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SPECIAL MIDDLE EAST 2024 Dear Breeders & Lovers of the Arabian Horse, As we bid farewell to another incredible year filled with extraordinary achievements and unforgettable memories, we stand on the precipice of a new dawn, eagerly awaiting the wonders ahead. With hearts brimming with joy, we proudly present the Arabian Horse Magazine Special Middle East edition 2024, our tribute to the charisma and unrivalled beauty of the Arabian horse in the land of legends – Arabia! Arabian Horse Magazine flew to the Arabic Peninsula as the cold winter winds embraced
heart of the action, providing an intimate glimpse into the wondrous world of Arabian horses and the people who play pivotal roles within it. We spoke with breeder Klikowa Arabians (Poland), judge Sulaiman Ali Alhattali (Oman), handler Luca Piccione (Italy), photographer Conny Annunziata (Italy), sculptor Michael Turner (UK), Painter Kerstin Tschech (Germany), DC and artist Sama Safari (Iran). These interviews provide precious insights into the intricate dynamics of this vibrant community, showcasing the dedication, commitment, and, perhaps most importantly,
Italy. The region was transformed into an enchanting community playground for breeders and enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. The winter Arabian Horses Championships, held across this magic land, showcased horses with indomitable spirit and breath taking beauty. From the shimmering sands of the World Arabian Horse Championship 2023, first held in Qatar, to the majestic valleys of the 8th Fujaira International AH Championship, the scene was set for an extraordinary equestrian extravaganza. The Special Middle East edition 2024 showcases captivating articles and breath taking images that will transport you to the
an unwavering love shared by its members towards the Arabian breed. The magazine’s cultural section includes the fascinating Art of Horseback Archery in Iran by photographer Hamid Shokoohi (Iran) and the historical dossier The Great of Past: The Minstril & Thee Desperado by Domenico Tocchi (Italy). As the sun rises over this new year, we invite you to join us on this thrilling adventure, where every page unfolds a new tale of triumph or a new lesson in life. Let us come together under the banner of the Arabian Horse and revel in the magic that lies ahead in 2024… The AHM Team
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Editor/Publisher/Art Director GIANLUCA MARTINO Publisher/Public relations NOËMIE ZELLER Writers SONJA SMALDONE DOMENICO TOCCHI
Graphic Designer DEBORA MARTINO FRANCESCO GIRARDI OLIVA CARMEN MAURIZIO CAPPETTA Official Photographers AHMED TAHA CONNY ANNUNZIATA ANTONIO CARACCIOLO Presenter & Content Creators CAROLA SANTOPAOLO FRANCESCO D’ANTONIO BIANCAMARIA SALVO MARCELLO NARDONE Translations SONJA SMALDONE Account GIANLUCA MARTINO NOËMIE ZELLER DEBORA MARTINO Print ARABIAN VIBE - SALERNO Adv/Redaction DO IT CREATIVE - SALERNO mobile: +39 335 8262907
Cover: KARMA AL SHIRAA Owned by: Al Shiraa Arabians
info@arabianhorsemagazine.it www.arabianhorsemagazine.it
CONTACT FOR ITALY N. 406/016 - N. 1844/16 Direttore Responsabile: Oreste Mottola Iscritto al Registro della Stampa Periodica presso il Tribunale di Salerno il 15/12/2003 al numero 1158 Edito da: vibe arabians via irno 175, - 84133 Salerno iscritta al tribunale di salerno in data 18/02/2016
Arabian Horse Magazine non risponde della veridicità e dei contenuti dei testi pubblicitari.
Gianluca Martino - Publisher/ Public relations/ Art Director Ph: +39 335 82 62 907 - email: info@arabianhorsemagazine.it
CONTACT FOR EUROPE, US, MIDDLE EAST NOEMIE ZELLER - Publisher/ Public relations/ Photographer Ph: +41 764 12 00 93 - email: noemiezeller@icloud.com
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INDEX 018
018 >
Sulaiman Ali Al - Hattali
034 >
WAHC - Doha 2023
068 >
Kerstin Tscehch
078 >
Luca Piccione
090>
The Minstril & Thee Desperado
106 >
Klikowa Arabians
Sulaiman Ali Al - Hattali
034
WAHC - Doha 2023
078
Luca Piccione
106
AHM | 12 Arabians Klikowa
116
116 >
Fujairah 2023 Fujairah 2023
140 >
Michael Turner
140 150 >
Hamid Shokoohi
Michael Turner 158 >
Ignacio Sanchez Sorondo
170 >
Conny Annunziata
180 >
Sama Safari
158
Ignacio Sanchez Sorondo
170
Conny Annunziata AHM | 13
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Pride of
Saudi Production
Sari Ajmal (EKS FARAJJ - BINT BESSOLEA)
GOLD CHAMPIONSHIP YEARLING COLT World Arabian Horse Championship 2023 | Pris - Doha Highest score for foals at the age of one on both halves
GOLD CHAMPIONSHIP YEARLING COLT
at Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Int. Arabian Horse Festival 2023
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Shahbrys
HVP
(ROYAL ASAD - REBECCA HVP)
Silver Championship Yearling Filly World Arabian Horse Championship 2023 | Pris - Doha Most Beautiful Head Award
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The historic World Arabian Horse Championship
was created in 1980 by A.F.C.A. (Agence Française du Cheval Arabe until 1995) with the support of S.P.O.D.E.X. (Societe pour l’Organization d’Expositions). During the 1996-1997 period, the so-called Paris World Arabian Horse Championship was directed by Mr Guy de Fontaines, by Ms Sylvie Mazier in 1998, with the technical consultancy provided by Madame Christianne Chazel since 1999. From 2000 to 2014, the prestigious event leveraged the direction of Ms Veronique Oury and Ms Jessica Gordon of COMEXPOSIUM from 2015 to 2019 and, most lately, from 2020 to 2022, by Mr Arnaud Lemoine. In a remarkable turn of events, in December 2023, the W.A.H.C. moved to Qatar after an illustrious 42-year tenure in Paris, France. This momentous change of scenario came to fruition through a strategic partnership between the Cultural Village Foundation, Katara, led by General Manager Prof. Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, and the National Centre of Agricultural Exhibitions and Competitions in France (most commonly C.E.N.E.C.A.), headed by its President Mr Jean-Luc Poulain – marking a historical shift in the Arabian horse show industry. With a rich heritage deeply rooted in Arabian culture and a commitment to preserving the Arabian horse breed, Qatar was an
excellent host for the World Arabian Horse Championship 2023. The partnership weighted and leveraged the expertise of both entities, resulting in a different show from Paris but just as compelling, unforgettable, and full of suspense for the participants and the attendant public. LOCATION AND ATMOSPHERE The Old Doha Port, with its tall, futuristic buildings on the horizon and beautiful views of the calm azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, created a representative and unusual backdrop of the World Arabian Horse Championship 2023, featuring by catalogue 150 horses from 21 different countries, including Austria, Belgium, Brazil, China, Germany, Italy, Jordan, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Morocco, Poland, Qatar, Romania, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and Uruguay. The gentle sea breeze and distant sounds of the bustling city added an element of serenity and tranquillity. Besides the installations in elegant Arabic style, the organizers enhanced the experience by incorporating aspects of Qatari hospitality and tradition. Old-style music performances, photography exhibitions, and live painting provided an evocative cultural “humus” that added an extra layer of authenticity and uniqueness.
