The 2011 WAHO Conference Arabian Farm Tours — Qatar

The 2011 WAH WAHO O Conference Arabian Farm Tours – Qatar

The 2011 WAH WAHO O Conference Arabian Farm Tours – Qatar

by Denise Hearst Photos by Glenn Jacobs, Juhaim, Scott Trees, and Gigi Grasso

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ade into warm green-blue waters of the Arabian Gulf, kingfish darting around in the shallow waters.

Swim toward sky-high buildings on the far shore of the bay, and later as the sea breezes tousle the palm trees, you might contemplate the metamorphosis of this tiny gulf Emirate that grew from a former pearl-fishing center into one of the richest countries in the Gulf, thanks to the exploitation of large oil and gas fields since the 1940s.

Qatar is also rich in Arabian horses, with several of the region’s, if not the world’s, top Arabian breeders located here.

Perhaps no Arabian breeding program in modern times has had the success or the impact on the breed as the Arabian show stable Al Shaqab, founded by HE The Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani. Home to super sire Marwan Al Shaqab and his sire Gazal Al Shaqab, as well as the Egyptian stallion Al Adeed Al Shaqab, the farm now

boasts a stunning new and modern equestrian complex that is nearing completion. In fact, most of the Arabians had been moved in just prior to our visit at the end of April. Also in Qatar are huge names in Arabian racing, Al Shahania and Umm Qarn.

The Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) sponsors major stakes races throughout the region and the world, most notably the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and the Qatar Arabian World Cup held annually in Paris. The Arabian race farms are joined by revered Egyptian breeding programs like Al Rayyan, Al Naif, and Al Nasser. Several other smaller farms possess lovely gems as well.

Adding to these noteworthy Arabian programs, the port city of Doha on the east coast of the peninsula is being transformed into a cultural hub, anchored by the breathtaking Museum of Islamic Arts, designed by I. M. Pei. In addition, the nation has lobbied hard to

Umm Qarn

Al Shaqab

Al Shahania

Al Rayyan

Al Maha Al wabra Wildlife Preserve

Al Naif

Al Samariyah

Al Nasser

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secure major sporting events — the 12th Pan Arab Games will be held in Doha, December 9-23, 2011, the first time the quadrennial multi-sport event is being held in a Persian Gulf state. More than 8,000 athletes from various Arab countries, are expected to compete in 34 sports, including equestrian disciplines, during the Games.

The news that really has the region excited is that Qatar will host the 2022 FIFA Soccer World Cup, the first time those games will be held in an Arab country. At the press conference announcing the winning bid, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al-Thani, Chairman of the Qatar 2022 Bid Committee said, “On behalf of millions living in the Middle East I want to thank FIFA for having such a bold vision. I would also like to say congratulations to His Royal Highness, the Emir, for believing that expanding the game and bringing it to our region is the right thing to do.” Added HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Emir of Qatar, “This achievement is a big one for all Arab countries. A lot of people think that we are a small country, but we can accomplish great things.”

To that end, five stadiums will be constructed. The

HE Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani is the chairman of the Camel Racing Organizing Committee in Qatar.

Here at his vast camel farm, he will clue you in on the various types: the black camels are from Saudi Arabia, and the white camels, from Sudan, are most prized as the fastest. The fuzzy-eared camels are from Pakistan.

The brown ones are from Qatar.

breathtaking designs (one echoing the look of traditional dhows, one a seashell, another an oasis, and two more modern inspirations) will employ solar-powered cooling technology. The upper tiers will feature modular elements that can be disassembled after the World Cup and donated to countries with less developed sports infrastructure.

As H.E. Sheikh Mohammed said, “We have a date with history: 2022.”

It seems fitting that Qatar now hosts the biennial WAHO (World Arabian Horse Organization) conference in November 2011. The tours being planned by the QREC in conjunction with the conference offer not only a glimpse of Qatar’s historic sites, souks, and dunes, but a peek inside selected private Arabian stables, presented on the following pages.

WAHO guests are sure to treasure their experiences in this engaging nation — a modern-day marvel that keeps the iconic symbol of its past, the Arabian horse, close to its heart.

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l Shaqab

Al Shaqab’s trio of respected stallions, Gazal Al Shaqab (Anaza El Farid x Kajora), top left, his son Marwan Al Shaqab (x Little Liza Fame), top right, and the straight Egyptian Al Adeed Al Shaqab (Ansata Halim Shah x Sundar Alisayyah), left, have helped build the Al Shaqab name.

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n contemporary Arabian horse breeding, there is perhaps no program that has had the same global impact on the breed as Al Shaqab. After nearly 20 years, not only has Al Shaqab bred their own major show champions in nearly all of the world’s great showrings, but the stud has bred the sires of those winners as well.

When HH The Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani founded Al Shaqab in 1992, he was passionate about Arabian horses and understood their decisive role in Qatar’s history and in achieving his country’s liberty. He determined that Al Shaqab should inspire Qatari citizens, and the world. Indeed, Al Shaqab sparked a renaissance for the Arabian horse in the Gulf. To assure continuity of Arabian horse breeding in Qatar, at the beginning of the new millennium he placed Al Shaqab under the umbrella of the Qatar Foundation and undertook construction of a spectacular new equine facility. Today, Al Shaqab’s board of directors is chaired by his son HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamad Al Thani, an enthusiastic horseman and avid competitor. HH The Emir’s daughter, Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, a graduate of Duke University, serves as a member of Al Shaqab’s board of directors and takes an active interest in the show program. She is also chair of the Qatar Museums Authority and is encouraging the development of equine artists through Al Shaqab’s atelier project. Other members

of the royal family are also owners, riders, and active participants in various equine activities.

Al Shaqab’s trio of respected stallions, Gazal Al Shaqab (Anaza El Farid x Kajora), his son Marwan Al Shaqab (x Little Liza Fame), and the straight Egyptian Al Adeed Al Shaqab (Ansata Halim Shah x Sundar Alisayyah) have helped build the Al Shaqab name and define the stud’s commitment to excellence. Each of them is a champion at the highest levels of competition, and each has in turn sired international champions. Gazal and Marwan in particular are routinely found at the top of leading sire charts. “They represent our current level of success and their influence will further define and improve future generations of Al Shaqab horses,” notes Al Shaqab breeding and show manager Mohammed Al Sulaiti, a graduate of the University of Detroit in Michigan. “These stallions have truly changed the Arabian breed and further enhanced its excellence throughout the world.”

Now, Al Shaqab is beginning to identify successors to these great sires. “There is dynamic potential in the sons and grandsons of Al Adeed Al Shaqab, Gazal Al Shaqab, and Marwan Al Shaqab,” says Mohammed.

“Because of their conformation, type, and overall quality we have selected a number of them for trial as sires in Al Shaqab’s breeding program. They include the straight Egyptian Farhoud Al Shaqab (Al Adeed Al Shaqab x Johara Al Shaqab), who was named 2010 U.S. Egyptian Event Supreme Champion Male. “Farhoud Al Shaqab’s first offspring, from Al Shaqab’s mares located in Qatar,

Above: The 2007 stallion Amir Al Shaqab (Gazal Al Shaqab x Amira Madrona). Right: The 2008 straight Egyptian stallion Farhoud Al Shaqab (Al Adeed Al Shaqab x Johara Al Shaqab), was named 2010 U.S. Egyptian Event Supreme Champion Male.

