes already: at the All Nations Cup in Aachen. This was not to

be about one more title, as he had won everything there was to be won in his life. It was to be about a show professional – one who was an iconic figure for Egyptian breeding and is going to go on being exactly that, as a successful sire – saying his farewells to the show ring. A few days after the Aachen show Inge Friedmann took the farm’s big horse trailer, drove it single-handedly to Frank Spoenle’s place, and took Al Lahab back home with her. “Forever” she said when leaving there, and the stallion will be grateful to her for that, for he has deserved every day of a carefree senior citizen’s life on Lunzenhof stud.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

AACHEN

24 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

C

M

Y

M

Y

Y

Y

K

Al Khalediah European Arabian Horse Festival August 21st-22nd Int. B-Show, Poland One week after the 2015 Polish National Show & Pride of Poland Sale

The One Festival You Can’t Afford to Miss!

On the photo:

www.akeahf.com 26 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

Pustynia Kahila

Gold Junior Champion Filly, Al Khalediah European

Arabian Horse Festival 2014

Gold World Champion Yearling Filly, Paris 2014

Najdah

44 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

© Glenn Jacobs

© Dana Al Meslemani

© Glenn Jacobs

Marwan Al Shaqab | JFN Bint Ludhan

Š Dana Al Meslemani

Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 45

Najdah

© Dana Al Meslemani

© Erwin Escher

© Glenn Jacobs

Marwan Al Shaqab | JFN Bint Ludhan

46 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

Š Jan Kan

Al Zobair Stud | HE Sh. Abdulla Bin Mohammed Ali Al Thani Mr. Michael Van den Elsken - Farm Manager | Tel. +971 50480 4949 - Fax +971 6 748 8088 P.O. Box 8 - Sharjah - UAE | Email: info@alzobairstud.com

www.ALZOBAIRSTUD.com Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 47

aljawzastud

Al ihandra nur

aryelle el thessa X nur arabians

PYRONIA K.A.

QR Marc X Polonia

w w w. a l j a w z a s t u d . c o m

HASSAN ASHIRAF

AMIR ASHIRAF X CO PASHMIRA

SAKAB AL MUAWD

STIVAL X MAKISA ROSABELLA

Elvis and his daughter Inès at 2014 Menton Championship

50 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

Elvis

If you dream, dream big

Text by Mateusz Jaworski Translation: Joanna Krawczyk

I meet up with Elvis Giughera to talk about Arabian horses and his life. It is a lovely autumn afternoon. Breeder, rider, artist, marketer, surveyor, designer, art collector, husband and father.

He has been known for years in the Arabian horse world as «Elvis of Arabian Essence».

Yet many people don’t know how he looks like, because they contact him via emails. He is a humble, talented person, which can sometimes be a problem when trying to perform an honest interview. It is hard to get such a person to open up. I have questions written in my notebook, I have tried to be well prepared and planned to start with the basic «when did you buy your first horse?», however when I turn on the recorder our conversation flows all by itself, differently than how I presumed.

MYSTERY OF LIFE In his book about Lipizzaner horses Frank Westerman wrote: «when you touch a Lipizzaner, you touch history.» While

reading this book my mind often turned to Arabian horses, a breed much older that the Lipizzaners (which date to 1685, whereas the Arabians reach more than 2500 back). So I asked Elvis about his relationship with Arabian horses, how he understands them, whether this breed is somehow special to him and why did his interest turn to these equines.

Elvis always had a special relationship with «the mystery of life». He began breeding dogs at the age of 15. He discovered Arabian horses by sheer coincidence when he was 19 years old.

The first thought that came to the young boy was not that he wanted to own a unique Arabian, but that he wanted to breed them. He didn’t have to wait long before his thoughts became reality! He was aware that horse breeding was something totally different than breeding dogs.

Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 51

In his opinion horse breeding is associated with much greater emotions, perhaps due to a long waiting, the uncertainty, maybe it’s because the mare produces only one foal a year. «I can’t say exactly why this is such a special activity. It’s hard to describe the joy of the breeder when a foal is born. It’s something incomparable to buying a highly decorated champion. The moment when you personally help the mare during labor, then help the foal to stand and nurse. You participate in the creation of a new life. The effort that goes into it, the getting up at night, because that’s when the mares usually give birth (they feel safe when there the barn is all quiet). We have a camera installed in the foaling stall, which is connected to my computer in the bedroom. I sleep very little in the spring and summer. Especially when a mare is expecting her first foal, she doesn’t know what to expect.» The breeder must feel that the moment is right, he has to observe and not stress the mare with his presence. «The mare has to understand that I’m there to help her, to alleviate her pain and fatigue. After labor you see a mare lying or standing next to her foal, licking his head, often the mare motivates the foal to stand by himself, you see the love between mother and baby, you feel closer to nature, with no exaggeration. When I come to the stable during the first days of the foal’s life I see the mare shielding her young, aware of her treasure, jealous, as though one look could take the foal away from her. And that’s the feeling that is incomparable to anything else. It’s magic! Only later do you start to evaluate the newly born foal, his conformation, you think over your breeding decisions. You have control over that. But that’s a totally different story.»

LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT Elvis was born in the northeastern part of Italy, in Cercenasco a small village located in the foothills of the Western Alps, 30 km from Turin. His parents and grandparents were farmers, they bred dairy cattle. Elvis grew up among animals, on the farm.

first Le Soleil’s foal

When horses enter our lives, as a true passion, our everyday life and we ourselves are forever changed. We subordinate our lives to them. That’s exactly what happened with Elvis and his closest family, his parents, wife, children and many friends.

«It’s beautiful that when Arabian horses become part of our lives we cannot imagine things happening any other way.»

Arabian horses bring people together, thanks to them great friendships are born. «One of my closest friends is Gigi Grasso.

If not for Arabian horses I would have never met him, just like many other wonderful people: Marieta Salas, Miloslava Khamis, Shirley Watts, Irina Stigler, Ferdinand Huemer and many others, without whom I can’t imagine my life today. But of course I can’t say that everyone in this «Arabian world» is a good person. Just like in any other business - there are friendships that last a lifetime and sometimes we witness disputes which end in a court of law. And just like in any field of life, we should always follow our heart and have our eyes wide open.»

«The passion for the Arabian horse was in my case love at first sight. During a walk on a Sunday afternoon, one just like today, I noticed a trotting horse which appeared to be dancing.

With a long, flagged tail, like a symbol of pride, with flaring nostrils. I have never before seen something so beautiful and elegant. Maybe because I have never seen an Arabian horse before. After this encounter I began searching for information on Arabians in books and the internet. The «arabitis», an illness associated with a passion for the Arabian horse, was inevitable.»

LE SOLEIL: THE SUN The name «La Soleil Stud», the place where Elvis started his adventure with breeding, originates from the Italian «sole», meaning «sun». The story behind this choice is in fact longer.