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OFFICIALS & TECHNICAL STAFF At the esteemed World Arabian Horse Championship 2023 in Qatar, the participating horses were evaluated and scored for their Type, Head and Neck, overall Conformation and Movement by fifteen international judges, each renowned for their expertise and discerning eye. The panel included: Mr Almazrouei Ali Ghanem from the United Arab Emirates; Mr Sharaawi Ali from Egypt; Mrs Stojanowska Anna from Poland; Mrs Valdes Y Colon De Carvajal Cristina from
Spain; Mr Faraj Elyas Ebrahim from Bahrain; Mr Gear Eric from France; Mr Huemer Ferdinand from Austria; Mr Santoro Francesco from Italy; Mr Reisel Gideon from The Netherlands; Mrs Stigler Irina from Russia; Mrs Lowe Joanne from the United Kingdom; Mr Rodriguez Zico Guardia Joao Oscar from Brazil; Mr Hain Manfred from Germany; Mrs Van Hee Martine from Belgium and Mr Benjamin Scott from Australia. Ensuring fair play and upholding the integrity of the competition were the following Disciplinary Commissioners: Dr Amira Abdelwahab Bin Ali from the United Arab AHM | 38
Emirates;Dr Benamar Malak from Morocco; Dr Mohsen Mohamed from Egypt; Dr Abusamra Yousef from the United Arab Emirates and Mr Dubois Jean Marc from France. With a strong passion for equestrian excellence and horsemanship, two Ring-masters, Dr Hammad Mohammed from Egypt and Dr Badr Bassem from Saudi Arabia, took centre stage in the arena, guiding the participant Arabian horses to their breath-taking performances. The World Ara-
bian Horse Championship 2023 boasted an all-female team of official Commentators composed of Ms Manal Salmi from Qatar, Ms Sarah Alakoor from Saudi Arabia and Ms Thuraya Altikriti from Qatar. These ladies provided insightful commentary that enhanced the public experience, highlighting each horse and handler’s strengths and adding suspense, excitement and engagement to the event. Videos and Photographs were shot by Egyptian master Ahmed Taha for Arabian Horse Magazine!
THE WORLD ARABIAN HORSE CHAMPIONSHIP 2023 The Show kicked off on December 7, 2023, at 12:00 (Qatar time) and concluded on December 9, 2023, at 23:30 (Qatar time), unveiling the magnificent champions of the 2023 WAHC:
Bessolea), produced by and owned by Ajmal Stud. Silver medal winner LR Anselmo (RFI Unique x LL Almudena), bred by Las Rosas Estancia Srl and owned by AL Wajba Stud. Bronze medal winner Sahm Sarm (EKS Farajj x Bandahleeza ZB), bred and owned by Sarm Stud.
In the YEARLING FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Shahalel Al Shaqab (Na-Mous Al Shahania x Siwar Al Shaqab), bred and owned by Al Shaqab - Member of Qatar Foundation. Silver medal winner Shahbrys HVP (Royal Asad x Rebecca HVP), raised by Agropecuaria Vila Dos Pinheiros and owned by Ajmal Stud. Bronze medal winner Amirah Alymeen (Sultan Alenaya x Semsem Al Enaya), bred by Ayman Hassan Hamdi Aljohani and owned by Abdullah Mawsim T Alotaibi.
In the JUNIOR COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner D Shahhar (Excalibur EA x D Shihanah) raised and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. Silver medal winner Lehon (FA El Rasheem x Aragia Vanilla) bred by Filippi Coccetta Marzio and owned by Aljassimya Farm. Bronze medal winner D Sharar (D Seraj x FT Shaella) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud.
In the JUNIOR FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner D Beisan (D Seraj x Rah Rosalia) bred by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud and owned by Al Shaqab – Member of Qatar Foundation. Silver medal winner Nourah Al Khalediah (Hilal Al Khalediah x Ghazalat Al Khalediah), bred by Al Khalediah Stables and owned by Akmal Stud. Bronze medal winner TM Bella (TM Itaipu x TM Fahdeelah), raised by Jose Orlando & Teixeira Junior and owned by Al Jumail Stud. In the SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner D Shihanah (FA El Rasheem x D Shahla) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. Silver medal winner Basmah Albidayer (Fadi Al Shaqab x Bidayer) bred and owned by Sheikh Mohammed Saoud Sultan S Al Qassimi. Bronze medal winner Bshaier Al Nasser (WH Justice x Rihab Al Nasser), bred and owned by Al Nasser Stud. In the YEARLING COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Sari Ajmal (EKS Farajj x Bint
In the SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Excalibur EA (Shanghai EA x Essence of Marwan EA) bred by Equus Arabians and owned by AL Wajba Stud. Silver medal winner EKS Farajj (IBN Farrid x EKS Bint Helwah) bred by Elkasun Arabians - Willie Brown and owned by Haras Royal De Bouznika. Bronze medal winner Sultan Alenaya (Emerald J x Ammona), raised by Tarig Bin Mohammed E Enaya and owned by Ayman Hassan Aljohani. In the MARES PLATINUM CHAMPIONSHIP, 1st on the podium Anood Al Nasser (Ashhal Al Rayyan x Aleysha Al Nasser), bred by Al Nasser Stud and owned by Akmal Stud. In the STALLIONS PLATINUM CHAMPIONSHIP, 1st on the podium EKS Alihandro (Marwan Al Shaqab x OFW Psylhouette), bred by Elkasun Arabians - Willie Brown and owned by Athbah Stud. Arabian Horse Stud. The Highest Score in The Show Title was grabbed by D Beisan (D Seraj x RAH Rosalia), bred by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud and owned by Al Shaqab - Member of Qatar Foundation. AHM | 39
Yearling Fillies | FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP
SHAHBRYS HVP
ROYAL ASAD | REBECCA HVP BREEDER: AGROPECUARIA VILA DOS PINHEIROS OWNER: AJMAL STUD
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SHAHALEL AL SHAQAB
NA-MOUS AL SHAHANIA | SIWAR AL SHAQAB
BREEDER: AL SHAQAB SUD OWNER: AL SHAQAB SUD
AMIRAH ALYMEEN
SULTAN ALENAYA | SEMSEM AL ENAYAA BREEDER: AYMAN HASSAN HAMDI ALJOHANI OWNER: ABDULLAH MAWSIM T ALOTAIBI
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Yearling Colts | FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP
LR ANSELMO
RFI UNIQUE | LL ALMUDENA BREEDER: LAS ROSAS ESTANCIA SRL OWNER: AL WAJBA STUD
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SARI AJMAL
BREEDER: AJMAL STUD OWNER: AJMAL STUD
EKS FARAJJ | BINT BESSOLEA
SAHM SARM
EKS FARAJJ | BANDAHLEEZA ZB BREEDER: SARM STUD OWNER: SARM STUD
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Junior Fillies | FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP
NOURAH AL KHALEDIAH
HILAL AL KHALEDIAH | GHAZALAT AL KHALEDIAH BREEDER: AL KHALEDIAH STABLES OWNER: AKMAL STUD
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D BEISAN
BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: AL SHAQAB STUD
D SERAJ | RAH ROSALIA
TM BELLA
TM ITAIPU | TM FAHDEELAH BREEDER: JOSE ORLANDO & TEIXEIRA JUNIOR OWNER: AL JUMAIL STUD
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Junior Colts | FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP
LEHON
FA EL RASHEEM | ARAGIA VANILLA BREEDER: AZ. AGR. DI FILIPPI COCCETTA MARZIO OWNER: ALJASSIMYA FARM
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D SHAHHAR
BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD
EXCALIBUR EA | D SHIHANAH
D SHAHHAR
D SERAJ | FT SHAELLA BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD
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Senior Mares | FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP
BASMAH ALBIDAYER
FADI AL SHAQAB | BIDAYER BREEDER: SHEIKH MOHAMMED SAOUD SULTAN S AL QASSIMI OWNER: SHEIKH MOHAMMED SAOUD SULTAN S AL QASSIMI
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D SHIHANAH
FA EL RASHEEM | D SHAHLA
BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD
BSHAIER AL NASSER WH JUSTICE | RIHAB AL NASSER BREEDER: AL NASSER STUD OWNER: AL NASSER STUD
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Senior Stallions | FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP
EKS FARAJJ
SHANGHAI EA | ESSENCE OF MARWAN EA BREEDER: ELKASUN ARABIANS - WILLIE BROWN OWNER: HARAS ROYAL DE BOUZNIKA
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EXCALIBUR EA
SHANGHAI EA | ESSENCE OF MARWAN EA
BREEDER: EQUUS ARABIANS OWNER: AL WAJBA STUD
SULTAN ALENAYA
EMERALD J | AMMONA BREEDER: TARIG BIN MOHAMMED E ENAYA OWNER: AYMAN HASSAN ALJOHANI
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1° PLACE - PLATINUM WORLD CHAMPION STALLION
EKS ALIHANDRO
MARWAN AL SHAQAB | OFW PSYLHOUETTE BREEDER: ELKASUN ARABIANS OWNER: ATHBAH STUD
1° PLACE - PLATINUM WORLD CHAMPION MARE
ANOOD AL NASSER
ASHHAL AL RAYYAN | ALEYSHA AL NASSER BREEDER: AL NASSER STUD OWNER: AKMAL STUD
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2° PLACE - PLATINUM WORLD CHAMPION STALLION
SUNDOWN K.A.