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Left: Fadi Al Shaqab (Besson Carol x Abha Myra by Marwan Al Shaqab), has earned such titles as 2011 and 2010 Menton Gold Champion Colt, Al Khalediah 2010 Gold Champion Colt, and 2010 Silver World Champion Colt. Below: Kahil Al Shaqab (Marwan Al Shaqab x OFW Mishaahl) has claimed the title of 2011 Menton Gold Champion Colt, 2011 Al Khalediah Gold Champion Colt, 2010 All Nations Cup Reserve Champion Colt, 2010 and 2011 Qatar International Champion Colt, and 2009 Wels International Champion Colt.

Italy, and the United States, have exceeded our highest expectations.” Another son, Ghasham Al Shaqab, out of Gazala Al Shaqab (Gazal Al Shaqab x Evening Starr) shows ideal conformation and type and was named the 2011 U.S. Egyptian Event Silver Champion Colt at his first and only show thus far.

“Amir Al Shaqab (x Amira Madrona) is a tall and very correct Gazal Al Shaqab son who was 2008 Qatar National Champion, 2009 Qatar Reserve International Champion, and 2010 Wels International Champion,” continues Mohammed. “He bred his first mares during 2010 in Qatar and Italy and sired, arguably, the finest Al Shaqab bred colt for the 2011 season. And we are extremely excited by two other promising Gazal Al Shaqab sons that were foaled in 2010. Saiaf Al Shaqab, a bay from the two-time Reserve World Champion Venetzia (Versace x Giavanna); and Bahr Al Shaqab, a grey from Thourayah Al Shaqab (Ashhal Al Rayyan x Shahirat Al Shaqab) represents four generations of Al Shaqab breeding.

“The Marwan Al Shaqab sons are represented by 2010 U.S. National Top Ten Junior Stallion and 2011 Argentine National Champion Stallion Faraa Al Shaqab (x GW Natorious Star).

Faraa is now on lease to Haras Mayed of Argentina where he has commenced his breeding career having covered fifteen of their finest mares.

“Kahil Al Shaqab (x OFW Mishaahl) is a typey and exuberant champion son of Marwan. In limited outings he has claimed the title of 2009 Wels International Champion Colt, 2011 Menton Gold Champion Colt, 2011 Al Khalediah Gold Champion Colt, 2010 All Nations Cup Reserve Champion Colt, and 2010 and 2011 Qatar International Champion Colt.

“The Marwan Al Shaqab grandson Fadi Al Shaqab (Besson Carol x Abha Myra by Marwan Al Shaqab), earned such titles as 2010 Menton Gold Champion Colt, Al Khalediah 2010 Gold Champion Colt, and 2010 Silver World Champion Colt.” Fadi Al Shaqab proved popular among outside breeders and bred a

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Left: Negma Al Shaqab (Safir x Kajora), in 2010 alone won Las Vegas World Cup Reserve Supreme Champion Mare, U.S. Ebyptian Event Supreme Champion Mare and Senior Champion Mare, and U.S. National Reserve Champion Senior Mare.

Below: Abha Myra (Marwan Al Shaqab x ZT Ludjkalba) is a U.S. National Reserve Champion Junior Mare, Towerlands Champion, Sharjah International and All Nations Cup Reserve Champion and has also produced a champion and future sire in Fadi Al Shaqab.

limited number of mares in 2011.

The Al Shaqab broodmare collection is breathtaking, with individuals astutely hand-picked from every corner of the globe. The foundation mares Kajora (Kaborr x Edjora), dam of Gazal Al Shaqab, and Little Liza Fame (Fame VF x Katahza), dam of Marwan, are well- known, and their names will forever be etched upon the history of the breed. “They have left a lasting legacy at Al Shaqab as well as around the world,” says Mohammed. “We have similar expectations for Johara Al Shaqab (Imperial Mahzeer x Sahaba), the dam of Farhoud Al Shaqab, and of an outstanding collection of straight Egyptian daughters and granddaughters.

Abha Myra (Marwan Al Shaqab x ZT Ludjkalba) is a U.S. National Reserve Champion Junior Mare, Towerlands Champion, Sharjah International and All Nations Cup Reserve Champion and has also produced a champion and future sire in Fadi Al Shaqab. Venetzia (Versace x Giavanna), in producing just her first foal, has proven capable of passing along her most desirable characteristics.

Malvina (Balaton x Mirnaia), an early Al Shaqab purchase from the Tersk Stud of Russia, has made a significant contribution. Like Kajora and Little Liza Fame, Malvina has produced a noteworthy male heir. Through Shahirat Al Shaqab Malvina’s family has now reached a fourth

generation, appropriately represented by Bahr Al Shaqab (Gazal Al Shaqab x Thouraya Al Shaqab) a most promising 2010 grey stallion.”

In terms of bloodlines, Al Shaqab maintains parallel programs — straight Egyptian and contemporary blended pedigrees. “We strive to preserve the straight Egyptian and all Arabian bloodlines through an ever improving breeding program,” says Mohammed. “The straight Egyptian program is headed by World Champion Stallion Al Adeed Al Shaqab (Ansata Halim Shah x Sundar Alisayyah), whose young sons mentioned above will carry his legacy forward, along with his grandson Aadel Al Shaqab (Miad

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Al Shaqab x Shouk Al Shaqab by Al Adeed Al Shaqab) and his maternal brother Hadban Al Shaqab (Ashhal Al Rayyan x Sundar Alisayyah). Al Adeed’s influence is complemented

by Dinary Al Shaqab (Anaza El Nizr x Imperial Sharah) and the ever amazing elder statesman Alidaar (Shaikh Al Badi x Bint Magidaa), who passed away in 2010, at 27 years of age.”

The reputations of the Shaqab stallions have been burnished by their seasons standing on lease at other highly regarded stud farms. The first was Gazal Al Shaqab, who made immeasurable contributions to the Polish state studs in 2002-2003, siring, among others, World, European, U.S. National, and Polish National Champion Mare Emandoria; two-time Polish National Champion and Scottsdale and U.S. National Reserve Champion Pinga, and U.S. National, twotime Polish National, All Nations Cup, European and World Champion Mare Pianissima.

Top left: The 2008 mare Laian Al Shaqab (Al Adeed Al Shaqab x Mesada Al Shaqab), 2011 U.S. Egyptian Event Supreme Champion Female. Top right: Adhaba Al Shaqab (Marwan Al Shaqab x GW Natorious Star), a 2006 mare. Below: The 2010 colt Hariry Al Shaqab (Marwan Al Shaqab x White Silkk).

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“Leasing Gazal Al Shaqab to Poland enabled him to exhibit his ability as a sire and that led to international acclaim,” he adds. “As a result of that success, we have agreed to lease WN Star Of Antigua to Mrs. Shirley Watts of Halsdon Arabians, Great Britain; Faraa Al Shaqab to Mr. Fernando and Mr. Joaquin de Santibanes, of Haras Mayed, Argentina; Hadban Al Shaqab to Dr. Jody Cruz of Rancho Bulakenyo in Los Osos, California; Jadaan Al Shaqab to Mr. Peter and Mrs. Jenny Pond of Forrest Hill Stud, Australia, and we are in negotiations to lease another.”

