U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPION • ABWC GOLD CHAMPION • SCOTTSDALE RESERVE SENIOR CHAMPION Delacroixx x La Belle Shawan HVP | Owned by Aspire Arabians, LLC
When Aria La Croixx made his 3-year-old debut at the 2023 Scottsdale show, he did so in spectacular fashion, winning his class and earning the Reserve Champion Senior Stallion title. Ivan and Sheryl Osorio weren’t looking for colts for their Aspire Arabians when they first saw him as a yearling. They already had their homebred Ernando AA, a Scottsdale champion and Mid Summer Nationals Reserve Champion. Another colt the same age wasn’t in their plans. But La Croixx was unforgettable.
“He was just spectacular,” Ivan stresses. “He caught our eye and made a big impression. He has great presence and a lot of energy, and he is very correct.” Sheryl adds, “We liked him, but weren’t shopping for colts, so we didn’t buy him at first. But then Andy Sellman redirected our attention to him at the Mid Summer Nationals in Tulsa.” In fact, Aria La Croixx was named the Mid Summer National Champion Yearling Colt, placing just ahead of Ernando. “We wrote the check at the show and took him back to Scottsdale,” Sheryl confirms.
Orrion Farms’ head trainer, Andy, was intimately familiar with La Croixx’s sire, Delacroixx, who was born on his Argent Farms in Wisconsin. “I showed him as a yearling and he was Reserve National Champion Yearling Colt,” he says. “Then I showed him to the U.S. National Champion Futurity Colt title and to Arabian Breeders World Cup (ABWC) Gold Championship Junior Colt honors. He was an effervescent colt with tremendous energy and attitude all the time. At Sahara Arabians, I saw La Croixx’s mother, the Brazilian import La Belle Shawan HVP, who is absolutely to-die-for beautiful. La Croixx’s pedigree is rock solid and should make him a valuable breeding horse.”
The ABWC format has each horse shown individually, and the Aspire team decided to show both La Croixx and Ernando in the 2022 edition. Andy showed them to first and second place in their class. With Ted Carson stepping in to handle Ernando in the championship, La Croixx was the unanimous Gold Champion and Ernando was Silver. “The six ABWC championships are coveted by horsemen,” Andy explains. “Ivan and Sheryl had primarily shown performance horses and so weren’t yet recognized as part of the halter scene. There was a buzz when they won a Gold and Silver. It was quite an achievement for a small breeder to do so well at that show. I really love Ivan and Sheryl. They aren’t in the horse business for the social aspects, they are in it because they truly love their horses.”
They showed both colts again in the new Breeding Pays Futurity at the 2022 U.S. Nationals. This time, Ernando was the high-scoring colt and and La Croixx was 3rd out of the
20+ colt class. Even so, Andy decided to show La Croixx in the championship and let Ted handle Ernando again. Sure enough, La Croixx was the unanimous Breeding Pays Futurity Champion, winning $35,000. “I chose to lead him because he is the ultimate show horse. Any day of the week, he is ready to put on a show. He is an extremely beautiful animal, but he has the energy, extreme confidence, and sparkle that a winning show horse needs. A lot of colts his age negotiates with their handler constantly. This guy doesn’t do that. He bottles his energy into happy, positive, rather than combative energy. His brain puts him over the top.”
For the time being, La Croixx will rest on his laurels. “Breeding is the most exciting part of the business for me,” Ivan attests. “On the horizon is the Nationals, but obviously breeding La Croixx this year is a priority. We only have a couple of our own mares old enough to breed because we believe in letting them mature before they become mothers. We want good producers that will complement him and are securing embryo rights from some outstanding mares. It is a very convenient and effective way of breeding and seeing what he can do.” Andy concurs. “We don’t feel urgency to show during the summer. We prefer to get his breeding career going and get some mares pregnant. Then, we’ll get ready for Nationals.” ■
When and where were you introduced to the Arabian horse?
My mother loved Arabian horses, and when I was just a boy of about 9 in 1978, she took me to an Arabian horse show at Tom Chancey’s old place on Bell Road in Scottsdale. Sadly, my mother never had the opportunity to own a horse before she passed, but because of her love for Arabians, I began to pay more and more attention over the years. She was the one that planted the seed.
Was there a particular event that catapulted you into the business of Arabian horses?
I just decided to jump right in. My plan was to buy unwanted horses, train them/tune them up and resell them for more. The first horse I purchased was an off the racetrack Thoroughbred in 1995 named Ginger. After doing some groundwork on her and retraining, and reselling her for a profit, I was hooked! The farm I boarded her at happened to be owned by a breeder of Arabian horses and was next door to Bill Finley, the manager of the syndicate for Aladdinn Echo. It was also just down the street from Iris Gallett, the breeder and birthplace of Aladdinn Echo and sire of the great Echo Magnifficoo. Bill’s passion for Arabians was a big influence on me. I spoke with him daily and helped him care for his Arabians, and in exchange he taught me the basics of how to evaluate and train Arabian horses. I began to see the specifics of their beauty; now understanding why my mother had such a love for them. I decided! I want to create the perfect Arabian horse as I see it in my mind’s eye. I became a breeder.