QR MARC | L SERENELLA BREEDER: KNOCKE ARABIAN OWNER: SULTAN MOHAMMED AL DOSSARI
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SPECIAL AWARDS CEREMONY Besides the competitions, the 2023 WAHC also honoured outstanding awards: The Farm of the Year 2023 and the Best Breeder/Horse Owner Titles were awarded to Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. The Best Sire Title was won by Fa El Rasheem (FA El Shawan x Virtuosa MLR), bred by Marlene Ann Rieder, and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. The Highest Score in The Show Title was grabbed by D Beisan (D Seraj x RAH Rosalia), bred by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud and owned by Al Shaqab - Member of Qatar Foundation.
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FARM OF THE YEAR 2023 BEST BREEDER - OWNER IN THE SHOW BEST SIRE IN THE SHOW - FA EL RASHEEM
DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD
HIGHEST SCORE IN THE SHOW
D BEISAN
D SERAJ | RAH ROSALIA BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: AL SHAQAB STUD
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BEST HEAD YEARLING FILLIES 1A SHAHBRYS HVP
( ROYAL ASAD | REBECCA HVP BREEDER: AGROPECUARIA VILA DOS PINHEIROS OWNER:AJMAL STUD
BEST HEAD YEARLING FILLIES 1 B SHAHALEL AL SHAQAB
BEST HEAD JUNIOR FILLIES 2A
NA-MOUS AL SHAHANIA | SIWAR AL SHAQAB BREEDER: AL SHAQAB STUD OWNER: AL SHAQAB STUD
TM BELLA
TM ITAIPU | TM FAHDEELAH BREEDER: JOSE ORLANDO & TEIXEIRA JUNIOR OWNER: AL JUMAIL STUD
BEST HEAD JUNIOR FILLIES 2B D BEISAN
BEST HEAD SENIOR MARES 3A
D SERAJ | RAH ROSALIA BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: AL SHAQAB STUD
D SHIHANAH
FA EL RASHEEM | D SHAHLA BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD
BEST HEAD SENIOR MARES 3B BASMAH ALBIDAYER
FADI AL SHAQAB | BIDAYER BREEDER: SHEIKH MOHAMMED SAOUD SULTAN S AL QASSIMI OWNER: SHEIKH MOHAMMED SAOUD SULTAN S AL QASSIMI
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BEST HEAD YEARLING COLS 4 B LR ANSELMO
BEST HEAD YEARLING COLTS 4A
RFI UNIQUE | LL ALMUDENA BREEDER: LAS ROSAS ESTANCIA SRL OWNER: AL WAJBA STUD
NESJ EL JAMEEL
EKS FARAJJ | NESJ EL YULIAH BREEDER: NESJ ARABIANS OWNER: AL JUMAIL STUD
BEST HEAD JUNIOR COLS 5A ASAYEL AWTAD
PSE AL RAKHAN | ASAYEL ROMAAN BREEDER: KHALID A H ALNUGHAIMISH OWNER: KHALID A H ALNUGHAIMISH
BEST HEAD JUNIOR COLS 5B D SHAHHAR
EXCALIBUR EA | D SHIHANAH BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD
BEST HEAD SENIOR STALLIONS 6A EKS FARAJJ
BEST HEAD SENIOR STALLIONS 6B
IBN FARID | EKS BINT HELWAH BREEDER: ELKASUN ARABIANS OWNER: HARAS ROYAL DE BOUZNIKA
AJA JUSTAFIRE
WH JUSTICE | AJA FIRST LOVE BREEDER: MR. & MRS. M HICKFORD OWNER: MOHAMMED MEJBEL AL ENEZI
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WORLD ARABIAN HORSE CHAMPIONSHIP 2023: ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Arabian Horse Magazine team wants to express their immense gratitude and contentment as we recall our wonderful experience at the World Arabian Horse Championship 2023 in Qatar. We are deeply grateful to the Organizing Committee and local Media Office for inviting us and recognizing our genuine passion for the Arabian horse, what we do and how we do it. It was a great honour to be there. Our dedicated team worked long and hard to capture the essence, bringing back home its best moments and atmospheres. We want the memories and hoof beats of the W.A.H.C. 2023 to resonate far beyond the Old Doha Port arena. We are humbled and grateful for the trust everyone placed in us and the great hospitality received. See you back in Paris in 2024!
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Under the patronage of
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan
UAE Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, Chairman of the board of Emirates Arabian Horse Society
Emirates Arabian Horse Global Cup Aimed to 1- Encourage Arabian horse breeders and owners globally 2- Promote and develop Arabian horse breed Supporting a total of 10 Arabian Horse Shows around the world
More information will be published soon Season 2023-2024 AHM | 91
Mr James Sirbasku started their economic Arabians Ltd. was established in 1978 by and activity in the Straight Egyptian Arabian horse
Mr James Sirbasku and Mrs Judy Ann Murray Sirbasku in Waco, Texas. At the time, in her industry. When Mr David Gardner set up the spare time, Mrs Judy Sirbasku would go with Syndicate for Ruminaja Ali (11.05.1976-1997) her children, David and Susan, to all the hor- (Shaikh Al Badi x Bint Magidaa), The Sirse shows held in Waco, Texas. At one of these, baskus were already quite busy in their new she met Mr David Gardner, who was there to business. There was a need to introduce new present the then Bentwood Farms horses. Mrs bloodlines to cross with Ruminaja Ali. So, Mr Judy Sirbasku fell head over heels in love with Gardner and Mr Sirbasku purchased a group Straight Egyptian Arabian horses for their of mares in Australia. That’s when they launstunning beauty, uniqueness, and history, and ched their partnership, later called Arabians these creatures became her life passion. Mrs Ltd. The Sirbaskus had built their Rock Creek Arabians farm Judy’s encounon Rock Creter with Mr ek Road, near David GardWaco, where ner developed they settled into a business their mares. A partnership promising and enduring young colt friendship also arrived at that eventualArabians Ltd., ly involved who would Mr James Sirbecome the basku, who stallion that Mrs. Judy Ann Murray (July.3.1938-July.22.2021) and Mr. James Sirbasku also had integave a decisive bo(Mar.30.1939-Feb.23.2010) in Waco, Texas. With Bint Magidaa’s bronze image.image. rests in real estate. ost to the developMr David Gardner ment of their breesuggested to Mr James Sirbasku that he might ding farm, producing valuable progeny. This invest some of his resources in Arabian horses, horse was The Minstril (27.07.1984). Unfortuan excellent source of income at that time. By nately, on February 23, 2010, Mr James Sirchance, the two men had the same accountant. basku died at age 70, ending a 50-year marriaTherefore, they examined together the propo- ge. Mrs Judy did not lose heart. Knowing her sal’s economic feasibility. This is how Mrs Judy
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The Minstril July.27.1984-Aug.27.2010 (Ruminaja Ali x Bahila). Bred by Mr. David and Mrs. Marion Gardner, owners of Gardner Bloodstock Ltd., China Spring, Texas. Owned by Arabians Ltd., Waco, Texas. 1987 US National TopTen Futurity Colt. 1993 US and Canadian National Top Ten Stallion. Sire of 659 registered foals.
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husband’s desire to keep the stables, she and her son David, along with Mrs Shawn Crews, brought forward the breeding activity with highly selected mares and the stallions who pooled better with those. On July 22, 2021, Mrs Judy Ann Sirbasku sadly departed at age 83. But, the heirs kept the farm, and their son, Mr David Sirbasku, who had been a technical consultant for Rock Creek Arabians and Arabians Ltd for years, took over the financial management of the farm in 2020 on behalf of his mother, Judy, becoming President and managing the whole business. The Minstril was bred by Mr David and Mrs Marion Gardner, owners of Gardner Bloodstock Ltd. in China Spring, Texas, where the horse was born on July 27, 1984. This outstanding Straight Egyptian bay stallion, previously mentioned, was purchased by Arabian Ltd as a foal. In the late 1990s, The Minstril was sold to an individual who later proved to be a fraudster and involved many people in bankruptcy proceedings against him. Mr Jim Deegan had The Minstril under his care for many years when he was President of Arabians Ltd. In 1996, with his wife Carole, he acquired Cadron Creek Arabians in
Mr. David Sirbasku with Bint Bint Asila RCA Jan.11.2014(Mishaal HP x BintAsila RCA 2007 by The Sequel RCA x Asila RCA) at Rock Creek Arabians,Waco, Texas.
