Arabian Horse Magazine | Special Middle East 2023

MARRIOTT HOTEL

RATING: 5*

Marriott Hotel, Al Forsan International Sports Resort Khalifa City A, Street 12 - Abu Dhabi, +971 2 201 4000

This hotel is on the actual show ground, simply walk out and enter the equestrian facilities.

TRADERS HOTEL ABU DHABI

RATING: 4.5*

Traders Hotel Abu Dhabi. Souk QARYAT AL BERI COMPLEX, ABU DHABI, 128881 +971 2 510 8888

Approx 15 mins from show ground, great facilities and easy access.

IBIS ABU DHABI GATE

RATING:4* Road 34, Gate City, Bain Al Jessrain, Abu Dhabi, +9712 508 9999

The 4-star IBIS Abu Dhabi Gate hotel is 10 minutes from show ground.

NOVOTEL

ABU DHABI GATE

RATING: 4* 222 Al Maqta Street, Abu Dhabi, +9712 508 9999

The 4-star Novotel Abu Dhabi Gate hotel is ideally located between Abu Dhabi Gate City and Bain Al Jessrain. Explore Yas Island and all the leisure activities like Ferrari World and Warner Bros, enjoy the fun in Yas Waterworld, go for shopping in Yas Mall or simply visit Louvre Museum and witness a wide array of artistic masterpieces.

This hotel is on the actual show ground, simply walk out and enter the equestrian facilities.

SPECIAL MIDDLE EAST 2023 EDITION

Dear Breeders and Lovers of the Arabian Horse, To kick off this new year at full trot, we have some fresh news, videos, and articles that may inspire you and give you some thrill. After the 2022 World Championships in Paris, on 17-18-19 November 2022, the AHM team tour different Middle Eastern regions and makes its way back home slightly before the holiday season. In

people who have surrendered their hearts to the noble Arabian horse and sent in their pieces: breeder Nathalie Goedert of Mikonos Arabian Stud from Belgium, judge Eric Gear from France, ringmaster and Dc Roberto Ceccaroni from Italy, Painter Laeticia Mielani from France, photographer Mohab Magdy Elshayat from Egypt, and equine sculptor Liliane Guiomar from France. The cultural and

one go, it makes three compelling stops. First in Kuwait to cover the Erab Arabian Horses International Show, second in Iraq to attend the 1st Sumer National Show on 9-10 December, third and final stop of the tour in the UAE for the 7th Fujairah International Horse Championship at the historical Emirate Fort. As the team begins a new year, it cannot but accept the invitation to join the 2023 Ajman Arabian Horse Show. Flights and hectic times in the past few months are at their peak, but it is all worth it, and the team enjoys every moment. This special edition collects and designs the genuine contributions of

historical rubric continues with an analysis of the royal ancestry of Nazeera, the Dam of Distinction celebrated in Domenico Tocchi’s essay, and a precious detailed paper drafted by William Richardot de Choisey on the Breeding and Show Seasons 2018-2022 in Morocco. You will all pick up on a little of everything attractive, curious, or necessary. So, savour the taste of exciting news in the world breeding and show industry. Thank you for being such passionate readers!

AHM Editorial Office

Paris World Championships A PREVIEW

The silver stallion whose journey has just begun…

Written by Zarah Perkins

“I remember getting the call from Janina Merz when Atticus was foaled. I was kind of bummed because I wanted a filly,” laughs Michael Weinstein, breeder of the interna-

El Nabila B

tionally up and coming young stallion, Atticus ENB. “His dam, Om El Benedine had foaled an exquisite El Nabila B filly the year before and we lost her in an accident, and I desperately wanted a replacement.”

“Atticus was an absolutely beautiful baby,” Janina recalls. “Very feminine looking as in my opinion, many of the best breeding stallions are at birth. I called Michael and said that a star had been born!”

Of course, no one then could have foreseen just how prophetic Janina’s words were to prove. Now, at just seven years of age Atticus has not only acquitted himself admirably in the show ring - being named 2019 Canadian Reserve National Champion Stallion and 2021 Scottsdale International Silver Champion - but more importantly, from just a handful of US bred foals, he is emerging as a superstar sire of the rarest and most exceptional quality.

His exquisite bay filly, Alesia ENB (from the PCF Vision mare, Aliyah Vision PCF)one of four daughters that made up his entire first foal crop - has been a prolific show winner for her owners Murray and Shirley Popplewell of RaeDawn Arabians, claiming among her successes, champion at the 2021 Arabian Breeder’s Cup where she was also awarded the highest movement points of the show – a truly remarkable feat for a yearling filly! Atticus himself, received the second highest score.

But it is Alesia’s extraordinary ¾ brother, RD Atlantis (from Giana Leah, Aliyah Vision’s daughter by Polidoro) who has really catapulted Atticus the sire into the global spotlight. While still a weanling, word of this huge-eyed and ultra-refined colt spread quickly around the world. Following a heated international bidding war between US, Middle Eastern and European interests Atlantis was eventually sold to French bree-

ders, Kalliste Arabians who have entrusted his undoubtedly illustrious future to the auspices of Jadem Arabians in Belgium. A great breeding horse is usually the result of a great pedigree and Atticus ENB is no exception. His sire, El Nabila B requires little introduction. Born at the Babolna stud in Hungary and the result of the mating of two World Champions – the explosively masculine, chestnut Russian superhorse, Kubinec (Balaton by Menes x Kosmetica by Muscat) and the swan white, airy moving Straight Egyptian mare, 218 Elf Layla Walayla B (Assad by Ansata Halim Shah x 223 Ibn Galal 1 - making her twice inbred to the iconic SE matriarch, Hanan): El Nabila B’s pedigree is a breeder’s poem of power and beauty! Still a radiant presence at 27, over his long life Nabila has been crowned national champion both in Brazil and the United States, a title he claimed at the unprecedented age of 14, and built an international reputation as one of the world’s great broodmare sires. Om El Benedine, Atticus’ tall and typey dam comes from an equally important and storied lineage - sired by the legendary El Shaklan son, Sanadik El Shaklan and out of the Sharem El Sheikh daughter, Om El Beneera. Beneera - the last foal of her world-renowned dam Estopa who gave birth to her at 27 - grew up to find the most prolific and important line in the Om El program producing both exceptional daughters and sons like Om El Azeem – all inheriting her big eyes, big movement, and big personality.

Michael freely admits that El Nabila B’s reputation as a sire rest largely on the quality of his daughters, so it is worth noting that his arguably two best sons, Atticus ENB and the late Titan AS (a dramatic chestnut stallion who sadly died young) were both bred from Om El Arab mares. Thus, Atticus’ qualities as both an individual and a sire undoubtedly owe much to his dam who brings not only four closes crosses to Estopa, but the proven stallion producing power of the

RD Atlantis

Owned by Kaliste Arabians (France)

Om El Beneera line.

“I think Atticus represents the perfect balance of his pedigree” says Michael. “Like his father, Atticus is a soft, kind horse. He loves to puff up and snort and blow but he’s basically very sensible. He also has inherited Nabila’s perfectly vertical tail carriage, small tight ears and broad flat forehead with big prominent eyes. He is very leggy like his dam’s family. And his long neck, high set into a powerful, sloping shoulder comes both from his maternal grandsire, Sharem El Sheikh and his father, but the beautiful curvy polls and super clean throats which seem to be characteristic of all his foals so far – that is definitely Nabila.”

Ironically, while Atticus’ pedigree is one of his greatest strengths it may also be the reason that he initially failed to capture the imagination of US breeders. “Americans like their bays,” laughs Michael, “and they tend to gravitate to a certain set of bloodlines. Atticus is unusual amongst most American halter bred stallions in that he has no Gazal Al Shaqab blood, no Marwan, no Justice, no Padrons Psyche, no Bey Shah, no Minstrel blood – in fact he is a complete outcross for most modern mares, and we are seeing that outcross strength now in his babies.”

Jasmina x Atticus

If Atticus was not on local breeder’s radar other Arabian horse connoisseurs were paying attention. “Scott Benjamin (renowned judge and breeding consultant) came to see him and absolutely loved him!” says Michael. As a result, Benjamin became the stallion’s first international agent, selling multiple frozen semen breeding’s most notably in Australia and New Zealand. The resultant exciting Antipodean foal crop, most still weanlings, currently represents the largest group of Atticus progeny anywhere in the world.

Atticus’ pedigree is also unusual in that he is a very rare modern representative of the Bairactar sire line, the oldest sire line in the world long prized for their substantial bodies, large eyes and trainable temperaments. Bairactar himself, was a white Seglawi stallion brought from the desert to the royal stables in Germany in the early 19th century where he was renowned for his almost unworldly Oriental beauty. The line exists today only through descendants of the fifth-generation Polish bred stallion, Amurath Sahib: a superlative broodmare sire and one of the cornerstones of Polish breeding, his daughters produced the legendary Bask, Bandola and founded the world-famous E-line at Michalow. The Poles, in efforts to reinvigorate this line have previously used Atticus’s sire, El Nabila B with a handful of mares being retained. This year, on Jeff Wallace recommendation, 7 of the Polish state studs’ best mares will be bred to Atticus in hopes of producing a breeding colt.

While today as a mature stallion Atticus is more beautiful than ever – since he was last seen in the showring his body has filled out and muscled up and his coat has burni-

shed into a spectacular flea-bitten silver – there are no current plans to bring him out again. “Atticus has shown that his future lies as a breeding horse,” says Michael. “He has already proven himself to be a sire of both exceptional fillies and colts which is cool in itself. I think that his son Atlantis RD is one of the best colts I have ever seen, anywhere and a far better horse than his sire, in the same age, more extreme for sure. That he is consistently out-siring says everything about Atticus’ potential as a breeding horse!”

Now for Atticus a new chapter is on his way to open – he is heading to Europe!

Only a few hours after the conclusion of the 2022 World Arabian Horse Championships in the ‘Ville Lumière’, social media have been stormed by pictures and messages from the proud winners of this 41st edition, with members of the international Arabian horse breeding community posting congratulations, glorious acknowledgements, sharing videos with thousands of views at all times of the day. Approximately 100 horses from Europe and the Middle East were entered in this year’s pageantry at the Parisian Bourget Exhibition Centre, which lasted three consecutive days from 17 to 19 November 2022.

Nine judges of international provenance were appointed to score the registered horses, divided into six classes according to age and sex. From the Vip tables, and with exquisite music playing all along, we followed the operations made by Mr Ae-

schbacher Urs (Switzerland), Willie Brown (South Africa), Mrs Eberhardt Sylvie (Germany), Mr Al Hussini Sufian T. (Palestine), Mr Lieblang Steve (United States of America), Mr Rocco Luiz (Brazil), Mr Scanzi Fausto (Italy), Mrs Van Hee Martine (Belgium) and Mr Marc Veray (France).

With the rank of Disciplinary Commissioners: Dr Benamar Malak (Morocco), Mr Amira Abdel Wahab Ben Ali, Dr Kupaj Jean-Bernard (France) and Mrs Valette Christine (France).

In their capacity as Ringmasters: Mr Ladek Alain (France) and Mr Valette Bertrand (France). Official Scorer: Mr Denis Charles (France). Marks Checking Officer: Mr Jean-Marc Dubois (France). Show Commentator: Mr Guy de Fontaines (France). Music played by: Ms Asya Bruillon (France).

Official Show Photographers: Mr Wieslaw Pawlowski (Poland) and Ms Lisa Abraham (USA).

For those who could not join in Paris but were keen to follow this exclusive event and cheer for their favourites, the team of Arabian Essence TV prepared an exceptional live streaming of the whole show.

The show started on November 17, 2022, at 12:00 Europe/Rome and ended on November 19, 2022, at 18:00 Europe/Rome with the following champion winners:

In the YEARLING FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP, sponsored by Akmal Stud, Gold me-

– UAE and owned by Al Shaqab Stud – Qatar. Bronze medal winner Aj Kayya (Aj Kafu x Aja Caprice) bred and owned by Ajman Stud – HH Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi – Qatar.

In the SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP, sponsored by Al Sheikh Stud, Gold medal winner Mozn Al Bidayer (Sma Magic One x Mattaharii) bred by Albidayer Stud – UAE and owned by Al Wajba Stud – Qatar.

Silver medal winner D Aziza (Ajman Moni-

dal winner Aisha Al-Sheikh (Jyar Meia Lua x Algamra) bred and owned by Al Sheikh Stud - Palestine. Silver medal winner D Expo (D Seraj x Elle Jaharra) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud – UAE. Bronze medal winner Samara Ka (Fa El Rasheem x Safya Ka) bred and owned by Knocke Arabians – Belgium.

In the JUNIOR FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP, sponsored by Al Wajba Stud, Gold medal winner Brianne Alfabia (Eks Alihandro x Balbina Alfabia) bred by Alfabia Az. Agricola, and owned by Aljassimya Farm – Qatar.

Silver medal winner D Beisan (D Seraj x Rah Rosalia) bred by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud

scione x Midnight Kiss) bred by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud – UAE and owned by Hanaya Arabian Stud – Switzerland.

Bronze medal winner Nada Al Shahania (Besson Carol x Mfa Annies Song) bred by Michael Byatt – USA and owned by Al Shahania Stud – Qatar.

In the YEARLING COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP, sponsored by Al Shaqab Stud, Gold medal winner Baz Aljassimya (Exxalt x MD Mirka) bred by Aljassimya Farm – Qatar and owned by Akmal Stud – KSA.

Silver medal winner Aj Sayer (Aj Yas x Sama Am) bred and owned by Ajman Stud – HH Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi – Qa-

tar. Bronze medal winner Bandar Aljassimya (Picasso di Mar x Miznat Aljassimya) bred and owned by Aljassimya Farm – Qatar.

In the Junior Colts Championship, sponsored by Ajman Stud, Gold medal winner D Sharar (D Seraj x FT Shaella) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud – UAE. Silver medal winner LR Solo Mio (Aj Radman x Lr Buena Mia) bred by Las Rosas Estancia – Uruguay and owned by Al Shahania Stud – Qatar.

Bronze medal winner D Shahhar (Excalibur Ea x D Shihanah) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud – UAE.

In the SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP, sponsored by Aljassimya Farm, Gold medal winner Alexxanderr (Excalibur Ea x Ar Most Irresistible) bred by Frances Butler & Brandi Carson – USA and owned by Alsayed Stud – KSA.

Silver medal winner Excalibur Ea (Shanghai Ea x Essence of Marwan Ea) bred by Equus Arabians – Spain and owned by Al Saqran Stud that leased him to Akmal Stud – KSA. Bronze medal winner Hl El Ganador (HP Shakir x lonco Bay Maria) bred by Dutch Matthei – Chile and owned by Hanaya Arabian Stud. - Switzerland.

SPECIAL AWARDS

A plethora of Special Awards got solemnly assigned to the following breeders, owners and champion horses:

Farm of the Year: Dubai Arabian Horse Stud – UAE

Best Sire in The World Championship: D Seraj

Best Dam in The World Championship: FT Shaella

Highest Scorer in The World Championship: Alexxanderr

Best Movment Female: Brianne Alfabia

Best Movement Male: HL El Ganador

Best Breeder in the Show: Dubai Arabian Horse Stud – UAE

Best Breeder/Owner in the Show: Dubai Ara-

bian Horse Stud – UAE Trophy Espoir Female: D Najlah Trophy Espoir Male: Dawwas Alsayed Trophy of Paris: Mozn Albidayer

World Platinum Champion Male: E.S.Harir

Best Head Yearling Fillies A: Bint Rshediah Alkhashab

Best Head Yearling Fillies B: Aisha Al Sheikh

Best Head Junior Fillies A: D Beisan

Best Head Junior Fillies B: Brianne Alfabia

Best Head Senior Mares A: Rshediah Alkhashab

Best Head Senior Mares B: Mozn Albidayer

Best Head Yearling Colts A: Baz Aljassimya

Best Head Yearling Colts B: AJ Sayer

Best Head Junior Colts A:D Shahhar

Best Head Junior Colts B: D Sharar

Best Head Senior Stallions A: HL El Ganador Best Head Senior Stallions B: Alexxanderr

A FEW CONCLUDING WORDS...

Whether adored or vilified, envied or criticised, but even emulated, the Paris World Arabian Horse Championship remains a symbol of excellence, said the President of Ceneca, Mr Jean-Luc Poulain in his welcoming message. The 41st edition catalyzed at the Parisian Bourget Exhibition Centre, about 25 countries, 2,000 attendees, many well-known personalities, committed owners, successful breeders, skilful handlers and horses at their best conditions. We wish to heartily thank the organizers - Ceneca and Mr Poulain, the principal consultants and godmothers of the event, Mrs Christianne Chazel and Dominque Briot, for having invited us, and for allowing the AHM team to take care of the professional booths and graphic design for award-winning international breeding programs and training centres. Being there has been a great privilege. Thank you very much and we look forward to seeing you. A bientôt, Paris!

EXPO

K.A.

CHAMPIONSHIP

D BEISAN D SERAJ X RAH ROSALIA BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: AL SHAQAB STUD

BREEDER: ALFABIA SEMPLICE AGRÌCOLA OWNER: ALJASSIMYA FARM

BRIANNE ALFABIA EKS ALIHANDRO X BALBINA ALFABIA

Junior Colts | FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

LR SOLO MIO AJ RADMAN X LR BUENA MIA BREEDER: LAS ROSAS ESTANCIA OWNER: AL SHAHANIA STUD

SHARAR D SERAJ X FT SHAELLA

D SHAHHAR EXCALIBUR EA X D SHIHANAH BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD

BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD

D AZIZA

MOZN AL BIDAYER

SMA MAGIC ONE X MATTAHARII

BREEDER: ALBIDAYER STUD OWNER: AL WAJBA STUD

BREEDER: FRANCES BUTLER & BRANDI CARSON OWNER: ALSAYED STUD

HL EL GANADOR HP SHAKIR-TE X LONCO BAY MARIA BREEDER: DUTCH MATTHEI

HANAYA ARABIAN STUD

ALEXXANDERR EXCALIBUR EA X AR MOST IRRESISTIBLE

Hello, Nicola. Thank you very much for accepting the invitation! To provide some background to our readers, could you tell us a bit about yourself, your family, and your education, please?

Hello, AHM! It is an honour to be given this opportunity.

Having grown up in the countryside of central Italy, I was surrounded by nature all my life. I have always had horses in my life, from my grandfather’s brother, who was a horse dealer, to me when I started participating in endurance competitions.

When have you first met an Arabian horse? Who was it?