Leilany Le Soleil (Alfabia Sheib x Tabata Le Soleil)

52 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

Hilal Le Soleil (Laheeb Al Nasser x Alfabia Nile Queen) 2009 stallion owned by Bebo Stud - Egypt

Elvis lost his brother who was just 15 years old. His name Elio originated from Helios, which also means «sun» in Greek mythology. «I wanted to honor Elio, so I named my farm Le Soleil. This really shows just how important this place is to me.»

In 2000 Le Soleil consisted of one mare, Tabavka and in 2004 Alfabia Gaucita also became part of the breeding program.

One had a Polish-Russian pedigree and the second was part Russian and part English - from Crabbet Park. Elvis began his breeding with them, using Egyptian stallions Phaaros, Laheeb Al Nasser and last but not least - WH Justice and his son Alfabia Sheib. «My favorite damlines are Polish and Russian, due to their temperament and movement. I love Straight Egyptians for their type. If a breeder manages to find the right combination between the two, the result can really be extraordinary. I used to have Egyptian mares in the past, but I sold them. Recently I bought a beautiful bay mare, VP Athalheid, which I bred to Phaaros and am awaiting a foal from her next year. I hope it is a filly, which will continue the Straight Egyptian program in my stud.»

But long before the foals are born, decisions regarding which sires should be used are made. Elvis focuses on analyzing the sires’ previous get and their traits, which they pass onto the future foal. But most of all a sire has to capture his heart.

«When I see a sire, he has to make a good impression on me, only then do I start analyzing his good traits and flaws from up close.» One such stallion that took his breath away was El Perfecto, whom he saw during his visit to Ses Planes in Mallorca. «Huge, dark eyes, not touching the ground while trotting, emanating charisma. Even now, when I visit Marieta Salas, the first thing I do is visit this stallion. When I see him trotting, against the setting August sun, I feel like I’m watching a scene straight out of a movie. That’s when I now why I chose Arabian horses.» Apart from introducing Elvis to El Perfecto, Marieta Salas also shared plenty of knowledge with him. «I

Laheeba Le Soleil (Alfabia Sheib x Halima Shah Le Soleil)

always look at Marieta with admiration and with the eyes of a student. I could listen to her for hours when she tells stories about her experiences. The same is with Judith Forbis.»

In the case of Judith, Elvis had the opportunity to create illustrations for one of her books, which was a special experience and which opened his eyes to many aspects of the breeding world. Marieta Salas was also the first client for whom Elvis designed a web page. It can be safe to say she liked it very much, because she didn’t want any changes made to it for 10 years. «We finally added some new features this year, previously we only made updates...»

Horses bred at La Soleil that were offered for sale found buyers in Egypt, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Iran and other countries. The last colt born this year, a son of Marwan Al Shaqab, was sold to the United Arab Emirates. The stallion Jahleel Le Soleil was sold as a six month old weanling to Elvis’s good friend - Miloslava Khamis, who showed him in the Czech Nationals where he became National Champion. «I had tears in my eyes when I heard the show’s announcer say Jahleel claimed the gold.»

Elvis consults his breeding decisions with his long time friend and business partner, Gigi Grasso. «Every time I’m not sure about something, not only horses, but also other things, I ask his opinion. I also ask the opinion of people who have already used that stallion and of course I also create my own opinion by looking at what the stallion has already produced and if he was bred to any mare of the same bloodline as mine.

I do a lot of research to achieve the best result I can… It is a long process but I love it.» Gigi lives about 40 minutes down the road from La Soleil. He is an inspiration for the future.

Of course such places as Ses Planes, Halsdon Arabians, La Movida, Bebo Stud are always interesting experiences and a lesson in breeding humility. «In 2009 I also visited the farm

Leilany Le Soleil (Alfabia Sheib x Tabata Le Soleil) Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 53

of Count Federico Zichy Thyssen in Argentina, that was a truly unforgettable experience. That’s why I believe that every good breeder should travel. We shouldn’t be scared of having others assessing our breeding work, nor should we be scared of seeing someone else’s progress, their successes and failures.

Breeding is something that we learn all our lives. You have to have to be courageous and humble at the same time.»

Among the many places that Elvis dreams of visiting in the future are, among others, Haras Meia Lua of Lenita Perroy in Brazil, Simeon Stud of Marion Richmond in Australia, the Polish studs of Janów Podlaski and Michałów, Katharinenhof of Dr Hans Nagel in Germany and many other places where history was and still is being created. Elvis believes that seeing horses at shows or in other studs is not enough. It is worth visiting places where many influential horses were born, to feel the magic of these places and meet the people that created them.

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL MOMENTS The horse that made the greatest impression at the beginning of Elvis’s breeding career was the afore mentioned El Perfecto. «He was my dream and I knew I had to use him in my program.» El Perfecto sired a colt, much to Elvis’s dismay, as he dreamt of having a broodmare by his favorite stallion. Another stallion whose daughters make great dams is, according to Elvis, Phaaros. Used in Le Soleil on nonEgyptian mares he left daughters which are broodmares in the stud to this day. When asked about a horse that he most admires, Elvis doesn’t hesitate: «who else than Marwan Al Shaqab?». From the moment that Marwan took up the post of chief sire at Ses Planes Elvis has been following his breeding successes. Admiring the young at the time stallion, who looked like a perfectly carved living statue, he dreamed of using him in his own stud. This was made possible several years later by courtesy of the sire’s owner, Al Shaqab Stud.

The first result, out of the mare Halimashah Le Soleil, was Marwel Le Soleil, a colt sold to Dubai.

Elvis says that the happiest moment for a breeder, right after the foaling season, is when he observes his own-bred horses trotting and galloping across the pastures, with their tails blowing in the wind and their nostrils flaring. That’s when the answer to the question if an Arabian horse can be charismatic is more than obvious. When it seems that the horse is soaring through the air, man feels that he is flying together with him...

Elvis admits that when he participates in a show with his own horse, the emotions and stress go through the roof. «When you wait for the announcing of the final results during the championships, time seems to stand still, as though the speakers will never utter one more sound. Then suddenly you hear the name of your horse and the joy that sweeps through you cannot be put into words.»

54 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

We shouldn’t be scared of having others assessing our breeding work, nor should we be scared of seeing someone else’s progress, their successes and failures. Breeding is something that we learn all our lives. You have to have to be courageous and humble at the same time

Marwel Le Soleil (Marwan Al Shaqab x Halima Shah Le Soleil) 2014 bay colt, owned by Al Saqran Stud Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 55

The most anticipated time in Le Soleil is spring, when the foals are born. The weather is sunny and the farm is blooming with flowers planted by his wife Margaret and mother Mariangela.

«Personally my favorite time is when all the mares have given birth and the foals are happily galloping across the fields, playing with each other. They spread their legs wide apart to be able to reach their first blade of grass and afterwards they lie down tired next to their grazing dams... You can feel the farm thriving with life, and at the same time there is peace and harmony.»