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Ruminaja Ali May.11.1976-1997( Shaikh Al Badi x Bint Magidaa), 1983 US Reserve National Champion with Mr. David Gardner on the left.
Mrs. Judy Ann Murray Sirbasku (July.3.1938-July.22.2021) on the left together Mrs. Shawn Crews on the right.
Quitman, Arkansas. So in May 2001, deeply attached to The Minstril, Mr Jim Deegan made the reckless purchase of the stallion, resulting in his involvement in the bankruptcy proceedings. The Minstril spent the last years of his life at Paradise Arabians, in Lafayette, Georgia, in the loving hands of owners Mrs Wanda and Mr Gary Kenworthy, where the stallion passed away on August 27, 2010. The Minstril’s sire was the legendary Ruminaja Ali (11.05.1976-1997) (Shaikh Al Badi x Bint Magidaa), but I will not talk about him in this chapter as he has been the subject of extensive writing in the past. Let me clarify and debunk a few myths regarding The Minstril and his offspring, focussing on his dam Bahila (1977) (Ibn Galal-1 x Bakria 03.31.1973 by Gharib x Baheia). Bahila
The Minstril July.27.1984-Aug.27.2010(Ruminaja Ali x Bahila) in 2000. In the year 2001 he will be sold to Mr. Jim and Mrs. Carole Deegan, CadronCreek Arabians, Quitman, Arkansas, on the right of the photo.
Nasralla (Shahriar) Mar.20.1956(Balance x Sehr by El Nasser). Bred and owned by El Zahraa Stud, E.A.O., Cairo, Egypt.
(Galal x Mohga) and 11 Hanadi (Hanadi) (02.03.1968) (Alaa El Din x Rahma) were born in El Zahraa, Egypt, and then imported to Hungary, the first in 1968 and the second in 1969 respectively. Both contributed significantly to the development of the Straight Egyptian Arabian horse around the globe. We said that Bahila’s dam was Bakria (31.03.1973), a bay mare bred by Arabergestut Schieferegg, by Mr Gustl Eutermoser and Mrs Ulrike Marcik when the stud was located in Austria, and relocated, in 1983, in Canada del Robledo, Villamartin (Cadiz), in Andalusia, southern Spain. This Hadba Enzahiya mare from the Venus bloodline (1890) was one of the first mares acquired by Dr Hans-Jörg Tauschke on the advice of his friend Dr Hans Joachim Nagel. Bakria (31.03.1973) gave birth to five other mares and a stallion besides Bahila (11.04.1977) in what will be called El Thayeba Stud. After foaling the last filly in 1987, Bakria was sold to Mr Frank-Hartmut Hagedorn of Shem El Nessim Stud, also in Germany, where she foaled two more fillies. Bakria’s sire was the Marbach State Stud stallion, Gharib (01.04.19651990 (Anter x Souhair), while her dam
(11.04.1977) was a black-coated Straight Egyptian mare of the Hadba Enzahiya strain, bred in Germany by Dr Hans-Jörg Tauschke shortly before his marriage to Cornelia Tauschke, with whom he founded Gestüt El Thayeba in Grossenkneten. In 1980, Bahila (11.04.1977) was purchased by Mr Jarrell McCracken of Bentwood Farms, Waco, Texas and imported to the USA, where besides the Minstril, she produced other prized subjects. Bahila’s sire (11.04.1977) was Ibn Galal-1 (09.01.1973) (Ibn Galal x 11 Hanadi), a highly regarded Kuhaylan Rodan stallion, bred at Babolna State Stud, Hungary, descending from the family of the mare Bint Rissala (1920) (Ibn Yashmak x Risala). To demonstrate the purity of this bloodline, I will remind you that Ibn Galal (Magdi) (25.10.1966-1983) Mr. Gary Kenworthy at Paradise Arabians, La Fayette, Georgia, USA.
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The Minstril July.27.1984-Aug.27.2010(Ruminaja Ali x Bahila). Bred by Mr. David and Mrs. Marion Gardner, owners of Gardner Bloodstock Ltd., China Spring, Texas. Owned by Arabians Ltd., Waco, Texas. 1987 US National Top Ten Futurity Colt. 1993 US and Canadian National Top Ten Stallion. Sire of 659 registered foals.
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La Marsala Feb.3.1992(The Minstril x AK Amiri Asmarr 1985 by The Egyptian Prince x Asmarr). B. & O. Tom & Marta Salome, MarSal Arabians, Crawford, Texas.
was Baheia (26.09.1968), a grey mare bred in El Zahraa, Egypt and imported to Austria in 1970 by Mr Gustl Eutermoser for his Arabergestut Schieferegg. Baheia’s dam was the grey mare Hemmat (31.12.1952) (Sid Abouhom x Maysouna), a Hadba Enzahiya mare out of Venus (1890), bred by the Egyptian Royal Agricultural Society (R.A.S.). She was a pivotal mare for El Zahraa Stud. Instead, Baheia’s sire was a great stallion about whom, unfairly, in more recent times, in the game of commercial wars, many lies have been told to discredit him. Rumours have taken hold of the inexperienced ones with whom this world is awash. This prestigious stallion was a champion in flat racing under the name of Nasralla while he was registered in the Stud Book of the E.A.O. as Shahriar (20.03.1956) (Balance x Sehr 26.08.1948 by El Nasser). Even though I have already talked about Nasralla in previous chapters, I would like to bring him back to the reader’s attention to make it clear how false the rumours that cast doubt on the quality and purity of this stallion are. The ancestor of The Minstril, who is the subject of all these rumours, was the stallion El Nasser (May 1938), maternal grandsire of Nasralla (Shahriar) (20.03.1956).El Nasser was a pure desert-bred
Arabian horse of the Koheilan Dajani strain. His sire was Douhayman El Ajarrache from the Jibour tribe, while his dam was Dajaniah. This stallion was born in May 1938 and was bred by the Gheiheich tribe (Ajarash, El Ajarrache), settled in the Jezirah Region in upper Syria, near Aleppo. El Nasser’s breeder was Sheikh Ahmad al Taha. Later, in 1939, Ahbdul Hafid Ezzin purchased the stallion from Sheikh Ahmad al Taha and resold the horse to Henry Pharaon of Beirut in 1942. There, El Nasser was used in the Lebanese races under the name Didane and out of the nine races held from 1941 to 1943, he won them all. The next owner of El Nasser was Khader Michuu. In 1943, the stallion was purchased by Ahmad Abu El Futuh (Fotouh) Bey for use in races in Egypt from 1943 to 1947, competing in 31 contests. Upon the end of his racing career, El Nasser was bought by the R.A.S. on 13 September 1947. In his book “The Raswan Index”, Carl Raswan (Carl Reinhard Schmidt) also wrote about another stallion called El Nasser, who had no progeny, which led to confusion. This El Nasser (1926) should not be confused with Nasralla’s sire, born twelve years later. El Nasser (1926) was an Anglo-Arabian specimen foaled by an Arabian desert-bred mare,
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The Sequel RCA 2001-Apr.10.2018(Thee Desperado x La Marsala). Bred by Mr. Tom and Mrs. Marta Salome, MarSal Arabians, Crawford, Texas. Owned by Arabians Ltd., Waco, Texas. Original name was MS Caliente.
who in 1925 was taken to the Island of Cyprus, used in the Beirut races and crossed with an English purebred stallion before she was relocated to the desert. Among the Bedouins, this mare gave birth to a male foal that was brought back to Beirut, where he grew up as a desert-bred Arabian horse. In 1930, the young El Nasser (1926) and other horses were taken to Egypt for racing in Alexandria and Cairo, where they had outstanding results. Despite this, the Committee on Classification was su-
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spicious. After a thorough check, it was discovered that several horses imported from Lebanon were Anglo-Arabs, including El Nasser (1926), who ran under Mohammed Effendi Sharawi’s colours. So, all horses were disqualified from racing in Egypt. Having established that El Nasser (1926) was an Anglo-Arabian horse, there is no doubt that the RAS did not use him to cover Arabian mares. Unfortunately, these rumours were circulated when Carl Raswan was deceased, so he could not deny
Alixir 1998(The Elixir x The Prevue by The Minstril). Bred by Mr. James and Mrs. Judy Sirbasku, Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas. Owner Mr. Mohamed Jaidah, Al Jood Stud, region of Al Khor, Doha, Qatar.