My first Arabian horse experience was when I was only a child -- it was a horse named Bakr with Polish lines, whose genealogy I don’t recall since it was a few years ago. Bakr was an endurance horse that my father rode.

Tell us about your early stages in the show industry as a handler. How did it all start?

Following my graduation as a surveyor, I went to work at Schouckens Training Center, where I learned a lot of skills.

My next stop was David Boggs (Midwest Training Center), where I met Dagmar Gordiano, an incredibly talented Brazilian trainer and handler. I learned everything from Dagmar. I then moved to Brazil with Rinaldo Lounghini, an excellent trainer and handler (a showman) I consider one of the most gifted individuals in the ring. Dagmar Gordiano continued to be my mentor. Then I returned to Italy. This led me to build a training centre with my cousin Enrico Mearelli.

I was staying at David Boggs’ when I had my first experience handling Arabian

Interviewed by Sonia Smaldone

horses at the Scottsdale show in America. It was an unprecedented opportunity for me to present two horses in the Futurity Classes after hard personal training. I couldn’t believe what I was doing in the arena... As I said before, I was fortunate enough to work for and with amazing and extremely professional people who trained me thoroughly. What I am today, I learned from Tom and Glenn Schouckens, David Boggs, Dagmar Gordiano and Rinaldo Lounguini. My sincerest thanks also go to Davide Mariani for all of his help!

Have you developed a systematic program for handling Arabian horses of your own? In order to prepare a horse best for a show, how can you make sure that he is physically and mentally prepared? How can the horses be made to perform at their best when needed?

Just like every training centre, I have created a personal training program based on everything I learned from past experiences. I might add something of my own, for sure.

In my life, I’ve learned from my mistakes. I’ve learned to recognize when a hor-

se is physically and mentally ready for a show. The combination of both conditions is essential for a handler who wants to make his horses express themselves in the ring at their best.

Nicola, is there a limit to what an Arabian horse can be taught through handling?

There are always new things and methods to learn and different ways to reach a goal when working with horses.

Horses differ in physical conformation, disposition, and ability to show. Horses enrich your personal experience and teach you something new and different each time. When you have a horse, you are pushed to find the best possible solution to a problem while maintaining respect for them.

horse that I prefer over another.

What have been the best experiences at the show’s most recently? Can you tell me about the horses you presented and which stud (s) they belonged to?

What is your favourite bloodlines?

I do not have a favourite bloodline. I would rather say that I have one type of

Several episodes of shows stay etched in my mind. There is one in particular, if only for the level of satisfaction and personal gratification. The sort of recognition for all my sacrifices, everything that has been my path and for the birth of Elegantica Training Center. This show is the 2020 European Championship, where we have achieved incredible results.

recognition

A good result is always the result of teamwork. Not of the individual. Remember. Teamwork makes dreams happen…

At the 2020 European Championships, I won the Yearling Colts Silver Medal with a colt that we “built” from the start.

The heads of contemporary Arabian horses are often particularly ‘extreme’ with prominent dishes. What do you think of this phenomenon? Are these the most critical beauty standards at shows today?

The current beauty standard is an extremely dished head. But, that is not crucial. In any case, it is not the only feature a show horse must have.

Nicola, have you been to the World Arabian Horse Championships in Paris? (or watching them?) What do you think about the 2022 edition?

I participated in the last edition of the World Championships in Paris with a two-year-old filly owned by Regina Arabians in Poland. The World Championship is, and will always stay, the most exciting show where breeders from all over the world bring their best horses. It is always a thrill to participate.

Do you feel like leaving a message for the readers of Arabian Horse Magazine? Do everything you can, even give something extra for what you want!

ERAB ARABIAN HORSES INTERNATIONAL SHOW 1-2-3 DECEMBER 2022 BAIT

AL ARAB - KUWAIT

WRITTEN BY SONIA SMALDONE

The Arabian horse is part of the Arab world’s history and tradition, and in Kuwait, in particular, it is considered the Arabs’ duty and responsibility to preserve the breed and to divulgate its importance worldwide. For about 40 years, Bait Al Arab State Stud has been massively involved in breeding purebred Arabian horses as a precious genetic pool to preserve their heritage in Kuwait. From 1st to 3rd December, three of their representatives – Mr Abdulrahman Alfuraij, Mr Saud Aljarallah, and Mr Yousef Albaijan baptized the 2022 Erab Arabian Horses under the kind patronage of HH Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al –Sabah, Crown Prince of Kuwait and HH Sheikh Nawaf Al A-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait.

Essentially a beauty contest for horses, the event was divided

into 12 categories, for fillies, mares, colts and stallions of various ages and took place at the Arabian Horse Center, with a large attendance by local and outside breeders. From the VIP tables, we watched the careful operations of eight highly-reputed international judges: Mrs Darius Claudia (Germany), Mrs Stojanowska Anna (Poland), Dr Aragno Gianmarco (Italy) Mr Trela Marek (Poland), Mr Detailleur Koenraad (Belgium), Mr Santoro Francesco (Italy), Mr Abbas Abdel Raouf (Egypt) and Mrs. Stigler Irina (Italy). With the rank of Disciplinary Commissioners, Dr Mohsen Mohamed (Egypt), Dr El Sherief Omnia (Egypt) Dr Albogamiy Noorah (Saudi Arabia). In his role as Ringmaster Mr Ceccaroni Roberto (Italy). Speakers of the event were Mrs Lama Ahmad Abdulaal (Kuwait) and Mr Fawaz Al Zomie (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia). For those who could not fly to Fujairah, Ara-

Under the kind patronage of HH Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al –Sabah, Crown Prince of Kuwait & HH Sheikh Nawaf Al A-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait

bian Essence (Italy) live-streamed the whole competition.

The show began on December 1, 2022, at 11:00 Asia/Kuwait (09:00 Europe/Rome) and came to an end on December 4, 2022, at 00:00 Asia/Kuwait (22:00 Europe/Rome) with the following champion winners:

In the FILLY FOALS CHAMPIONSHIP (Class FFC), Gold medal winner Muhra Al Ghanayim (Magic Magnifique x Bsnajla) bred by Ayad Abdulmohsen Althuwaini, and owned by Al Ghanayim Stud. Silver medal winner Bint Marzan (Aj Marzan x Aj Dina) bred by Abdullah Alhaidari and owned by Alhaidari Arabians. Bronze medal winner Ghazwa Al Khashab (Eks Farajj x Ghazl Al Khashab) bred and owned by Al Khashab Stud.

In the YEARLING FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP (Class YFC), Gold medal winner Rital Alrrusun

(Fayad Alfayyad x Wadha Alrrusun) bred and owned by Fahad Al Dahoom. Silver medal winner Hamat Al Khashab (Fa El Rasheem x Hadaya Al Khashab bred by Mubarak Al Khashab and owned by Al Khashab Stud.

Bronze medal winner Joud Al Hamad (Nebras Al Hamad x Joumina Ka) bred and owned by Al Hamad Stud.

In the JUNIOR FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP (Class JFC), Gold medal winner Dhabia Al Saba (D Meras x Wes Candela) bred and owned by Alsaba Arabians.

Silver medal winner Semou Al Khashab (Zaher Al Muawd x Sahara Angel) bred by Mubarak Al Khashab and owned by Al Khashab Stud.

Bronze medal winner Maradanah (Aj Mardan x Kaat K) bred by Ajman Stud - HH Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, and owned by Alhaidari Stud.

In the SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP (Class SMC), Gold medal winner Kas Katara (Wh Justice x Atheena) bred by Roefs Wench Mevr and owned by Yaqoub Khaled Boshehri. Silver medal winner D Khuloud (Royal Colours x Midnight Kiss J) bred by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud, and owned by Almayadin Stud. Bronze medal winner Mamlakat Al Khashab (Sma Magic One x Cap Bianca bred by Alkhashab Stud and owned by Alnassar Stud.

In the COLT FOALS CHAMPIONSHIP (Class CFC), Gold medal winner Ghaly Almayadin (Aj Eazm x D Khuloud) bred by Khalid A H Alnughaimish and owned by Musaed Alhomaidan. Silver medal winner Aj Sefan (Shanghai Ea x Aj Salliah) bred by Ajman Stud - HH Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi and owned by Al Aywad Al Essam Stud. Bronze medal winner Mansour Al Ghanayim (Jakhal Alfabia x Erianna Fma) bred

by Ayad Abdulmohsen Althuwaini and owned by Al Ghanayim Stud.

YEARLING COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP (Class YCC), Gold medal winner Ziad Al Ghanayim (Jakhal Alfabia x Ghizlan Al Entissar) bred by Ayad Abdulmohsen Althuwaini and owned by Al Wadi Arabians. Silver medal winner Dollar Al Remas Color (Sma Magic One x Mahrisa) bred by Al Remas Arabian Horse Stud and owned by AlHindal Stud. Bronze medal winner Mhs Wasm (Wadee Al Shaqab x Dalaa Al Shegaya) bred by Saud Othman Hussain Alhajri and owned by Mhs Stud. Mhs Wasm was also higher score in class.

In the JUNIOR COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP (Class JCC), Gold medal winner Sahab Al Hadah (Aj Kafu x Aj Emana) Ajman Stud - HH Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi and owned Alhadah Arabians. Silver medal winner Prince Al Hamad

(Es Sarab x Passion Princess Ka) bred by Al Hamad Stud and owned by Yakoub Khalid Bushehri. Bronze medal winner Sultan Barada (Sultan Al Zobara x Ss Dama Pik) bred and owned by Barada Stud.

In the SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP (Class SSC), Gold medal winner Aja Justafire (Wh Justice x Aja First Love) bred by Aja Arabian and owned by Al Essam Stud. Silver medal winner D Wasel (D Mshary x D Rowaida) bred by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud and owned by Alyahya Stud. Bronze medal winner Hazem (Grand Commandd x Powerful Girl Rb) bred by Robert Dixie North Family Trust and owned by Aletihad Arabians.

As part of the SPECIAL AWARDS CEREMONY, a plethora of glittering trophies was handed out, in the following way:

The Best Head Yearling Fillies to Rital Al Russun

The Best Head Yearling Colts to Ziad Al Ghanayim

The Best Head Junior Fillies to Dhabia al Saba

The Best Head Junior Colts to Sultan Barada

The Best Head Senior Mares to D Khuloud

The Best Head Senior Stallions to Aja Justafire

The Best Movement to Ishraf al Bahya

The Best Sire from Kuwait to Harbi al Adwan

The Highest Score in the Show to Kas Katara

The Best Breeding Farm to Al Hamad Stud

The Best Filly produced by the State of Kuwait to Ajayeb al Hamad

CONCLUSION

Erab Arabian Horse International was a fascinating stop on our Middle Eastern show tour before the long-awaited Christmas break. Kuwaiti hospitality and generosity were simply over the top, at least as much as the horses competing in this lovely edition of 2022.

Therefore, we want to thank all the Eminences of the Organizing Committee, the show managers of Al Bait State Stud, Mr Abdulrahman Alfuraij, Mr Saud Aljarallah, and Mr Yousef Albaijan for a very good orchestration of the show and its major highlights. Of course, heartfelt thank you go to the local media people for choosing Arabian Horse Magazine as their special partner in a competition that will notably grow in size in this region of the world.

Filly Foals

FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

BINT MARZAN

AJ MARZAN X AJ DINA

BREEDER: ABDULLAH ALHAIDARI

OWNER: ALHAIDARI ARABIANS

AJ SEFAN

SHANGHAI EA X AJ SALLIAH

BREEDER: AJMAN STUD - HH SHK AMMAR BIN HUMAID AL NUAIMI

OWNER: AL AYWAD AL ESSAM STUD

GHALY ALMAYADIN

AJ EAZM X D KHULOUD BREEDER: KHALID A H ALNUGHAIMISH

MANSOUR AL GHANAYIM JAKHAL ALFABIA X ERIANNA FMA

Yearling Fillies

FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

HAMAT AL KHASHAB

FA EL RASHEEM X HADAYA AL KHASHAB BREEDER: MUBARAK AL KHASHAB OWNER: AL KHASHAB STUD

Yearling Colts

FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

DOLLAR AL REMAS

ZIAD AL GHANAYIM

MHS WASM

JAKHAL ALFABIA X GHIZLAN AL ENTISSAR BREEDER: AYAD ALTHUWAINI OWNER: ABDULRAHMAN AL SHAMMRI

WADEE AL SHAQAB X DALAA AL SHEGAYA BREEDER: SAUD OTHMAN HUSSAIN ALHAJRI OWNER: MHS STUD

Junior Fillies

FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

SEMOU AL KHASHAB

ZAHER AL MUAWD X SAHARA ANGEL BREEDER: MUBARAK AL KHASHAB OWNER: AL KHASHAB STUD

DHABIA AL SABA

Junior Colts

FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

PRINCE

AL HAMAD ES SARAB X PASSION PRINCESS KA BREEDER: AL HAMAD STUD OWNER: AL HAMAD STUD

SAHAB AL HADAH

AJ KAFU X AJ EMANA

BREEDER: AJMAN STUD - HH SHEIKH AMMAR BIN HUMAID AL NUAIMI OWNER: ALHADAH ARABIANS

SULTAN BARADA SULTAN AL ZOBARA X SS DAMA PIK BREEDER: BARADA STUD OWNER: BARADA STUD

Senior Mares

FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

D KHULOUD

ROYAL COLOURS X MIDNIGHT KISS J

BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: ALMAYADIN STUD

KAS KATARA WH JUSTICE X ATHEENA BREEDER:

ROEFS WENCH MEVR OWNER: YAQOUB KHALED BOSHEHRI

MAMLAKAT AL KHASHAB

MAGIC ONE X CAP BIANCA BREEDER: ALKHASHAB STUD OWNER: ALNASSAR STUD

Senior Stallions

FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

D WASEL

D MSHARY X D ROWAIDA

BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD

OWNER: ALYAHYA STUD

Special MOMENTS

Special MOMENTS

by Alenka Slavinec

The art of judging Arabian horses’ conformation and movement takes some practice, but anyone who has spent time with these beautiful creatures can learn. A judge usually looks for a combination of balance, structure, muscling, gait, and breed-specific characteristics. Judge Eric Gear from France is the interesting subject of my interview for the Middle East issue of 2023. I appreciated his taking the time to walk me through some of the main stages of his professional experience judging Arabian horses.

Hello, Mr Eric Gear! It is a pleasure to have you aboard. Tell us a little bit about you, your family, and your education to help set

the stage for our readers. Before everything, I would like to thank the Arabian Horse Magazine and their team working for the Arabian horse promotion throughout the world. This interview will be my first one for I don’t particularly like to speak about me. I live with my wife Patricia and our two daughters close to Angoulême in France.

I studied Metallurgy and then had commercial schooling which allowed me to be in a retail sector for 25 years, selling building materials.

In the last six years, we opened three Beauty Institutes for Women’s nails, plus a consulting firm.

When did you start getting interested in the pure-bred Arabian horse?

I started to ride in jumping competitions when I was a 13-year-old boy. I discovered Arabian horses by reading a magazine on my 18th birthday, that was like a thunderbolt, an exceptional discovery. It became the direction and goal of our life. One year later, we bought our first broodmare, Bouria Des Meures (Maklouf x Rilka by Masan). Then, we started our breeding program with her. She produced tremendous foals. Especially one of her daughters, Maroutssia (Bouria de Meures x Estaman ibn Estopa by Ibn Estopa) that happened to be Champion in France; International Multi Champion; Eu-

At what age have you become a judge? What specific preparation did you get?

I became a French National judge in 2012 at the age of 42. I had to follow several courses organized by ACA. The instructors were also senior judges like Mrs Christianne Chazel, Mr Richard Philstrom and Mr. Willi Poth. They are references for me in the panel of ECAHO judges. I followed the ECAHO Curriculum to obtain the list of B judges in 2019.

I think my breeding experience helps me iden-

ropean Champion; Champion in Menton, Vice-Champion at the Nations Cup, and Elite Champion in Paris.

tify the morphology of the Arabian horse with its qualities but also its faults.

What are, in your opinion, the strengths of the Arabian breed? How do you tackle the concepts of ‘beauty’ and ‘functional correctness’?

The Arabian horse is an exception among the other horse breeds. It is really a beautiful horse, a splendor… Even people who are not knowledgeable about them can discover their potential. Their standard breed is set. We should find a very peculiar head, large and short, expressive small ears, big black eyes, well-designed eye arches, large opened nostrils, and other morphological criteria that should be in all bree-

ding programs in order not to lose the Arabian horse ADN identity.

What do you feel has been your most rewarding show as a judge?

As far as I am concerned, all shows are rewarding. This interview is a way for me to express my gratitude to all the organizations of different countries that believe in me.

In order for a show to be successful, it must have good organization, quality horses, a good judge panel, and a good atmosphere. This last point is very important to me for judging at my best. Of course, judging in a big show is very interesting for judges for we are in the presen-

ce of the elite of Arabian horses and our judgments are made from pleasure and emotions.

Which horse or horses have you judged most recently that has left the strongest impression on you? Why?

That’s a difficult question to answer. There are many good and beautiful horses on display at the shows, so making a choice is not easy. Often, we judge horses who will certainly become champions in the future, but nothing emanates from them. It also happens that you come across an animal, a colt or a filly, and you’re captivated by a glance, a shade in the coat, or the smoothness of the skin texture, and you become emotional and grateful for the opportunity to be a judge. There is nothing I love more than Arabian horses. I am personally touched by horses of the very much in breed type. There

are many memories I have of Imperial Phanila at the World Championship in Paris many years ago, and others as well...

What particular skills are necessary to become an accountable judge in front of the public? What judging (evaluation) system do you prefer? How come?

An accountable judge must respect the breeders and their work when presenting their horses. He must be honest and fair and attribute the right points to each horse. All horses cannot win, but every horse has strong points. You must judge with a positive attitude, and give the same time and attention to each horse, whether in classes or the championship. Overall, you must be able to explain your notes to the breeder when he is asking. I do like the current points system, but maybe evolution could

be reconsidered after all these years of practice. The comparison judging system also suits me.

In what ways has the global health crisis affected the Arabian horse industry? Has it affected your job?

It has been a tough time for everyone during the crisis. There are some of our friends who are no longer with us. A lot of companies have been in trouble, and thousands of people have lost their jobs... things have not been easy for all of us. Horse shows were banned throughout the world. Some breeders quit their activities during this time, resulting in a decrease in participation in European shows. A positive note is that I always believe better days will follow accidents or disasters!

Besides judging at shows, and breeding Arabian horses, what else do you do in this industry?