Meanwhile, Al Shaqab has moved into its new facility.

“This will allow us to provide the greatest level of care for our horses,” says Mohammed. “Today Al Shaqab will serve as the region’s first state-of-the-art equestrian facility and a center for equine excellence.” The complex — which will include a breeding and show center, veterinarian clinic, riding academy, endurance facilities, equestrian club, administrative center, visitors center, atelier for artists, and equine library — will be spread over an area of 980,000 square meters. “It is hoped that it will serve to connect the Qatari people to their tradition of the Arabian horse and equestrian heritage,” adds Mohammed. “This will be a wonderful facility to further develop and showcase our cultural treasure — the Arabian horse. Our highly qualified and dedicated staff will complement the stunning new facilities. I am proud of being a part of Al Shaqab’s contribution to the Arabian horse all over the world. By sharing ideas and bloodlines with other breeders around the globe, we are in the fortunate position of being able to help enhance the Arabian breed internationally. As one Arabian horse family, we all are here to see the same goal carried out — the breed continually progressing and constantly reaching new standards of excellence. I am honored and proud to be a part of this experience that strengthens the Arabian horse, which has always been my

passion in life.”

The underlying philosophy that has led Al Shaqab to become one of the foremost breeding programs in the world is anchored in a belief that success is not only defined by show victories, but is best represented by the health and well-being of each and every horse. The goal for Al Shaqab was perhaps best explained by His Highness The Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani as he stated at the beginning of the new millennium — “Progress and development of modern-day Qatar will reflect, in particular, efforts to maintain the heritage of our forefathers through the noble Arabian horse.” To that end, HH The Emir ensures not only the continuing legacy of the Arabian horse in Qatar, but in the world — a treasure for which we can all be grateful.

Left: Malvina (Balaton x Mirnaia), an early Al Shaqab purchase from the Tersk Stud of Russia, has made a significant contribution to the Al Shaqab program. Above: The 2010 filly Rose Al Shaqab (Marwan Al Shaqab x QR Annah Ferrari).

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l Shahania Stud

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l Shahaniya town is blessed with plentiful water, and here in Qatar’s greenbelt the Arabians of Al Shahania Stud enjoy turnout in irrigated pastures in the shade of the date palms. The beautifully designed barns and grounds make this a showplace befitting the elite of the Arabian racing and show world.

In the late 1980s when Qatar began to hold organized race meets, owner HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Thani purchased the stallion Djendel (Manganate x Mandore), one of the first French-bred horses ever to come to the Middle East. In the years since, Sheikh Mohammed has built a firstclass breeding program, having added three full siblings to Djendel: the mares Mangadore (winner of the 2002 Emirates Championship Group 1 race) and Madjela (winner of the 22 of February Cup, the Rowdat Al Faras Cup, and the Doha Cup), and the stallion Mebrouk, winner of the 2001 Emir’s Sword and several other stakes. These horses were to form the core of what is now a nearly 300-horse program. Roughly half are in England, France, and the U.S. and half are at the farm in Qatar.

In the racing program, one of the current stars is Jaafer (Amer x Madjela), whose thrilling win in the $250,000 Kahayla Classic in 2010, the first on the card on Dubai World Cup Day, was a milestone for Al Shahania Stud. Here in front of the entire racing world, their homebred colt upset the favorites to win his richest race, and the first win for a Qatari horse on Dubai World Cup Day. Four months later in the Shadwell Dubai International Stakes Group-1 for Purebred Arabians at Newbury racecourse in the U.K., Jaafer cruised to an easy victory, the highlight of the final day of the Dubai Summer Festival. This year, Jaafer brought home the eighth Emir’s Sword victory, Qatar’s biggest Arabian race. He is the fourth Emir’s Sword winner bred by Al Shahania. “Anyone can buy a winner, but our goal is to breed winners,” Sheikh Mohammed says. “When you can trace the thinking, the logic, and yes, the hunch, that led to

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that particular breeding decision … when you remember circuit. The state of Qatar sponsors the best racing event your first sight of the precious foal that would one day for Arabian and Thoroughbred horses in Europe, the carry your colors to glory, well, I can hardly express what Qatar Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe, run in October in great pleasure and pride I feel in those moments.”

Longchamp, France. The two Arabian races are the Qatar In reflecting on the numerous international wins Arabian World Cup Sponsored by Qatar Telecom and the earned by his horses, Sheikh Mohammed also points to Qatar French Arabian Breeders Challenge. the French-bred Arawak d’Aroco (Manganate x Arizona), winner of the 1996 Derby du Pur Sang Arabes at Chantilly. Although deceased, he is still siring winners via frozen semen. Many of his get are multiple stakes winners such as the Emir’s Sword winner Kalbarq (x Kalila).

Elixir de Bastorre’s win at Chantilly in the 1996 Prix du Président des Emirats Arabes is another fond memory, as he and Arawak d’Aroco were just two of the horses that led Sheikh Mohammed to be named the 1996 Racehorse Owner of the Year in France.

The Al Shahania Arabian racing broodmare band is considered by many to be one of, if not the best in the world for racing and race breeding. Among those coveted broodmares, Sheikh Mohammed is quick to name Akie Croix Noire as his best.

She was a race winner in France and the U.K. as well as the Middle East, and has produced nine excellent foals. Her daughter Arc de Ciel by Djendel is perhaps the best bred mare and may soon rival her dam as the best producer, Sheikh Mohammed feels.

In 2009 Sheikh Mohammed added the Arabian Horse Trust Hall of Fame mare and Darley Horse of the Year Dixie Darlene (Wiking x BW Ali Catt). “I recognized her as a great broodmare as well as a racehorse,” he says.

Above: Djendel (Manganate x Mandore), one of the first “She’s produced: Dixies Delight (by Sam Tiki) French-bred horses that formed the start of the Al Shahania who has nearly $300,000 in earnings; stakes racing and breeding program. Below: Mared Al Sahra (Amer winner Dixie Dance (by Line Dancer); and x Massamerie), shown here winning the 2008 Emirs Sword Cup. Dixies Valentine (by Nivour de Cardonne), Darley Champion Four-Year-Old Filly of the Year.”

Dixie Darlene produced, via ET, four outstanding foals in 2010 — one filly by Burning Sand in the U.S., one filly by Madj Al Arab in Qatar, and two colts by Emir’s Sword winner Mared Al Sahra. In 2011, Dixie Darlene produced a bay filly by Awarak D’ Aroco, a bay filly by Mared Al Sahra, and a bay colt by Mared Al Sahra.