them. Rumours spread as if Henry Pharaon was dishonest and unreliable. In reality, he was a highly respected breeder in Lebanon. Al Khamsa also reviewed the matter. After 25 years of checks, the truth was revealed in 2003. El Nasser (1938) (Douhayman El Ajarrache x Dajaniah) was a pure Arabian horse considered an Al Khamsa in its own right. Going back to talking about Bahila (11.04.1977), this mare was bred to remarkable stallions in the U.S. While at Bentwood Farms, she gave birth to the influential grey mare AK Imaara (1981) by The Egyptian Prince (02.07.1967-20.09.1995) (Morafic x Bint Mona), followed by two male foals by Moniet El Sharaf (1978-06.05.1999) (Ibn Moniet El Nefous x Bint Bint Moniet). These were the chestnut AK Nahar (1982) and the black AK Khazar (1983), winning stallion in Class-A in Halter and Dressage. The Minstril (27.07.1984-27.08.2010) (Ruminaja Ali x
Bahila) was conceived after Bahila (04.11.1977) was acquired by Gardner Bloodstock Ltd. in China Spring, Texas. Due to the successful results, the cross with Ruminaja Ali was repeated several times. And the grey mare Out Of Africa (1986) and the black stallion Coaltown (14.02.1987-23.07.2017) were also born. The latter was imported to Italy in 1994. Bahila was also bred to Ruminaja Ali’s full brother, Alidaar (27.04.1984-08.09.2010) (Shaikh Al Badi x Bint Magidaa), from whom the black mare TR Paris Atnight (1988) and Ilidaara (1989) were born. Bahila’s last foal at Gardner Bloodstock Ltd. was the black mare Bint Bahila (1991) by Ibn Morafic (23.04.1973-27.08.1997) (Morafic x Kahramana). The Minstril (27.07.198427.08.2010) was perhaps the most famous son of Ruminaja Ali. He was a bay Hadban Enzahi stallion, charismatic, very typey, with impressive presence and style. He had an extremely AHM | 99
Martha Salome, MarSal Arabians, Crawford, Texas, dam of the stallion The Sequel RCA (2003-10.04.2018) by Thee Desperado. The bay The Prevue (1994-27.08.2010) by Maali RCA (1987) (Ruminaja Ali x Masira), bred and owned by Mr James and Mrs Judy Sirbasku, Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas, dam of Alixir (1998) by The Elixir (19.05.1992-30.11.2017) (Hi-Fashion Mreekh x Jaliya). The black mare Alia Riyala (1994) by Aliala (1985) (Ruminaja Ali x Essene Riyala), bred by Aliala Partnership, USA, owned by Mr Gary and Mrs Wanda Kenworthy, Paradise Arabians, LaFayette, Georgia, dam of The Singleton (2002) by Thee Desperado. The grey mare Miss Maggie Mae (09.05.1991-May-2014) by Bint Magidaa (04.02.1970-19.11.1998) (Khofo x Magidaa), a 2011 Egyptian Event Leading Dam of Champions, bred by Mr Joe and Mrs Henny Krusznksi of Krush Arabians Inc. and born at Arabians Ltd. in Waco, Texas, where her dam was lovingly cared for by Mr James and Mrs Judy Sirbasku. Miss Maggie Mae ended Alia Riyala 1994(The Minstril x Aliala 1985 by Ruminaja Ali x Essene Riyala). Bred by Aliala Partnership, USA. Owned by Mr. Gary and Mrs. Wanda 2Kenworthy, Paradise Arabians, LaFayette, Georgia.
correct morphology with a sport horse bone structure, blending perfectly with his body. The beautiful pyramidal head with a slight dish and the striking black eyes highlighted his type. All these characteristics allowed him to win titles such as the 1987 U.S. National Top Ten Futurity Stallion, 1993 U.S. National Top Ten Stallion, 1993 Canadian National Top Ten Stallion and U.S. Egyptian Event Supreme Champion Stallion. The Minstril was also tremendous at reproducing. Among his 659 registered sons were great champions and exceptional conveyors, mares and stallions. Among the daughters of The Minstril who have produced great stallions, we must note: the bay The Minuet (1989) by Aliah Halima (1985) (Ruminaja Ali x Charm Of Halima), bred by Aliah Halima Partnership, U.S., owned by Mrs Pat Bradish, Twin Hickory Arabians Inc., Rushville, Ohio, dam of Thee Cyclone (1994-2004); and Botswana (1998), both by Thee Desperado. Furthermore, the bay mare La Marsala (02.03.1992) by AK Amiri Asmarr (1985) (The Egyptian Prince x Asmarr), bred and owned by Mr Tom and Mrs
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Miss Maggie Mae May.9.1991-May.2014(The Minstril x Bint Magidaa Feb.4.1970-Nov.19.1998 by Khofo x Magidaa). Bred by Mr. Joe e Mrs. Henny Krusznksi, Krush Arabians Inc. and born at Arabians Ltd., Waco, Texas. Owned by Mr. James and Mrs. Judy Sirbasku, Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas. 2011 U.S. Egyptian Event Leading Dam of Champions.
Carole Deegan, owners of Cadron Creek Arabians in Quitman, Arkansas, from 1996 to 2003. This stallion boasted a candid white coat, a stunning trot and a tail carried high like a flag in the wind. Gatsby CC began his show career at the U.S. Egyptian Event in 2001, winning the Junior Champion Colt title. Following the dispersion of Cadron Creek Arabians, in 2006, he was sold to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Saud Al Qasimi of AlBidayer Stud, Sharjah, and exported to the United Arab Emirates. The new owner presented Gatsby CC at the Egyptian Event Europe held at the German State Stud Farm in Dillenburg, where one Sunday in August 2006 won the Reserve Senior Champion Stallion title. In 2011, Gatsby CC was again presented at the U.S. Egyptian Event, winning the Silver Champion Senior Stallion title. In 2013, this magnificent stallion was sold to Mr Paul and Mrs Jennifer Ogden of Eagleridge Arabian Farm in Forster, New South Wales and exported to Australia. This will be Gatsby CC’s last home because, in Gatsby CC Aug.11.1999-Nov.24.2015(Shahir IASB x Miss Maggie Mae). Bred by Mr. Jim and Mrs. Carole Deegan, owners of Cadron Creek Arabians, Quitman, Arkansas. Owned by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Saud Al Qasimi, AlBidayer Stud, Sharjah, UAE. Last owner: Mr. Paul and Mrs. Jennifer Ogden, Eagleridge Arabian Farm, Forster, New South Wales, Australia. 2001 US Egyptian Event Champion Junior Colt. 2006 European Egyptian Event Reserve Champion Senior Stallion. 2011 US Egyptian Event Silver Champion Senior Stallion.
her life after a successful breeding career at Arabians Ltd., although she was owned by Mr John W. Green IV of Cardon Creek Arabians, Quitman, Arkansas, for a while. Among the most valuable progeny of Miss Maggie Mae, we must remember the grey Thee Ice Man (02.05.1995-2003) by Thee Desperado, a Class-A Halter Champion stallion exported to Canada, bred by Mr James and Mrs Judy Sirbasku, Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas; the bay Thee Jazzman (25.05.1996) by Thee Desperado, a 2001 Region 11 Champion stallion, bred by Mr John W. Green IV, Cardon Creek Arabians, Quitman, Arkansas; the grey Savannah CC (05.05.1997) by Thee Desperado, bred by Mr John W. Green IV, Cardon Creek Arabians, Quitman, Arkansas, and owned by Mr Joseph and Mrs Gail Mailloux of Two Silos Farm, Rogersville, Missouri; the stallion Gatsby CC (11.08.199924.11.2015) by Shahir (Shahir IASB) (06.12.1993) (Salaa El Dine x Imperial Im Phayana 1985 by Ansata Imperial x Imperial Phanadah). Gatsby CC was bred by Mr Jim and Mrs Belle Staar Feb,26.1990-Jan.20.2009(The Minstril x Alia-Eanor). Bred by Sea Partnership, USA. Owned by Mrs. Marilyn Geurin, Hamilton Gates Arabians, Hot Springs, Arizona. Last owner: Mr. Steve and Mrs. Mauri Chase, Chase Arabians, Aubrey, Texas. Dam of the Multi-Champion mare The Vision HG.