I have been active on the ACA Board for many years. I have accepted the position of vice president for the second time. In 2022, we promoted the Arabian Horse at several equestrian

shows with the new team. Arabs can be mounted horses or competition horses. We intended to recruit new breeders, new riders, and new members to assist our breeders in selling their horses.

I like to invest myself in the organization of the shows. I have been organizing 3 times the National of France and my International Salon of Deauville for 4 years. In 2023 with the ACA Association, we will organize the National Show in France, an International -C in Vichy, and we will receive the European Championships of the Egyptian Arabian Horse for the first time in France. We are very happy that Pyramid Society Europe has chosen us this year. We have succeeded in re-motivating a few people to create six national exhibitions in 2023, and an Internatio -

nal—C exhibition. Not to mention the exceptional and unmissable Menton Championships of Mrs Christianne Chazel and Mrs Dominique Briot.

In 2023 and 2025, the World Arabian Horse Championship will probably be held in Qatar. How do you feel about this?

I believe that change is important for everyone, finding solutions but also innovating to break habits to restore interest in a project and I really think that the World Championships like other shows need a new breath. It is therefore a very good thing that Qatar organizes the World Championships, it will help to promote the Arabian horse in another dimension and perhaps with new proposals. At the end of the contract with Qatar, CENECA the organizer of the Arabian Horse World Championships, will think about the continuation of the show! But one could imagine that the World Championship will get a new start after Qatar in another country, why not? I know that it is difficult for European breeders, including myself, to imagine that the World Championships are no longer organized in Paris. Let’s wait and see what will be proposed to us in the coming years to come. What else would you like to accomplish at this stage of your career? How do you picture your future?

First and foremost, I want to be efficient in running my businesses to leave strong businesses

for my daughters. Then, perhaps, start some breeding again at home. In January 2022, we lost our last broodmare, it was a huge pain for the whole family but we are thinking of buying a new mare this year to start breeding again. I could share my experience as a breeder and judge breeders who are just starting out and want to understand how to look at a horse.

Maybe become the manager of private breeding, I’m not closed to anything if it comes to me!

Regarding the Arabian horse, I am aware that we will have difficult times to go through in the future. Once again, it is important to reflect on the whole process and to bring new proposals to the breeders. We need to find new Arabian horse lovers to ensure the sustainability of our dear Arabian horse.

Mr Gear, do you feel like leaving a concluding message to the readers of Arabian Horse Magazine?

Thanks for this interview and thanks to those who will take the time to read it. Just to tell you, my implication as an Arabian horse judge is powerful, and it will never change. We all must hold the tasks in front of us. We must keep together for the coming years in order to transmit the ADN Arabian horse to future breeders with all its breed criteria. I am looking forward to seeing you again!

I truly appreciate your contribution, Mr Gear. Wishing you a happy and prosperous 2023!

EGYPTIAN & PUREBRED

1ST IRAQ SUMER NATIONAL SHOW STRAIGHT

9-10 DECEMBER 2022 ERBIL – KURDISTAN REGION - IRAQ

WRITTEN BY: SONIA SMALDONE

An exciting equestrian experience celebrating the beauty and charisma of Arabian horses of the Kurdistan region has come into existence in the ancient land of Sumerians, the earliest known civilization in history. The show was organized by the Breeders Association in Iraq and coordinated by Mrs Nesrin Hegazy (Egypt), with the support of Ecaho, Horsmunity, and Arabian Horse Magazine. Its first edition took place from 9-10 December 2022 at the beautiful Erbil Equestrian Club and motivated a good number of local breeders and stud owners to enter their horses to compete for 750,000 USD in total prize money. There were actually two different competitions at the show, the first being the Straight Egyptian, and the second being the Purebred.

The judges officiating at both shows were Mrs Irina Stigler (Russia), Ms Noemie Zeller (Switzerland), Mr Fausto Scanzi (Italy), Mr Al Marazeeq Abdelaziz (UAE), and Mr Medhat Gaber (Egypt).

With the rank of DCs: Mr Farhang Fazeli (Iran), Mrs Christine Keyser (Norway), and Islam Mahdy (Egypt). In his qualities of Ringmaster: Mr Mateusz Jarkowski (Poland).

Official Announcers: Mr Abdallah A.A. Al Barmaki (Jordan) and Mrs Yassmin Atieh (Jordan). Those who couldn’t attend Erbil but wanted to follow the event were able to watch a live stream prepared by Arabian Essence TV.

The Straight Egyptian Championship started on December 9, 2022, at 17:00 Asia/ Baghdad (15:00 Europe/Rome) and ended

up on December 10, 2022 at 01:00 Asia/Baghdad (23:00 Europe/Rome) with the following champion horses:

In the FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Dandona Al Waab (D.F. Malik Jameel x Ajmal Sarah) bred by Al Waab Stud and owned by Zeryan Stud. Silver medal winner Haneen Al Wakeel (Shahzad Ezzaman x Bushra Al Aseel) bred by Al Wakeel Stud and owned by Ashur Stud. Bronze medal winner Mina Al Wakeel (Shahzad Ezzaman x N.T.K. Mariyah) bred by Al Wakeel Stud and owned by Al Jobouri Stud.

In the MARES CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Barmyre Safina (Imperial Shihab x Anishta A.C.A.) bred by Barmyre Stud and owned by Ashur Stud. Silver medal winner Amourah Albadeia (Al Rayan x Qamarin Albadeia) bred by Albadeia Stud and owned by Kateen Stud. Bronze medal winner Zeina Al Hamd (Nasr Al Sharbatly x Negma El Gabry) bred by Al Hamd Stud and owned by Al Saadi Stud.

In the COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Al Murtajas O.X. (Majd Al Qusar x K.B. Mamdooha) bred by OX and owned by Al Saadi Stud. Silver medal winner Mukhtar Al Wakeel (Moez Ezz -

man x Esha Bella) bred by Al Wakeel Stud and owned by Ashur Stud. Bronze medal winner Asim Al Wakeel (Azim Al Amaar x Barmir Safina) bred by Al Wakeel Stud and owned by Al Jobouri Stud.

In the STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Moez Ezzaman (Theeb Al Rayyan x Majedah Al Sharbatly) bred by Ezzaman Stud and owned by Al Wakeel Stud. Silver medal winner Sendbad Sakr (Gholam Sakr x Shahira Sakr) bred by Sakr Stud and owned by Al Wakeel Stud. Bronze medal winner Morocco R.C.A. (Bellagio R.C.A x Sirenty Bites) bred by RCA and owned by Kurdistan Arabian Stud Llc.

The Purbred Arabian Horse Championship kicked off on December 10, 2022 at 14:00 Asia/Baghdad (12:00 Europe/Rome) and turned off the spotlight on December 10, 2022 at 23:30 Asia/Baghdad (21:30 Europe/ Rome) with an exquisite band of champion horses:

In the FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Carwana BHM (Hilal Al Sayed x Canari BHM) bred by Abdulrahman Ali Alshehri – Shaher Stud - and owned by Al Watan Stud. Silver medal winner Key Kham (S.S. Don Diego x Jara Alshaab) bred by Kurdy Stud and owned by Hawler Stud. Bronze medal winner Marmra (Marwan Jafar x Shams Al Wazzan) bred and owned by Astera Stud.

In the MARES CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Miss Lady T.R.F (Baheer Al Marawan x Madamouy Saleem) bred by T.R.F. and owned by Kurdistan Stud. Silver medal winner Desha Bella (Al Baheer x Billa Arjena) bred and owned by Al Wakeel Stud. Bronze medal winner Netsha M. V.A (Alfaiyd A.H.R x The Desert Rose) bred by MVA Stud and owned by Al Iraqi Stud.

In the COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Zilzal (S.S. Don Diego x Nimra Al Shaqab) bred by Al Kurdi Stud and owned by Zeryan Stud. Silver medal winner K. Kahrab (S.S. Panterry x Katy) bred and owned by Al Kurdi Stud. Bronze medal winner Karizma Erbil (S.S. Don Diego x Jarrah Al Shaqab) bred by Al Kurdi Stud and owned by Erbil Stud.

In the STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Faris Al Wakeel (Wadi Al Shaqab x Nasj Al Alamona)

bred by Al Wakeel Stud and owned by Al Saadi Stud. Silver medal winner Hadaw (W.H Justice x Hadiya) owned by Al Ihas. Bronze medal winner Ghazi N.K (Nawfal NK x Diclabriya NK) bred by NK Stud and owned by Al Ihsan Stud.

The 1st Sumer National Show had a great final and an exhilarating Special Awards ceremony. The Best Head Senior Stallions trophy went to M G Aaliya (AL Rasheed AL Rayyan x Tarfah Al Ain) bred by AL Slemya Stud and owned by Mohammed Ghaith Alkuwari. The Best Breeder trophy was grabbed by Al Kurdi Stud, and the Best Dam trophy got assigned to Nimra Al Shaqab.

As a final note, we thank the Breeders Or-

ganization of Iraq for entrusting the AHM Team with the role of media partner alongside Horsemunity and Arabian Essence. The show was well-conceived and captivating. To demonstrate that different professional backgrounds and synergies can be at ease wherever they are when the goal is to celebrate the noble Arabian horse. It’s an awareness, in my opinion, that everyone in this industry should strive to achieve and share. There was nothing short of exceptional hospitality in Iraq! Thanks so much for everything you offered to us, it exceeded our expectations, and we cannot express our gratitude enough. The 1st Sumer National Show will remain in our memories for a long time to come, and we cannot wait to see and work with our new Iraqi friends next year as well. Stay tuned!

Filly Championship

KEY KHAM

S.S DON DIEGO X JARA ALSHAAB BREEDER: KURDY STUD OWNER: HAWLER STUD

PUREBRED

CARWANA BHM

HILAL AL SAYED X CANARI BHM

BREEDER: ABDULRAHMAN ALI ALSHEHRI/SHAHER STUD OWNER: AL WATAN STUD

MARMRA

MARWAN JAFAR X SHAMS AL WAZZAN BREEDER: ASTERA STUD OWNER: ASTERA STUD AHM

Mares Championship

DESHA BELLA

AL BAHEER X BILLA ARJEENA BREEDER: AL WAKEEL STUD OWNER: AL WAKEEL STUD

PUREBRED

M.V.A

Colts Championship

K. KAHRAB

S.S PANTERRY X KATY BREEDER: AL KURDI STUD OWNER: AL KURDI STUD

PUREBRED

KARIZMA ERBIL

ZILZAL S.S DON DIEGO X NIMRA AL SHAQAB BREEDER: AL KURDI STUD OWNER: ZERYAN STUD

S.S DON DIEGO X JARRAH AL SHAQAB BREEDER: AL KURDI STUD OWNER: ERBIL STUD AHM

Stallions Championship

HADAW W.H JUSTICE X HADIYA OWNER: AL IHSAN STUD

PUREBRED

FARIS AL WAKEEL WADI AL SHAQAB X NASJ AL ALAMONA BREEDER: AL WAKEEL STUD

AL

Fillies Championship

HANEEN AL WAKEEL

SHAHZAD EZZAMAN X BUSHRA AL ASEEL BREEDER: AL WAKEEL STUD OWNER: ASHUR STUD

STRAIGHT EGYPTIAN

DANDONA AL WAAB

AL WAKEEL

D.F. MALIK JAMEEL X AJMAL SARAH BREEDER: AL WAAB STUD OWNER: ZERYAN STUD

MINA

SHAHZAD EZZAMAN X N.T.K. MARIYAH BREEDER: AL WAKEEL STUD OWNER: AL JOBOURI STUD AHM

Mares Championship

AMOURAH ALBADEIA AL RAYAN X QAMARIN ALBADEIA BREEDER: ALBADEIA STUD OWNER: KATEEN STUD

STRAIGHT EGYPTIAN

AL HAMD

Championship

MUKHTAR AL WAKEEL MOEZ EZZMAN X ESHA BELLA BREEDER: AL WAKEEL STUD

Stallions Championship

SENDBAD SAKR

GHOLAM SAKR X SHAHIRA SAKR BREEDER: SAKR STUD OWNER: AL WAKEEL STUD

STRAIGHT EGYPTIAN

MOEZ EZZAMAN

THEEB AL RAYYAN X MAJEDAH AL SHARBATLY BREEDER: EZZAMAN STUD OWNER: AL WAKEEL STUD

R.C.A.

Our tour of Erbil city was simply magical. We visited many city districts and explored local attractions that not everyone knows exist in Erbil. Yes, because unless you love Arabian hor-

This multi-millennial human presence is tangible in the Citadel of Erbil, which rests atop a hill of about 30 meters, created from sediments of the inhabited area of day zero. Er-

ses, are involved with the petrol industry, or are passionate about archaeology and treks, you might not come here on purpose. Historically, Erbil is one of the oldest cities on earth, and scholars and researchers from across the globe frequent the archaeological areas nearby.

bil is a renovated city Fort, and we get to access it only on foot from one of its two main gates. As the evening comes, beautiful lights reflect the yellowish colour of the buildings, creating an enthralling setting. The Qaysari Bazar, the first stop on our tour, is the city’s commercial heart, long

before the malls. This microcosm is filled with numerous and various commercial activities, and it teems with life. At the many restaurants and bars along the way, you can smoke “hookah” and drink hot tea. The innermost parts of the city and the local markets offer a lot to discover. Streets are lined with clothing, fabric, tailoring shops, newsstands and goldsmith shops (with gilded windows that seem fake but are not!). Then, there are carpentry shops, honey and soap sellers, telephone and photography shops everywhere, shops with dozens of types of olives and lots of shops that sell “Chinese stuff”. A few neighbourhoods in the city of Erbil have streets without sidewalks, large numbers of fruit and vegetable vendors, and liquor and beer vendors (the Kurds love whiskey, but the Arabs are also huge whiskey fans! There are also a few “hip” bars and restaurants attended by well-known personalities at night, according to locals. A thrilling tour in Erbil for the Arabian Horse Magazine team whose memories will last for a lifetime. We are grateful to all the people who allowed us to enjoy the Arabian dream in this ancient city of the world during our time at the 1st Iraq Sumer National Show!

INTERVIEWED BY SONJA SMALDONE

Nathalie Goedert was born in Greece but moved to Belgium with her family at the age of 10. Her studies were completed and she raised a beautiful family. Having inherited her father’s passion for horses, she bought her first Arabian horse in the 1990s. Nathalie Mikonos Arabian Stud is now run by both of her daughters, Zoé and Eve. The girls both enjoy learning about the charismatic and beautiful Arabian horse that their mother loves so much...

Who’s Goedert Nathalie?

My name is Goedert Nathalie, I come from Greece. I was born in the beautiful city of Athens where my parents lived for a few years. I came to live in Belgium when I was 10 years old, I did my studies there and had the pleasure to build a family. My passion for horses is something I got the chance to share with my father since I was 10. In the 1990’s I acquired my first Arabian Horse which made me fall in love with them for its great charisma and extreme beauty. Today, I’m grateful I can share my passion with my two daughters, Eve and Zoé who are really involved in our breeding farm.

When have you founded Mykonos Arabian Stud? Where are you located? What are the bloodlines you use?

Mykonos Arabian Stud was founded in the 1990s. But the name «

Mykonos » was chosen in late 2021 by my two daughters when they decided to join me in the family passion of breeding Arabian Horses. The decision to the Stud Farm’s name was a way for Eve and Zoé (my daughters) to honour my origins in Greece and also to thank me for the passion I transmitted to both of them. The farm is located in a quiet place surrounded by 24 hectares of forest. Only 30 minutes away from Liege Airport and close to very tourist cities such as Durbuy, Dinant, Huy, Namur, etc.

What is your philosophy? And your breeding strategy?

What matters to us the most are our horses. Their wellness is our major priority. Competition and trophies are just a plus. We work a lot on conditioning our horses’ minds. To make it easier for every one of them on everyday manipulations and also to prepare them to move easier to a training

centre or a new home. We respect our broodmares a lot and so no intensive breeding on our farm. A few babies per year is already enough.

What does the word “breeding” mean to you? What specific qualities or skills do you need to have to become a good breeder?

Breeding means you have a special dream. And to achieve your dream, you spend considerable time at the stables with your horses, you sleep very little time to optimize the chances of success. For us, breeding is a journey that starts as soon as we decide to inseminate our mares. We provide our mares with the best care. We do everything for that each and every one of them feels comfortable with their gestation. Then we deal with the foaling process, educate the foals and prepare them for any activity relating to show sport and family life. So being a breeder requi-

Amalfi O Szanel

res tons of work, patience, unconditional love and a lot of knowledge.

Who is/are the most important breeding stallion(s) at Mykonos Arabian Stud?

For the upcoming breeding season, our choice has been unanimous on the stallion Avalon Falkan (from the Padrons Psyche’s bloodlines). We got to see his progenies and realized what he could bring once crossed with our mares. For the future of our breeding program, we put all our hopes in two stallions: Nesj El Edison, a son of AJ Elaf, out of Sanadik El Shaklan’s daughter. He is extremely typey with tons of attitude and amazing movement. And Amalfi O (by Makisa Adaggio) out of the World Champion mare, Alma Al Tiglio. This young boy has a pedigree mixed with Ajman Moniscione, Vervaldee and Ekstern. He is very necky and he is a showstopper.

Which mares are used to improve (or to evolve?) your breeding program?

We own a small group of mares with diverse pedi-

grees (mares with MF Aryan El Thessa, Emerald J, Magic Mon Cheri, Ajman Moniscione or Magic Magnifique bloodlines). Each of them has already made their proofs in the breeding program, even if we didn’t reach our dream yet… but that’s the breeder’s life, it requires many tries to reach the goal.

Are there any foals, in particular, offering solid breeding and showing potential at the moment? We always keep some of them secret. But I can safely say that Endromède M (DA Maserati x B.A. Elianah) and Mozart M (Avalon Falkan x Marbella De Briera) have a lot of potential. Our lovely filly Endromède M adds refinement and a big femininity. And our homebred boy Mozart M has large black apple-like eyes perfectly placed on his exotic head.

Abaya R

Both are full of attitude and great movers.

How do you tackle the concepts of “beauty” and “functional correctness” in Arabs today?

The work of breeders is quite hard. Everyone is looking for the most exotic horse, but we must be realistic. Arabian Horses don’t have to be only beautiful, they must be correct and functional horses at first sight. Beauty is like a dance, everything must go in harmony. It means the horses must catch the attention for their charisma because they move as if they were flying on the ground because they are proud.

Nathalie, do you have your horses participate in competitions?