Hanging in Elvis’s office is a portrait of the black Simeon Sadik, set in a several hundred year old frame. While being a guest at the Russian National Show in Moscow last year, Elvis purchased a portrait of Sadik by one of Russian’s wellknown painters. Unfortunately this stallion passed away much too early, therefore Elvis couldn’t make his dreams come true and use him in breeding. «Simeon Sadik was to me the essence of a Straight Egyptian stallion. He had everything that such a stallion should have. This year I used EKS Alihandro while making a marketing campaign for Athbah Stud. I always wanted to see him live. When that happened, I immediately knew that I wanted to use him. After some time he became World Champion which confirmed my previous decision. I’m happy that one of my mares, a WH Justice daughter, is in foal to him.» Other stallions that Elvis considers using are Kahil Al Shaqab and Lebanon Al Shaqab. Currently Elvis is leasing 56 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

A morning view at Le Soleil Stud

two Egyptian mares, which originate from his breeding and are bred to Sabeh Al Salhiyah, which has already departed from Italy to the US. He is awaiting the birth of those foals with great anticipation.

Elvis’s parents are also involved in managing the farm. «We run an agrotourism farm, my mom takes care of the house and garden, while my dad Silvio and my brother Giuliano helps out with the horses. My wife in turn takes care of everything!

Literally. The famous saying «beside a great man there is a great woman» is very true here. Although in my case this is only partially true - I don’t feel like a «great man», but she definitely is a «great woman».»

YOU DON’T GIVE UP ON YOUR PASSION Arabian horse breeding is hard, everyday work, but Elvis treats in more like a life passion. He knew that there would be no turning back after 2-3 years, that only consistency gives results.

«I don’t treat this like work, because a job is something you can resign from in hard moments. And you don’t give up on your passion.» Elvis can easily imagine his life without horse shows, but not without breeding.

In one of the interviews in Tutto Arabi made by polskiearaby. com (Monika Luft) with Marek Grzybowski, the latter called the Arabian horse industry «a throat cutting business». Saying

this he meant that there is no place for sentiments in this business and you have to be ready to deal with hard competition - a world of commissions and people who will do everything for money. Elvis doesn’t belong in that world, he prefers to stay somewhere on the side and do his «own thing». Because that’s what gives him pleasure. He focuses on breeding and doesn’t compete in who sells more horses or breedings. His breeding intuition and artistic talent, a hard work of a graphic designer allow him to lead a decent life. «I liked that interview. When I sell a horse I try to make it an honest transaction. When a friend, a different breeder, asks me to help in selling his horse, I try to do it without thinking about a commission. If I am able to help him then maybe he will help me in the future. Of course the world of dog breeding is different. Easier... Perhaps because such large sums of money are not involved.»

Elvis is also a rider, but he hasn’t ridden for the last 10 years.

He just didn’t have time. «Three months ago I asked myself if I truly don’t have time and I decided to find it. I took a saddle and went to the stable. Now I try to ride in the regularly. I am even closer to nature then.»

AN ARTIST WITH A SUBTLE TASTE When asked which role in life he treats most serious: an artist with a subtle taste, husband, father, architect, breeder, marketer, graphic designer, PR manager, administrator and creator of web pages, he answers immediately: «Father! I love my children. But I also like what you said about being «an artist with a subtle taste». I think that being a breeder is a bit like being an artist. You create a work of art, something spectacular. An artist shows his style by painting or sculpting, whereas a breeder does the same by choosing a certain sire for a given mare and being proud of the resulting foal in his stable. Also my other duties, done every day at my computer, are very much artistic. When I close the doors to my office I focus on nothing else but my work. I don’t feel the passing time, I don’t know whether it’s time for dinner or supper, whether it’s still day or night [Margaret, forgive me!].» Like a child that’s playing and doesn’t want to stop despite its mother calling to come for dinner, Elvis is so busy with his designs and thoughts, among many books, color palettes, photographs that he just can’t draw himself away. Because this isn’t just his work, it’s his life. Maybe that’s why ArabianEssence is so good and one of its kind, because its owners treat it like a passion and not just a profession.

In May I met up with Elvis in Austria at the Open Days in La Movida Arabians. ArabianEssence was doing a live web broadcast from the stud. Most probably it was the first in history live stream from an Open House in Europe, if not in the world. Ferdinand Huemer, before he began the presentation of his horses, said that thousands of people on several continents are currently watching this show. He also thanked Elvis and Gigi for their many year friendship: «The whole Arabian horse world has been admiring your great work and tasteful talent

I think that being a breeder is a bit like being an artist.

You create a work of art, something spectacular. An artist shows his style by painting or sculpting, whereas a breeder does the same by choosing a certain sire for a given mare and being proud of the resulting foal in his stable Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 57

for many years. Without you this industry would lose so many hues, colors and shades. Thank you for being with us, not only during this special evening but every single day.»

«Ferdi is one of our (mine and Gigi’s) best friends and most important clients. The role that Gigi plays in ArabianEssence is crucial. I have learnt a lot from him over the years and am still learning. It is thanks to him that I have such artistic taste and position in the marketing part of the Arabian horse industry. It is him that cheers me on when I don’t feel any motivation, he also brings me down to Earth when I start to have my head in the clouds. Gigi taught me one basic thing that if you’re doing something you have to do it the best you can or not do it at all.»

ArabianEssence also carries out live broadcasts from shows all over the world and is the leader in this business in Europe and the Middle East. «We decided to create the LiveStream not for the money, but because we wanted to allow every fan to be able to see the show from their own home. So that people that can’t travel could participate in a given event and web moderators could immediately update their web pages while cheering on horses from their countries. However the costs of such a broadcast, organizing a team with cameras, the travel expenses are significant. We knew that the majority of show organizers would not want to pay such money. The first broadcast was sponsored by us, as a sort of promotion. Thanks to our friends and clients we are now often able to find sponsors, which agree to support even a different show without their own horses. As a kind of help and auto promotion. And it works. We have a new project associated with ArabianEssence WebTv, but I won’t say anymore about it now.»

Another thing that Elvis «caught» from Gigi is the constant traveling. «During my recent stay in Moscow last year I purchased several important books. I will never forget the looks of Irina Stigler, Marek Trela, Peter and Jenny Pond when

With Marieta Salas in Oman

we visited one of the larger bookstores in the city. I purchased three volumes, each weighing about 8 kg. They looked at me like I was from outer space and asked what did I need those books for? I had to carry them with me the entire day, because that was the day that we toured the Kremlin. Books are special to me, because they teach us, give inspiration and new ideas, which even the most talented people don’t have an endless supply of.»

The advertisements and designs created by Elvis have many sources of inspiration: his own taste, observations from his travels, nature. «If we look at flowers, birds, trees, the sky we will never say that the color combinations are bad or don’t match, they can only surprise us. Sometimes the ideas come from the clients. They tell us what they would want to see and we develop that concept according to our own taste.»