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Kaveta 1990(The Minstril x Jaliya 1984 by Halimm x Haniya). Bred by P. F. G. Trust, USA. Owned by Mr. Paul and Mrs. Gloria Davis, Fortville, Indiana. Champion ii Shows.
2015, he died from colic at age 16. Further outstanding mares and daughters of The Minstril were: the bay Belle Staar (26.02.199020.01.2009) by Alia-Eanor (1982) (The Egyptian Prince x Hasnaa AlBadeia), bred by Sea Partnership, USA, owned by Mr Steve and Mrs Mauri Chase of Chase Arabians, Aubrey, Texas; the bay Kaveta (1990) by Jaliya (1984) (Halimm x Haniya), bred by P. F. G. Trust, U.S., and owned by Mr Paul and Mrs Gloria Davis, Fortville, Indiana; the black Abriel RCA (1990) by Aliashahm RA (1985-19.09.2002) (Ruminaja Ali x Glorieta Zaarina), bred and owned by Mr James and Mrs Judy Sirbasku of Rock
Abriel RCA 1990(The Minstril x Aliashahm RA 1985-Sept.19.2002 by Ruminaja Ali x Glorieta Zaarina). Bred and owned by Mr. James and Mrs. Judy Sirbasku, Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas.
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Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas; the grey Helen Marie RCA (1995) by HMT Princess Fariha (1987) (The Egyptian Prince x AK Fariha), bred by Mrs Jaquelin E. Taylor, Marital Trust, Bloomsbury Estate, Orange County, Virginia, and owned by Mr James and Mrs Judy Sirbasku of Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas; the grey HMT Inasa (1993) by Ibn Galal 1-16 (1982) (Ibn Galal I x 12 Bint Inas), bred by Jaquelin E. Taylor, Marital Trust, Bloomsbury Estate, Orange County, Virginia, and owned by Mr James and Mrs Judy Sirbasku of Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas. Furthermore, the grey Kindred Spirit SG (1990) by Sabeya
Helen Marie RCA 1995(The Minstril x HMT Princess Fariha 1987 by The Egyptian Prince x AK Fariha). Bred by Mrs. Jaquelin E. Taylor, Marital Trust, Bloomsbury Estate, Orange County, Virginia. Owned by Mr. James and Mrs. Judy Sirbasku, Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas.
HMT Inasa 1993(The Minstril x Ibn Galal 1-16 1982 by Ibn Galal I x 12 Bint Inas). Bred by Mrs. Jaquelin E. Taylor, Marital Trust, Bloomsbury Estate, Orange County, Virginia. Owned by Mr. James and Mrs. Judy Sirbasku, Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas.
Minstrils Kiss 1995(The Minstril x Princess Salam 1985 by The Egyptian Prince x Talooa). Bred by Mr. Robert and Mrs. Marian Beatty, USA. Owned by Mr. James and Mrs. Judy Sirbasku, Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas.
EP (1979) (Elbateer RSI x Silima), bred by Mr James and Mrs Judy Sirbasku of Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas, and owned by Montebello Farms, Montebello, Quebec, Canada; the grey Ma-Ajmala (03.03.1993) by Hawaa (1985) (Amaal x Haseenah), bred by Mr Claude and Mrs Suzanne Remond, U.S., and owned by Mr Ferdinand Schwestermann of Dowdstownhouse Stud, Dublin, Ireland; the bay Minstrils Kiss (1995) by Princess Salam (1985) (The Egyptian Prince x Talooa), bred by Mr Robert and
Mrs Marian Beatty, U.S., and owned by Mr James and Mrs Judy Sirbasku of Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas; the grey Minstrils MonaLisa (1992) by RA Bathsheba (1983) (The Egyptian Prince x AK Monaroufa), bred by Prince Arabians, U.S., and owned by Mr James and Mrs Judy Sirbasku of Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas; the chestnut Minstris Petunia LDA (2000) by MC Alexsis (1996) (The Elixir x AK Athena), bred by Kelly Brook Farms, Artondale, Washington & Summerhill
Kindred Spirit SG 1990(The Minstril x Sabeya EP 1979 by Elbateer RSI x Silima). Bred by Mr. James and Mrs. Judy Sirbasku, Rock Creek Arabians,Waco, Texas. Owned by Montebello Farms, Montebello, Quebec, Canada.
Ma-Ajmala Mar.3.1993(The Minstril x Hawaa 1985 by Amaal x Haseenah). Bred by Mr. Claude and Mrs. Suzanne Remond, USA. Owned by Mr. Ferdinand Schwestermann, Dowdstownhouse Stud, Dublin, Irlanda.
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Thee Desperado Apr.5.1989-July.26. 2013(The Minstril x AK Amiri Asmarr 1985 by The Egyptian Prince). Bred by Mr. Tom and Mrs. Marta Salome, MarSal Arabians, Crawford, Texas. Owned by Mr. James and Mrs. Judy Sirbasku, Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas. U.S. National Reserve Champion and Scottsdale Supreme Champion Stallion.
Minstrils MonaLisa 1992(The Minstril x RA Bathsheba 1983 by The Egyptian Prince x AK Monaroufa). Bred by Prince Arabians, USA. Owned by Mr.James and Mrs. Judy Sirbasku, Rock Creek Arabians, Waco, Texas.
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Minstris Petunia LDA 2000(The Minstril x MC Alexsis 1996 by The Elixir x AK Athena). Bred by Kelly Brook Farms, Artondale, Washington & 3 Summerhill Farms, Waukee, Iowa. Owned by Mr. Dan and Mrs. Louise DeRusseau, LD Arabians, Cedar Creek, Texas.
Thee Kajaree 2005(The Minstril x Thee Lorelei). Bred by Mr. Marlin D. and Mrs. Shari L. Warkentin, Cave Creek, Arizona. Owned by ISIS Arabians L.L.C., McGregor, Waco, Texas. 2006 U.S. Egyptian Event Top Five Futurity Yearling Fillies. 2007 U.S. Egyptian Event Top Ten Futurity 2 years old Fillies.
Maistro May.25.1990(The Minstril x Amiri Sanaa 1983 by The Egyptian Prince x AK El Sanaa). Bred by Mr. Sirgard, Texas, USA. Imported to South Africa by Mr. Jack Maritz, Sidi Arabians, Upington, Cape Town. Three times South African National Champion Stallion.
The Atticus 1991-Dec.1.2013(The Minstril x Alijamila). Bred by Mrs. Phyllis Marinacci Browning and Mr. Henry “Hank” Browning, Browning Arabians, Brighton Gardens, Austin, Texas. Owned by Ansata Justina Partnership, Austin, Texas. U.S. Halter Champion, U.S. Egyptian Event Halter Winner and U.S. National Winner Sire.
Farms, Waukee, Iowa, and owned by Mr Dan and Mrs Louise DeRusseau of LD Arabians, Cedar Creek, Texas; the bay Thee Kajaree (2005) by Thee Lorelei (1994) (Thee Desperado x AK Bishara), bred by Mr Marlin D. and Mrs Shari L. Warkentin, Cave Creek, Arizona, and owned by ISIS Arabians L.L.C., McGregor, Waco, Texas and we could go on and on. The Minstril was also a terrific stud sire. For shortness, we will mention only a few: the bay Thee Desperado (05.04.1989-26.07.2013) by AK Amiri Asmarr (1985) (The Egyptian Prince x Asmarr), bred by Mr Tom and Mrs Martha Salome of MarSal Arabians, Crawford, Texas, but we will talk about him further on. The bay Maistro (25.05.1990) by Amiri Sanaa (1983) (The Egyptian Prince x AK El Sanaa), bred by Mr Sirgard in Texas, imported into South Africa by Mr Jack Maritz of Sidi Arabians, Upington. Maistro (25.05.1990) was crowned South Africa National Champion Stallion three times. The black The Atticus (1991-01.12.2013) by Alijamila (16.03.1987) (Ruminaja Ali x Ansata Justina) bred by Mrs Phyllis Marinacci Browning and Mr Henry “Hank” Browning of Browning Arabians, Brighton Gardens, Austin, Texas and owned by Ansata Justina Partnership, Austin, Texas. The Atticus became a U.S. Region 12 Classic Egyptian Champion, U.S. Halter Champion, U.S. Egyptian Event Halter Winner and National Winner Sire. TO BE CONTINUED…
The Minstril July.27.1984-Aug.27.2010(Ruminaja Ali x Bahila). Bred by Mr. David and Mrs. Marion Gardner, owners of Gardner Bloodstock Ltd., China Spring, Texas. Owned by Arabians Ltd., Waco, Texas. 1987 US National Top Ten Futurity Colt. 1993 US and Canadian National Top Ten Stallion. Sire of 659 registered foals.