What was it about the Arabian horse? Why not airplanes, boats, or another breed?
The foundation of my dedication to Arabian horses has multiple factors. First, it’s really my love of art, my need for perfection, my extreme love of animals, my creative nature, and my desperate need to express myself, much like an architect or a builder. I love and appreciate other breeds of horses, but for me, as it relates to this, Arabian horses are my everything.
When did you begin PCF Arabians and where does the name come from?
My first Arabian foal was born in 1996, but the name PCF didn’t come about until a little bit later. It stands for Peacemaker’s Choice Farms. I wanted a name that was as simple as my brand. My thought was that whenever PCF would be seen in a pedigree, the farm or breeder of that animal would be unmistakable as it is the actual name of my farm, not just initials.
Once you were in, what were your dreams and goals for PCF Arabians?
To consistently create foals with timeless Arabian type/beauty with a focus on correct conformation, athleticism, and of course, charisma, as I love the thrill and beauty of a horse’s individual desire for expression. My dream is to set the bar for what is possible. To create individuals with no attribute overlooked but rather created in the extremes—horses that have an origin and brand that is unmistakable.
Are you the main horse lover in your family or are there other family members? Is this a solo venture or a family goal?
It’s my passion, and many of my children have a strong love and appreciation for the horses and they support me and my goals with PCF. Karina built a career around painting them, Elise and Zach enjoy showing amateur, and the younger ones enjoy being around them.
Sam and Sandy Peacemaker
Carlinhos Soouza
Travis Rice
How do you choose your matings? What is your approach?
I approach each potential pairing with a careful study of the look and pedigree of the stallion and the mare and focus more on creating matches of similar phenotypes with horses in the recent side of their pedigrees that have the same look or similar attributes. This lends to a higher likelihood of a predictable outcome. I like this approach rather than matching individuals that would potentially fix each other’s faults. A broadbase of quality mares, largely unfaulty, is key.
Let’s talk about PCF Vision. How did he come about and what does he bring to his daughters to make them such amazing producers? What will he bring to the international table?
My hope in breeding PCF Vision’s sire Marwan Al Shaqab to his dam Veronica GA was to produce a horse that had the neck and shoulder, type and charisma that runs strong through a few generations of his pedigree. I hoped to create a horse that not only exhibited these traits, but who had them condensed in his genotype, making him a strong producer of those attributes. Vision was actually the second attempt I made at this pairing. The first was a nice colt but didn’t quite meet my expectations. I believed in the match and Patti Scheier, then owner of the renowned National Champion mare Veronica GA, and I made an agreement for another try. The second foal born was PCF Vision. I named him PCF Vision because I believed he would be the foundation of my vision for PCF. He and his get have helped shape my program. His daughters exhibit balance and produce his scopey throat and good shoulder. They also have his and his dam’s charisma and movement and tend to produce it. I am very excited to say that with PCF Vision’s help, I am seeing a significant uptick in Arabian type/(pretty) in the program so far with this year’s foal crop that is currently on the ground. I think this will now give me the opportunity to competitively compete Internationally. Thank you, Vision!
It is very hard to look at the 2023 Scottsdale results and not see a tremendous layer of success by PCF horses, both bred by you and others. What do you believe is your “recipe” and appeal by others to want to add your type to their breeding programs?
I think we are all trying to achieve the same thing: beauty, Arabian type, the way they carry themselves, laid back shoulder, scopey neck, charisma, etc. I think in the end what we call timeless beauty, really is as it says, what we are all hoping to achieve today and forever. We take turns achieving close to this ideal. This year, in some classes in the show, it was simply my turn. I do try to stay away from the “flavor of the day” and try to focus on getting all those attributes we all love, all into one horse. This, in my opinion, has nothing necessarily to do with who just won. Still, one must put in the work to find the right match. I am humbled that some have chosen to use PCF horses in their programs.
How does it feel to not only be breeding successful halter but performance winners as well? What do you feel are the choices and decisions you’ve made along the way to produce such a broad spectrum of champions?
It is a great feeling because I’m not necessarily breeding for strictly the halter arena but for the ultimate Arabian horse. I believe that the principles for breeding a good halter and good performance horse are fundamentally the same. The goal is to have the resulting foal be highly competitive in both arenas; the full potential of ownership enjoyment that I believe the Arabian horse is capable of providing. A pretty face and halter stand up alone, can’t do this. Adding athleticism and trainability is a must for me.
PCF Vision Pilatus PCF RD Natoria PCFCongratulations on all the horses with your suffix in the pedigrees of winners, not only in Scottsdale, but around the world. You have made a great contribution to the breed. Bravo!