Since its establishing in 2005 ArabianEssence has been cooperating with the majority of the most known and largest Arabian horse studs in the world. «To me it is a great honor to be able to work for each of these clients. Regardless whether it is a large Middle Eastern stud or a European breeder with several horses. I try to do my best for each of them, that’s why I have been working with many of them for years and hope that they remain not only my clients, but also my friends. That’s why it is hard for me to say «no» when they ask me to do something, even during my vacation or when I’m ill.»

LUCKY IN ITALY Elvis is a land surveyor by education. In Italy a surveyor not only measures the land, but also designs buildings and their surroundings, makes them fit into the landscape. He met Margaret at the high school. After graduating and a two year internship they opened their own company. Elvis is more into Arabian horses, Margaret runs a company that designs houses.

They sometimes meet in the office to talk over the most

With Gigi Grasso, Marco Sordelli and the Guardia Family in Panama

58 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

With Sheikha Sarah Fahad Al Sabah in Kuwait

important projects and choose the best solution. Traveling is also important in this profession. Thanks to many journeys Margaret and Elvis learn about architecture in different cities and get to see breeders’ houses from the inside. Elvis sees a similarity between his work and Margaret’s. «The horse is the base, of course, so are the photos. It’s like with a house, a wonderful roof is not enough to have a nice home and also if in a nice home you don’t have good foundations, the walls and the roof cannot stay up by themselves. I personally think this is a good comparison.

To have a final great advertisement you need all the elements matching together. If I have a wonderful photo with an ugly design surrounding it, it will ruin not only the photo, not only the full advertisement, but it will also do a lot of bad PR to the horse. To have the best advertisement you have to work with the best elements and if you have the chance to merge them in a good way you are on top!»

Seeing the house that Elvis and his wife created there is no doubt that they are artists.

«We love antiques and prefer to renovate them than to buy new furniture. Similarly with houses, it is a greater satisfaction to renovate an old building than to build a new one. An old house is filled with invisible, but perceptible vibrations.

We are lucky to be living in Italy where there is a lot of places like this. We can participate in the restoration of many historic buildings, while not forgetting about the legacy of our ancestors.» Elvis designed and built his house together with Margaret. They chose materials for the renovation, all very old, often reclaimed from historic sites.

They bought every element separately, gradually creating their own home. Elvis believes that the place where you live and create a family and spend the majority of your life is very important to everyone. The finishing touches depend on the nature of the people living there.

«Surrounded by nice things that make you happy will put you in a good mood and allow you to do the great things.

With Gigi Grasso , Charlie and Shirley Watts in Paris

When I close the doors to my office I focus on nothing else but my work. I don’t feel the passing time, I don’t know whether it’s time for dinner or supper, whether it’s still day or night [Margaret, forgive me!].»

Like a child that’s playing and doesn’t want to stop despite its mother calling to come for dinner...

With Miloslava Khamis in Shanghai Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 59

A view of the Arabian Essence offices

We spend 80% of our lives in the office, that’s why we designed ours like the rest of the house in order to feel good, listen to good music, be able to have candles around us. If you feel good in your office you have a good chance at succeeding in your work.»

It turns out that living in Italy is not only a guarantee of quality - in literature, fashion, architecture, but also has an impact on horse breeding.

moment. I can also say I am fully satisfied with what I achieved in my private and professional life. But as someone said: never stop asking yourself whether the thing you have done is good enough! My dream is to breed such horses at Le Soleil that will shine at shows and have a huge impact on breeding on a large scale. I would then feel I had a contribution in this world, that is something I really care about. Because if we are to dream, we should dream as big as possible.»

LOOKING FORWARD FOR MORE Arabian Essence has many plans for the coming years. Elvis would like to collaborate with meritorious breeders and experts on Arabian horse breeding not only regarding mailblasts, photo galleries, show coverages, web pages, but on a larger scale. Several times during our conversation he mentioned cooperating with Judith Forbis on her books. «To work with such an important breeder as Judith is truly honorable and might happen once in a lifetime or even never. So I am proud I had this chance. Looking forward for more.»

When asked about personal plans and dreams, Elvis again does not hesitate: «Arabian Essence plans to go on and help people fall in love with Arabian horses and to promote them, to help this special world grow even more than it is at the 60 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

Arabian Essence plans to go on and help people fall in love with Arabian horses and to promote them, to help this special world grow even more than it is at the moment

w w w. t u t t o a r a b i . c o m

Champion Silver v Futurity & Best Head Trophy, Travagliato (IT) 2011 Champion Futurity, Salerno (IT) 2011 t nd 2 and Top Five v Yearling Colts Hasselt (BE) 2012 Gold Champion, o Int. B-Show - Vilhemsborg, (DK) 2012 Gold Champion, Int.C-Show St. O Oedenrode I C Sh - S d d (NL) 2012 rd 3 Place All Nations Cup, Int. A-Show - Aachen (DE) 2012 Bronze Champion, Int. B-Show - Wels (AU) 2013

Luciano don

68 Tutto Arabi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

sl

2011 Grey stallion Psyrasic x Mata Hari HY

by Lumiar Amadeus

Photo: Grego Photo: G regorr Ay Aymar mar Gregor

Photo: Phot o: Grego G Gregor regorr Ay Aymar mar

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BREEDING SEASON 2015 IN FRANCE FRA F ANCE

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Photo: Phot o: Grego G Gregor regorr Ay Aymar mar

Photo: Phot o: Grego G Gregor regorr Ay Aymar mar

Photo: Irina Filsinger* www.lsinger-photography.de © M.Groger

For breeding info contact: Simone Leo: +39 3485640190 leo.simon@tiscali.it Thomas Tomasoni: +33-07 87 52 89 22 tomasonithomas@gmail.com Laetitia Collet: +33- 06 58 51 04 06 colletlaetitia@yahoo.fr Address: La Hamelinais 35360 Montauban de Bretagne - France

Congratulations to Thomas Tomasoni Training Center for the leasing of Don Luciano SL for Shows and Breeding Season 2015 Volume 45, No. 8 | Tutto A rabi 69

74 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES

4_pags_Cruzeiro.indd 2-3

BReeder BRazil Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 75

16/12/14 10:07

76 TuTTo ArAbi | ARABIAN HORSE TIMES 4_pags_Cruzeiro.indd 4-5

Volume 45, No. 8 | TuTTo A rAbi 77 16/12/14 10:08

BREEDING SEASON 2015 NIL DEL GUADO (Ibn El Nil x Fasyla)

TB HOREYA

(Nil Del Guado x TB Hejazya) Straight Egyptian filly * 2014 Italy

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TRE BALZANE STUD TB HAFID EL NIL

Photos: Joanna Joanna Jonientz Photos: Jonientz -- Art: Art: Mario Mario Brunetti Brunetti

(Ibn El Nil x Sulifah) Straight Egyptian Type Producer Obayan Strain * 2010, Italy

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(TB Hafid El Nil x Mia Mouna) Straight Egyptian filly * 2014 Italy

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06044 Castel Ritaldi, Umbria - ITALY Mobile +39.335.5235135 e-mail: savier@arabi-egiziani.it Tel. Stud: +39 3469818427

w w w. t u t t o a r a b i . c o m

Š

photos by Nicoletta Abelli

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Luciano don

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2011 Grey stallion, Psyrasic x Mata Hari HY

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25

Things You Don’t Know About Me … BRANDON FLOOD

1. The f irst horse I ever rode or handled was … Aristo Joy, a grey mare that belonged to my grandparents

2. My happiest moment with a horse was … I have a couple, my

unanimous first place in the gelding western at Scottsdale in 2013 and then making the top ten in the open with SC Don Julio. And this year, winning my first national championship on Sugar Mountain in the H/A Country, and my wife Emily also winning her first in the H/A show hack with JB Surfs Up.