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8th FUJAIRAH INTERNATIONAL ARABIAN HORSE CHAMPIONSHIP 14-15-16 December 2023 WRITTEN BY SONJA SMALDONE Pictures by: Conny Annunziata - Ahmed Taha he 8th Fujairah Arabian Horse International Championship was organized by the Crown Prince’s Office led by H.E. Dr Ahmed Hamdan Al Zeyoudi as the Chairman and Mr Ali Al Kaabi as Vice Chairman of the Organizing Committee, under the kind patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah. The competition occurred from 14th to 16th December 2023 in the arena adjacent to the Emirate’s historic fort. The highly AHM | 118
prestigious and challenging competition was the first-of-its-kind morphology event in the region, with cash and inkind prizes exceeding 4 million dirhams. The 8th Fujairah Arabian Horse International Championship attracted horse owners and top breeders from 10 participating countries - domestic and foreign - registering three hundred and forty-five horses: 330 horses from the U.A.E. and 15 horses from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Egypt and Belgium.
The competition boasted an esteemed jury with in-depth knowledge of Arabian horses. Leading the judging panel was Mr McCrea Bruce from the United States; joining him in the sequence was Mrs Jamar Christine from Belgium, Mrs Darius Claudia from Germany, Mr Faraj Elyas Ebrahim from Bahrain, Mr Bialobok Jerzy from Poland, Mr Detailleur Koenraad from Belgium, Mr Gozdzialski Lucas from Poland, Mrs Annaratone Ferraroni Maria, Mrs Tengstedt Marianne from Denmark,
and last but not least, Mrs Eberhardt Sylvie from Germany. Their invaluable expertise and discernment helped assess the future champions of the 8th Fujairah Arabian Horse International Championship! The show started on December 14, 2023, at 15:00 (Asia/Dubai time) and concluded on December 16, 2023, at 00:00 (Asia/ Dubai time), with the final results announced for each participating category by Mr Biju Peter from the United Arab Emirates.
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In the YEARLING FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Al Aryam Harbah (S.M.A. Magic One x Al Aryam Hamra), bred and owned by Sheikh Khalifa Bin Tahnoon Bin Mohammed Al Nahayyan. Silver medal winner Rajwa Al Hawajer (Ghaly Al Hawajer x Massa Al Hawajer) raised by Dr Ghanem Mohamed Obaid Alhajri and owned by Humaid Ghanem Mohamed Obaid Alhajeri. Bronze medal winner Raneem Albidayer (Raoud Al Bidayer x Rania Al Bidayer), bred and owned by Sheikh Mohammed Saoud Sultan S Alqassimi. In the Junior Fillies Championship, Gold medal winner D Aserah (AJ Nofan x D Shihanah) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. Silver medal winner Malikah Albidayer (Raoud Al Bidayer x Aja Athena), bred and owned by Sheikh Mohammed Saoud Sultan S Alqassimi. Bronze medal winner AD Bdoor (AJ Azzam x Torfah Al Zobair) bred and owned by Hamad Adnan Abdulla Shaban Alshehhi.
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In the SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner Halhola Al Hawajer (D Khattaf x ZT Magrumi) bred by Dr Ghanem Mohamed Obaid Alhajri and owned by Alyan Saeed Hasan Batran Al Hajeri. Silver medal winner Ajwan Al Zobair (Suhail Al Zobair x Pistoria) bred and owned by Sheikh Abdulla Bin Mohammed Ali Althani. Bronze medal winner Jhindra (Profender K.A. x Destiny) bred by Frederic & Roger Schoefs and owned by Osama Abdulla Ahmed Al Haram.
In the JUNIOR COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold 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. Silver medal winner Shaalan Al Zobair (Raoud Al Bidayer x Nawader Al Zobair) bred and owned by Sheikh Abdulla Bin Mohammed Ali Althani. Bronze medal winner AJ Razi (Antaris OS x AJ Rose Kazan) bred and owned by Ajman Stud HH Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi.
In the YEARLING COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner D Borkan (FA El Rasheem x D Ajayeb) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. Silver medal winner AJ Rabdan (AJ Nawash x AJ Amandari) bred and owned by Ajman Stud - HH Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi. Bronze medal winner FAM Apollo (D Seraj x Gazira K.A.) bred and owned by Federico Jose Morales Jordan.
In the SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP, Gold medal winner D Shart (Excalibur E.A. x D Shihanah) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. Silver medal winner Maysam Al Hawajer (Nashmi Al Hawajer x Shagra Al Hawajer) bred by Dr Ghanem Mohamed Obaid Alhajr and owned by Saeed Ali Saeed Ali Alshamsi. Bronze medal winner D Mashji (Shanghai E.A. x D Jowan) bred by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud and owned by RAS Al Khaimah Arabian Horse Stud.
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8th FUJAIRAH ARABIAN HORSE INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SPECIAL AWARDS At the solemn 8th Fujairah Arabian Horse International Championship Special Awards Ceremony, The Best Head Yearling Fillies Title was won by Rajwa Al Hawajer (Ghaly Al Hawajer x Massa Al Hawajer) bred by Dr Ghanem Mohamed Obaid Alhajri and owned by Humaid Ghanem Mohamed Obaid Alhajeri. The Best Head Yearling Colts Title was grabbed by AJ Rabdan (AJ Nawash x AJ Amandari) bred and owned by Ajman Stud - HH Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi. The Best Head Junior FilliesTitle was earned by D Aserah (AJ Nofan x D Shihanah) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. The Best Head Junior Colts Title was assigned to AJ Razi (Antaris OS x AJ Rose Kazan) bred and owned by Ajman Stud HH Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi. The Best Head Senior Mares Title was AHM | 122
given to Dhabia K (Kahil Al Shaqab x Marhaabella BVA) bred and owned by Saeed Seddiq Fatihali Abdulla Alkhajeh. The Best Head Senior Stallions Title was won by Arjuwan Al Bidayer (AJ Marzan x Allezandra Albidayer) bred and owned by Sheikh Mohammed Saoud Sultan S Alqassimi. The Best in the Yearling Fillies Class was Al Aryam Harbah (AL Bilal x AL Aryam Balkeas) bred and owned by Al Aryam Arabians. The Best in the Junior Fillies Class was AD Bdoor (AJ Azzam x Torfah Al Zobair) bred and owned by Hamad Adnan Abdulla Shaban Alshehhi. The Best in the Senior Mares Class was Halhola Al Hawajer (D Khattaf x ZT Magrumi) bred by Dr Ghanem Mohamed Obaid Alhajri and owned by Alyan Saeed Hasan Batran Al Hajeri. The Best in the Yearling Colts Class was D Borkan (FA El Rasheem x D Ajayeb) bred and owned by Dubai Arabian Horse Stud.