Each year, Al Shahania sends a string of racehorses to compete in Europe’s big races, while another string races on the Middle East 11 ▪ WAHO QATAR ▪ WORLD

The Emir’s Sword Winners for Al Shahania Farm 1991 Djendel (Manganate x Mandore) Sire of many race champions, including: ✦ Sayf, Emir Cup winner ✦ Arc De Ciel, Emir’s Sword winner ✦ Barbari, race record 18(7,5,2), 2002/2003 winner of the Group III Bani Yas Race, UAE, and the Group III Liwas Oasis Race. He won the Arabian Sprinter Group III in Qatar. ✦ Qassid, winner of the Heir Apparent Sword

1992 Damascus (Strij [by Topol] x Mexica) Winner of: ✦ The 1992 Emir’s Sword — 2,400 meters — purse 100,000 QAR 1993 WF High Voltage (Wiking x Dunasabellina) Winner of: ✦ The 1993 Late Sheikh Suhaim Cup — 2,400 meters ✦ The 1993 22 of February Cup — 2,400 meters ✦ The 1993 HH The Emir’s Sword — 2,400 meters handicap — purse 110,000 QAR

2000 Arc De Ciel (Djendel x Akie Croix Noire) Winner of: ✦ The 2000 Emir’s Sword 2,400 meters — purse 400,000 QAR. She was Al Shahania-bred and the first Qatarowned and -bred Emir’s Sword winner. ✦ The 2000 Qatar International Trophy 1,800 meters — Purse 500,000 QAR ✦ The 1999 UAE HH The President’s Cup 2,200 meters — Purse 500,000 UAE ✦ The 1999 Doha Club Cup — 1,200 meters ✦ The 1999 Doha Derby Trail — 1,800 meters ✦ The 1999 Qatar International Derby — 2,400 meters ✦ The 1999 Doha Al Wajiba Cup

2001 Mebrouk (Manganate x Mandore) Full brother to Djendel, Dormane, Mangadore, Madjela Winner of: ✦ The 2001 Emir’s Sword Race — 2,400 meters — purse 400,000 QAR 2004 Kalbarq (Arawak D’Aroco x Kalila) Winner of: ✦ The Sheikh Suhaim Cup — 1,850 meters ✦ The HH Emir’s Sword — 2,400 meters — purse 400,000 QAR

2008 Mared Al Sahra (Amer x Massamerie) Winner of: ✦ The 2008 Emir’s Sword — 2,400 meters, purse 1,140,000 QAR ✦ The 2010 HH The Heir Apparent Trophy ✦ The 2006 GCC Breeders Champion Race — 1,600 meters — purse 400,000 QAR 2011 Jaafer (Amer x Madjela) Winner of: ✦ The 2011 Emir’s Sword — 2,400 meters — purse 400,000 QAR ✦ The 2010 Kahayla Classic ✦ The 2010 Shadwell Dubai International Stakes Group-1

Jaafer (Amer x Madjela), winning the 2011 Emirs Sword Cup in record time (2,400 meters in 2:37.21).

There is now another arena in which Sheikh Mohammed’s horses are excelling — the Arabian showring. In the past two years he has begun to assemble a beautiful Arabian show string.

“It’s true that I look at Arabians first as athletes, but who doesn’t also love to gaze on something beautiful, for the sake of beauty itself? This is another of life’s great gifts. And I am not immune to the excitement of the Arabian halter ring. So my challenge will be to find a balance between the big, strong, physically capable horse that I admire, and the beauty that I appreciate.

I would also hope that these horses will come to represent a distinctive Al Shahania type, and will earn the respect of fellow breeders … and of course, the judges!

“To that end, I have sought the counsel and ideas from some of the world’s best breeders, visited many farms, and I am excited by the program that is beginning to take shape. Of course I can’t help but be impressed and influenced by the global impact of the two great stallions of Al Shaqab Stud, bred by my brother HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar. So I began by looking for mares that will cross well with Gazal Al Shaqab and Marwan Al Shaqab.”

Sheikh Mohammed’s entry into the show scene was a stunning success. At his first U.S. Nationals competition, his three-year-old filly Abha Qalams (Alfabia Damascus x Abha Mudira) was named U.S. National Champion Junior Mare.

“She’s a big, powerful, pretty horse, and I was taken by her when I first saw her — she stopped and snorted, and displayed such power, energy, and beauty. I also purchased her 2010 colt, Ezz Al Shahania, by Thee Desperado. He’s a very long-necked, longlegged, balanced colt with a pretty face.” Sheikh Mohammed

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Left: Abha Qalams (Alfabia Damascus x Abha Mudira), U.S. National Champion Junior Mare. Below: Barzan Al Shahania (Stival x NW Siena Psyche), 2011 Scottsdale Champion Arabian Classic Junior Colt and Las Vegas World Cup unanimous Supreme Champion Yearling Colt.

Right: A-Malaysia (A Jakarta x Estee Lauder), 2011 Scottsdale Champion Breeders International Classic Junior Filly.

Left: Nada Al Shahania (Besson Carol x MFA Annies Song), 2011 Scottsdale Reserve Champion Breeders International Classic Junior Filly.

also added Abha Qalams’s dam, Abha Mudira (Marwan Al Shaqab x Abha Fetiyeh) to his show program.

The 2011 Scottsdale show brought more glory to Al Shahania when the gorgeous chestnut colt Barzan Al Shahania (Stival x NW Siena Psyche) won Champion Arabian Classic Junior Colt. Two months later, Barzan was crowned unanimous Supreme Champion Yearling Colt at the Las Vegas World Cup show. Also at Scottsdale, the farm’s pretty bay mare Abha Raipur (El Perfecto x Abha Zenobia) won Champion Breeders International Classic Senior Mare, while the filly A-Malaysia (A Jakarta x Estee Lauder) won Champion Breeders International Classic Junior Filly. Reserve to A-Malaysia was another Al Shahania beauty, Nada Al Shahania (Besson Carol x MFA Annies Song).

Nada Al Shahania’s dam, MFA Annies Song (Ludjin El Jamaal x MFA Lilac Tyme) is just one of a number of

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highly esteemed broodmares to join the farm’s breeding program. She foaled a colt by Marwan Al Shaqab in 2011. Other 2011 foals for Al Shahania include four Marwan fillies, a Gazal Al Shaqab filly, two Pershan fillies, a Besson Carol filly and a colt by Safir Al Rayyan.

Looking forward, the champion show and breeding mare Oceania O (Pershahn El Jamaal x Om El Jimala) is in foal to Versace for 2012.

For Sheikh Mohammed, the show horses have added another dimension to his enjoyment of the Arabian breed. “Competition does excite me, whether it’s on the racetrack, the endurance trail, or in the showring,” he says. “It is what drives us to be better, to be excellent. So I welcome it, and now I look forward to competing in the showrings of the world as well. With luck, we will see Al Shahania horses bringing glory to the farm in all the realms in which the Arabian horse competes. Is that a lot to wish for? Perhaps, but the Arabian horse has never disappointed me, for when all is said and done, his very being is glory enough.”

Top left: Abha Raipur (El Perfecto x Abha Zenobia), 2011 Scottsdale Champion Breeders International Classic Senior Mare. Top right: champion show and breeding mare Oceania O (Pershahn El Jamaal x Om El Jimala) is in foal to Versace for 2012. Left: The filly Piacenza (QR Marc x Primawera), was recently purchased at the 2011 Pride of Poland sale.

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Umm arn

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he stable/stud “Umm Qarn” is located within the 1,400 acres (approx.

600 hectares) of Umm Qarn Farm, situated in a natural oasis some 32 kms north of Doha in the northeast quarter of the Qatar Peninsula. His Highness Sheikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Thani, presently Special Adviser to HH the Emir of Qatar, established Umm Qarn in 1988. A keen sportsman himself, he was anxious to share his love of horses and equestrian sports with the younger generation and in this he appears to have been successful as several of his sons have interests in racehorses in Europe, and in general, young Qataris are entering equine sports in large numbers.