I guess that the biggest pride of a breeder is to see his homebred horses achieve tons of victories. Because it proves in a certain way that your breeding choices were correctly made. Actually, we do not have horses participating in competitions. We’re looking to put our own homebred horses to the show ring once we consider them ready to shine.

What goals would you like your breeding program to achieve in the future?

To keep respecting my horses and the breed, to go higher in this way to produce new future champion horses.

What else do you do besides breeding Arabian horses?

Breeding horses is a work that takes a lot of time, and so I dedicated my life to them. Besides this, I help my two daughters to get more knowledge about Arabian Horses and breeding.

Nathalie, can you please leave a last message for the readers of this interview?

Arabian horses are more than a simple passion. Throughout the years, they become true family members and require the best of care. To conclude this lovely interview, I would like to thank you and Arabian Horse Magazine for giving me such an opportunity to introduce Mikonos Arabian Stud and myself to your international readership!

Nesj El Edison

An Interview by Sonia Smaldone

Painter Laetitia Meliani is of French and Italian descent and married a Muslim husband, although she embraced Islam many years earlier. As such, the Arabian horse has always held a deep spiritual significance for the young artist. When Laetitia paints or sculpts the Arabian horse, and works on his shapes and curves, she goes into a contemplative state. As she describes it, painting is almost like a cathartic experience, a powerful tool for purification, for overcoming the physical barriers, and ultimately, for self–liberation…

Welcome on board Laetitia!

Just to set the scene for our readers, will you please share with us some background about you and your family?

I have been a happily married woman for 15 years with 4 children, 2 girls and 2 boys of fourteen, twelve, ten and four years old respectively. My husband is Algerian, and I am of Italian and Sicilian descent on my paternal side and French descent on my maternal side. I have wonderful children as a result of this multicultural marriage. Our family loves travelling, learning from others, and experiencing other cultures and traditions. Riding has been a part of my life since I was a little girl.

Can you talk a little about your formative years as an artist? Have you been trained, and if so from what Institution? Or are you self-taught?

I have been painting for about 8 years. Before that, I was a stay-at-home mom of three

young children, and life was getting hard, so I was looking for a way to escape this tough routine, to be in my bubble. I followed animal painters on Facebook who painted oil hyperrealism. There were beautiful portraits of horses, as well as other species, but primarily horses, as my Facebook feed was mainly about horses.

I have always been self-taught and I have learned by observing, and looking for videos on YouTube when I got stuck or thought I couldn’t make it. I have learned a lot from my mistakes and failed paintings. To this day, I am proud of painting without even preparing my drawing. I paint straight on the canvas without tracing. Horses were all I painted. After a few years of oil realism, I got bored. There was something else I was looking for. I wanted more fun and above all to enjoy myself. The focus on the children had me lose sight of myself.

Graphite drawing, Indian ink, other animals, cities, portraits...I still have no idea who I am... My method must work for me; I cannot do things the same way everyone else does. I want something that represents me to the fullest extent. Three or four years ago, I switched from oil to acrylic and had fun! I found it to be a revelation. Initially, I felt a bit destabilized because acrylic dries much faster...but I quickly got used to it. Then, I switched to the painting knives and left the brushes behind. It’s so cool!

Which came first, the horses or the art? What first attracted you to Arabian horses as an artistic subject?

In my life, horses came first. I had a Fjord pony when I was 7 years old, then an Ardennes, a Selle Français when I did sport…Also 2 Spaniards, 2 Welsh, a Quarter Horse, and a Paint Horse. There is so much variety in my equine life. I enjoy all disciplines, with some preferences for some, of course. Due to his versatility, the Arabian Horse is one of the best for western and liberty riding. Artistically, I am drawn to the Arabian horse because he has an extraordinary attitude, a unique expression, and tons of charisma. When I paint and sculpt him, work on his shapes and curves I get into a state of contemplation. The wonder of God, he is. I decided to get artistically and intimately closer to the Arabian horse also due to my religious beliefs. Being Muslim, I find the Arabian horse’s story incredibly poetic. Here’s a little bit about it: “God created this domestic four-legged animal to raise you up spiritually and to help you with everyday living. By the south wind, God created this animal, the Arabian Horse, to be powerful enough to help humans and loving enough to bring out the best in them”. I felt compelled to draw closer to this horse for spiritual reasons, even though all horses are exceptional. On top of it, he is the first horse ever created, the oldest breed, and is found in virtually all Studs for the improvement of other breeds.

When and where have you first met an Arabian horse? Who was it?

My last memories go back to my childhood... my parents had one friend, and to please us this friend brought us the breeding farm of a friend of his in the middle of France. The image I still keep in my mind is of beautiful grey mares with their bay foals (baby hair) in a large meadow. Besides that, I have always been surrounded by purebred Arabians, even my husband is Arab (laughs). No, unfortunately, I don’t have any purebred Arabian of my own…One day maybe!

Why do you use the Indian ink technique to capture the horses’ personalities in your works?

I paint 3/4 of my paintings with knives, except for the eyes. The look I do with brushes brings more details, and more expressions because that’s really what I like... staying vague...mysterious... putting everything into the expression, the attitude and this is the biggest strong point of the Arabian Horse.

Who are your main artistic influences?

I have always set high restrictions for myself …never emulating anyone else. Observing famous or not-sofamous people has taught me a lot because we all learn from one another. However, I don’t have any artistic references, between you and me... Lol. Watching others’ work motivates me when I need it, but that’s it. Whenever I start to paint, I feel liberated. I pour my soul, heart, and mind into it, and I love watching my work when it’s done - that may sound a bit pretentious, though). I’m not sure why I don’t have artistic references, as I said earlier...I never do like the others.

Do you have any secret rituals you do to help you get in the zone for your art?

Yes, of course! A nice cup of coffee and a good music piece.

Is there a particular place that brings you inspiration?

Certainly surrounded by nature, though outdoors and free!

What effect is the Internet on art? Is it having an effect on yours? In what ways?

The Internet can be a good or a bad thing. I’m very sensitive. I’ve already stopped using the internet several times because I couldn’t stand and accept the wickedness of some people around me. That’s right! I don’t look like a European woman, so what? I use the internet today, but always with this fear. As hard as it is, I try my best to ignore free wickedness. Apart from that, the internet is a great tool for seeing artwork, and it can even help us improve with constructive criticism and compliments.

Which one is your personal favourite painting/or collection?

I love them all because each painting and collection represents an evolution, a new reflection, and a crisis of existence. The journey I travel with each completed piece makes me very happy, and I am always looking for ways to improve...

Have you done any particular exhibitions so far? Yes, I have done local exhibitions in my friends’ stables during their open days and in the town hall of my village, but that is all! However, it’s not me...Maybe one day I will do it more often, but right now I don’t want to. I am doing well at home.

What is the best way for a potential client to reach you? What does your package usually include? You can reach me on social media: Instagram: @laetitia. meliani_art Facebook: Firdaws Art - Laetitia Meliani

Tiktok: @firdawsart

What are your hopes and dreams or future goals, where do you see yourself in the next ten years?

Painting is something I hope to always take pleasure in, not become tired of, and always have this curiosity for new and better things. It is very important to me to explore...try and make mistakes again, and I hope I’ll experience them again in the next ten years!

Laetitia, please leave a message for the readers of this beautiful interview! My final little message? Embrace our differences and stay true to them, Be respectful of everyone’s differences, Let’s learn from each other’s differences, Diverse perspectives only enrich our lives, Let’s cherish our horses more than anything else since they are the best teachers we can have!

7th FUJAIRAH INTERNATIONAL ARABIAN HORSE CHAMPIONSHIP 15-16-17 December 2022

WRITTEN BY SONJA SMALDONE

he 7th Fujairah Arabian Horse International Championship organized by the Emirates Arabian Horse Society under the kind patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah and Chairman of the Fujairah Culture and Media Authority (FCMA) – and managed by Mr Ali Mossabah Ali Alkaabitook place from 15th to 17th December 2022 in the arena adjacent the emirate’s historic fort. Broad participation of horse owners and stables from inside and outside the country, with a total prize pool of 4 million dirhams.

ad (Belgium), Mrs Van Hee Martine (Belgium), and Mrs Weidner Michaela (Germany). All horses got scored according to the 5 Topics system with the half point for Type, Head and Neck, Body, Legs and Movement.

ne (Norway), Mr Ouelhazi Kaies Bin Hadi (Uni-

compete in a beau-

A total of 339 horses enrolled to compete in a beauty context richly endowed with titles, which drew first-class breeding programs from Arabian countries. The 2022 Judging Committee featured Mr Abdelrazek Ahmed (Egypt), Mrs Darius Claudia (Germany), Mr Moschini Christian (Italy), Mrs Stigler Irina (Russia), Mr. Bialobok Jerzy (Poland), Mr Detailleur Koenra-

With the rank of Disciplinary Commissioners: Mrs Keyser Christine (Norway), Mr Ouelhazi Kaies Bin Hadi (United Arab Emirates), Dr. Bedair Sameh (Egypt), Dr Gill Ummar Raza (United Arab Emirates), Dr Suryawanshi Sujeet Bhaskar (United Arab Emirates), Mrs Zouaghi Farah (United Arab Emirates), and Mr Tayfour Haitham Babiker (United Arab Emirates). In their role of Ringmasters: Dr Wahab ben Ali Amira Abdel (United Arab Emirates) and Mr Almenhali Eidha (United Arab Emirates). Results by Mr Biju Peter (United Arab Emirates).

Dr. Bedair Sameh Ummar Raza (United Arab Emirates), Dr Mrs Zouaghi (United Arab Emiof Ringmasters: Dr Wahab ben Ali Amira Abdel (United

The show started on 15 December 2022 at 14:00 in Asia/Dubai (11:00 in Europe/Rome) and ended up on

17 December 2022 at 02:00 in Asia/ Dubai (23:00 in Europe/Rome) with the following results:

In the Yearling Fillies Championship, Gold medal winner D Aserah (AJ Nofan x D Shihanah) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. Silver medal winner AJ Raseel (Alexxanderr x Aj Rajwa) bred and owned by Ajman Stud - HH Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi. Bronze medal winner Al Aryam Sahayeb (Alexxanderr x Al Aryam Samha) bred and owned by Al Aryam Arabians.

In the Junior Fillies Championship, Gold medal winner D Raseel (D Seraj x Elle Flamenca) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. Silver medal winner E.S. Sharjah (E.s. Sarab x E.s. Rasheeda) bred and owned by Sheikh Abdulla Bin Majid Alqassemi. Bronze medal winner, E.s. Halwa (E.s.

Sarab x E.s. Hala) bred by Sheikh Abdulla Bin Majid Alqassemi and owned by Alhaqbani, Faisal Mohammed A.

In the Senior Mares Championship, Gold medal winner Aj Tarim (Emerald J x Espinilla) bred and owned by Ajman Stud - HH Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi. Silver medal winner Roaah Mughaider (E.s. Harir x Sheikha Sq) bred and owned by Rashid Saif Saeed Hammad Alzaabi. Bronze medal winner Farida (Al Farid x Al Patra) bred and owned by H.H. Sheikha Mariam Bint Sultan Bin Ahmed Alqassemi.

In the Yearling Colts Championship, Gold medal winner Al Aryam Shadeed (Admiraal x Al Aryam Shakeera) bred and owned by Al Aryam Arabians. Silver medal winner Fam Del Palazzotto (D Shakhat x D A’Asaleyyah) bred and owned by Federico Jose Morales Jordan. Bronze medal

winner Faiz Al Bahya (Antaris Os x AJ Fekra) bred by Ajman Stud - HH Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi and owned by Matar Mohamed Salim Alhafri Alketbi.

In the Junior Colts Championship, Gold medal winner D Rasel (Fa El Rasheem x Ladi Veronika) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. Silver medal winner Al Aryam Barjes (Al Aryam Sari x Al Aryam Ballora) bred and owned by Al Aryam Arabians. Bronze medal winner Fd Rafale (D Maysoor x D Arta) bred and owned by Alfalah Arabian Horse Stud.

In the Senior Stallions Championship, Gold medal winner E.s. Sarab (Marajj x Mahjesty) bred and owned by Sheikh Abdulla Bin Majid Alqassemi. Silver medal winner Ka Nishan (Shanghai Ea x Aj Nazwa) bred and owned by Khaled Ghanem Mubarak Alomairi. Bronze medal winner Star Farid (Rfi Farid x Eks Star of Africa) bred by Wojciech Parczewski and owned by Al Juwaher Arabian Horse Stud.

The final day of the championship was attended by His Highness Crown Prince of Fujairah, Sheikh Dr Rashid bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Chairman of Fujairah Culture & Media Au-

thority, Sheikh Saif bin Hamad bin Saif Al Sharqi, Chairman of Fujairah Free Zone Authority, and Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamad bin Saif Al Sharqi. At the end of the show, His Highness crowned the winners, honoured the officials, and awarded the Fujairah Golden Sword Award to the Dubai Horse Stud. In his remarks, His Highness thanked the Fujairah International Arabian Horse Championship Organizing Committee for its efforts. “This show’s increasing success, its upgrade from a National to an International show this year, and achievement of its goals notably contributes to the revitalization and enrichment of equestrian sports throughout the

world”, he said. `The event was also attended by H.E. Mohammad Saeed Al Dhanhani, Director of Fujairah Emirs Court and Salem Al Zahmi, Director of the Office of the Crown Prince of Fujairah, Chairman of the Organizing Committee for the Championship. We do want to thank all the Eminences of the entire Organizing Committee and the local media partners for inviting us to support one of the most beautiful championships in the United Arab Emirates and extend our congratulations to all those involved. Thanks a lot, indeed. Hopefully, we will see you in Fujairah next year with new extraordinary classes!

BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD

Junior Fillies

Final Championship

E.S. SHARJAH E.S. SARAB | E.S. RASHEEDA

BREEDER: SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN MAJID ALQASSEMI OWNER: SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN MAJID ALQASSEMI

D SERAJ | ELLE FLAMENCA

BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD E.S. HALWA

BREEDER: SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN MAJID ALQASSEMI OWNER: ALHAQBANI, FAISAL MOHAMMED A

Senior Mares

Final Championship

ROAAH MUGHAIDER E.S. HARIR | SHEIKHA SQ

BREEDER: RASHID SAIF SAEED HAMMAD ALZAABI OWNER: RASHID SAIF SAEED HAMMAD ALZAABI

BREEDER: AJMAN STUD - HH SHEIKH AMMAR BIN HUMAID AL NUAIMI OWNER: AJMAN STUD - HH SHEIKH AMMAR BIN HUMAID AL NUAIMI

FARIDA AL FARID | AL PATRA

BREEDER: H. H. SHEIKHA MARIAM BINT SULTAN BIN AHMED ALQASSEMI OWNER: H. H. SHEIKHA MARIAM BINT SULTAN BIN AHMED ALQASSEMI

Yearling Colts

Final Championship

FAM DEL PALAZZOTTO D SHAKHAT | D A’ASALEYYAH

BREEDER: FEDERICO JOSE MORALES JORDAN OWNER: FEDERICO JOSE MORALES JORDAN

Junior Colts

Final Championship

AL ARYAM BARJES

AL ARYAM SARI | AL ARYAM BALLORA

BREEDER: AL ARYAM ARABIANS OWNER: AL ARYAM ARABIANS

FA EL RASHEEM | LADI VERONIKA

BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD FD RAFALE

BREEDER: ALFALAH ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: ALFALAH ARABIAN HORSE STUD

Senior Stallions

Final Championship

KA NISHAN SHANGHAI EA | AJ NAZWA

BREEDER: KHALED GHANEM MUBARAK ALOMAIRI OWNER: KHALED GHANEM MUBARAK ALOMAIRI

BREEDER: SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN MAJID ALQASSEMI OWNER: SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN MAJID ALQASSEMI STAR FARID

As an accomplished DC and Ringmaster in the world of shows, Roberto Ceccaroni has established himself as one of the industry’s most charismatic personalities. Additional-

Who is Roberto Ceccaroni exactly? In spite of my fifty years, I still feel young on the inside, sometimes even too much... I have worked in a wide variety of fields before deciding to dedicate my entire life to Arabian horses. They have always been an integral part of it and will always be.

How and when did it all start with the Arabian horse?

In the late 80s, I began my adventure on a sunny summer morning. There was a large paddock bordering the country road where I

ly, he is pursuing a career as a judge and plans to qualify as an ECAHO lists judge. Roberto’ s resolute attitude, theatrical style and elegance have always captured us at the shows, whether national or international, with their emotion, class, and huge professionalism.

was walking. A grey filly trotting in the pastures ravished me and I have been fascinated with Arabian horses ever since. I started

An Interview by Sonja Smaldone

as a handler, progressed to become a breeder in the early 90s, and then took disciplinary commission courses, ringmaster courses, and judge courses.

How long have you been a ringmaster? How does the ringmaster perform his or her duties in the arena? How do you like to dress when you work the shows as a ringmaster? I became a ringmaster for the first time in 2008, but on several occasions since then, especially in high-level shows, I have been invited to perform in this role. Inside the arena, the ringmaster is the key liaison between the jury and the handler. As well as ensuring everyone’s safety, he should advise and help those with less experience while letting presenters do their jobs efficiently. A ringmaster should also be kind and polite to everyone while still being determined to enforce the

rules. While respecting the organizers’ time, he must provide the same amount of time to

each presenter.

In addition, his position cannot interfere with the judges’ work, and it should not disrupt

the handler, who spent months training for just 2/3 minutes of performance... During my time as a ringmaster, I don’t wear a particular outfit, I usually wear comfy but elegant clothes since I have to stand so much, or I may have to go pick up some undisciplined presenters.

Is there any difference between being the ringmaster at a National and International Arabian Horse shows?

There are no big differences between being a ringmaster in a national or an international event, though national shows are often more challenging due to the higher number of non-professional handlers inside the arena which can pose a dangerous situation for horses and officials. Nevertheless, in international shows, handlers tend to ignore the ringmaster’s instructions because they are under

more pressure to make their horses perform as well as they can.

Roberto, did you get a specific preparation to become a ringmaster? What technical or practical skills must a ringmaster necessarily possess doing his job?

I have been involved in shows since the beginning. In 2013, I attended the ECAHO workshop in Paris for ringmasters. However, my very first experiences as a member of the disciplinary commission and the knowledge I acquired in those years, were certainly crucial for me to get a full understanding of the regulations and the precise phases of the show performance.