3. The f irst ribbon I ever won was … in lead line, about 24 years ago with 4.

5.

6.

7.

Aristo Joy.

My f irst influence in the horse industry was … my parents.

The f irst breed of horse involved with was … Arabians.

The age I got involved with horses was … since before I could walk.

The f irst thing I do when I get to the barn is … check on every horse, and then drag the ring.

8. The last thing I do when I leave the barn is … check on every horse.

9. The greatest horse I’ve ever ridden is … Sugar Mountain.

Brandon with Sugar Mountain, one of his favorite horses.

10. The most gratifying part of my job is … being able to work with my family and with such beautiful, intelligent animals every day, as well as to watch a horse and rider progress together to become a team.

11. My favorite restaurant is … North Italia in Arcadia, Arizona.

12. My favorite non-horse hobby is … backpacking, rock climbing, and mountain biking.

13. My favorite genre of movie is … I pretty much love all movies. My favorites are Wes Anderson films, and I could also watch Guardians Of The Galaxy over and over.

14. When someone asks me, why Arabians, I say … not only are they beautiful, they are an ancient, intelligent and extremely athletic breed, and are able to do so many different disciplines well. They have such wonderfully diverse personalities.

15. My favorite division to show in is … western.

16. In my free time, I like to … read and go on adventures with Emily.

17. Horses have taught me … to be patient, to keep it simple, and that when you are truly committed to your work, the end result is always a good one.

18. My top vacation spot is … Yosemite National Park.

19. Few foods make me happier than … pizza; maybe ice cream.

20. Without horses, I would be … a mountain guide or park ranger.

21. The piece of tack or equipment that I can’t live without is … my work saddle and a smooth snaffle.

22. My childhood dream job was … I really wanted to be an astronaut, and be the first person on Mars. Obviously that didn’t work out.

23. My favorite breeding bloodline is … *Bask.

24. My biggest pet peeve is … insincere people.

25. The most influential person in my life is … my father.

Volume 45, No. 8 | 303

Exhibitor And Judges School: Learning To See What The Judges See

by Catherine Cole Ferandelli Should you be a competitor, an aspiring AHA judge, steward, or simply a lover of the beautiful Arabian horse, you have a unique educational opportunity to learn and further appreciate the beauty and function of the Arabian and Half-Arabian horse.

and providing the opportunity for all AHA members to learn how Arabian horses are viewed and evaluated by today’s most respected judges…

Each year in early December, the Arabian Horse Association’s Education/Evaluation Commission (EEC) and Judges and Stewards Commissioner spend over a week at a Scottsdale hotel volunteering their time toward the dedication of moving the Arabian breed forward toward a yet more positive future. Their goal in this quest is teaching and raising awareness of the rules and regulations in judging our competitions. Their stay includes teaching existing judges, qualifying new judges

The school’s agenda over three full days, includes: an overview of judging and scoring over a dozen disciplines, Arabian horse conformation, judges organizational skills, and hands-on live judging at a ‘real’ horse show. Woven through the entire schedule is the opportunity to network with top AHA judges, engage in their learned enthusiasm and meet new Arabian horse friends. Folks who attend the school come from all over the country (and Canada, too). These are long, and yet fun days, as the passion of the

304 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

…this is the AHA Exhibitors and Judges School.

EEC members is uplifting and infectious; and the food is quite good, too.

According to the USEF Rulebook, “Good judging depends on a correct observance of the fine points and the selection of best horses for the purpose described by the conditions of the class. A judge serves three interests: his own conscience, exhibitors and spectators. He should make it clear that the best horses win.” Thanks to the EEC we have within our AHA community a dedicated group of professionals who work tirelessly within these goals. And every year we have the opportunity to learn how these goals apply to the judging of the Arabian horse.

ACCORDING TO AN OLD CHINESE PROVERB,

“Learning without thinking is labor lost; thinking without learning is dangerous.”

The dedicated professionals who make up the EEC clearly embrace this proverb.

In doing so, they have created a great opportunity for all of us to learn what makes up the judging of the Arabian horse.

Bill Melendez, longtime AHA judge, is the current Chairman of the EEC. The EEC is comprised of nine members, each of whom teaches a different discipline based on their expertise. All are elected by the AHA board, all assume three-year terms and have a three-time consecutive term limit; all of which is voluntary. These nine EEC members easily have combined judging experience of over a dozen decades. Bill and the other committee members are responsible for creating an interesting and informative agenda for the school program. Presenting and teaching the judging criteria of more than a dozen disciplines and establishing judging priorities all within a very tight schedule is a daunting and challenging task. Still, one comes away from the school with the realization that judging Arabian horses does have very specific guidelines. Without getting into great detail, an attendee quickly grasps: • Judges have a huge responsibility on their shoulders to make positive decisions which result in long reaching effects.

• Judging horses is a subjective discipline within a framework of specific criteria within a particular discipline.

• Integrity is the primary attribute of a qualified Arabian horse judge.

• Horses must be judged based on what one sees in a specific class on a specific day.

• The EEC welcomes, seeks and recognizes the need for more qualified judges and stewards.

• The constant work toward uniform judging and raising awareness of those specific guidelines is a top priority.

• The obvious enjoyment of the EEC instructors when seeing school attendees grasp and embrace the framework of rules, not only generally, but within each discipline.

• Judges work hard to seek a good judging outcome.

• Judges clearly love what they do and love sharing that passion.

• Judging horses from the middle of the show pen is hugely challenging!

The third and final day of the school is spent judging live horses at the Scottsdale Desert Classic (formerly the Saguaro Classic) horse show. Having spent the previous two days with classroom teachings, videos, and constructive interaction, attendees branch off into small groups with two EEC instructors. First the individuals in each group judge purebred and Half-Arabians within the In-Hand Breeding class guidelines. At the end of each horse presentation, the group shares their scores and discusses hows’ and whys of their scoring decisions. One truly gains an appreciation for the score cards and the teachings of their importance in furthering the quality of the Arabian horse breed.

Next, each group judges several performance classes and share those results. Attendees quickly realize the huge difference in viewing horses from the middle of the show pen compared to the sidelines! Horses and riders are moving around you faster than you ever thought possible from the stands. Multi-tasking the fair judging of all exhibitors within the discipline criteria further cements the respect you’ve gained during class for judging our horses.