With a priority on sound, wellconformed horses he began by acquiring some of the finest Arabian racing lines from all over the world and was rewarded with wins in top Arabian races worldwide. By careful selection of top broodmare lines, the farm has bred worldclass Arabian racehorses such as General, Al Dahma, Majd Al Arab, Nizam, Dahess, Al Anood, and Mutabahi.

During the foundation years, Umm Qarn also took part in endurance competitions, showing, and Thoroughbred racing.

The Qatar International Desert Marathon, run under FEI rules over a true marathon distance from Ras Laffan to Ruwais, was held annually from 1994 to 1997 and was won by Umm Qarn three times. Umm Qarn also won many international show prizes and owned the well-known Thoroughbred Midnight

Above: Main entrance, Majlis, and offices fronting the main racing barn. Left: Early morning on the way to the track.

Legend who won top races at Royal Ascot and Goodwood, UK. The present stable features state-of-the-art facilities for race training and breeding, with five air-conditioned stables, grass and sand paddocks, two training racetracks (one sand, one grass), an equine swimming pool, a solarium, treadmill with wind resistance facility, a 15-horse walker and lunging area, a dedicated veterinary laboratory, advanced treatment room, and a fully equipped workshop for the farriers. Umm Qarn stands several successful racing stallions at stud, with others available by artificial insemination.

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Left: An unmistakable AMER (Wafi x Bushra) in an International race in UK. 1996. Below: General (Amer x Al Hanoof) winning a close finish at Longchamp 2010.

STALLIONS: AMER (Wafi x Bushra): A superb racehorse and a phenomenal sire with some great Arabian racehorses among his progeny.

Exported from Saudi Arabia to Qatar in 1987, Amer raced successfully worldwide for many years. Even as a 12-year-old he raced six times, winning five times and being placed third in the 1996 Dubai Stakes.

Top progeny of Amer (all bred by Umm Qarn) include: Al Dahma (x Al Hanoof) — 13 Group 1 wins.

Dahess (x Danie du Cassou) — 10 Group 1 wins.

Al Anood (x Dandoura) — 7 Group 1 wins.

Majd Al Arab (x Djelmila) — 5 Group 1 wins. Now at stud at Umm Qarn.

Mugadir (x Kachia) – won 17 of 19 starts including HH the Emir’s Trophy (2005 and 2006); HH the Heir Apparent’s Sword (2005 and 2006); HH the Prime Minister’s Trophy (2005 and 2006).

Raqiyah (x Sarahmina) – 4 Group 1 wins.

General (x Al Hanoof) – 3 Group 1 wins.

Mutabahi (x Geran) – 4 Group 1 wins.

Nizam (x Nerva du Cassou) – 3 Group 1 wins. Now at stud at Umm Qarn.

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Dahess (Amer x Danie du Cassou) has 10 Group 1 wins and is Amer’s most successful son.

Al Anood (Amer x Dandoura) has seven Group 1 wins, pictured here far left winning the Zaabeel International Stakes in 2002.

Mutabahi (Amer x Geran) has four Group 1 wins and is pictured here winning the Zaabeel International Stakes in 2001.

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Rasheeqah (Amer x Noorah), winner of the GCC Champion Breeders Trophy (Championship Class), Rayyan Park Qatar 1600m; French Arabian Breeders Cup - Group 1, Longchamps France March 10, 2010, 2000m. Bottom left: Rasheeqah after winning the French Arabian Breeders Challenge for four-year-old fillies, Longchamp. Pictured left to right: trainer M. Alban de Mieulle, jockey Olivier Peslier, and HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa Al Thani.

Bottom right: Pictured left to right are trainer M. Alban de Mieulle, Sheikh Suhaim bin Abdullah holding the trophy, Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa Al Thani, and Jockey Oliver Peslier.

STALLIONS AT STUD: DJEBBEL (Djelfor x Cherifa) won 11 races in France, the UK, and Qatar and $500,000 in prize money. His final year of racing before retirement to stud was exceptional with wins in the Prix du Président UAE at Chantilly for the second year running and at the UK Dubai Meeting where he won the Dubai International Stakes. Other notable wins include the Emir’s Sword Race (twice) and the Qatar Derby. In France he was named “1998 Older Horse of The Year.”

Djebbel has sired 33 winners of more than 87 races in Europe, the Middle East, and the U.S., including: Mukheefah (QA) (x Nasrat) – winner of 13 races in Qatar.

Mabrun (x Volna) – Group 1 winner. Emirates Championship in Abu Dhabi.

Djenius (U.S.) (x Silky Way) – Group 1 winner, Arabian Cup Juvenile Stakes in the U.S. Skan Skan (x Saklia) – Group 2 winner, Abu Dhabi Championship in Holland.

Sadjella (x Saffiah) – Group 3 winner, President of UAE International Challenge in Holland.

Dherwah (QA) (x Al Jowharah) – winner of 6 races in Qatar.

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MAJD AL ARAB (Amer x Djelmila); the son of these two exceptional racehorses has won four Group 1 races including: ✦ Hatta International Stakes ✦ HH the Emir’s Sword ✦ French Arabian Breeders’ Cup Classic ✦ Shadwell Dubai International Stakes He retired to stud in 2007. His eldest progeny will be eligible to race in 2011.

MUGADIR (Amer x Kachia). The French mare Kachia was also the dam of race winners Keilan, Murhib, Lamyah, and Damis.

Mugadir won 17 of 19 starts in Qatar including: ✦ HH the Emir’s Trophy (2005 and 2006) ✦ HH the Heir Apparent’s Sword (2005 and 2006) ✦ HH the Prime Minister’s Trophy (2005 and 2006) Mugadir stood at public stud for the first time in 2009.

NIZAM (Amer x Nerva du Cassou) raced between 2002 and 2005 with a race record of 21 (14-3-2). He won 3 Group 1 races, HH the Emir’s Sword, the HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Thani Trophy, and Zabeel International Stakes, and was placed in three others. He has been at public stud for three seasons. His first foals were bred at Umm Qarn in 2006 and 2007. So far he has four runners: Qahir, a multiple winner; Dharr (x Djelmila), who won his first race at Rayyan Park, Qatar, in February2011; Tabarak (x Altesse D’ Aroco), who won two races including the Group 1 race Coup de France in Chantilly in July 2011; and Shafihah (x Mabrookah), who placed in Qatar’s Doha Cup race in Duindigt, Holland, in June 2011.

Above: Overhead view from owner’s gallery, central aisle, main racing barn. Left: Trainer M. Alban de Mieulle receiving Malazgirt Trophy for General in Turkey 2010.

PHOTO CREDITS: BRIENSPHOTO, JUHAIM QREC, TJK

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l Naif Stud

by Glenn Jacobs

The multi-champion stallion Ansata Nile Echo (Ansata Hejazi x Ansata White Nile by Prince Fa Moniet).