Ringmasters must have practical experience

working with horses, know their behaviour, and recognize the signals of horses to prevent dangerous situations. It is imperative that you know how to interact with other officials and, above all, establish a healthy relationship with DC members. Needless to say, it is of utmost importance to be familiar with the Blue Book to make the right decision quickly.

Everyone in this community knows that you are also an accomplished Disciplinary Commissioner. What are your main duties and responsibilities as a DC at shows? No doubt the role of the disciplinary commissioner is my favourite in this kind of equestrian event because I am more in close contact with all the show participants. DC’s number one rule is to guarantee the wel-

fare of our beloved horses, making everyone, including other officials, respect the rules of conduct of the show, helping the organizing committees so that the event runs in the best possible way, and monitoring the smooth conduct of the championships. Finally, drafting a truthful report allows ECAHO to be informed of any problems that may have come up in the event so that, if necessary, it can take action against those who have behaved incorrectly.

Roberto, what five words would be best to describe you as a DC? Honesty Integrity Cooperation Firmness

Kindness

Do you feel like sharing with us any episode of the particular misconduct during an Arabian Horse show that you managed successfully? What makes you really angry, Roberto?

I will never forget an episode that took place a few years ago in a national championship in the Middle East…

During a yearling class, a filly broke free after her handler, a young inexperienced one… The handler had made the lead get snagged under one of the filly hooves. When he had caught her up again, he hit the poor filly brutally. I got furious with rage and gave him a red card straight away!

It has been the first time, and hopefully the

last, in the course of my career. My policy is never to punish but to strive to teach and make the less experienced grow professionally. Ringmasters must have practical experience working with horses, know their behaviour, and recognize the signals of horses to prevent dangerous situations. It is imperative that you know how to interact with other officials and, above all, establish a healthy relationship with DC members. Needless to say, it is of utmost importance to be familiar with the Blue Book to make the right decision quickly.

I think Arabian horses have a noble spirit and have a great disposition to interact with us humans. If properly managed, especially in the stables, they will never behave badly or attack us. Unfortunately, cases of this kind occur more and more often, but the problem is certainly caused by poor management at home by unqualified personnel, especially grooms, or by pseudo trainers who are convinced that a strong submission of the horse makes it perform better in front of the jud-

ges… which is totally wrong! Who is your all-time favourite Arabian horse? Why?

I have been in direct contact with numerous stunning Arabian horses over all these years, but if I have to name one, surely Piruet was the one who won my heart. I was lucky enough to have him on my farm for a few weeks and his combination of fire and sweetness made me fall in love with this breed. Even more, you could put a child on him and he wouldn’t be any rude, after a few minutes you could also give him a caress… but when it came his turn to perform, he would enter the arena like a lion!

I think this is precisely the essence of these horses who are capable of performing at the highest level in all disciplines, they know how to always give us thrills in everyday life.

This industry is facing a lot of concerns about its future, and some well-known personalities are taking action against the way things are going at today’s shows. Do you have any

thoughts on it?

It is not an easy period for our industry. For sure... The crisis of the European market and the organization of shows outside Europe with jaw-dropping prize money make many people believe this is a world full of corruption... or where people are easily corrupted. In my opinion, it is certainly not moving away from this world that will solve the problem. In my view, we are better off working together all the time, with honesty and full dedication. This is the only way we can fully enjoy our passion for these amazing animals again.

Is there anything else you would like to accomplish at this stage in your career? Where do you see yourself, say, ten years from now? A few years ago, I also embarked on a career as a judge, passing the course for national judges organized by ANICA. I successfully completed my assistantships and participated in various events in this role. In the coming years, I am going to devote myself a little more to this new experience by participating in courses to enter the ECAHO lists of judges.

I hope that in ten years’ time, I will still be working in this industry, to be an official and a breeder with a solid knowledge, and be able to pass this knowledge onto all the people who have the same passion as me. However, I will never give up on my DC role. It will always be my favourite one in this kind of events.

Roberto, will you please leave a final message for the readers?

First of all, I want to warmly thank AHM for this interview. My message to all readers is simple, but serious. The world of shows cannot only be experienced as a business. Our passion must always remain the greatest source of wealth. Passion for our industry is by all means the engine to continue breeding successfully…

Roberto, we will treasure your words and would like to wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours as an ECAHO judge!

“Erbil Stud is an established Arabian horse breeder with a long history of success. Its horses have earned numerous honors and accolades, and it has earned itself a reputation as one of the best breeders in the Kurdistan region of Iraq.”

“Don Diego is an esteemed horse breeder, having bred four champions in the same year. eir rst champion, Zilzal, won the Somo Championship among ten competitors and was awarded the golden trophy. e second champion, Carizma Erbil, won the Championship among eight competitors and earned the bronze trophy. e third champion, Kay Khan, won their class with a silver trophy. Lastly, Blue Sky earned the champion second in its class title among other competitors. Don Diego’s breeding program has brought them many honors and accolades, and their horses are highly sought a er for their agility and grace”.

AMechanical engineer, an avid photographer and an Arabian horse lover. This is the portrait of Mohab Magdy Elshayat. He was born in Alexandria, Egypt, and settled in Dubai with his lovely family. While managing a well-known Arabian horse show company, Mohab also works as a private photographer for several studs within and outside the UAE.

Who is Mohab Elshayat exactly?

nology & Maritime Transport University, Egypt. I have been married since 2012, and have two daughters, Saja and Sila. Both are in equestrian sport.

How did you become a photographer? What made you choose the Arabian Horse as a favourite subject of your photography? Since I was a child my favourite hobby has been photography because I’ve always loved animals especially horses,

My full name is Mohab Magdy El Shayat. I’m 38 years old, and I was born in Alexandria, Egypt. In addition to that, I’m also a Mechanical engineer graduating from Arab Academy for Science, Tech-

dogs, and ornamental birds. But my interest increased in the Arabian horses, because they are like a piece of art or paintings with a lot of fine details. The Arabian horse is magical, majestic and

every detail is different, for example:

a) when it moves, it draws a beautiful panel of energy, activity, and agility; b) when he stands at his stall and neighs that a show of power; c) details of the horse’s body from its neck, head, high tail carriage, and agility paint many beautiful images.

These beautiful moments made me want to capture them and treasure it and show everyone how great Arabian horses can be.

Which Arabian horse has won your heart as a photographer? Why?

All the Arabian horses… I love them all. What I certainly love the most, or I expect to find in an Arabian horse, it is a strong presence and beautiful details.

What are your current commitments as a photographer? Are you working for any stud (s) or show organizations? In which country?

I work as general manager for Arsan Fersan based in the UAE, which specializes in photographing and covering the events of shows in the UAE in particular and the Arab world in general.

Arsan Fersan covers all the Arabian Horse Shows in the UAE We also covered other overseas shows like the Erbil show in Iraq, Kahaila in Saudi Arabia, and heritage in Egypt.

I also work as a private photographer for a lot of studs in and outside the UAE.

Mohab, how would you describe your photography style in 5 words?

I would describe my photography style as detail photography which Arabian horses has lots of and I use those details to make a connection whether it is from its fine features, strong reflections, movement, type and great body figure.

Which is your favourite lens? Why?

The selection of lenses differs from one place to another but the lens I use the most is Nikkor 70-200, then choosing the right place and focusing on the horse as the main subject makes the photos more distinctive.

What makes the best picture stand out from the average?

A lot of elements come together to make a

good image such as lighting, colour, the rule of thirds, lens and the most important element is the location which makes all of them play an important role in horse photography.

How do you educate yourself to take better pictures?

I educate myself through online courses, reading a lot books and apprenticing with experienced photographers, and always practicing.

Which tools do you use for post/ processing?

I use a variety of tools but my main app or program is Adobe Photoshop.

Mohab, what is the least enjoyable part of being a photographer? And the most rewarding part? Very little downside but if I must say its time consuming routine trying to find the best place to capture the best photo and upside is knowing that the client will

treasure your work forever. What are your hopes and dreams or future goals? Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

I’m very happy with where I am, but I hope in the future to get known worldwide.

Mohab, the New Year has just started. What is your message to our international community?

I wish the success of every horse breeder in the world, and I wish part of the success of every stud I’ve ever dealt with. Of course, I thank Arabian Horse Magazine Italy for the opportunity to show my art of photography to your worldwide community!

Thanks a lot, Mohab. Best wishes for an exciting and prosperous year in 2023. May all of your dreams come true...

mohabelshayat@gmail.com arsan.fersan@gmail.com

In Morocco, the development of purebred Arabian horse breeding has been widely acknowledged for some time. Local breeders have invested, rightly or wrongly, in breeding Arabian horses descending from international champion horses. This does not always imply that all the imported specimens with fashionable bloodlines are of equal quality to create a high-potential national genetic pool.

The purpose of these investments in Arabian horses can be identified by analysing the classements that form at regional competitions, previously governed by the Royal Moroccan Association of Breeders (Armecpsa). Regional competitions are today established by a Central Office with strong controls in many areas of horse breeding. Local breeders generally claim that these shows are not large enough to open up domestic and foreign trade, and have a very little general public audience.

Sometimes, importing horses at great expense, for an activity restricted to three annual show competitions - the Regional, the Breeders’ Cup, and possibly the National

Championship - not always pays you off, there should be at least one B and one C National competition to energize the Moroccan sector and a Competition at the National Stud of Oujda. The holding and the maintenance of horse breeding have gotten more expensive now than ever. It is often the same horses that we can find in the various competitions of the following year. International judges may sometimes be asked to make an evaluation by preference, or some retired veterinary judges will not always have shone for their fairness. During the 2022 Championship the three members of the Disciplinary Commission, Mr Zaccaria, Mr Segrouchni, Mr Zejjari as well as Mr Jorio Abdelhaq - were the guarantors of the smooth running of the competition.

Below is an exhaustive table of participation in the last five years, female horses are increasingly present in competitions. However, we should not give importance to the number of entries to the detriment of the health of the female reproducers. As we could observe in several competitions this year, pregnant mares in an advanced state, between 7 and 10 months, have been given regulatory attention by the Central Office. This body cannot ignore well-being and animal protection... That’s a fact, not allowed in Europe nor elsewhere, involving also mixed breeds.

Reflecting on the national interest, I’d like to offer an idea that might be considered legitimately. Why not hold a competition at the National Stud of Meknes during the summer of 2023? It once had an interesting mares stable, only open to mares of 4 years and over, covered in 2022, with or without foals. It would be a great showcase for Moroccan herds.

STATISTICS: REGIONAL C SHOWS

2018 National Stud of Bouznika 63 females – 39 males = 102 horses 2019 - - 70 females _ 41 males = 111 horses 2020 - - 67 females – 42 males = 109 horses 2021 - - 79 females – 51 males = 130 horses 2022 - - 81 females – 48 males = 129 horses

2018 National Stud of El Jadida 70 females – 34 males = 104 horses 2019 - - 67 females – 33 males = 100 horses 2020 - - 53 females – 35 males = 88 horses 2021 - - 61 females – 34 males = 95 horses 2022 - - 82 females – 47 males = 129 horses

2018

National Stud of Marrakech 48 females – 25 males = 73 horses 2019 - - 59 females – 30 males = 89 horses 2020 - - 45 females – 30 males = 75 horses 2021 - - 59 females – 46 males = 105 horses 2022 - - 49 females – 33 males = 82 horses

2018

National Stud of Meknès 74 females – 45 males = 119 horses 2019 - - 65 females – 41 males = 106 horses 2020 - - 65 females – 52 males = 117 horses 2021 - - 70 females – 43 males = 113 horses 2022 - - 76 females – 44 males = 120 horses

The former Regional Stud Farm of El Jadida had an extraordinary history in the Kingdom of Morocco. In a land full of heritage and ancient knowledge, the new setting and facilities of the National Stud Farm of El Jadida by the sea, are the ideal place for hosting purebred Arabian horse competitions. Their new and sympathetic Director has a busy schedule on a daily basis.

The reception is quite pleasant and relaxed with the owners-breeders and their companions who represent most of the public. On the whole, among the large number of horses who came here to compete in the different classes, two-yearold individuals appeared a bit hyper. It is not surprising that many do not work on farms or stud farms benefiting from abundant food, hence a slight plethora for these purebred ‘desert’ individuals.

It looks like the country lacks trained personnel to train horses for any competition: regional, national or international. In addition to that, Moroccan women who wouldn’t lack courage are completely absent from purebred Arabian horses shows. While, it still happens to see groomers with plastic bags exciting the horses so that they go back to their gaits. Everyone needs to be aware that horses’ well-being is negatively affected when their nerve impulses are being forced into such ways. It is, however, a fashion destined to fade away...

MAHS.1- STRAIGHT EGYPTIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

SPECIFIC ORIGIN SHOW

3th & 4th September 2022

Statistics

2018 65 females – 46 males = 111 horses 2019 73 females – 54 males = 127 horses 2020 ……….none……………………… 2021 67 females – 35 males = 102 horses 2022 57 females – 31 males = 88 horses

CHAMPIONSHIPS 2022 | FINAL RESULTS:

JUNIOR FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold Issan Fayrouz, 2019 by Al Fayed & Am Merin bint bint Munira – Issan Stud

Silver Issan Rajaa, 2020 by Rafahag & Hyblea Malika – Issan Stud

Bronze Issan Razika, 2019 by Rayyan al-Naif & Issan Fawziyah & – Haja Alal

SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold Rabha Mb, 2017 by Rayyan al-Naif & Issan Jalila – Issan Stud

Silver Issan Malacha, 2016 by Rayyan al-Naif & SLRashida _ Issan Stud

Bronze Issan Rahsa, 2015 by Rafahag & Angelina Ka _ Issan Stud

JUNIOR COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold Issan Malik, 2020 by Rayyan al-Naif & Malik by Walkir – Issan Stud

Silver Issan Safir, 2020 by Rayyan al-Naif & Malik By Walkir – Issan Stud

Bronze Issan Junaid, 2019 by Rayyan al-Naif & Jumana – Issan Stud

SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold Issan Rayhan, 2015 by Rayyan al-Naif & Frasera Rania – Issan Stud

Silver Azzim al-Boraq, 2016 by Maghribi & Jouihra al-Boraq – Haras Al Boraq

Bronze Issan Sokar – 2006 by Al Adeed al-Shaqab & Insha Shabilah – Issan Stud

MAHS.2 – COUPE NATIONALE DES ELEVEURS WITH THE ASSOCIATION ROYALE MAROCAINE DES ELEVEURS

10th & 11th September 2022 2022 *96 females – *59 males = Total 155 horses

CHAMPIONSHIPS 2022

BREEDERS CUP JUNIOR FEMALES

GOLD | Nabila Bouznika, 2020 by Marsal al-Shaqab & Malidah bin Eternity-D – Haras Royal

SILVER | Farascha BM, 2019 by Fuerte & Natascha bint Bengali – Haras Menara

BRONZE | Rakiyah al-Boraq, 2020 by Rfi Farid & Oud Nouar al-Boraq – Haras al-Boraq

BREEDERS CUP SENIOR FEMALES

GOLD | Doujaa al-Boraq, 2017 by Eka Alihandro & Anai al-Boraq – Haras al-Boraq

SILVER | Etqane Bouznika, 2013 by Ts Apolo & Miss Navarrone D – Haras Royal Bouznika

BRONZE | Issan Malacha, 2016 by Rayyan al-Naif & Sl Rashida – Issan Stud

BREEDERS CUP JUNIOR

MALES

GOLD | Jamil Bm, 2019 by Fa el-Rasheem & GW Shabessa – Haras Menara

SILVER | Osman Mb, 2020 by Kahilal-Shaqab & Oulaya – Issan Stud

BRONZE | Kanze Elektra, 2021 by Emagnum Moniscione & Elektra Laman – Salah el-Houari

BREEDERS CUP SENIOR MALES

GOLD | Walil Inès, 2016 by Bs Specific & Jenufa de Nautiac – Haras Inès

SILVER | Ezzaim Bouznika, 2013 by Ts Apolo & EE Auras Echo – Haras Royal Bouznika

BRONZE | Qadamous al-Boraq, 2015 by Nahar al-Bidayer & Lilia al-Boraq – Haras al-Boraq

MAHS.3 – CHAMPIONNAT NATIONAL DU MAROC WITH ASSOCIATION ROYALE MAROCAINE DES ELEVEURS

17th & 18th September 2022

Statistics

2018 65 females – 46 males = 111 horses

2019 87 females – 55 males = 142 horses

2020 74 females – 55 males = 129 horses

2021 61 females – 39 males = 100 horses

2022 99 females – 50 males = 149 horses

It would be advisable for the decision-makers to address, for next year and for several years, the absence of classes reserved for gelding horses and ridden competitions in Morocco. Arabian horses are considered an important asset in all events in Europe, as they are elsewhere in the world. Nevertheless, it isn’t just the horses at the end of a lead and the races that make breeders’ work evident.

Private breeders-owners are all direct players in the industry, when it comes to their herds, they do not hide their willingness to follow the current trends of the breed.

To distinguish themselves from other competitors, handlers should wear a total white suit, as it would add a bit of decor to this Championship. For fans of horses with Moroccan heritage, the Arabian-Barb and Barb Horse Competitions are a wonderful example of the perfect organization; the professionals wear white, without whips, and the horses move forward naturally.

CHAMPIONSHIPS 2022

NATIONAL JUNIOR FEMALES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold Adila Bodure, 2021 by Rfi Farid & Adila Moniscione – Salah El Ouari

Silver Marrakesh, 2020 by Shiraz de Lafon & Merida J – Youssef Darim

Bronze Amira Me, 2019 by Es Harir & D Effat – Mohammed el-Atouani

NATIONAL SENIOR FEMALES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold Doujaa al-Boraq, 2017 by Eks Alihandro & Ania al-Boraq – Al Boraq Stud

Silver Wienna EA, 2016 by Excalibur & Wilandra Ea – Mohamed el-Atouani

Bronze Jenufa de Nautiac, 2012 by Shanghai Ea & Jalicia de Nautiac -Haras Inès

NATIONAL JUNIOR MALES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold Jamil BM, 2019 by Fa el-Rasheem & GW Shabessa – Haras Menara

Silver Borj al-Arab Me, 2021 by Summum Marc & D Wadha – Mohammed el-Atouani

Bronze Jaouhar HD, 2020 by Absolut De Djoon & Athena Salmane – Hassan Darim

NATIONAL STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold Walil Inès, 2016 by Bs Specific & Jenufa de Nautiac – Haras Inès

Silver Summum Marc Ka, 2013 by Qr Marc & L Serenella – Mohamed el-Atouani

With the Salon d’El Jadida, the Arabian Horse Organization is making a dramatic comeback, thus continuing to serve Moroccan breeders of purebred Arabian horses. The program may seem like a double show for the breeders who have already participated in a special “Breeders” competition during the summer. But, as they say, «an abundance of goods does no harm anyone...».