According to an old Chinese proverb, “Learning without thinking is labor lost; thinking without learning is dangerous.”

The dedicated professionals who make up the EEC clearly embrace this proverb. In doing so, they have created a great opportunity for all of us to learn what makes up the judging of the Arabian horse. n The Exhibitors and Judges School takes place annually in early December. AHA members are welcome to attend. Sign up early via the arabianhorses.org website as space is limited and fills up fast!

Volume 45, No. 8 | 305

In Memoriam Daniel J. Gainey (1925-2014)

Daniel J. Gainey, a man of great energy and enthusiasm, passed away on December 29, at the age of 89. The Gainey family not only created generations of wonderful people, but 7 decades of magnificent Arabian horses as well. Started by his father, Daniel C. Gainey, fine Arabians were bred by their legendary stallion, Ferzon, to fully complement the fine qualities of his carefully acquired mares who paved the way to a Gainey herd that gave us Gai Parada, Ga-Rageyma, Gai Louise, Gay-Rose, Gai Argosy, Gai Monarch, the gorgeous Gaishea and, of course, Gai Fawn.

The contributions of Daniel J. Gainey and family to our beloved breed are beyond enormous, and today, we have renewed their dedication to preserving that ‘Gainey-Arabian’ type.

Douglas Peterson (1939-2014)

An active and respected member of the Arabian horse community, Doug Peterson passed away this December at the age of 75. A faithful servant and member of New Hope Church, Doug was happy to share his gift of teaching. He taught Jr. and Sr. high English courses and was employed by the Robbinsdale School District for 35 years. Doug coached athletes in baseball, football, wrestling, basketball, and horsemanship. His goal was always to pass along good sportsmanship, ethics, integrity, and competitive spirit.

Doug lived his life’s dream and passion at Regent Arabians where, since 1972, he “Developed Equestrians for Life.” He said he was the luckiest man on earth to do so. Doug touched thousands of people’s lives, and they are better because he taught, encouraged, and believed in them. He was an avid fisherman, MN Twins fan, and an honored and respected member of many horse associations.

A Noble Cause (2003-2014)

One of Cedar Ridge Arabians’ premier stallions, A Noble Cause (IXL Noble Express x Sweet Summer Fire, by Afire Bey V) was born in 2003. A striking chestnut with a bold and endearing personality, he began his show career in 2008 and became a fixture in the winner’s circle. His titles include numerous regional awards as well as the 2008 Canadian Reserve National Championship title in both the Arabian Pleasure Driving and Arabian English Pleasure Junior Horse classes. That same year, he was also a double U.S. National Champion in amateur and open driving. In 2009, A Noble Cause won the two Arabian English Pleasure amateur classes at Scottsdale and was again U.S. National Champion in amateur driving. In the breeding spectrum, Noble has produced some incredibly trainable and talented English horses that Cedar Ridge Arabians continues to take great pride in. Lara Ames shares, “A Noble Cause, rest in peace. Words cannot express what you meant to my family and Cedar Ridge. Not only were you an amazing sire and show horse, but most of all, you had a kind spirit. You will be missed very much.” n

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Calendar Of Events Items for the calendar are run FREE of charge on a space-available basis. Calendar listings are subject to change; please confirm dates and locale before making your plans or reservations. MAIL notices to Arabian Horse Times, Attention: Charlene Deyle, P.O. Box 69, Jordan, MN 55352; phone 612-816-3018 or e-mail: charlened@ ahtimes.com. *Due to the intrinsic nature of these shows, Arabian Horse Times cannot be held accountable for their validity.

REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS March 21-22, 2015, Region 2 Sport Horse & Dressage Offsite Championship, Burbank, CA. Contact: Nancy Goertzen, 559-625-2631.

April 23-26, 2015, Region 7 Championship, Scottsdale, AZ. Contact: Melanni Hershberger, 480-443-3372.

May 4-9, 2015, Region 12 Championship, Perry, GA. Contact: Marilyn Norton, 715-514-5478.

May 7-10, 2015, Region 4 Sport Horse Offsite Championship, Nampa, ID. Contact: Ginny Kelsch, 208-884-3071.

May 27-30, 2015, Region 9 Championship, Fort Worth, TX. Contact: Melanni Hershberger, 480-443-3372.

May 27-31, 2015, Region 1 Championship and Pre-Show, Del Mar, CA. Contact: Nancy Harvey, 262-355-9101.

June 4-6, 2015 Region 8 Championship, Denver, CO. Contact: Jo Anne Read, 303-648-3261.

June 10-14, 2015, Region 10 Championship, St. Paul, MN. Contact: Leesa Berhow, 715-294-3092.

June 18-21, 2015, Region 13 Championship, Springfield, OH. Contact: Donna Auber, 330-274-2039.

June 19-23, 2015, Region 2 Championship, Santa Barbara, CA. Contact: Joyce Ann Schroeder, 805-432-6890.

June 20-27, 2015, Region 4 Championship, Nampa, ID. Contact: Patricia Ann Hough, 253-847-8842.

June 24-28, 2015, Region 14 Championship, Lexington, KY. Contact: 937-962-4336.

June 27-28, 2015, Region 3 Sport Horse Offsite Championship, Elk Grove, CA. Contact: Annette Wells, 530-344-1706.

308 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

July 2-5, 2015, Region 11 Championship, Springfield, IL. Contact: Nancy Harvey, 626-355-9101.

July 2-3, 2015, Region 6 Championship, Douglas, WY. Contact: Claude Clark, 406-388-3364.

July 2-5, 2015, Region 15 Championship, Lexington, VA. Contact: Marilyn Norton, 715-514-5478.

July 3-4, 2015, Region 18 Championship, London, Ontario. Contact: Pam Worts, 519-681-3943.

July 7-11, 2015, Region 3 Championship, Reno, NV. Contact: Sharon Richards, 916-645-2288.

July 7-12, 2015, Region 5 Championship and Pre-Show, Monroe, WA. Contact: 253-847-8842.

July 8-11, 2015, Region 16 Championship, W. Springfield, MA. Contact: Donna Auber, 330-274-2039.

July 20-25, 2015, Region 17 Championship, Calgary, Alberta. Contact: Marion Enders, 403-227-0538.

SHOWS JANUARY January 31, 2015, SFHA Combined Arabian & HA/AA Qualifying One Day Show A and B, Miami, FL. Contact: Marjorie Joy Carr, 305-246-1041.

FEBRUARY February 12-22, 2015, 60th Annual Scottsdale Arabian Show, Scottsdale, AZ. Contact: Mary Kanaga, 623-334-5219.

MARCH March 7-8, 2015, Ocala 20th Annual Amateur A and B, Newberry, FL. Contact: Carlie Evans, 352-215-0710.

March 12-15, 2015, Cowtown Classic A and B, Fort Worth, TX. Contact: Ruth Charpie, 816-765-5683.