T

hirty minutes outside Doha, the capital of Qatar, there is a green oasis surrounded by windswept deserts. Al Naif Stud, established in 1996 by Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasir Al Ahmed Al Thani and managed by Mr. Rashid Al Malki, has been producing some of the finest straight Egyptian Arabian horses in the region and perhaps even worldwide. In addition to its breeding program, Al Naif Stud is home to 150 racehorses of French Arabian and English Thoroughbred origin.

Of these, many have claimed international victories in the Arabian Gulf and also in Europe.

The first Arabian horses arrived from England, soon followed by straight Egyptians were imported from the U.S. and from Australia. Today Al Naif Stud’s straight Egyptian program consists of some 40 horses and each year some 10 foals are born.

Our breeding is extremely selective, so our breeding decisions are based on the knowledge we have gained over the years about the breeding capabilities of our mares, the family lines, pedigrees, and the superb stallions we have available in Qatar.

Our first straight Egyptian foal was born in 1997 — the beautiful grey Shahlika (Ansata Halim Shah x Bint Hassema) came over from the U.S. in foal to Ansata Hejazi, and she produced Hejazia Al Naif. One of Hejazia’s youngest daughters, Rayyana Al Naif (by Shagran Al Nasser), garnered the titles of Qatar International Egyptian Event Junior Champion Filly and Qatar National Junior Bronze Champion Filly.

Two promising colts that grew into two of the most important stallions in Qatar were imported in 1996 as well: the U.S.-born unbeaten Get of Sire Champion Ansata Shalim, the youngest son of Ansata Halim Shah out of Ansata Nefertari by Prince Fa Moniet; and the incomparable multi-champion Ansata Nile Echo by Ansata Hejazi out of Ansata White Nile by Prince Fa Moniet. Ansata Nile Echo is beauty in motion and widely known as the “King of Trot.” He distinguishes himself by his powerful and fluid movements, which he passes on to his get.

Ansata Nile Echo descends from the same magnificent cross that produced the exquisite sisters Wafaa El Kuwait and Ansata Nile Pearl. The famous Nile family traces back to the Ansata foundation mare Falima (Ansata Ibn Halima x Fa-Habba by Fadl) and is pure in the Dahman Shahwan strain.

Most of the horses imported in 1996 were still young, so it was not until 1999 that the first steps were made toward creating the breeding program we have today. Several mares were bred, resulting in two major international straight Egyptian champions in 2000 and 2001. The first was Jandeh Al Naif (Ansata Shalim x Ansata Nile Gypsy by Ansata Hejazi), a more refined version of his sire, who won multiple show titles over the years, including Qatar National Champion, Qatar International Reserve Champion Stallion, and several international championships in Europe. Jandeh Al Naif ’s winning streak has

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Top left: Johara Al Naif (Ansata Shalim x Al Johara

by Prince Fa Moniet), European Egyptian Event Champion Mare and Egyptian of the Year, Blömmerod International Champion Mare, Qatar International Reserve Champion Mare, World Champion Junior Mare, Qatar International Junior Champion Mare, and Dubai International Junior Reserve Champion Mare.

Bottom left: Ansata Mouna (Farres x Talmona by Talmaal), Qatar National Champion Mare, Wels International Reserve Champion Mare, and Blömmerod International Brozne Champion Mare. Bottom right: Tabraa Al Naif (Ansata Nile Echo x Ansata Mouna).

an added touch of finesse and quality provided to him through his dam’s renowned lineage; Ansata Nile Gypsy comes from a world-class pedigree of champions and champion producers.

In 2001, another noteworthy and exquisite Ansata Shalim offspring was born in the depths of the desert, the ethereal Johara Al Naif (x Al Johara by Prince Fa Moniet). Her name means “Jewel of Al Naif,” and that she certainly is. She captivated the hearts of judges and fans alike in Europe and achieved the ultimate status of World Champion Junior Filly

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Top left: Mezna Al Rayyan (Imperial Mahzeer x Ansata Magnifica by Ansata Halim Shah). Top right: Thamrath Al Naif (Ansata Nile Echo x Jo Sahja).

Bottom: Toya Al Naif (Al Adeed Al Shaqab x Simeon Seate).

at the Salon du Cheval in Paris in 2002, making her one of a select group of straight Egyptians that have won this highly prestigious championship.

We recently incorporated our young stallion Ebtiyaj Al Naif (Ansata Nile Echo x Ansata Aya Nadira by Jamill) into our breeding program. This impressive son of Ansata Nile Echo adds the “old” valuable blood of Jamill, Ansata Ibn Halima, and Ansata Bint Bukra up close in his pedigree.

Many of the gorgeous mares at Al Naif are homebred and represent the qualities we look for in an Arabian horse; we focus on refinement, conformation, athletic ability, and movement. We aim to breed the highest quality possible and keep the numbers small. We often sell horses that excel in showrings far beyond the borders of Qatar.

The majority of the Al Naif straight Egyptian collection have either produced winning offspring and/or are halter champions themselves.

After a decade of breeding we have come to a stage at which we have a perfect understanding of what our mares will produce when bred to the right stallions, and with each foaling season we are proven right. Establishing a breeding program is a matter of being open-minded, having patience, gaining knowledge, experience, and a little luck.

At present the foundation has been set for progress. With a past so rich in genetic excellence, the future becomes easier to predict.

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l Nasser Stud

by Glenn Jacobs

O

nce you enter the gates of Al Nasser Stud, a field of palm trees arises and you are welcomed by an exquisite group of white mares. You feel as if you had stepped from the desert into paradise.

Al Nasser Stud was founded by Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser Al Thani in the early 90s. It was the first farm in Qatar to introduce modern Arabian horse breeding into the country.

Meanwhile, the farm has grown successfully to become one of the cornerstones of Qatar’s increasingly celebrated Arabian horse industry.

Home to around 45 Arabian horses mainly of straight Egyptian origin, Al Nasser Stud has been victorious both in the Middle Eastern and European show scene since its breeding

The 2005 straight Egyptian stallion Shagran Al Nasser (Ansata Selman x Dana Al Nasser), champion and sire of champions in both Europe and Qatar.

program began. Imperial Madanah, one of the first imports, created an important legacy of her own; she is the dam of Qatar National Champion Stallion Thaqib Al Nasser (by Ansata Halim Shah) who was exported to Australia, of champion mares Leen Al Nasser (by Alidaar), Noof Al Nasser (by Ashhal Al Rayyan), and of Dana Al Nasser who in turn is the dam of Al Nasser Stud’s famed young stallion Shagran Al Nasser. He has had an admirable show career for the past few years and his get are now winning championship honors both in Europe and in Qatar, with only a handful of foals on the ground.

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Right: Bint Saida Al Nasser (Imperial Mahzeer x Saida by Hassan), reserve World Champion Mare at the Salon du Cheval in Paris. Below: The straight Egyptian stallion Imperial Mahzeer (Imperial Madheen x Maar Bilahh by El Halimaar), has complemented the Al Nasser mares that were imported from the U.S., Europe, and Morocco.

Among many exquisite homebred mares, the queen of the farm Bint Saida Al Nasser (Imperial Mahzeer x Saida by Hassan) achieved the title of reserve World Champion Mare at the Salon du Cheval in Paris. She has recently returned to Europe to perpetuate her breeding excellence. She is also the dam of the well-know stallion Laheeb Al Nasser (by Al Adeed Al Shaqab), owned by DeShazer Arabians in the U.S. Her foals are eagerly anticipated by both Sheikh Nawaf and by Al Nasser’s stud manager Mr. Hendrik Mens.