- Michael ByattWe just wanted to take a moment to share that we have the highest respect for you as a breeder and would love to get to know you both. We are students of all this and, therefore, have travelled the globe and had the opportunity to stay and hear many breeders’ different theories and objectives. PCF has the best mare collection we have ever seen. We both feel that PCF Arabians was the #1 farm tour highlight during our Scottsdale trip.
Tell us about the successful family of Maria PCF, now owned by Stacy Sachen. Tell us about her family line, progeny and the records they have amassed. Do you still retain her presence in your own breeding program, and if yes, with whom?
Maria PCF is maintained in our breeding program directly through Aliyah Vision PCF (by PCF Vision) and has been a cornerstone to our program. She has proven to be a “blue hen” when it comes to producing foals with a consistent look and style that has done very well in the show ring. In addition to Aliyah, we have several of her get. One of our main sires at the moment is an Aliyah Vision son, Martino PCF, sired by Polidoro FC, who is producing extremely well for us. He is a full brother to Giana Leah PCF. The main benefit to this mare line is the consistency of the look and style they produce. Very hooky necks, lots of scope, good shoulders, big kind eyes, tight shapely ears, and the trot and charisma really stand out. Aliyah’s daughter, Shanelle PCF, was first place this year in the Scottsdale International Yearling Filly class and Bronze Champion in the final. I plan on keeping her to breed in the future.
It must be really thrilling to see three different PCF related fillies out of PCF mares chosen by three different judges in the 2-year-old class. What are you doing for that to occur? What do you think each of them saw in these fillies to make three different choices?
It’s always great to see those who have chosen to use PCF horses in their programs be successful. Of course, with judging it should begin with quality and end with preference. I am thrilled that each judge saw quality and preferred each filly for the front line. Consistency of quality among other things should be a fundamental goal of any breeding program, and show ring success should be a good indicator of this. As breeders, this is what we look for.
What other stallions have you incorporated into your program or want to? How about mares?
Any good breeding program manager should consider every available quality stallion for use with their mares; keeping with my willingness to see and to accept greatness from whence it comes—mares included.
When you add PCF to all the names of horses you breed, that takes quite a bit of confidence and adds a level of responsibility to all of your creations. Are you proud of all that you put forth?
Of some, yes. Of all, no. I have not created anything yet that is perfect, so I give my name to the imperfect. My responsibility is to do just that, step by step continuing to improve one horse and one generation at a time. Breeding for me is a building blocks endeavor, each horse being a single block and believing always, that better is yet to come.
As a publication, we often ask questions regarding breeders, and your name has come up as one fellow breeder most respect today; how does that make you feel?
It’s always an honor to be thought of with respect.
You have made some big changes in the last year or so, adding Travis Rice, who is widely known in the industry for his marketing abilities, and top halter trainer Carlinhos Souza. Tell us what goals lie beneath these moves?
Congratulations on an amazing Scottsdale! PCF, PCF, PCF as far as the ear could hear. Amazing success, amazing breeders. People are building a dynasty from your program.
-Braden Davidson
I was very fortunate to be able to bring Travis Rice and Carlinhos Souza to PCF. Both are extremely talented in what they do. Travis is exceptional at marketing and sales, which is crucial to PCF Arabians’ enterprise success. Carlinhos’ talents as a trainer and attention to detail as an equine manager and his ability to bring out the very best in my horses, as well as his staff, are what I believe will give my horses the best chance of success in the show ring.
And finally, do you love the Arabian horse?
I can’t say that I’d be doing any of this if I didn’t love and enjoy Arabian horses. Who can muster the patience and endure failure for as many years as I have, without Love?