In 2022, the concept of the AHO maintains the complexity of its system grouping together five judgment criteria that are far too ‘heavy’, and the total of the scores ultimately determines a qualification ranging from Excellent to Insufficient. In order to judge the seventy registered, 38 females and 32 males, it would be desirable for expert judges to have more simplicity. Despite the good skills we can recognize in them, they don’t have a calculator in their brains.

Local breeders offer good specimens for the show, and the competition takes place in an overly quiet environment, to my mind a program that should be reviewed next year in a more appropriate location.

CHAMPIONSHIPS RESULTS

2022

YEARLING FEMALES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold 91 pts - Hikmae, grey 2019 by Shanghai EA & Wienna Ea Breeder – owner El Atouani Stud

Silver 58 pts - Adila Bodoure, bay 2021 by RFI Farid & Adila Moniscione Breeder – owner El Houari Salah

Bronze 53 pts - Rakiyah al-Boraq, bay 2020 by RFI Farid & Oud Nouar al-Boraq Breeder – Haras al-Boraq

SENIOR FEMALES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold 85 pts - Sheema Oual, bay 2015 by Esa Antaarez & Navona Breeder – owner Ait Oual Brahim

Silver 35 pts - Nefissa al-Boraq grey 2015 by Maghribi & Ainhoa Miss Justice Breeder – owner Haras al-Boraq

Bronze 29 pts -Dima, bay 2018 by Kahil al-Shaqab & Irinah Mams Breeder – owner El Haouari Salah

JUNIOR MALES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold 77 pts - Nour al-Assam, chestnut 2019 by Slatan Lafon & Massinga Breeder – owner Filali Meskani Karim

Silver 72 pts - Jamil BM, bay 2019 by Fa el-Rasheem & GW Shabessa Breeder – owner Benlafikh Mehdi

Bronze 53 pts - Aaron Me, grey 2020 by Zeus EA & Benuss bint Minea Breeder – owner El Atouani Stud

SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold 81 pts - Ezzaim Bouznika, grey 2013 by Ts Apollo & Ee Auras Echo Breeder – owner Haras Royal de Bouznika

Silver 62 pts - Sultan al-Assil grey 2017 by Oziera Psyraz & Abla al-Boraq Breeder – owner Haras al-Boraq

Bronze 46 pts - Menara ar-Ra’d, bay 2018 by Gazal al-Shaqab & Shahila Breeder – owner Benlafkih Karim

In times of pandemic, there has been a gulf between Breeding and International Competitions of all levels where money has dominated over passion. Suppose judgments and the results differ in any meaningful way. In that case, career players must refine their skills in these events, as a community of goods, values, and interests in the cause of purebred Arabian horses. This is what everyone expects to happen next year. It will become more accessible than ever to make events and competitions less ‘secretive’ and open to an audience that enjoys attending a live performance.

CHAMPIONSHIPS 2022

INTERNATIONAL YEARLING FEMALES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold Al Ayla Elaaz, chestnut 2021 by al-Ayal Moniscione & Kahima bint Shaarifa Breeder – owner El Aaz Stud Farm – Morocco

Silver Hizia JJ, grey 2021 by Maximilian & Harmonia JJ Breeder – owner Simon Jacky – France

Bronze Ouacila Bouznika, grey 2021 by Marsal al-Shaqab & Bouchra Bouznika Breeder – owner Haras Royal Bouznika - Morocco

INTERNATIONAL JUNIOR FEMALES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold D Nahab chestnut 2020 by Royal Colours & D Jawaher Breeder – owner Dubai Arabian Horse Stud – Emirates

Silver D Reemah, grey 2020 by D Seraj & D Nawal Breeder – owner Dubai Arabian Horse Stud – Emirates

Bronze Al Aryam Aldhanna, bay 2020 by Raoud Albidayer & al-Aryam Basma. Breedeer Al Aryam Arabians Owner Yass bin Hamdan bin Zayed - Emirates

INTERNATIONAL SENIOR FEMALES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold Aj Barakah, chestnut 2016 by Aj Marzan & Princess of Justice Breeder – owner Ajman Stud – Emirates

Silver TF Maisa, bay 2018 by Marajj & Latiffa Breeder Agricola Tripodi – owner El Atouani Stud – Morocco

Bronze SS Farah Olivia, grey 2016 by Kahil al-Shaqab & Farah Darina Breeder Stigler Stud – owner Hamdi Alshemeili – Emirates

INTERNATIONAL YEARLING MALES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold Borj al-Arab Me, grey 2021 by Summum Marc Ka & D Wadhah Breeder – owner El Atouani Stud – Morocco

Silver Kanze Elektra, bay 2021 by Magnum Moniscione & Elektra Breeder – owner El Ouari Salah – Morocco

Bronze Amir Koutoubia, grey 2021 by Imperial Bisaam & Dulah Bouznika Breeder – owner Bimezzagh Tahar - Morocco

INTERNATIONAL JUNIOR MALES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold D Shart, grey 2020 by Excalibur EA & D Shannah Breeder – owner Dubai Arabian Horse Stud – Emirates

Silver Al Aryam Hasheem, bay 2020 by Fa el-Rasheem & al-Aryam Hamra Breeder – owner K.B.T Al Nahayyan – Emirates

Bronze S.M Mash’Hoor, grey 2020 by D Seraj & D Meznh Breeder – owner S.B.M.B.J al-Maktoum - Emirates

INTERNATIONAL SENIOR MALES CHAMPIONSHIP

Gold Al Aryam Shklaan, grey 2018 by Excalibur EA & al-Aryam Shakeera Breeder – owner Al Aryam Arabians – Emirates

Silver Admiraal, bay 2017 by Emerald J & Haniyyah Breeder Al Subaie – owner Ajman Stud – Emirates

Bronze Marsal al-Shaqab, grey 2011 by Marwan al-Shaqab & Miss el-Power JQ Breeder Al Shaqab Stud – owner Haras Royal Bouznika - Morocco

When the Salon du Cheval d’El Jadida 2022 had its two Arabian horse competitions without much fanfare, many guests of El Atouani stud, located near Sidi Slimane not far from Casablanca, were generously offered an exceptional moment the following day. If it is true that its owner-director is a well-known architect, he had to think about fitting out comfortable facilities for high-quality Arabian horses which were presented to the audience, who were favourably amazed to find out that they did not use to bringing out a huge cavalry in competition. The well-being of the horses is enough in itself to guarantee the conservation of the subjects that everyone dreams of owning one day. In terms of horses in production, their pedigrees may vary according to their origins, and some stallions may be fashionable in the world at the time. It is not utopian to suggest that the reference herd still needs to be built and developed for the King of Morocco, which could undoubtedly, with a col-

lective effort, take on a major place for the entire African continent.

To limit the small groups of owner-breeders wishing all too often the idea of significant progress for activities related to breeding, it would be necessary to note that real cohesion is emerging but not through groupings of specific origins. A lack of

reviewed and adapted competitions has mainly resulted in the Arabian horse sector in Morocco regressing somewhat. Locals can easily confirm this themselves.

By 2023, ‘La Route des Haras’, to be established directly by the breeders and owners, will attract both amateurs of the breed as well as those who want to learn about it.

In spite of its small numbers to date, Morocco has good assets with breeders who know how to award what is useful and beautiful. With their participation, the future looks promising.

A solid basis of the living heritage of the Kingdom of Morocco, the Arab-barb horse has regained its place in the heart of the Moroccan people after two years of absence on the occasion of the Salon du Cheval 2022 with a revamped competition entitled ‘Coupe des Champions des Arabian-Barb Horses,’ bringing together quite remarkable subjects, and open to specimens that have been National Champions in their category in the last four years.

Harnessed under conditions of participation in specific events outside the ancestral know-how in the design of traditional adornments, by which study we know a novelty in the judging criteria has surfaced by the addition of a handling test which

could be similar to Trec with very average fallout. The objective of this first is to note the docility and the ease of the horses to cross bars on the ground, to give their feet calmly, and to validate a real valuation of this type of competition. All of this would need to be reviewed and certainly studied in a less academic or childish way as the simplicity is most surprising.

The horses should have a warm-up area to relax and prepare before entering the small quarry so that they won’t have to wait on the bitumen. This seems most surprising for a breed that is also active during the Tbourida. The Tbourida is now considered an intangible heritage by Unesco, so a correlation seems necessary.

On the great ground floor of the Salon du Cheval, a traditional competition featuring Arab-barb horses from all provinces of the Kingdom would be most attractive and vibrant. There is no doubt that this time, the stands would be filled with all the amateurs and actors in this particular sector who will show their love for this breed rooted deep in the hearts of all Moroccans from all regions. It is hoped that the show given will enhance the general program of the Show.

In addition to serving as a source for a possible genetics pool, model and gaits competitions should be used to select and promote purebred Arabians, especially young horses bred by professionals or amateurs, it is more than just a product combined with ambient marketing, as a test for the breed standards, it is not enough to show horses in hand, the most important thing for the judges to whom we appeal is to choose horses with correct conformation, stamina, and natural influx and not to rely on external elements that influence their development.

These days, many Arabian horses have grown in size with cylindric-shaped bodies, often over-sized withers, mostly raised in boxes, which inevitably affects the natural extension of the body, yet, a horse, whatever its breed, is first and foremost, an athlete that needs exercise for its well-being and healthy development.

We also met horses with well-balanced bodies, and perfectly mounted under saddle by two horsemen Hassan and Ismael, both men are aware that these horses originating from the desert must be light to preserve their speed, and able to cover the ground with good movement, it is not necessary to own expensive facilities to know what is required for breeding or training horses on the beaches of Mazagan-Azemmour.

In terms of the general balance of the horse, this can only bring so much benefit, we would like to thank El Aaz Farm for their kind welcome.

It is through this natural integration with men that it is possible to appreciate even more the natural aptitude, which is particularly desired in horses prepared to compete in model and gaits competitions on flat terrain, no matter what the situation, Arabian horses will be noticed for their spirited behaviour.

At the stop, in front of the Jury, the four limbs will be well balanced on the ground, and the amplitude of the step engages the posteriors with flexible joints, to catch a judge’s or a potential buyer’s attention at a brilliant pace, good preparation is crucial.

Training a breeding horse is compulsory and very useful both in hand or under saddle, there are quality handlers and riders in Morocco, but too few, unfortunately, and most of them come from outside, one of the solutions to increase the value of the breeding farms is in the hands of their owner-breeders, the experts of the breed are ageing inexorably in this country, young locals should be trained at their stables so that they can take the horses out of the boxes at least as often as possible.

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Nazeera (13.02.1954-Jan. 1972) was born in the Egyptian State Stud of El Zahraa, where she remained with the other mares of her group. All of her o spring were born there. She was a Kuhayla Rodaniya mare, a little-known strain in the modern era. However, there are also certain wrong fashions that have been set in place by beauty competitions, and a lack of preparedness on the part of Arabian horse owners. In order to better understand Nazeera, I rst need to explain her bloodline.

e Kuhaylan strain is said to be the oldest one, therefore, the most predominant in the Arabian breed. Many legends of the ancient Bedouin

tradition describe the mares of the Kuhaylah strain as strong as brave in war ghts, qualities that gave them great honour and high value. ere are several strains in the Kuhaylah family and one of the most famous is the Kuhaylan Ajuz Ibn Rodan. It descended from the mare Rodania, a powerful chestnut mare bred in the desert by the Roala Bedouins and born in 1869. is mare of great nobility, spirit and of exceptionally high quality, built one of the oldest and most numerous families of the Arabian breed.

On 12 April 1881, Rodania (1869-1889) got purchased by Mr Wilfrid and Lady Anne Blunt from Tais Ibn Sharban, of the Gomussa tribe of

the Sebaa Anazeh. He had in turn bought her from the Roala Bedouins. In the same year, the 12-year-old Rodania was brought to England and moved to Crabbet Arabian Stud, where she gave birth to ve foals.

Among her three daughters born in Crabbet Arabian Stud, the most proli c one was Rose of Sharon (12.05.1885-July 1907) by Hadban (1878), a small and insigni cant lly till the age of 2. Eventually, she turned into a beautiful and sosphisticated mare.

Out of the ve daughters that Rose of Sharon produced at Crabbet Arabian Stud, the Blunts kept only Ridaa (1892) by Merzuk (1887) (Wazir x a Kuhayla Jellabieh chestnut mare) for themselves.

e Rodania bloodline got spread all over the world through Ridaa (1892), and her three legendary daughters: Risala (1900) by Mesaoud (1887) (Aziz x Yemameh); Riyala (19051931) and Rim (1910), both by Astraled (1900) (Mesaoud x Queen of Sheba). Carrying on speaking about Nazeera’s ancestors, I will leave out the sisters Risala (1900) and Rim (1910), to only focus on Riyala (1905-1931).

is chestnut mare, with her hind limb socks over the fetlock, was going to be sold for a considerable price at the age of three. Lady Judith Wentworth strongly opposed the sale and incorporated Riyala into the Crabbet Arabian Stud collection of mares because she considered Riyala a crucial mare for her breeding program. In 1915, Lady Anne Blunt moved to Sheykh Obeyd Estate, Egypt, for good. Her daughter

Lady Judith Wentworth took her place at the head of Crabbet Arabian Stud. At the age of 14, Riyala got bred to Nadir (1901) (Mesaoud x Ne sa), a handsome, compact and well-built Kuhaylan Dajani stallion, with 50% bloodlines from the selection of Ali Bey Pasha Sherif, who at that time was widely used as a sire. In 1920, the bay lly Risama (Nadir x Riyala) was born. Risama embodied all the characteristics of her sire. In the same year, Dr A.E. Branch, Director of the Royal Agricultural Society of Egypt (R.A.S.), got in contact with Lady Judith Wentworth. He wanted to acquire new bloodlines for the RAS breeding program, and two great-granddaughters descending from the dam line of Rose of Sharon (12.05.1885-July1907) got eventually purchased.

ese latter were Razieh (1920-1946) (Ibn Yashmak x Risala), who got renamed Bint Rissala in Egypt; and Risama (1920) (Nadir x Riyala), who was called Bint Riyala. Bint Riyala lived at R.A.S. until 1934, when she got sold to Scottish Mr T.G.B. Trouncer, owner of Sheikh Sudan Stud in Egypt.

Bint Riyala’s rst daughter was the grey Bint Bint Riyala (25.10.1924) sired by Gamil Manial (15.04.1912-1928) (Saklawi II x Dalal). Bint Bint Riyala’s latest daughter was Malaka (17.02.1941) sired by the stallion Kheir (17.11.1924) (Ibn Samhan x Badaouia), a Saklawi Shei outcross that proved crucial. Who triggered the worldwide spread of Bint Ri-

yala’s family (1920) was the extraordinary, grey mare Malaka (17.02.1941). Malaka was able to convey her strong Kuhaylan type to all of her o spring; namely, more strength, very strong bones, broader diameters, as well as beautiful movement. Nazeer (09.08.1934-07.06.1960 ) (Mansour x Bint Samiha) proved to be the stallion that crossed best with her.

At E.A.O., Malaka produced four daughters who carried on her family. ree were daughters by Nazeer: Samia (05.01.19521968), Mamlouka (28.02.19531967), Nazeera (13.02.1954), alongside a daughter by El Sareei (08.02.19421967) (Shahloul x Zareefa): Salomi (05.03.1957). In 1962, Salomi was imported to the U.S.A. by Mr Douglas B. and Mrs Margaret Marshall of Gleannloch Farms, Spring (Houston), Texas. Today, all the descendants of Bint Riyala (1920) go back to the family of Malaka, who is also remembered for being the dam of Azmi (Nahr El Nil) (12.01.19541960), a son by Sid Abouhom (02.03.19361963) (El Deree x Layla). Azmi got exported to Russia in 1958 where he was registered under the name of Nahr El Nil. He was instrumental in the selection of the Arabian Horse in Russia, and became the sire of the great racing champion and 1978 Russian Stallion Champion Naslednik (1961), out of the mare Nitochka (1948) (Naseem x Taraszcza).

Unfortunately, this stallion, known by the name

of Nil, died two years a er he got imported to Russia, and, despite having produced little ospring, Nil had a great impact on Russian breeding. Another son of Malaka to remember is Waseem (10.03.1958), also a son by Nazeer and a full brother to Nazeera. Waseem was a strong and masculine stallion, very important for the Egyptian breeding. I already mentioned him in the chapter concerning the mare Nagdia (01.11.1959-1988) (Nazeer x Zahia) of Albadeia Stud Farm. Among the ospring by Waseem, I would like to mention again the crucial mare Malekat el Gamal (25.12.1968) out of Nagdia. Bred on AlBadeia Stud Farm, Giza, Egypt, she was imported to the USA, in 1974, by Barbara A. and Douglas W. Gri th, of Imperial Egyptian Stud, Parkton, Maryland. e stallion Wesam (17.12.1973) out of Bint Bukra (19.01.1997) (Nazeer x Bukra) was also a son by Waseem (10.03.1958). Wesam was bred by the E.A.O. and imported to the U.S.A. in 1979 by Mr Elis and Mrs Barbara Johanson, of Ghorab Arabian Farm (GAF), Plainville, Connecticut. ere, he took the name of GAF Wesam. When he grew old, GAF Wesam became a property of Mr Mike and Mrs Janet Bazell, of Mijan Farms, Rockbridge, Ohio. Nazeera (13.02.1954-Jan.1972) was a mare of great substance and highly re ned. She was the latest born out of the mare Malaka (17.02.1941) to be bred to Nazeer. Her name was given to her in praise of her sire. Nazeera was included among the EAO’s mares and during the 18 years she

spent at El Zahraa Stud, she produced 11 foals that continued her bloodline as adult horses. e following stallions got bred to Nazeera over the years: Gassir (23.03.1941-1970) (Kheir x Badia); Anter (21.09.1946) (Hamdan x Obeya); El Sareei (08.02.1942-1967) (Shahloul x Zareefa); Sameh (04.04.1945-1967) (El Moez x Sameera); Amrulla (Ziada) (03.03.1955-1969) (Sid Abouhom x Zaafarana); Nasralla (Shahriar) (20.03.1956)

(Balance x Sehr); Ibm Ha za (24.08.1959) (Sameh x Ha za), and Sultann (Sultan) (15.09.1961-1997) (Sameh x Lubna). e only one male produced by Nazeera was the stallion Nawaf (14.02.1966) by Amrulla, who was part of the E.A.O. stallion park. Among his ten sisters, four remained in Egypt, and six got exported to Europe and North America. e eldest daughter Bint Nazeera (13.02.1958) by Gassir remained in Egypt. Later, she moved to the Police College breeding farm, Cairo, in 1962. Only Amani (29.03.1962) by El Sareei, dam of the famed stallion Asadd (Asad) (14.10.1970-10.10.1999) (Sultann x Amani) remained in El Zahraa as a reproducer. In 1973, Asadd (Asad) got sold to Mr Donald R. and Mrs Jeanne Jacques Ford, of Lancer Arabians, when the farm was still in Brighton, Michigan. is strong performance stallion got exported to the USA, where he won the “Legion of Merit”, and got crowned 1975 U.S. National Champion Stallion, and 1979 U.S. National Champion English Pleasure. Unfortunately, Amani did not leave any female

progeny in Egypt. She only produced one lly on her rst delivery. is was Mawaheb (17.02.1969) by Ibn Ha za, who in 1971 got purchased from Prof. Jean Kayser, of JKB Arabians (Jean Kayser Breeding), Ettelbruck, Luxembourg. Sadly enough, Amani’s female bloodline got completely lost. Later, Prof. Jean Kayser leased the mare Mawaheb to Mr Donald L. and Mrs Judith E. Forbis. So, on December 28, 1976, Mawaheb moved to Ansata Arabian Stud, located in Lu in, Texas, at that time. Just like her dam, Mawaheb, only produced one lly. is was Ansata Malima (24.04.1980) by Ansata Ibn Halima (Ibn Halima) (17.09.195817.09.1981) (Nazeer x Halima). For accuracy, Ansata Malima was bred by Prof. Jean Kayser and her former name was JKB Bint Mawaheb. en, Ansata Malima got

leased to Ansata Arabian Stud, Mena, Arkansas, and, nally, in March 1989, she was sold to Paolo Gucci, Mill eld Stables, Yorktown, New York.