Bint Saida Al Nasser’s sire Imperial Mahzeer, is a son of Imperial Madheen. Acquired by Sheikh Nawaf as a two-yearold, this long-legged, flea-bitten stallion has complemented the gorgeous mares that were imported from the U.S., Europe, and Morocco. Mahzeer has lived up to Sheikh Nawaf ’s expectations and his blood is highly valued in the straight Egyptian breeding programs of Qatar.

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Right: The stallion Monther Al Nasser (Ansata Hejazi x Aliah Al Nasser), who has claimed lots of interest among European breeders while standing at Schoukens Training Center in Belgium. Below: The mare Amira Al Nasser (Mujahid x Bint Saida Al Nasser).

Another noteworthy Imperial Mahzeer daughter is Aliah Al Nasser, who is out of the Ali Jamaal daughter Dyn Aliah. Aliah Al Nasser has been an outstanding producer for Al Nasser Stud: Remal Al Nasser (by Ashhal Al Rayyan) became Qatar National Champion Mare the same year Aliah’s Marwan Al Shaqab daughter Rihab Al Nasser walked away with the Qatar National Champion Filly title. The ultra refined Qatar National Champion Marwa Al Nasser, Aliah’s Marwan Al Shaqab daughter, was sold to Ajman Stud and became Sharjah International Champion Filly for her new owner. The most famous offspring of Aliah must be Monther Al Nasser (by Ansata Hejazi). This tall, handsome, typey stallion claimed lots of interest among European breeders while standing at Schoukens Training Center in Belgium. His pedigree boasts many of the breed’s outstanding champions and champion producers and at the same time he offers an outcross for several breeding programs.

With exceptional Al Nasser-bred horses around the world, the influence of Sheikh Nawaf ’s distinguished breeding program is guaranteed to leave a lasting mark.

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l Maha Farm

by Glenn Jacobs

T

here is one place in the Qatari desert where it is possible to walk among trees and over a flowing stream, watch brightly colored birds of paradise flit about and listen to vivid yellow golden conures chattering away at you.

It’s not a mirage, but the superb wildlife reserve of Al Wabra. Powered by Sheikh Saoud bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani’s admiration for nature, this divine animal sanctuary is also home to Al Maha Farm, where the focus is on breeding black straight Egyptian horses.

Al Maha’s program consists of some 40 horses, and every year about a dozen foals are born. Among the prestigious group of mares is Bint Moniettaa (Thee Outlaw x Jaytee Monietta) — she is an exquisite and refined black mare that already produced some wonderful offspring. Once you enter the stables you are greeted by her son, the equally impressive homebred stallion Soker (by DP Saud El Halima).

This exceptional individual of European and American Egyptian origin must be one of the most exotic Egyptian black stallions in the world today. He stamps his foals

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Top: The Al Maha-bred black stallion Soker (DP Saud El Halima x Bint Moniettaa). Bottom: The dam of Soker Bint Moniettaa (Thee Outlaw x Jaytee Monietta), pictured with manager Abdelhak.

Left: Amira Al Maha (Soker x Julianna El Jamaal), a stunning filly with a bright future in the showring and the breeding barn. Middle: The stallion Badi Al Maha (Ashhal Al Rayyan x Julianna El Jamaal), already successful in the showring, has recently started his breeding career. Bottom: A 2011 filly and full sister to the stallion Soker (DP Saud El Halima x Bint Moniettaa).

with his typey look and floating movements. This year, Al Maha Farm was blessed with a full sister to Soker. She exhibits the same qualities as her brother and is extreme in every way.

Sheikh Saoud imported various horses from Germany.

One of the mares, Madallah Madheen (Ansata El Salaam x Madinah), traveled back to Europe and had two exceptional Ansata Nile Echo offspring this year by embryo transfer.

Madallah Madheen is the youngest daughter of Madinah, the dam of the incomparable Imperial Madheen.

Grazing the pastures of Al Maha Farm as well is the alluring Julianna El Jamaal (Ali Jamaal x NV Justa Dream

by Bey Shah). She is the dam of the bay Amira Al Maha (by Soker), a stunning filly with a bright future ahead of her both in the showring and in the breeding barn. Also among Julianna’s offspring is the splendid Badi Al Maha (by Ashhal Al Rayyan). This stallion has been very successful in the showring and has recently started his breeding career. Given his looks and exceptional pedigree, excitement is rising over the birth of his first foals early next year.

Sheikh Saoud’s passion for rare and beautiful animals, from exotic species to black straight Egyptian Arabians, will ensure the future of these precious creatures for ages to come.

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l Samariyah

D

rive west of Doha across the white-sand desert toward the pleasant destination of Al Samariyah, near the town of Al Shahania. Beyond the new barn under construction, peacocks forage in the freshly plowed fields and in the shade of the date palms. Here, HE Sheikh Faisal bin Jassim Al Thani has created something beyond imagining: his own museum — a replica of a Qatari fort — filled to the brim with his collections of everything from American muscle cars, cameras, and Korans, dhows and swords, guns and knives, jewelencrusted breastplates, and on and on. A mind-boggling museum measured in acres, rather than square footage.

Around every corner another stupendous item prompts more “wows” from visitors.

Although it is private, Sheikh Faisal opens the museum to the public by appointment.

Sheikh Faisal and his brother HE Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani also breed Arabian horses, and Sheikh Faisal hosts the Al Samariyah Equestrian Center where 130 students per week take lessons, both run by general manager Pegi Jones and her daughter Sian Jones. The brothers’ farms are next door to each other and there is some intermingling of stock.

The farms place a priority on correctness, movement, legs, and beauty. “We are very lucky here in Qatar to have some of the world’s best Arabians, and we feel that it is important to breed quality,” says Pegi. “We have used Al Adeed Al Shaqab on our foundation mare Naama Al Shaqab and have a wonderful stallion by him. Marwan Al Shaqab and Gazal Al Shaqab have also covered mares here and given us very nice offspring. Star Of Antigua, Ashhal Al Rayyan and Ansata Selman are also represented in the herd. WH Justice is another stallion I would really like to use on our mares here at Al Samariyah.”

Top right: Judals Oasis (Qamar El Dine x TFA Mira), 2010 British National Champion Colt, pictured here with HE Sheikh Faisal bin Jassim Al Thani’s son, Sheikh Turki. Top left: Sheikh Turki and riding school manager Megan Jones with two of Al Samariyah’s endurance champions, Boss Zen (EF Boss x JQ Count Sheila), left, and Aasad. Bottom: Sheikh Turki astride Ohio (Ras El Jadi x AZ Enigma), a Horseof-the-Year-placed stallion in 2010

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According to Sheikh Hamad the most promising colt, and the one horse he’s bred who comes closest to his ideal is Fouad Al Gharafa (Marwan Al Shaqab x Al Jazia Al Oula), a three-year-old.