2023 Dam of Distinction...
40 Entrants … 34 Placed
16 Champions
10 Reserve or Silver Champions
2 Bronze Champions
46 Top Tens
In Halter, Hunter and Western Pleasure
1st Place Sr Yearling Colt
Reserve Champion Jr Colt
Scottsdale Bronze Champion International Filly
DA Valentino x MCA Afire Beylee
Bred by Sam Peacemaker and Patti Scheier | Owned by Anivia Equine
2023 SCOTTSDALE WINNING PROGENY
Sons & Daughters
Bergen AN Champion Jr. Colt
Audrey AN 1st Place Sr. 2-Year-Old Filly
Bertikala AN Top Five SSS 3-Year-Old Mare
Natalia PCF 1st Place 5 Yrs. & Older Mare AAOTH 2nd Place Sr. Mare 8 & Over
Grandsons & Granddaughters
Alesia ENB Champion Sr. Mare
RD Alidoro 2nd Place Jr. 2-Year-Old Colt
Redemption AN 2nd Place Yearling & Yearling
Gelding AAOTH
Shanelle PCF Bronze CH Intl. Yearling Filly
RD Sovonya Top Five Yearling Filly ATH
RD Latinna Top Ten SSS Auction Filly
Delilah AN Top Ten SSS Yearling Filly
Great Grandsons & Great Granddaughters
RD Rhavier Champion SSS Yearling Colt
Reyliyah PCF 1st Place H/A Yearling Filly
Tainted Love PCF 5th Place Sr. Yearling Filly
Bella Tina PCF 3rd Place Jr. Yearling Filly
Includes U.S., Mid Summer, Youth and Canada’s National Halter Champion and Reserve wins Championship classes only. No Showmanship - Based off AHA Supplied Results at end of show
by number of wins Owner
1. Hercules SBA
2 championships, 2 reserves Stella Bella Arabians LLC
2. OFW Cutting Edge 3 championships
Lisa Denise Chovin
3. Arslan Aljassimya 2 championships, 1 reserve MLM Arabians
4. Sasha Fierce LR
5. Elvis SBA
6. Aftermath VH
DV Sangria
GFF Evita Always
1 championship, 2 reserves Sara Embury
3 reserves Stella Bella Arabians LLC
2 championships
2 championships
2 championships
IH Azariah 2 championships
Inexxess 2 championships
Jairo CA
Lexxus NS
2 championships
2 championships
Luck Be A Lady Toknight 2 championships
MC Jasmara 2 championships
Lori Foster
Kristin Hendrickson
Monica Dumont
Peter or Sharon Flock
Lisa Gaudio & James Kazanjian
Keith & Maureen Krichke
Luiz & Ashley Guimaraes
Arianna Bell
Hagale Family Arabians LLC
by number of wins Owner
1. OFW Cutting Edge 3 championships
Lisa Denise Chovin
2. Arslan Aljassimya 2 championships, 1 reserve MLM Arabians
3. Elvis SBA
4. DV Sangria
IH Azariah
Jairo CA
Lexxus NS
MC Jasmara
5. OFW Alikai
Tempest FEA
3 reserves Stella Bella Arabians LLC
2 championships
2 championships
2 championships
2 championships
Kristin Hendrickson
Peter or Sharon Flock
Keith & Maureen Krichke
Luiz & Ashley Guimaraes
2 championships Hagale Family Arabians LLC
1 championship, 1 reserve Hagale Family Arabians LLC
1 championship, 1 reserve Tex Kam
by number of wins Owner
1. Hercules SBA 2 championships, 2 reserves
2. Sasha Fierce LR 1 championship, 2 reserves
3. Aftermath VH 2 championships
GFF Evita Always 2 championships
Bella Arabians LLC
Foster
Dumont
Inexxess 2 championships Lisa Gaudio & James Kazanjian
Luck Be A Lady Toknight 2 championships Arianna Bell
4. AFA Pursuit Of Happiness 1 championship, 1 reserve
Berlynetta 1 championship, 1 reserve
Donatella Versace 1 championship, 1 reserve
Elle Vitorina 1 championship, 1 reserve
Epiic Butterfly T 1 championship, 1 reserve
He Be Jammin 1 championship, 1 reserve
& Janine McDonald
Gaudio & James Kazanjian
& Renae Mendel
number of Half-Arabian winners
number of Half-Arabian wins
When looking ahead, 25 years seems like such a long time. But if asking Murray and Shirley Popplewell how 25 years has changed their landscape from being involved with Arabian horses, they simultaneously share how quickly those years have flown by. “Looking back, 25 years went by in a blur,” exclaims Murray. And yet, here they are, celebrating Rae-Dawn Arabians’ Silver Anniversary and a life well lived surrounded by beautiful Arabian horses.
“Reflecting back on our trials and tribulations navigating this wonderful way of life, we have continually been surrounded by beautiful horses who inspire us every single day,” continue Murray and Shirley, “but more importantly are the outstanding people who have come into our lives and whose kindness have contributed immensely in moving us forward.”
The Popplewells and RaeDawn Arabians’ early years were unassuming. Even before naming the farm—Murray and Shirley’s venture into Arabian horse ownership began with the purchase of two horses for pleasure trail riding; a purebred Arabian gelding for Murray and a HalfArabian/Half-Quarter Horse mare for Shirley— breeding and showing was not even in their peripheral view.
It was the purchase of these two horses that led them to explore the local happenings of the Saskatoon Arabian horse community and their subsequent introduction to Ed and Laura Friesen’s Wunderbar Arabians. “Ed and Laura introduced us to the breeding and show world of Arabian horses,” says Murray, “for which we are forever grateful.”
Shortly thereafter, the Popplewell’s budding Arabian horse endeavours began. While travelling to different shows, they took note of one farm that seemed to always be present. “Dave and Sheila Schall and brothers Jeff and Jerry, of Shada Arabians, were so inviting and took an interest in us as well,” shares Murray. “At that time, the Canadian National Arabian Horse Championships were held in Regina, Saskatchewan, which was only a two-and-a-half-hour drive to our farm. We, with our outpouring enthusiasm about our first foal and how beautiful she was, convinced Jeff and Jerry to come and see her. And so, after the show, Jeff and Jerry made the drive to Saskatoon.