March 13-15, 2015, Missouri All Arabian Show, Lake St. Louis, MO. Contact: Ryan Chambers, 314-717-7683.

March 19-22, 2015, Rancho CA Spring Show A, Burbank, CA. Contact: Nancy Goertzen, 559-625-2631.

March 20-21, 2015, Alabama All Arabian A and B, Andalusia, AL. Contact: Beth Walker, 225-772-6815.

March 20-22, 2015, MAHA Spring Fling, Winona, MN. Contact: Mary Tronson, 763-755-1698.

March 26-29, 2015, Rally In The Valley A and B, Eugene, OR. Contact: Heather Engstrom, 541-689-9700.

March 26-29, 2015, Alamo Arabian Fiesta A and B, San Antonio, TX. Contact: Patty Liarakos, 210-912-8679.

March 27-29, 2015, Golden Gate Arabian Show, Santa Rosa, CA. Contact: Nancy Goertzen, 559-625-2631.

March 27-29, 2015, Western Carolinas Spring Show A and B, Fletcher, NC. Contact: Nancy Baker, 828-305-4023.

March 28-29, 2015, Beat The Heat All Arabian Show, Queen Creek, AZ. Contact: Melanni Hershberger, 480-443-3372.

APRIL April 3-5, 2015, Green Country Spring Fling A and B, Tulsa, OK. Contact: Ruth Charpie, 816-765-5683.

April 3-5, 2015, Magnolia Classic A and B, Gonzales, LA. Contact: Beth Walker, 225-772-6815.

April 3-5, 2015, Arabian Springfest I A and B, Gifford, IL. Contact: Region 11.

April 11-12, 2015, Pacific Rim Arabian Sport Horse Show, Elma, WA. Contact: Nancy Harlan, 253-797-1914.

April 11-12, 2015, Sunflower Arabian I and II A One Day Show, Wichita, KS. Contact: Ruth Charpie, 816-765-5683.

April 16-19, 2015, 9th Annual Arabian Breeders World Cup, Las Vegas, NV. Contact: 480-471-1715.

April 17-19, 2015, AHBAO Spring Classic A, Eugene, OR. Contact: Heather Engstrom, 541-689-9700.

April 17-19, 2015, Lone Star Classic, San Antonio, TX. Contact: Ann Lang, 512-452-1492.

April 17-19, 2015, Annual Magnolia Spring Classic A and B, Perry, GA. Contact: Nancy Baker, 828-305-4023.

April 17-19, 2015, Virginia Arabian Show & Futurity A and B, Lexington, VA. Contact: Kelva Alexander, 540-351-0010.

April 18-19, 2015, Iowa Spring Show A and B, Cedar Rapids, IA. Contact: Region 11.

April 18-19, 2015, Central FL Arabian Spring Classic, New Smyrna Beach, FL. Contact: Cheryl Vandeusen, 386-566-4820.

Calendar Of Events April 21-22, 2015, ASHO4U, Scottsdale, AZ. Contact: Melanni Hershberger, 480-443-3372.

April 24-26, 2015, Border Bonanza A and B, Sedalia, MO. Contact: Ruth Charpie, 816-765-5683.

April 26, 2015, Royale Ranch Sport Horse & Dressage Show, O’Fallon, IL. Contact: Janet Corvallis, 618-344-5595.

April 26, 2015, BAHA Spring Blast Open One Day Show, Shelbyville, KY. Contact: Lorie Henderson, 502-477-1018.

April 30-May 3, 2015, The Mayfest Challenge, Fort Worth, TX. Contact: Sherry McGraw, 903-872-7279.

MAY May 1-3, 2015, Red Bluff Arabian Horse Show, Corning, CA. Contact: Sharon Richards, 916-645-2288.

May 1-3, 2015, Sahara Sands Spring Classic, St. Paul, MN. Contact: Mary Tronson, 763-755-1698.

May 1-3, 2015, Empire State Arabian Spring Show, Syracuse, NY. Contact: Gaylon Medley, 315-626-6790.

May 7-10, 2015, Treasure Valley Classic, Nampa, ID. Contact: Ginny Kelsch, 208-884-3071.

May 7-10, 2015, Cascade Arabian Youth Benefit, Spanaway, WA. Contact: Renate Cowan, 360-807-4217.

May 8-10, 2015, NIAHAC May II Show, Springfield, IL. Contact: Ryan Chambers, 314-717-7683.

May 14-17, 2015, Diablo Arab Spring Show, Elk Grove, CA. Contact: Melanni Hershberger, 480-443-3372.

May 14-17, 2015, NYS Horse Breeders Show, Syracuse, NY. Contact: Tari Weston, 315-701-9378.

May 15-17, 2015, AHACO Arab Show A and B, Eugene, OR. Contact: Patricia Ann Hough, 253-847-8842.

May 15-17, 2015, ARK Arabian Victory Challenge A and B, Texarkana, AR. Contact: Alan Harmon, 501-330-2272.

May 15-17, 2015, NJ HAHA A and B, Allentown, NJ. Contact: Joan Mitch, 610-914-7008.

May 21-24, 2015, Buckeye Sweepstakes, Columbus, OH. Contact: Jean Hedger, 937-434-6114.

May 22-24, 2015, AHC of CT Horse Show, West Springfield, MA. Contact: Beth Barnes, 860-302-2061.

May 23-24, 2015, Iowa Memorial Weekend A and B, Des Moines, IA. Contact: Region 11.

May 27-31, 2015, Illinois/Arab Inc. All Arabian Show, Springfield, IL. Contact: Region 11.

May 29-30, 2015, NC PAHA Arabian Show, Hughesville, PA. Contact: Patricia McQuiston, 570-924-4836.

May 29-31, 2015, Showtime 2015, East Lansing, MI. Contact: Sally Epps, 920-992-3293.

May 29-31, 2015, Palmetto Sport Horse Classic, Aiken, SC. Contact: Nancy Baker, 828-305-4023.

JUNE June 3, 2015, Region 8 Lead-In Show, Denver, CO. Contact: Jo Anne Read, 303-648-3261.

June 9-10, 2015, Region 10 Pre-Show, St. Paul, MN. Contact: Leesa Berhow, 715-294-3092.

June 17-18, 2015, Region 2 Pre-Show, Santa Barbara, CA. Contact: Joyce Ann Schroeder, 805-432-6890.

June 17-21, 2015, Region 13 Pre Show A and B, Springfield, OH. Contact: Donna Auber, 330-274-2039.

June 20-22, 2015, Region 4 Pre-Show, Nampa, ID. Contact: Patricia Ann Hough, 253-847-8842.

JULY July 1, 2015, Region 11 Pre-Show A and B, Springfield, IL. Contact: Nancy Harvey, 626-355-9101.

July 2, 2015, Region 18 Last Chance, London, Ontario. Contact: Pam Worts, 519-681-3943.

July 5-7, 2015, Region 3 Last Chance Qualifying Show, Reno, NV. Contact: Sharon Richards, 916-645-2288.