Ansata Malima (24.04.1980) was also one of those unfortunate mares who su ered the consequence of Paolo Gucci’s nancial meltdown. She produced three females: Ansata Maliha (15.03.1986) by Jamil (03.07.19751986) (Madkour I x Hanan); Ansata Mumtaza (28.04.1988) by Ansata Ibn Shah (17.10.197719.01.1988) (Ansata Shah Zaman x Ansata Jezebel); and G Dalalima (1990) by Dal Noir 1981 (Dalul x Nafei). Unfortunately, it was lost track of her. Other two daughters of Nazeera remained in El Zahraa, leaving a large family. ese two were Kawmia (24.02.1965) by Anter, and Hebah (10.02.1970) by Ibn Ha za.

One of the oustanding subjects produced by the mare Kawmia was the Most Classic Head Stallion in the U.S. Egyptian Event of 2010, HS Hero. He was born in March 1998 in Halsdon Arabians Stud, owned by Mrs Shirley and Mr Charlie Watts, Winkleigh, England, and imported to the U.S.A., by Mr Emil and Mrs Debra Nowak, owners of Abraxas Arabians, Temecula, California. HS Hero was a son of Simeon Sadik (10.10.1989-25.12.2012) (Asfour x Simeon Safanad) and out of the mare Helwa Lancer (1988) (El Hilal x Nahidd *1979 x Masria). Masria (Masra) (14.10.1971) (Sultann x Kawmia), born in El Zahraa, Egypt, in 1973, got imported to the U.S.A. by Mr Donald R. and Mrs Jeanne Jacques Ford, owners of Lancer Arabians, Brighton, Michigan. In 1978, she was bred to the stallion Nagid (08.04.1972) (Shaarawi x Nagda), and from this cross was going to be born Nahidd (1979), the grand-dam of HS Hero.

Hebah (10.2.1970) was the dam of the famous and exceptional female reproducer Lancers Asmara (Asmara) (21.05.1974) (Seef x Hebah). She also got sold to Lancer Arabians in 1975. Once in the USA, Lancers Asmara got crowned “Legion of Honor”, as well as Top Ten U.S. National Champion Mare, and twice Reserve World Champion Mare at the Paris World Championships.

In October 1980, Mr Donald R. and Mrs Jeanne

Jacques Ford held an epic auction, the “Lancer’s Night of Nights, Sale of Sales”, where they sold all of their Straight Egyptian Arabian horses. By that time, the Fords had already moved to Reddick, Florida. At the Lancer Arabians facilities near Ocala, Florida, prominent personalities from Egypt, Argentina, Germany, England and Canada got together for the event, and Hollywood celebrities and Arabians enthusiasts also attended. 42 states were represented there. e subjects for sale got brilliantly presented by the Lancer Arabians Manager and Trainer, Mr Stanley G. White.

e Fords cashed out six and a half million dollars with an average auction price of about $ 200,000 per horse. e stallion Asadd (Asad) was in the rst lot, and Chauncey Arabians, owned by Mr Tom and Mrs Kathryn Geare

Chauncey, Scottsdale, Arizona, won it for a record price of $ 1,525,000. Mr Tom Chauncey also won Lancers Asmara for $ 150,000, which was the record price paid for a Straight Egyptian mare.

I remember when, in the spring of 1998, my family and I went visit Rothenberg Stud, in Monheim, Germany. It was a day close to the Easter holidays. e owners, Mr Erwin and Mrs Annette Escher, were very kind and in addition to introducing us to their stunning stallions, they showed us all of their mares and llies. ere was so much high quality in all of them, and the pedigrees were all remarkable. We got so overwhelmed by all that beauty that we did not know where to look. A daughter by Ansata Halim Shah (28.04.1980-Sep.1994) (Ansata Ibn Halima x Ansata Rosetta) struck me the most. She was a real goddess and displayed the kind of completeness and characteristics that any Arabian horse should possess.

It was Halims Asmara (23.03.1992 -2013),

the very last daughter out of Lancers Asmara. Halims Asmara had already shown her extraordinary qualities as soon as she arrived in Germany. Actually, in 1994, she won the titles of Reserve Champion Filly at Kauber Platte, and Straight Egyptian European Champion Filly. In her career, Halims Asmara produced 13

sons, 5 llies and 8 colts. Of these, I would like to mention at least the mare GR Amaretta (2000) by Classic Shadwan (18.02.1992- May 2009) (Alidaar x Shagia Bint Shadwan), German Champion Mare in 2002, and the stallion GR Amaretto (1999-2017), also by Classic Shadwan. A Multi-Champion and sire of International Champions in 15 Nations and 5 continents, GR Amaretto grabbed the Gold Cockade at the German Stallion Show in Aachen, in 2002. He was proclaimed Senior Champion at the Egyptian Event Europe in 2006; Reserve Senior Champion at ‘International A-Show in Wels, Austria, in 2009; German National Champion in Aachen in 2009 and, kept on winning many other important Halter Shows. No doubt, he

was a prominent sire who le the marks of his genetic heritage on all of his o spring. Among the exported daughters out of Nazeera was the chestnut mare Hamdia (07.09.1959) by Anter, imported to the U.S.A. in 1963 by Mr Douglas B. and Mrs Margaret Marshall, owners of Gleannloch Farms, Spring (Houston), Texas. Also the burnt chestnut mare Romanaa II (Romana II) (16.03.1963-08.04.1977) (Sameh x Nazeera) got imported to the U.S.A. by Gleannloch Farms, Spring (Houston), Texas, in 1966, at the age of 3. A well-built and a mare of substance, Romanaa II had an exceptional movement with a great push from the hindquarters and a high, oating trot. She could be even ridden bareback and with only a halter. She was a mare with a mild character, gentle and with a striking balance, all qualities that she passed on to her progeny. She was one of Sameh’s best daughters. Romanaa II was part of that group of horses that Gleannloch Farms imported to make the world aware of the beauty and athletic skills of the new type of Straight Egyptian Arabian horses in the show rings. e pinnacle of her career was in 1969 when she won the title of U.S. National Top Ten Halter Mare.

In her life, Romanaa II produced six foals, including the last two born males. Haroun (1975) by Sakr (01.01.1968- 03.06.1997) (Sultann x Enayat), and Fateen (1976) by Faleh (13-03.1967-20.07.1987) (Alaa El Din x Farasha). Both horses got castrated and started up a sporting career (at that time the Arabian horse was highly sought-a er for di erent sports disciplines).

On three di erent deliveries, Romanaa II’s three llies were born by Mora c (19.03.195618.03.1974) (Nazeer x Mabrouka): Dalia (21.02.1968-14.11.1983) was the eldest one, a wonderful correct grey mare, who also had qualities as a show mare. She became the 1972 Scottsdale Champion Mare and achieved many Halter victories earning her the “Legion of Merit”. She was a very good mare under saddle too. She won the 1972 U.S. National Top Ten title in English Pleasure. Dalia proved to also be a fantastic reproducer. She got purchased by Mrs Barbara A. and Mr Douglas W. Gri th, owners of Imperial Egyptian Stud, Parkton, Maryland, where she also foaled the unforgettable Champion Imperial Imdal (29.06.1982-05.12.2003) by Ansata Imperial (18.03.1976-22.06.1990 (Ansata Ibn Sudan X Ansata Delilah). However, given the importance of this stallion, I am going to talk more about him later.

On June 29, 1971, the chestnut Bint Romanaa was born and, like her full sister Dalia, she was

another exceptional Halter show mare. She became the 1976 U.S. National Top Ten Halter Mare and got awarded the “Legion of Merit”. She was also a winner of “Native Costume” and “Side Saddle” in 1977. Bint Romanaa was another super dam of Gleannloch Farms delivering 14 foals, and le an important legacy through her son Rofann (19.04.1979-20.07.2000) by Sou an (02.03.1968-24.12.1994) (Alaa El Din x Moniet El Nefous). Rofann was a hugely successful stallion on Halter’s shows and was crowned U.S. National Top Ten Stallion. He also le an indelible mark on his daughters, proving to be an excellent sire. Among the daughters of Bint Romanaa, I would like to mention Raafala

(13.04.1986-29.11.2003) by Amaal (19.01.196818.12.1987 (Mora c x Bint Maisa El Saghira), a well structured and strong grey mare, with an excellent balance. In 1991, the year before Gleannloch Farms held the “Final Legacy Sale” in May 1992, Raafala got imported to Italy by Dr Francesco Santoro and Serenella Zerbini, owners of the La Frasera farm that at that time was located in Sacrofano, Rome. Raafala arrived in Italy that she was in foal to the stallion Rofann and, on 11 April 1992, she delivered the mare Rofaana, a grey double Bint Romanaa. I remember her being well-structured and correct. On the whole, an excellent performance horse.

Another daughter of Bint Romanaa that I would like to mention is the grey Ralaah (1980) by Zagloul (29.10.1963-1990) (Gassir x Gharbawia), purchased by Mr Jerel Kerby, owners of Dogwood Springs Arabians, Dainger eld, Texas. e third daughter out of Romanaa II, and sired by Mora c, was Gahlih (1972-25.04.1978), who unfortunately died very soon a er she had just

delivered a colt in the Spring of 1978. Luckily enough, the beautiful Gha aara had been born the year before (1977-02.11. 1988) (Sou an x Gahlih). Despite her short life, her four daughters preserved her bloodline at Gleannloch Farms.

Romanaa II’s latest daughter was Rabeeah (1974) by Sakr, a mare who le outstanding progeny, including her great-granddaughter HF Allure (1999) (Imtaarif x Mai Daali 1993 by Imperial Imdal x Nikiyah). Bred by Mrs Joan Skeels and Mrs Sue Burnham, owners of Hope Farm, Cove, Arkansas, she got sold to Mr Tim Manring, Chimacum, Washington. HF Allure (1999) was a double bay Imperial Imdal, who in addition to being the dam of champions, she was herself a multi-champion mare: 2003 Region 12 Top Five Mare, 2003 U.S. Egyptian Event Champion Extended Specialty 4-Year-Old Mares, 2003 U.S. Egyptian Event Reserve Champion Halter Mares, 3 Years & Older, 2006 U.S. Egyptian Event Reserve Champion Halter Mares, 3 Years & Older.

Two years a er the importation of Romanaa II, in the winter of 1968, Mr Douglas and Mrs Margaret Marshall set up for a seventh import of horses from the Egyptian State Stud of El Zahraa to Gleannloch Farms. at import consisted of 14 horses overall, among mares and stallions, all of the highest quality. Most would become famous champions throughout the world. Among these, there was also Romanaa II’s full sister, the grey Omayma (08.03.196420.04.1984) (Sameh x Nazeera), an extraordinary mare who, however, was a little overshadowed by the fame of her travelling companions. In 1976, Omayma was re-exported to Australia to return to the U.S.A. in 1983. She got purchased by Mrs Barbara A. Gri th, owner

of Imperial Egyptian Stud, Parkton, Maryland, alongside her daughter Bint El Shahwan (198329.10.1993) (Ansata El Shahwan x Omayma),

bred by Mistletoe Investments, Ltd. Wyong Creek, NSW, Australia.

Omayma’s main characteristic was her powerful energy, like all the daughters sired by Sameh, with very wide chest, abdomen and lateral diameters, and a perfect rump. She had oustanding forelimbs with nicely rounded hooves. Only the hocks of her hindquarters had a slight defect of tightening a little. At her movement, her hocks would become very exible, fully engaging her back, and pushing her body forward with exquisite elegance. Her tail would curl over her rump and her nostrils woud get fully dilated with a deep, powerful snort. On the whole, she didn’t look as beautiful as Romanaa II, but she had so much style and beauty in her movement, and no other horse could outrun her. Omayma had a very sweet disposition, but, at the same time, when she was in the herd, in the stable or in the pastures she used to be

highly respected even if she was not the highest mare in the hierahrchical order. In her breeding career, Omayma produced eleven foals, seven males and four females. Omayma’s rst sons were two colts, both born at Gleannloch Farms and both sired by Morafic: Ramzy (1970), who got neutered, and El Risaan (1971), a Top Ten Canadian Park Horse. In 1971, the mare was purchased by Mr George R. Wright, Ogden, Utah, and his wife, Mrs Sharon, who sadly died two years later at the age of 35, leaving 8 children and her husband. eir last born child was only 7 months. When Mrs Sharon died, the eldest son, Mr Keri L. Wright was 16. He followed his father’s passion and, together with his wife, Carolee C. founded Cariswood Arabians. He eventually became a member of the Board of Directors of the Pyramid Society. Widowed Mr George R. Wright remarried to Mrs Delora Rae Avondet, an American woman with Italian origins (Piedmont, north Italy), who took charge of the whole family. Mrs De-

lora survived her husband George, who died in 2001, and she le this world in 2017.

At the Wrights, Omayma delivered two more colts by Mohssen (08.02.1966-1989) (Ansata Ibn Halima x Bint Mona). ese were: Omyhssen (1972) and the stallion El Rahdaan (17.02.1973).

In 1973, Mr Peter Pond went visit the Wrights with a group of Australians. Before the guests le the farm, Mr George R. Wright sold two mares that a few years earlier used to be part of the group that had been purchased by Gleannloch Farms. ese two mares were: Hamamaa (1970) (Ibn Antar x Hekmat), sold to by Mistletoe Investments, Ltd. Wyong Creek, NSW; and Omayma (08.03.1964-20.04.1984), in foal to Mohssen, who got purchased by Mr Peter Pond of Forest Hill Arabian Stud, Wyong, NSW, Australia.

Omayma remained in the U.S.A. for a few years, where the following year she will give birth to

Bint Omayma (1974) sired by Mohssen. In 1975, and 1976, Omayma got bred to Ansata Ibn Sudan (01.07.1965-09.03.1987) (Ansa-

29.10.1993) by Ansata El Shahwan, which I have previously mentioned.

ta Ibn Halima x Ansata Bint Mabrouka). is cross will produce the stallion El Kaba (1976) who, in 1977, moved to Australia together with his dam. e latter was already expecting his future daughter Suddona (22.03.1977) by Ansata Ibn Sudan. A few years later, Suddona will be crowned Supreme Champion Mare at Sydney Royal. Suddona had a daughter by Ansata El Shahwan (16.06.1973) (Ansata Shah Zaman x Ansata Rhodora), who got sold at the second auction of the Egyptian Event for a whopping amount of $ 155,000. Once she settled in Australia, Omayma became Australian National Champion Mare. Later, she would deliver Suddona, and get bred to AK Sirhalima (1972-04.11.1997) (Ansata Ibn Halima x Sirhabba). In 1978, the stallion Khazal was also born. e latest born from Omayma were the stallion Hanzeer (1979) by

Unfortunately, Omayma died a year a er her arrival at Imperial Egyptian Stud, without having any other o spring and her daughter Bint El Shahwan also had a very short career. e only daughter of Omayma born in America, Bint Omayma (1974) by Mohssen, also le for Australia without leaving any progeny. At this point, the risk that Omayma would no longer leave any of her blood in the US became real. Nevertheless, a er about half a century since Mr Douglas B. Marshall has imported Omayma from Egypt, Omayma’s descendants are still in great numbers in the USA. Bint Omayma (1974) produced eight foals, one colt and seven of them were high-quality llies, so something happened that no one had foreseen. Bint Omayma was re-imported to the U.S. with her daughters. ree were genuinely fabulous. ese were Wanisa (1977) and e Essens Ladywhite (1978), both sired by Hansan and Essene Lilleth (1979) by Al Karim Sirhalima (AK Sirhalima).

Hansan (1974) (El Hilal x Hamamaa); the mare Shahmira (09.12.1980) by Ansata El Shahwan (16.06.1973) (Ansata Shah Zaman x Ansata Rhodora), and the mare Bint el Shahwan (1983-

ese mares gave Omayma (08.03.196420.04.1984) new prestige, both in the show rings and in the barns, producing outstanding mares. And, all champions at the U.S. Egyptian Event. Wanisa’s (1977) direct descendants were: DSA Hey Baby (2004) ( ee Desperado x Mistify HG), owned by Mr Jerel Kerby, Dogwood Springs Arabians, Danger eld, Texas. Grace of Sinan (23-05-2005) (Mishaal HP x Sammars Gi ), owned by Mrs Rebecca and Mrs Megan

Lustig, Hardrock Legacy Acres, E ngham, Illinois; ee Cameo Rose (2009) ( ee Desperado x Barakis Gem), owned by Mrs Brenda and Mr Paul Dumas, Rose of Cairo Arabians, St Louis, Missouri; ee Lotus Mazin (2001) ( ee Indel x Lotus Wanisa), owned by Mr Matthew and Mrs Wendy Roberts.