“We were so grateful to them for making the drive,” continues Murray, “as it was the first time trainers in the Arabian horse business came to our farm.” They were so excited to have guests, that they wanted to demonstrate the time and training they had been putting into their first foal born earlier that Spring. “Shirley brought the filly into the attached garage, around the cars and up onto the house deck,” chuckles Murray. “Looking back on it, the Schalls were so gracious with their time and so patient with us,” reflects Murray. “At the end of the visit, they turned to us before they left, and Jerry said ‘If you want a show horse, Shirley, maybe don’t take it in the house with you!’” Both smiling in unison upon the memory of that visit, Murray laughs, “I would have loved to have heard their comments on their drive back to Regina!”
The Popplewells have enjoyed their friendship with the Schalls for many years; the very first breedings purchased to outside stallions were to those standing at Shada. Breeding to Starof Fame V resulted in RD Starletta Fame. “I still have my Starof Fame V keychain that the Schalls were handing out to everyone that entered the arena on Stallion night at the Canadian Nationals that year!” shouts Murray, who is quick to give additional thanks and appreciation to the Schalls for their instrumental role in the early developmental years of Rae-Dawn Arabians.
Rae-Dawn’s first Canadian National Championships to exhibit horses presented RD Jornada+, a stunning chestnut colt sired by Odyssey SC. Beautiful and upright, RD Jornada still to this day is a favourite of Murray’s. “There were 11 colts in the class and Jornada was the only horse who didn’t make the top ten,” he says. “We were completely defeated as we carried the gate alone, honestly speaking.” He recollects, however, being approached by Andrew Sellman later that day. “The kindness and encouragement shown to us by Andy after the class was immeasurable,” finishes Murray. “We were seriously questioning whether to continue with Arabians. I honestly thought RD Jornada was the winner, and then to be last and out of the top ten was a big blow.” Fortunately, the words of wisdom spoken by Sellman to the Popplewells offered encouragement and perseverance. And the following year at the Canadian Nationals proved a different result for the Popplewells. “Back in the day, the judges cards were placed on display in a glass encasement and we had to wait until day’s end to go and view them,” Murray shares. “We went many years not making a card, and so we were thrilled to have made even one.” Shirley adds, “And you have to remember, that those days saw very big classes, so making it onto a card, let alone into the top ten, was a very big deal for us.”
Murray and Shirley attended their first United States National Championships as spectators, which were being held in its final year in Louisville, Kentucky. “We went and bought tickets for Friday night, which was nearly sold out, and of course, we were sitting up with the sparrows,” laughs Murray. “It was an amazing experience even though we knew no one.” But on Saturday evening that all changed, when the Popplewells were approached by a very kind man who evidently realized they were newcomers to the show, and to the Arabian breed. “This kind gentleman approached us and graciously invited Shirley and I to join him at his box and enjoy his seats overlooking Freedom Hall,” says Murray. This man turned out to be the late Warren Bentley of Geneva Arabians. “I don’t remember what horses won or who was even showing that night,” recalls Murray, “but what I do remember vividly was the genuine kindness Mr. Bentley showed to us both, and it was wonderful.”
When Rae-Dawn Arabians began to set its sights on the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show in Scottsdale, Arizona, it was Tom Blakemore who graciously opened his barn on Arabian Park Drive. “Tom allowed us to use a couple stalls and his facility so we could prepare a few of our horses for the show,” says Murray. “I again lose memory of what horses we brought down or how they even placed at the show, but I do remember his kindness shown to us and we are forever grateful. He refused to accept any kind of payment for our time there at his farm and to this day, we are so, so thankful for his hospitality and generosity.”
“Perhaps 2008 could be the precursor of what was to come,” smiles Murray. Though they were not intending to purchase a stallion for their breeding program, a fiery bay colt somehow sparked a fire within Murray, and as they say, the rest is history. That colt was then 2-year-old Bey Ambition and was perhaps the most significant step in the blossoming Rae-Dawn Arabians’ breeding and show program. “We are forever thankful to Bey Ambition’s breeder Lucy Whittier for allowing him to come into our lives,” reveres Murray.
It should be noted that shortly after the World Cup show in 2008, the Popplewell’s purchased their satellite farm in Scottsdale to complement the Saskatoon operation. Ironically, what is now RaeDawn Arabians Scottsdale, was the former Blakemore Arabians. More kindness and encouragement was shown to the Popplewells with the friendship and influence of fellow Arabian Park Drive neighbor, the late Bob Pomeroy. “Truthfully, we wouldn’t have Rae-Dawn Arabians Scottsdale if not for the support of Bob. He really pushed us to go all in, to take the next step,” says Murray. “He encouraged us every step of the way, and so it’s no understatement that the year 2008 was a pivotal year for Rae-Dawn Arabians.”
Another important figure that comes to mind is the late Richard “Dick” Ames, “who was an incredibly involved businessman and accomplished so much in his life, but always took time to greet others and offer words of encouragement, even to us,” remembers Murray.
“We have continually been surrounded by beautiful horses who inspire us every single day, but just as important are the outstanding people who have come into our lives and whose kindness have contributed immensely to moving us forward.”