The Best in the Senior Stallions Class was Al Aryam Baree (Al Bilal x Al Aryam Balkeas) bred and owned by Al Aryam Arabians. The Best in the Junior Colts Class was Shaalan Al Zobair (Raoud Al Bidayer x Nawader Al Zobair) bred and owned by Sheikh Abdulla Bin Mohammed Ali Althani. The famous Golden Sword of Fujairah was assigned to Dubai Arabian Horse Stud. ENDING COMMENTS & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Seven years ago, establishing the Fujairah Arabian Horse International Championship enhanced the reputation of the Emirate as a privileged destination in equestrian sports. The championship highlighted its role in introducing the U.A.E. heritage in a way that boosted national identity and authenticity and celebrated the legacies of Arab and Islamic civilizations. In 2023, the Fujairah Arabian Horse International Championship attracted an
extraordinary number of horses from 10 different world regions, reflecting its growing allure and significance of promoting the Arabian horse’s equestrian sports around the globe. The Arabian Horse Magazine team flew to Fujairah to join the event, shooting videos, snapping photos, or interviewing people around the championship and the Emirate history. We are deeply indebted to the High Organizing Committee and the Crown Prince’s Office for extending their invitation. It was great to work for you. The pictures taken by talented photographers Conny Annunziata from Italy and Ahmeda Taha from Egypt bring back the best moments and atmospheres of the show. Each photograph tells a story, encapsulating the essence of any instant, frozen in time, to make you relive the thrills of those days spent in Fujairah.
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Yearling Fillies
Final Championship
RAJWA AL HAWAJER
GHALY AL HAWAJER | MASSA AL HAWAJER BREEDER: GHANEM MOHAMED OBAID ALHAJRI OWNER: HUMAID GHANEM MOHAMED OBAID ALHAJERI
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AL ARYAM HARBAH
SMA MAGIC ONE | AL ARYAM HAMRA BREEDER: SHEIKH KHALIFA BIN TAHNOON BIN MOHAMMED AL NAHAYYAN OWNER: SHEIKH KHALIFA BIN TAHNOON BIN MOHAMMED AL NAHAYYAN
RANEEM ALBIDAYER
RAOUD AL BIDAYER | RANIA AL BIDAYER BREEDER: SHEIKH MOHAMMED SAOUD SULTAN S ALQASSIMI OWNER: SHEIKH MOHAMMED SAOUD SULTAN S ALQASSIMI
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Junior Fillies
Final Championship
MALIKAH ALBIDAYER RAOUD AL BIDAYER X AJA ATHENA
BREEDER: SHEIKH MOHAMMED SAOUD SULTAN S ALQASSIMI OWNER: SHEIKH MOHAMMED SAOUD SULTAN S ALQASSIMI
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D ASERAH
AJ NOFAN X D SHIHANAH BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD
AD BDOOR
AJ AZZAM X TORFAH AL ZOBAIR BREEDER: HAMAD ADNAN ABDULLA SHABAN ALSHEHHI OWNER: HAMAD ADNAN ABDULLA SHABAN ALSHEHHI
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Senior Mares
Final Championship
AJWAN AL ZOBAIR SUHAIL AL ZOBAIR X PISTORIA
BREEDER: SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN MOHAMMED ALI ALTHANI OWNER: SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN MOHAMMED ALI ALTHANI
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HALHOLA AL HAWAJER
D KHATTAF X ZT MAGRUMI
BREEDER: DR. GHANEM MOHAMED OBAID ALHAJRI OWNER: ALYAN SAEED HASAN BATRAN AL HAJERI
JHINDRA
PROFENDER K.A. X DESTINY BREEDER: FREDERIC & ROGER SCHOEFS OWNER: OSAMA ABDULLA AHMED AL HARAM
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Yearling Colts
Final Championship
AJ RABDAN
AJ NAWASH X AJ AMANDARI BREEDER: AJMAN STUD OWNER: AJMAN STUD
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D BORKAN
FA EL RASHEEM X D AJAYEB BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD
FAM APOLLO
D SERAJ X GAZIRA K.A. BREEDER: FEDERICO JOSE MORALES JORDAN OWNER: FEDERICO JOSE MORALES JORDAN
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Junior Colts
Final Championship
SHAALAN AL ZOBAIR
RAOUD AL BIDAYER X NAWADER AL ZOBAIR BREEDER: SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN MOHAMMED ALI ALTHANI OWNER: SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN MOHAMMED ALI ALTHANI
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FAIZ AL BAHYA
ANTARIS OS X AJ FEKRA
BREEDER: AJMAN STUD OWNER: MATAR MOHAMED SALIM ALHAFRI ALKETBI
AJ RAZI
ANTARIS OS X AJ ROSE KAZAN BREEDER: AJMAN STUD OWNER: AJMAN STUD
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Senior Stallions
Final Championship
MAYSAM AL HAWAJER
NASHMI AL HAWAJER X SHAGRA AL HAWAJER BREEDER: DR. GHANEM MOHAMED OBAID ALHAJRI OWNER: SAEED ALI SAEED ALI ALSHAMSI
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D SHART
EXCALIBUR E.A. X D SHIHANAH BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD
D MASHJI
SHANGHAI EA X D JOWAN BREEDER: DUBAI ARABIAN HORSE STUD OWNER: RAS AL KHAIMAH ARABIAN HORSE STUD
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A 360-degree artist but also an Arabian horse breeder and Disciplinary Commissioner at the shows in Iran. wShe was only eight months old when her mother gave her a pencil and let her draw lines on paper. She will grow into a talented young lady with an excellent artistic sense that she applies beautifully to everything she creates. The following is the story of Sama Safari.
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Who is Sama Safari, exactly? I am Sama Safari. I am 22 years old and was born in Iran. I do not have any siblings, but my parents are highly supportive. I went to Art school. My next step was to study Graphics at the Technical and Vocational University of Shiraz, Iran. I get painting, illustrating and calligraphy orders. I love horses very much! I am also an ECAHO National DC from Iran. When did you first encounter an Arabian horse? The first time I saw an Arabian horse was at the age of ten. I am an Arabian horse breeder, but not for business or sale! Just for myself. I think any successful person would love to have some of our specimens. Do you let your horses participate in the shows in Iran? I used to. I participated in my horses in the shows, but not anymore. AHM | 184
It is well known that you are a National DC in Iran. When did it all begin? What is the primary responsibility of a DC at Arabian horse shows? Yes, I am an ECAHO National DC. I appreciate you bringing this up. I so wanted to be an official for shows, and because of that, I attended DC Classes five years ago. The primary duty of a DC is the welfare of horses and making discipline for the show. What came first, the Arabian horses or the art? What artistic disciplines/branches do you practice? I have been painting all of the times of my life, but not professionally. Arabian horses came first, then I started to do art professionally when I went to Art school, and my horsey artwork also came up. I’m doing art in different branches. I’m a painter, graphic designer, illustrator and even a calligrapher.
As a painter, which pictorial techniques do you use to capture the horses’ personalities in your works? I can work in different techniques with any materials. However, for my paintings, and different reasons, I prefer watercolour techniques. Watercolours have a wonderful transparency and luminosity that allow the colours to blend and interact beautifully. The way the paint flows and spreads on the paper creates a delicate and ethereal effect that can evoke a sense of lightness and freshness. This fluidity and unpredictability add a sense of sponta-
neity and life to my paintings. Furthermore, watercolour paintings have a unique ability to capture the essence of a subject with simplicity and elegance. The subtle blending and soft edges lend themselves well to capturing light, atmosphere, and natural nuances. It allows me to create artistic and evocative compositions that convey a positive mood and emotion... How would you define your style in 5 words? Elegant, artistic, evocative, attractive, incomparable!
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What kind of message does your artistry wish to convey to people? I have always striven to convey positive energy to everyone, especially in my paintings. Artists’ work is always a reflection of their time. How did the pandemic affect your art? Did it inspire you in any way? The pandemic inspired me to devote more time than before to my art, and practice helped me be more professional. Continuously honing my skills and dedicating myself to my work led to significant growth and improvement. Can you tell me what projects you are involved in currently? Upon receiving artwork orders, I complete them and send them to my clients! However, if I find any other artistic projects I can work on, I will do them. What is the best way for a potential client to reach you? What is your promise to them? People can connect with me in these ways: 00989176205277 WhatsApp number Samaa.safarii Instagram
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The high quality of my work will always reach the clients. During the order process, I continually communicate with them. By collaborating and empathizing with each other, we achieve the best results. What else would you like to do or achieve in this industry? Where do you see yourself, say, in ten years? I want to learn any arts and see myself as successful, famous and popular!
Thank you so much, Sama, for taking the time to speak with me. I enjoyed our conversation very much and appreciate your valuable contribution. Keep expressing yourself through your art, and you’ll continue to make a positive impact on those who experience your work!
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