From the Editors I love a new trail, and the best trail for me has always involved a horse. This past year has been a challenge for health and happiness all around the world, and new trails and even old ones have been closed. In this first issue of the Arabian Bloodstock Companion (ABC), we focus on the rebound of many of our favorite equestrian activities such as racing, showing and endurance, which are reopening for spectators, many with limits and qualifications for attendees. In the U.S., Churchill Downs allowed up to 60% capacity in special areas, contractual seating, licenses, memberships and annual tickets to their May Kentucky Derby. In Britain,12,000 people, masked and with negative COVID tests, were admitted to each of the five days of the June Royal Ascot races with the loyal attendance of patron, Queen Elizabeth on the final day. The prestigious 3-day Masters of Chantilly for Show Jumping, located at the 300-year-old Château des Princes de Condé just outside of Paris at Chantilly, France, is being held with ticketed spectators in July. Many world-wide endurance competitions are going ahead with plans in place for protection and social distancing, with the addition of viewing competitions by broadcast. The FEI Endurance World Championships 2021 were broadcast live on-site from the Parco Naturale Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli, one of the oldest and largest nature parks in Tuscany, Italy. In this issue, the Arabian Bloodstock Companion will highlight the female line of our athletic Arabians. We look at the continuing reach of two top race-bred mares, Wibwilcca and Fryga, and their progeny that have flourished under the guidance of their breeders and owners. We also celebrate the 2021 Darley Champions as well as the 2021 AJC Racing Hall of Fame and Racing Tent of Honor Awards and don’t miss updated U.S. stakes and racing statistics and international Group 1 race results and statistics. Meet Champion endurance riders, Heather and Jeremy Reynolds with some tips on training horses for distance and how to get started in the sport that offers miles of fun with your horse. Past Arabian Jockey Club President Kathy Smoke shares news on a few of her race-bred horses that in retirement have excelled in other disciplines. Having collected many awards and honors over the years, Georgia-based JAG Arabians talks about what makes a well-rounded partnership between the horse and a young equestrian, and where to begin. Don’t forget to check our A List Reference Guide to be directed to the best contacts for farms, breeders and owners. As with the annual Stallion Guide, the Arabian Bloodstock Companion is published in hard copy and available online in digital format for quick viewing no matter where you are. Stay safe and see you on the rail.
Pamela Stephanie 2