Lola Sig (09.03.2008) (Mishaal HP x ee Phoenixx) descended from Essene Lilleth’s (1979) bloodline. She became a 2010 Scottsdale Top Ten Yearling Filly and 2011 U.S. Egyptian Event Reserve Supreme Champion Mare, under the ownership of Mr Osman Linjawi, Linjawi Arabians, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. And the list could go on.

For many years, Omayma has been resting in peace. Yet, her memory is still alive and her inuence has been strong both in the U.S.A. and in the world. ose who have this mare in the pedigree of their horses are lucky. Lu ia (Nasralla “Shahriar” x Nazeera) was born on September 24, 1967. In 1970, she got sold to Mr Bill Heck and Mrs Hanna Louise (Hansi) Melnyk of Serenity Arabian Farms,

Queensville, Ontario. Arrived in Canada, she took the name of Serenity Lu ia. Unfortunately, this mare was not going to be a lucky one, because Serenity Arabian Farm resold her almost straightway. Serenity Lu ia became the property of Dr John Coles and his wife Mrs Georgette, of Stonebridge Farms, Arva, Ontario. At

the beginning of her career, she produced only colts. When Stonebridge Farms closed down,

Arabians, Merrimac, Wisconsin, imported from Babolna State Stud the mare 24 Ghalion (1973) (Ghalion x Bint Nazeera), which in the U.S.A. took the name of Bint Nazeera. Among her descendants, I would like to mention three subjects: the stallion Moniet Abu Khayl (1981) (Ibn Moniet El Nefous x Bint Nazeera); the mare Antarmos 1979 (Tuhotmos x Bint Nazeera), who in the early 1980s became a broodmare on Bentwood Farms, Waco, Texas; AK Athea (07.06.1983) (Ibn Moniet El Nefous x Bint Nazeera), bred at Bentwood Farms, and dam of the extraordinary stallion El Ahhim Shah (1994) (Ansata Halim Shah x AK Athea), of Authentic Egyptian Arabians, in Germany.

the mare was resold. Later, the few llies Serenity Lu ia was going to produce with inappropriate stallions would not leave any relevant subjects. erefore, her bloodline got almost lost. Nazeera’s penultimate daughter to be exported was Bint Nazeera (16.09.1968), a grey daughter by Anter (21.09.1946) (Hamdan x Obeya). She was purchased in 1969 by Babolna State Stud, Hungary, where she got named 13 Bint Nazeera. She produced seven daughters, but despite the many females, Babolna State Stud lost this dam line. e only subject who carried on Bint Nazeera’s blood was his grandson, the stallion Zohair I (1979), a son of Zohair 1973 (Alaa El Din x Zebeda) and the mare 15 Ghalion 1974 (Ghalion x Bint Nazeera). However, the descendants of Bint Nazeera ended up in other European countries and in North America. In 1977 Mr Rick and Mrs Ann Heber, of Ranchara

29 30

e latest addition to Nazeera was the chestnut Manzoura (13.11.1971) by Sultann (Sultan) (15.09.1961-1997) (Sameh x Lubna). In 1972, Manzoura got imported to the U.S.A. from Gleannloch Farms, Spring (Houston), Texas. She produced little progeny because she was started in the show ring brilliantly managed by Mr omas P. and Mrs Rhita B. McNair, who got her to win the 1976 U.S. Titles of Reserve National Champion Native Costume and 1977 Top Ten Native Costume. is happened just in the years when Mr Douglas B. Marshall and his wife Mrs Margaret Cullen thought of moving their breeding farm to the beautiful Las Palmas, in Barksdale, located in the hills of Texas.

It took several years for the project to be completed, but all the horses nally moved in 1983. e mare Manzoura gave birth to three foals, a colt, and two llies.

One of these was Maraa (1980-26.02.1996) by Sou an (11.03.1968-24.12.1994) (Alaa El Din x Moniet El Nefous), a beautiful chestnut mare who built a family that continues to exist today.

1) Nazeera Feb.13.1954-Jan.1972(Nazeer x Malaka). Bred and owned by El Zahraa Stud, EAO, Cairo, Egypt.

2) Rose of Sharon May.12.1885-July.1907(Hadban 1878 x Rodania 1869-1889). Bred and owned by Lady Anne Blunt, Crabbet Arabian Stud, Crawley, West Sussex, England.

3) Ridaa (1892) by Merzuk 1887(Wazir x a Kuhayla Jellabieh) out of Rose of Sharon May.12.1885-July.1907(Hadban x Rodania). Bred and owned by Lady Anne Blunt, Crabbet Arabian Stud, Crawley, West Sussex, England.

4) Riyala 1905 by Astraled 1900(Mesaoud x Queen of Sheba) out of Ridaa 1892(Merzuk x Rose of Sharon). Bred by Lady Anne Blunt and owned by Lady Judit Wentworth, Crabbet Arabian Stud, Crawley, West Sussex, England.

5) Samim 1966-Mar.6.1978(Ansata Ibn Halima x Salomy by El Sareei) at Tusla Arabian Horse Show, Oklahoma. Bred by Mrs Margaret and Mr Douglas B. Marshall, Gleannloch Farms, Spring (Houston), Texas. Owned by Mrs Evelyn and Mr Bill Larsen, Eldorado Arabians, Fort Smith, Arkansas. Appointed Arkansas All Arabian.

6) Azmi (Nahr El Nil) Jan.12.1954-1960(Sid Abouhom x Malaka). Bred by El Zahraa Stud, EAO, Cairo, Egypt. Exported to Russia in 1958, where he became Nil of Russia.

7) Waseem Mar.10.1958(Nazeer x Malaka). Bred and owned by El Zahraa Sud, EAO, Cairo, Egypt.

8) GAF Wesam (Wesam) Dec.17.1973(Waseem x Bint Bukra). Bred by El Zahraa Sud, EAO, Cairo, Egypt. Imported to USA in 1979 by Mrs Barbara and Mr Elis Johanson, Plainville, Connecticut. In old age owned by Mrs Janet and Mr Mike Bazell, Mijan Farms, Rockbridge, Ohio.

9) Asadd (Asad) Oct.14.1970-Oct.10.1999(Sultann x Amani). Bred by El Zahraa Stud, EAO, Cairo, Egypt. Imported to USA in 1973 by Mr Donald R. and Mrs Jeanne Jacques Ford, Brighton, Michigan. Awarded the “Legion of Merit”. 1975 U.S. National Halter Champion Stallion. 1979 U.S. National Champion English Pleasure.

10) HS Hero Mar.1998(Simeon Sadik x Helwa Lancer by El Hilal). Bred by Mrs Shirley and Mr Charlie Watts, Halsdon Arabians, Winkleigh, England. Imported to U.S.A. by Mr Emil and Mrs Debra Nowak, Abraxas Arabians, Temecula, California. Last owner Mr Scott and Mrs Kara Crowell, KC Egyptian Arabians, Holredge, Nebraska.

11) Lancers Asmara (Asmara) May.21.1974(Seef x Hebah). Bred by El Zahraa Stud, EAO, Cairo, Egypt. Imported to USA in 1975 by Mr Donald R. and Mrs Jeanne Jacques Ford, Brighton, Michigan. Awarded the “Legion of Honor”. U.S. National Top Ten Mare. Two times Reserve World Champion Mare at “Championnat du Monde” in Paris, France. 12) Halims Asmara Mar.23.1992-2013(Ansata Halim Shah x Lancers Asmara). Bred by Mr Robert Magness and Mrs Sharon Costello, Magness Arabian Farms, Fort Lupton, Denver, Colorado. Owned by Mr Erwin and Mrs Annette Escher, Rothenberg Stud, Monheim, Germany. Multi-Champion in Halter. 1994 Reserve Champion Filly at Kauber Platte. Straight Egyptian European Champion Filly.

13) GR Amaretta 2000(Classic Shadwan x Halims Asmara) photographed on Apr.24.2010. Bred and owned by Erwin and Annette Escher, Rothenberg Stud, Monheim, Germany. 2002 German National Resesrve Champion Filly.

14) GR Amaretto 1999-2017(Classic Shadwan x Halims Asmara). Bred and owned By Mr Erwin and Mrs Annette Escher, Rothenberg Stud, Monheim, Germany. 2002 Gold Ribbon at German Stallion-Show in Aachen. Multi-Champion in Halter. 2006 Senior Champion Stallion at Egyptian Event Europe. 2009 Reserve Senior Champion Stallion at International A-Show of Wels, Austria. 2009 German National Champion Stallion in Aachen.

15) GR Anastacia 2007(Classic Shadwan x Halims Asmara) photographed on Apr.24.2014. Bred and owned by Mr Erwin and Mrs Annette Escher, Rothenberg Stud, Monheim, Germany. Super producer mare.

16) Romanaa II Mar.16.1963-Apr.8.1977(Sameh x Nazeera). Bred by El Zahraa Stud, EAO, Cairo, Egypt. Imported to USA in 1966 by Mrs Margaret and Mr Douglas B. Marshall, Gleannloch Farms, Spring (Houston), Texas.

17) Dalia Feb.21.1968-Nov.14.1983 (Mora c x Romanaa II). Bred by Mrs Margaret and Mr Douglas B. Marshall, Gleannloch Farms, Spring (Houston), Texas. Owned by Mrs Barbara A. and Douglas W. Gri ith, Imperial Egyptian Stud, Parkton, Maryland. 1972 Scottsdale Champion Mare, Multi-Champion in Halter and awarded the “Legion of Merit”. 1972 U.S. National Top Ten English Pleasure.

18) Bint Romanaa Jun.29.1971 (Mora c x Romana II). Bred and owned by Mrs Margaret and Mr Douglas B. Marshall, Gleannloch Farms, Spring (Houston), Texas. She spent her nal days at Rancho Bulakenyo, Los Osos, California of Family Mr Felino L. Cruz as Jody’s riding horse. 1976 U.S. National Top Ten Halter Mare. Awarded the “Legion of Merit”. Winner in “Native Costume” and “Side Saddle”.

19) Rofann Apr.19.1979-July.20.2000(Sou an x Bint Romanaa). Bred by Carroll R. Hochner, Houston, Texas. Owned by Gleannloch Farms, Las Palmas, Barksdale, Texas. Multi-Champion in Halter. U.S. National Top Ten Halter Stallion.

20) HF Allure 1999(Imtaarif x Mai Daali 1993 by Imperial Imdal x Nikiyak), from the family of Romana II. Bred by Mrs. Joan Skeels and Mrs. Sue Burnham, Hope Farm, Cove, Arkansas. Owned by Tim Manring, Chimacum, Washington. Multi-Champion in Halter.

21) Omayma Mar.8.1964-Apr.20.1984(Sameh x Nazeera). Bred by El Zahraa Stud, EAO, Cairo, Egypt. Imported to U.S.A. in 1968 by Gleannloch Farms, Spring (Houston), Texas. Sold in 1971 to Mr. George R. Wright, Ogden, Utah. Sold in 1973 to Mr Peter Pond, Forest Hill Arabian Stud, Wyong, NSW, Australia. Imported to U.S.A. in 1983 by Mrs Barbara A. Gri th, Imperial Egyptian Stud, Parkton, Maryland. Australian National Champion Mare.

22) Bint Suddona 1981(Ansata El Shahwan x Suddona). Bred by Mistletoe Investments, Ltd. Wyong Creek, NSW, Australia.

23) Barakis Gem 2003(Al Baraki x Gemma SA 1998 by Shahir x Bint Wanisa) from the family of Omayma. Bred by IMARI General Partnership, USA. Owned by Mrs Brenda Ulmo and Mr Paul Dumas, St Louis, Missouri.

24) e beautiful head of Barakis Gem 2003(Al Baraki x Gemma SA 1998 by Shahir x Bint Wanisa) from the family of Omayma.

25) ee Cameo Rose 2009( ee Desperado x Barakis Gem). Bred and owned by Mrs Brenda Ulmo and Mr Paul Dumas, Rose of Cairo Arabians, St Louis, Missouri. U.S. Egyptian Event Champion.

26) Serenity Lu ia (Lu ia) Sept.24.1967(Nasralla “Shahriar” x Nazeera). Bred by El Zahraa Stud, EAO, Cairo, Egypt. Imported to Canada in 1970 by Mr Bill Heck and Mrs Hanna Louise (Hansi) Melnyk, Queensville, Canada.

27) Bint Nazeera (13 Bint Nazeera) Sept.16.1968(Anter x Nazeera). Bred by El Zahraa Stud, EAO, Cairo, Egypt. Sold in 1969 to Babolna State Stud, Hungary.

28) El Ahhim Shah 1994(Ansata Halim Shah x AK Athea). Bred by Mrs Martha Jean and Mr David Murdoch, Rocaille Ranch, Cleburne, Texas. Owned by Mrs Rosemarie Kolster, Authentic Egyptian Arabians, Holste, Germany.

29) Manzoura Nov.13.1971(Sultann [Sultan] x Nazeera). Bred by El Zahraa Stud, EAO, Cairo, Egypt. Imported to U.S.A. in 1972 by Gleannloch Farms, Spring (Houston), Texas. 1976 U.S. Reserve Champion Native Costume. 1977 U.S. Top Ten Native Costume.

30) Abu Khail 1988(Al Metrabbi x Maraa). Bred by Gleannloch Farms, Spring (Houston), Texas. Sold in 1992 to Argentina.

WRITTEN BY SONIA SMALDONE

As a result of HH Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi’s desire to continue the glory and growth of the Arabian horse in this part of the world, the Ajman Arabian Horse Championship was held from 6 to 9 January 2023, at the Emirates Hospitality Center in Al-Jurf area of Ajman. More than 300 horses of the purest and finest breeds for the most famous owners and the most important and oldest stables in the Emirates and abroad entered a compelling competition supervised by His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, and by the Emirates Arabian Horse Society (EAHS).

The 20th edition saw the participation of eight international judges: Mr Hammad Alaa (Bahrain), Mr Alotaibi Fahad Mutlak (Saudi Arabia), Mr Al Mehyawi Majed Abdullah (Saudi Arabia) Mr Al Khamis Mohammed (Kuwait) Mr Faraj Mahmood Mohammed (Bahrain) Mr Al Ghaith Nasser (Kuwait), Mr Al Hajri Saef (Qatar) and Mr Al Hattali Sulaiman (Oman).

Members of the Disciplinary Commission: Mr Al Haddadi Waleed Hadi (Saudi Arabia), Mr Tayfour Haitham Babiker (United Arab Emirates), Mr Hadi Ouelhazi Kais Ben (United Arab Emirates), Dr Suryawanshi Sujeet Bhaskar (United Arab Emirates), Mrs Zoua-

ghi Farah and Mr Rajamani Pradeep. Ring masters Mr. Almenhali Eidha (United Arab Emirates) and Mr Jaafar Hameed. Show results by Mr Biju Peter (United Arab Emirates).

The show started on January 6, 2023, at 12:00 Asia/Dubai (09:00 Europe/Rome) and end up on January 9, 2023, at 00:00 Asia/Dubai (21:00 Europe/Rome) with the following final results:

In the Yearling Fillies Championship (Class 13), Gold medal winner, Nadiya Al Zobair. Silver medal winner D A’baq. Bronze medal winner Mk Neffertity.

In the Junior Fillies Championship (Class 14), Gold medal winner Malikah Albidayer. Silver medal winner D Taima’a. Bronze medal winner A.S. Shaikha

In the Senior Mares Championship (Class

15), Gold medal winner D Jahraa. Silver medal winner A.H. Mayasah. Bronze medal winner Al Johrah Ajh.

In the Yearling Colts Championship (Class 16), Gold medal winner Sultan Al Hawajer. Silver medal winner Al Aryam Bourkan. Bronze medal winner Is Al Ain.

In the Junior Colts Championship (Class 17), Gold medal winner Fam Coronado. Silver medal winner Ka Nameer. Bronze medal winner Khattaf Albidayer.

In the Senior Stallions Championship (Class 18), Gold medal winner Sinmar Al Bidayer. Silver medal winner Al Aryam Bare’e. Bronze medal winner Aj Ajban.

SPECIAL AWARDS

A trophy for the Best UAE Stud Farm of

the tournament was presented to Dubai Arabian Horse Stud during the Special Awards Ceremony. Al Aryam Bare’e won the Best UAE Horse award, while Al Johrah Ajh won the Highest Point Horse award.

A FEW COMMENTS…

It is no secret that Ajman Arabian Horse Show has deservedly become the cutting edge of competition in the UAE among all sporting events taking place there, particularly those relating to their heritage and authentic Arab customs inherited from their fathers and grandfathers. The 20th edition was a natural extension of the previous championships and strengthened even more the bond between

Ajman Emirate and their heritage, history, and authentic values in words and actions. Our sincere thanks go out to all of the EAHS’ Eminences and their local media partners for their invitations and warm hospitality. It will be great to see you again next year!

YEARLING FILLIES - FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

D A’BAQ D SHAKHAT X D AJAYEB BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD

SENIOR MARES - FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP A.H. MAYASAH D MSHARY X ARABELLA CHANDRA BREEDER: AHMED RASHED AHMED ALI ALHANTOOBI

JUNIOR

COLTS - FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

KA NAMEER SHANGHAI EA X AJ NAZWA BREEDER: KHALED GHANEM MUBARAK ALOMAIRI OWNER: ALBZOOM ARABIAN HORSE STUD

DIBO ALKHATIB KHATTAF ALBIDAYER

SENIOR STALLIONS - FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

ARYAM BARE’E

BALKEAS

praise from the greatest connoisseurs of the fine arts.

Her second job appeared through her first clay sculptures. After experiencing this amazing feeling, Liliane took part in the Concours du Meilleur Ouvrier de France, winning the supreme title, and thus re gaining her place in the elite group

Text by: William Richardot de Choisey Translation by: Sonia Smaldone Pictures: Private Collection & Spodex

In her first career as a painter, Liliane Guiomar admired Bosch, Bruegel, and Cranach, who all possessed a complex pictorial technique to a degree within her reach, and applied herself to reproduce scenes that earned her the highest

of artists in 1986.

As the effort continued, black clay offered many possibilities, and a new medal was obtained in 2000.

Liliane employs white stoneware and porcelain, which are more solid materials that can withstand high firing temperatu-

res. They offer a wide complement to create works up to 25 centimetres high, according to her.

Now anyone can own one of her subjects, which are on display in the beautiful windows of knowledgeable collectors. Horses and riders are available at modest prices.