Of course, no story of Rae-Dawn Arabians and the Popplewell’s journey with Arabian horses can leave out the contributions of Sam Peacemaker and his PCF Arabians. “In a busy world, and a very competitive and proprietary industry where we are all trying to breed the next best horse, nowhere do you find a man like Sam Peacemaker, who literally opened up his entire breeding program and showed us horse after horse,” nods Murray, “sharing with us what worked, what didn’t work—sharing insight on what is predictable. Sam allowed us to purchase some of our very best show and breeding stock from him, and we are thankful.”
Another key element and highly successful collaboration with Rae-Dawn Arabians “is Michael Weinstein’s breeding program with the assistance of Sandro Pinha’s Arabians International,” comments Murray. “They allowed us to purchase some of their cherished breeding stock.”
Other individuals bear acknowledgement, such as breeder extraordinaire Manuel Durini of Ecuador and his trainer Mike Wilson, for their unwavering commitment in allowing and facilitating the purchase of MD Massima and keeping their word after she was crowned unanimous champion and they had a lineup of buyers ready to purchase her. These are things that encourage them to keep going.
RD Starletta Fame Rae-Dawn Arabians ~ ScottsdaleAnd those that bring in and stand stallions at their farms from all over the world? The Popplewells appreciate that this is not easy work and certainly not a money-making endeavour. Farms like Royal Arabians, Midwest Arabians, Arabians International, Byatt Arabians, Shada Arabians, Allgood Arabians, Sahara Arabians and Orrion Farms; for these Murray and Shirley are forever grateful, as it allows them to enhance their breeding program.
Looking back on the past 25 years, the Popplewells are constantly reminded of the goodness and people that make up the Arabian horse industry. They particularly note the unending dedication of Cindy McGown and Mark Davis, who work tirelessly to support and grow every single aspect of the Arabian horse industry. “Cindy and Mark must not sleep,” laughs Murray, “they go non-stop year-round, infusing a lot of excellence into the industry, and back us all in some way or another,” he exclaims. “They are an inspiration.”
“Then you have the generosity of our neighbours Steve and Christina Poore of Orrion Farms, who orchestrated the construction of one of the most beautiful farms in the world and opened it up to all of us to enjoy and indulge,” notes Murray. “Where else do you find this kind of hospitality and kindness?
“You see, for Shirley and I, we are truly thankful to enjoy these beautiful Arabian horses daily—horses that inspire us to keep pushing forward; but just as equally, we are grateful for the kindness and the goodness we have received from so many people we have met along the way and who have remained beside us in building us up every step during these last 25 years. This is perhaps,” he concludes, “the best prize of all.”
With the momentum Rae-Dawn Arabians has to push forward, we can only imagine what the future holds and what remains on the horizon for the farm’s show and breeding program. If reflecting on the past 25 years gives any indication of where things are going, the old adage of “hang on to your seat” rings true for the Popplewell’s of their love of the Arabian horse and the people that make up this wonderful way of life.
RD Quianna
PCF Crystal Vision
Shirley Popplewell & Giana Leah PCF
Giana Leah PCF
Bey Ambition, Murray Popplewell & Alcides Rodrigues
Alcides Rodrigues, MD Massima, Murray & Shirley Popplewell
Arabian Horse Times | 24 | Halter 2023
GOLD CHAMPION INTERNATIONAL ARABIAN SENIOR STALLION
Shanghai EA x Frymuszka | Leased by Royal Arabians & Proudly owned by Sami Mohammad S Saad
BRONZE CHAMPION
INTERNATIONAL ARABIAN JUNIOR COLT
BRONZE CHAMPION
INTERNATIONAL ARABIAN
JUNIOR MARE
Proudly owned by Royal Sky HBV Dominic M x Lami El Sabah RB
UNANIMOUS CHAMPION ARABIAN JUNIOR COLT AAOTH with Amanda Pagan
Soul Of Marwan AS x Rhadashah Arabco
Proudly Owned by Royal Arabians
www.RoyalArabians.com
Money split equally between current owner and breeder of horses that compete and are judged in the Finals.