The Stud was founded in 2005 with a generous gift from H.H. The Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the exquisite mare Naama Al Shaqab. “She proved to us how versatile the Arabian is, and how a true Arabian mare’s temperament should be,” says Sheikh Faisal. After producing numerous foals for the stud by various World Champion stallions, it was decided by show manager Sian Jones that Naama would be put under saddle. Having won the Qatar National and International under saddle, she

competed in the UAE where she was third in the Dubai Arabian Championship and went on to win the Sharjah International Show. “Following her success in the Gulf we decided that it would be a dream come true to qualify one of our horses to the Horse of the Year Show in England,” says Sian. “With only twelve qualification tickets and 80 mares competing in this category, Naama picked up her ticket on only her second outing in the U.K. To be able to achieve this dream was a very emotional and proud moment for the farm.”

Left: HE Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani, Sheikh Faisal’s brother, with the six-year-old stallion Al Dhaby Al Shaqab (Adnan Al Shaqab x Naama Al shaqab).

Below: The owner of Al Samariyah, Sheikh Faisal bin Qasim Al Thani, built a beautiful museum in which to house his vast collection of everything from American muscle cars to Persian carpets to old sailing dhows.

The dhows float on a man-made lake in front of the museum.

Bottom: Al Samariyah mares, from left: Jabask Magenta (Bru-Bet Seradro x McMadchens Jabak), with general manager Pegi Jones; show manager Sian Jones holding Naama Al Shaqab (Sabiell x Biriusa), with Sheikh Turki; Elmina (Harbin x Elzunia), with Arabian Horse World publisher Denise Hearst; and Djelfa de Faust (Djelfor x Fabalia) with Hannie Maasdijk.

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l Rayyan Farm

V

isitors to the annual international shows in Qatar have always coveted invitations to Al Rayyan Farm’s presentations of ethereal white mares, each one more exotic than the next. We treasure snapshots of such occasions, like the evening many years ago when guests were seated around the perimeter of a grass paddock. As the tea boys poured warming brews and the incense burners trailed intoxicating scents, a stallion was led prancing into the spotlight. He stood, backlit, his outline quivering in the cool night air. He announced himself with a mighty neigh. This was Safir (Salaa El Dine x Aisha, or as she is known at the farm, Bint Halim Shah).

Ashhal Al Rayyan (Safir x Ansata Majesta), below and pictured above right with Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Khaled Al Thani.

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We thought we had never seen anything so beautiful in our lives … until dainty RN Farida (Salaa El Dine x Noha by Hadban Enzahi) joined him.

Fast forward many years to the farm’s head sire Ashhal Al Rayyan, a son of Safir, and out of one of the farm’s winningest mares, Ansata Majesta (Ansata Halim Shah x Ansata Malika).

Ashhal, Qatar National Champion Colt, International Junior Champion Colt, and Qatar International Champion Stallion is now one of the leading straight Egyptian sires in the region. Among his international-winning get: Nadrah Al Rayyan, Darine Al Rayyan, Dorar, and Athenaa.

Meanwhile, RN Farida amassed an impressive show record of her own: Jordan International Junior Champion Filly 1998; Middle East Junior Champion Filly 1998; Qatar National Senior Champion Mare 1999; Qatar International Reserve Senior Champion Mare 2000; and Qatar International Champion Mare 2001. She is the dam of the farm’s young sire Safir Al Rayyan (by Ashhal Al Rayyan). Now 16 years old, she is heavily flea-bitten and possesses an unbelievable dry and chiseled face and a RN Farida (Salaa El Dine x Noha) with Sheikh Saoud, the son of Al large flat cheek. Arabian heads simply do Rayyan’s founder Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Khalid Al Thani. not come more beautiful than hers.

Just off a busy street in the historic city of Al-Rayyan, Al Rayyan Farm has one of the world’s best-known Egyptian Arabian breeding programs. After “The most special horse on the farm to me is RN nearly 23 years of breeding, and more than 350 foals with Farida. She’s not our best producer — once you are the 35 coming in 2012, the stud is the pride of its founder top where can you go? But hopefully we can get Farida Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Khalid Al Thani. His oldest son, back in the next generation. We have Obeyyah Al Rayyan, Sheikh Saoud, is becoming more involved with the farm’s her granddaughter by Safir Al Rayyan, who looks like her. breeding and operation. Recently, we had a conversation And of course, Safir Al Rayyan himself, out of RN Farida, with the young sheikh about his passion for Arabians. is Ashhal’s best son.

“I was born on this farm. From when I was a child I “Our best producers are Ansata Majesta, the dam of had a love for horses. All my toys were horses. My videos Ashhal Al Rayyan, and Ansata Sherifa, a most important were horses. I feel that I will be like my Dad one day. The mare for us. We have four generations from her, each one a first time I thought I would be a breeder was when I went great producer. along with my Dad on his travels to visit farms in Europe.

“Al Rayyan type is characterized by the look of the I was at Dr. Nagel’s. It was Salaa El Din’s 20th birthday. I face from the front: the wide-set eyes, small ears, tapered felt special, seeing him. And even more so knowing that it muzzle. Our logo is Ashhal, who best represents my could be my last chance. He died the next year. father’s breeding.

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“A ‘must have’ for me is a big eye. The first thing I look at is the eye — if it’s talking to me. It’s the way to see what the horse is. And, I can’t live with a horse that’s not balanced.

“We rarely use outside stallions but we did lease Ansata Hejazi, a most beautiful stallion. From him we got Farres Al Rayyan out of G Shafaria. We gave him to Sheikh Nawaf but we used him and are very pleased. Sinan Al Rayyan (Ansata Sinan x Al Wajba Al Rayyan) was sold to Kuwait but came back for two seasons.”

We asked Sheikh Saoud to tell us his favorite moment in all his years with Arabians, and he shared this transcendent vignette of a secret “showing” he once conducted: “The most beautiful thing I saw in my life was here in Doha. I have always thought that Sheikh Nawaf ’s Reserve World Champion Mare Bint Saida Al Nasser and our RN Farida were the two most beautiful mares in the world, not just Qatar. I wanted to know who was better. I had the opportunity to see them together when Saida came here to be bred. I came to the stables alone at night and passed by her stall and recognized her. I thought “How?” I asked a groom to bring her out. She was incredible. Then I asked for Farida. I put them together in a paddock, loose. You know how horses,

Top: The stallion Safir Al Rayyan (Ashhal Al Rayyan x RN Farida), Ashhal’s best son. Bottom: Obeyyah Al Rayyan (Safir Al Rayyan x Al Mansoura Al Rayyan).

when seeing each other for the first time look at each other?

Well, it was like that. There was no squealing or fighting. They just looked at each other. If I were an artist I would have painted that scene. I didn’t tell anyone what I had done until now. And no, I didn’t get my answer.

“My dream? To keep this program to the last day of my life … for my children.”

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THE FARMS: Al Shaqab www.AlShaqab.com

Al Shahania www.AlShahaniaStud.com

Umm Qarn Farm www.UmmQarn.com

Al Naif Stud www.AlNaifStud.com

Al Nasser Phone: +974 55874502

Al Maha Phone: +974 66268033

Al Samariyah Phone: +974 55257203

Al Rayyan Farm www.AlRayyanFarm.com

Hannie Maasdijk WAHO Conference Coordinator Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club +974.4419.7639 路 mobile: +974.5551.5874 路 www.wahoqatar2011.com

Designed and produced by Arabian Horse World 路 www.arabianhorseworld.com 路 09/2011