NATIONAL EVENTS

July 18-25, 2015, Youth Nationals, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Contact AHA: 303-696-4500.

August 10-15, 2015, Canadian Nationals, Brandon, Manitoba. Contact AHA: 303-696-4500.

September 16-21, 2015, Sport Horse Nationals, Raleigh, North Carolina. Contact AHA: 303-696-4500.

October 23-31, 2015, U.S. Nationals, Tulsa, Oklahoma. Contact AHA: 303-696-4500.

INTERNATIONAL EVENTS

*Go to ‘www.arabianessence.com or www.ecaho.org for international shows and information.

Visit www.ahtimes.com for a calendar view of these dates.

www.ahtimes.com Volume 45, No. 8 | 309

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316 | A R A BI A N HOR SE T I MES

Index Of Advertisers A Abel Family, The ......................................................................................... 10, 11 Abu Dhabi Arabian Show/Horse Auction....................................80Tutto (300) Adandy Farm ....................................................................... 8-9AEPA (152-153) AHT Subscriptions ........................................................................................... 67 Al Khalediah European Arabian Horse Festival ........................26Tutto (246) Al Shaqab ................................................................................................. 123-126 Al Zobair Stud ..................................................................44-47Tutto (264-267) Aljassimya Farm................................................................................................... 5 Aljawza Stud .....................................................................48-49Tutto (268, 269) Alvarez Arabians .........................................................................................86, 87 Argent Farms .......................................................................................2, 3, 14, 15 Aria International ....................................FC, 16, 1Aria-32Aria (17-46), 47-49

B

Becker Stables .................................................................................................... 98 BL Ranch ........................................................................................................... 83 Boisvert Farms LLC........................................................12-13AEPA (156-157) Buerger, Heidi ..................................................................................24ROL (218) Burkman Centre .............................................................................................. 186

C

Cari Thompson Training ............................................................... 15ROL (209) Cedar Ridge Arabians .....................................................................14ROL (208) ChriShan Park Arabians .................................................. 17-19AEPA (161-163) Conway Arabians, Inc. ................................................................. 14AEPA (158) Crescent Creek Farms LLC ......................................................... 22AEPA (166)

D

Delsan Arabians LLC .....................................................................14ROL (208) Deor Farms Arabians ..................................................................................84, 85

E

Equidont Arabians.......................................................................................65, 66

F

Flynn, L.A. ...................................................................... 10-11AEPA (154-155) Forest, Brydget .................................................................................24ROL (218) Frierson Atkinson ............................................................................................ 310

G

Gallún Farms .......................................................................................... 318-IBC Gemini Acres Equine ...................................................................................... BC Givens, Joreen & John .....................................................................23ROL (217) Greymoor Farm ................................................................................ 8ROL (202) Guyton, Sigrid & Kristi ................................................................. 21ROL (215)

H

HA Toskcan Sun LLC.................................. 144, 1AEPA (145), 13ROL (207) Haras Cruzeiro...................................................................74-77Tutto (294-297) Harris Arabians............................................................................... 13ROL (207) Hazlewood Arabians ........................................................................................... 7 Healy, Nancy ....................................................................................20ROL (214) Hegg, Mrs. Mickey ......................................................................................... 310 Hennessey Arabian Horse Partners LLC ................................... 24AEPA (168) Highland Pride Arabians ................................................................................ 186

K

Kiesner Training ............................... 4-5AEPA (148-149), 40AEPA (184), 185 Kirby Arabians LLC ...................................................................... 12ROL (206) Knocke Arabians..........................................................................................12, 13

L

Lee, Deborah ...................................................................................24ROL (218) Leo Arabians ............................................................. 68-69Tutto (288-289), 301 LT Consulting & Co. ....................................................................25Tutto (245)

M

Markel ............................................................................................................. 310

Markonich, Kaylee...........................................................................22ROL (216) Maroon Fire Arabians .................143, 2-3APEA (146-147), 16ROL (210), 311 McKee, Brian .....................................................................................................64 Midwest Station I, Inc.................................................................................12, 13 Midwest ...........................................................................................8-11, 123-126 Mittenthal Arabians ........................................................................19ROL (213) Morning Sun Arabians................................................................................14, 15

N

Napier, Mary ....................................................................................17ROL (211)

P

Palmetto Arabians ........................................................................................... 106 Pay-Jay Arabians .............................................................................................. 310 Preston, Donna-Marie ....................................................................24ROL (218)

R

R O Lervick Arabians ..................................................7-24ROL (201-218), 310 Rancho Arabco ..................................................................72-73Tutto (292-293) Regency Cove Farms ........................................................................................... 7 Reilich, Bill & Shirley ..........................................................4-5AEPA (148-149) Roberts, Jack & Janet...................................................................................94, 95 Robin Hood Farms ......................................................................... 10ROL (204) Rooker Training Stable ...................................................20-23AEPA (164-167) Rosecrest Arabians .....................................................................................IFC, 1 Rothenberg Stud ............................................................................. 61Tutto (281)

S

Saint Petersbourg International Cup ...............................................9Tutto (229) Sandspur Ranch .............................................................................. 15ROL (209) Sculptures by Foss............................................................................................ 311 Setting Sun Stables .......................................................................................... 107 Shada Inc. ............................................................................................9ROL (203 Shamrock Farms .............................................................................................. 107 Shea Stables ..................................143, 2-3APEA (146-147), 16ROL (210), 311 Shuster Arabians, LLC ................................................................ 21AEPA (165) Siemon Stables ...................................................................................................64 Simeon Stud ...................................................................... 62-67Tutto (282-287) Smith, Debra & Ken .......................................................................18ROL (212) Smoky Mountain Park Arabians ........................................6-7AEPA (150-151) Southern Oaks Farm ............................................................40AEPA (184), 185 Stachowski Farm, Inc. ......................144, 1AEPA (145), 12-13ROL (206-207) Stalmare Arabians........................................................................... 11ROL (205) Stigler Stud................................................................................220, 1Tutto (221) Strand’s Arabians .........................................................................................65, 66 Strawberry Banks Farm................................................................ 15AEPA (159) Swanson Investments, LLC ......................................................... 16AEPA (160) Sweden Arabian Stud ........................................................70-71Tutto (290-291)

T

The Hat Lady .................................................................................................. 311 Tre Balzane Stud .............................................................. 78-79Tutto (298, 299) Trotwood Farm .....................................................................122, 25AEPA (169) Truest Partners, LLC .............................................................................318, IBC Tutto Arabi......................................................................219, 18Tutto (238), 302

V

Vesty, Stuart .................................................................................. 23AEPA (167) Vicki Humphrey Training Center .................................. 10-11AEPA (154-155)

W

Waggoner, Kristi..............................................................................24ROL (218) Wilkins Livestock Insurers, Inc...................................................................... 311 Willowbank Farm ......................................................................... 16AEPA (160) Woods Western................................................................................................ 316 Volume 45, No. 8 | 317

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