Scoring System (Preliminaries) | Comparative System (Finals)
GOLD CHAMPION – $35,000
SILVER CHAMPION – $20,000
BRONZE CHAMPION – $10,000
4TH-10TH – $5,000
$ $ $ $ $
$$$
(AJ Mardan x AJ Rahifa)
Owned by: Ajman Stud
Standing at: Royal Arabians
(*El Nabila B x Om El Benedine)
Owned by: Psynergy Enterprise Developments, LLC
Standing at: Arabians International
(S.M.A. Magic One x Baraka MP)
Owned by: Mindy Peters
Standing at: Arabians International
(Da Vinci FM x Rose La Valentina)
Owned by & Standing at Orrion Farms, LLC
(DA Valentino x Imprimista CF)
Owned by: Desert Sky Arabians
Standing at: Royal Arabians
(D Seraj x D Feddah)
Owned by: Hagale Family Arabians
Standing at: Orrion Farms, LLC
(Ajman Moniscione x Halya De Jylbert)
Owned by: Cindy McGown or Mark Davis
Standing at: Royal Arabians
(Marwan Al Shaqab x Jwaaher Al Shahania)
Owned by: Al Shahania Stud
Standing at: Michael Byatt Arabians
(Kavalle MI x JR Francesca)
Owned by: GRK Farms, LLC
Standing at: Guimaraes Arabians
(DA Valentino x Abha Palma)
Owned by: Stuart & Sue Larsen
Standing at: Michael Byatt Arabians
(El Tino x Lumiar Ethna)
Owned by: Cindy McGown or Mark Davis
Standing at: Royal Arabians
(FA El Rasheem x Risalah Alzobair)
Owned by: Jiaxin S A
Standing at: Midwest Training Centre
(Regal Actor JP x Bey Shahs Lady)
Owned by: Murray or Shirley Popplewell
Standing at: Rae-Dawn Arabians
(Polidoro FC x Maria PCF)
Owned by: Anivia Equine, LLC
Standing at: Midwest Training Centre
(Dominic M x Partyssima OS)
Owned by: Valley Oak Arabians
Standing at: Arabians International
*SOUL
(Marwan Al Shaqab x RD Challs Angel)
Owned by: Cindy McGown or Mark Davis and Arabian Soul Partners LTD.
Standing at: Royal Arabians
to see the full list of nominated stallions and mares
I belong to the Breeding Pays Futurity because of the Arabian Horse. It’s not hard to give back when someone or something has done so much for you.
~Murray Popplewell
“We believe this futurity will open (huge) doors with renewed hope for breeders.
Breeders pay the bills, do the work and experience the pride of raising and competing with these wonderful animals … receiving some much-needed credit and $$$ inspires us to trudge on and breed more.
We must produce quality and we need confidence in knowing that our horses will be judged fairly. This futurity gives us that confidence.
Competing at last year’s inaugural event, Janene, an amateur handler at 61 years of age, presented our Princess Juliah, a foal from our 2020 foal crop, and competed against major trainers and large breeding farms.
She bested all of them except two, to achieve Bronze Champion and $25,000 ($20,000 for Bronze + $5,000 Amateur Incentive). The pride we felt at that moment from the support of our peers and competitors was overwhelming.
We will be back!”
~Bob
& Janene Boggswww.ArabianHalterFuturity.com
by SCOTT BENJAMIN
Time and distance can be invaluable gifts, even if both are not recognized as such when first welcomed into our lives. Having changed continental residence to the opposite side of the planet, swapping both the northern and western hemispheres for southern and eastern and all four seasons in the process, my relocation to Australia from Canada became permanent in early 2016, having already spent most of the previous decade travelling the long distances between both Commonwealth countries with great regularity. Travel, the vast majority courtesy of a life chosen in stewardship to the Arabian horse, had become the mainstay of my professional life since 1991. I journeyed to Poland, then only just recently liberated from decades of Communist rule, to work and learn at the world-renowned State Studs. This was unquestionably the definitive transformational moment of my young life, forever altering the trajectory of my professional pursuits while correspondingly igniting the spark of discovery, the desire to know, experience and understand the diverse and wondrous cultures and countries of the world, and an unbridled passion for travel that has since opened my world to every inhabited continent and more than fifty countries worldwide.
All of us who choose to spend our lives with the Arabian horse, both as professionals and as enthusiasts, are profoundly fortunate. As the Arabian is one of the very few truly global breeds of equine, we are afforded the luxury of stepping off an airplane nearly anywhere in the civilized world to discover others who unreservedly share the same passion and devotion for our ancient and noble breed, albeit in the fascinating context of their unique culture and country. This shared connection – this fundamental common bond of love for and commitment to the Arabian horse – is the central tenet around which our global Arabian Community thrives and revolves, an ever-evolving coalition full of surprises and reinvention which never fails to inspire, motivate and impress.
Having chosen to spend time physically secluded from the global Community while establishing a new life in Australia, I have returned, post-pandemic, to a year of travel on five continents with a fresh new perspective on the progress of and prospects for the Arabian breed. From event organization and proactive collaboration, to breeding, welfare and the pursuit of excellence, there are positive changes afoot in our global Arabian community that give us all a multitude of reasons to be hopeful, energized and optimistic for the future ahead.
I have found there is perhaps no better and more illuminating barometer of the current status and the likely progression of the
Arabian breed, community and industry than the annual Scottsdale All-Arabian Horse Show each February. Still the largest, and unrivalled as the most diverse, showcase for the Arabian horse in all disciplines on the planet, Scottsdale has been setting the standard for exhibition and exposure for the breed for nearly seven decades. Over the course of eleven immersive days, one can enjoy the Arabian horse at its versatile best, from working western to sport horse, from English performance to halter, from youth and amateur to the upper echelons of the professional elite. Scottsdale continues to be a constant wellspring of innovation and inspiration, attracting more worldwide Arabian horse enthusiasts from the broadest range of disciplines and interests than any other event on the annual calendar.
Scottsdale, as a result of its mild winter climate and its clever scheduling at the commencement of the North American foaling and breeding seasons, has evolved into the unrivalled premier showcase for Arabian breeding horses on the global stage. The celebrated influence of many of the breed’s most significant sires has been launched during this week of revelation each February, the consequences of which have transformed breeding decisions for decades thereafter. While the quantity of horses presented is still less than at the height of the production in the mid 1980’s, the quality of horses now being bred with great consistency and resolute conviction by an increasing number of visionary breeders from all across the globe is most certainly on the rise. The depth and breadth of quality in all the halter classes, especially apparent in the junior classes, but also noteworthy in several select divisions amongst the senior competition, is incredibly encouraging, fueled by a renewed passion for breeding worldwide. Not only are more breeders dedicated to creating a higher standard of excellence in the newest generations, there is also irrefutably a greater sense of collaboration and exchange between breeders and breeding programs, buoyed by the assurance and the understanding that cooperation and camaraderie make for a more rewarding and satisfying outcome for everyone, especially the Arabian horse.
An amplified professionalism and sense of mutually beneficial reciprocity has been embraced by the halter/breeding community, who has not only formed a closer relationship with the progressive performance associations of the AEPA, AWPA and AHPA through both the nomination of breeding sires and participation with aspiring prospects, but has been inspired to create a futurity program of their own: the Breeding Pay$ Futurity. Designed to reward 2-yearold halter horses with significant payouts for a full top ten in both purebred fillies and colts, as well as an added incentive to amateur
handlers, the inaugural Breeding Pay$ was an enjoyable and high energy crowd-pleasing highlight of the 2022 U.S. Nationals. Consequently, the evolution of the show experience in the halter arena is now indiscernible from every major international Arabian event, with VIP tables on the arena floor, sensible scheduling, entertainment, sponsored food and beverages and an undeniable sense of community and camaraderie.
This transformation of halter competition at U.S. Nationals, I find, is a direct result of the positive exposure of the ‘international show experience’ first made available to the broader North American community at the Arabian Breeders World Cup, which began in Las Vegas with a bold mission in 2007. Given the enthusiastic support for the World Cup from breeders all around the world in those early years, the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona was motivated to add the international halter division to the Scottsdale Show, a move which has not only increased entries and participation from a broader cross section of the industry but encouraged more Arabian horse enthusiasts from more places around the world to visit the show each year. Now based in Scottsdale as a result of several challenges imposed by the global pandemic, the Arabian Breeders World Cup has undergone a transformation of its own and now enjoys a more natural outdoor international appeal on the polo grounds at WestWorld with a more relaxed atmosphere and schedule. As an unexpected bonus, the move from Las Vegas to Scottsdale for the World Cup has afforded everyone the opportunity to enjoy the ‘breeders’ aspect of the event, an essential mission of the AHBA from the onset, with a major function scheduled for each evening showcasing the best of the local breeding programs. This elevated opportunity to congregate, socialize and collaborate at the Scottsdale version of the World Cup has resulted in one of the most enjoyable and rewarding opportunities of the entire annual calendar, accommodating a greater exchange of ideas, cooperative alliances and appreciation for the breeding progress underway.
Transformation has also been apparent in another epicenter of rising Arabian horse activity in North America, namely Region 12 and the World Equestrian Centre (WEC) in Ocala, Florida. The Region 12 Championships continues to innovate and expand, leading the way with its Spotlight Futurity program and Classic Egyptian Championships. Potential for growth abounds in this region of the country. Perfectly scheduled to coincide with the launch of WEC’s Winter Wonderland, a month-long holiday event that attracts thousands of local spectators to the facility, the Keystone Charity Arabian Horse Experience was born in 2022. Focused on education, entertainment and exposure, this event is yet another inspiring project brilliantly conceived, and masterfully executed by a dedicated group of volunteers, with the primary mission of creating greater opportunity to positively and proactively introduce more people to the wonderful world of the Arabian horse.
After a pandemic-induced hiatus in both 2020 and 2021, the cornerstone of Arabian horse exhibition in Europe, the All Nations Cup in Aachen, Germany, welcomed horses and guests from across
the globe. With long-time organizer Klaus Beste back at the helm, there was a renewed sense of excitement and anticipation, and given the recently announced plans for the continental rotation of the World Championships, the hope for stability and enduring prestige for the European show scene. Also in North America, a similar pandemic-induced hiatus for the AHA-managed Canadian National Championships inspired local Canadian breeders and owners to take matters into their own hands, pulling together Canada’s National Arabian Championship in Red Deer, Alberta, in less than two months’ time. As one would expect, the ingenuity, determination and practicality of the Western Canadians, coupled with significant financial assistance and moral support from their neighbors to the south, resulted in a resounding success for the breed, and an inspiration for Arabian horse lovers and professionals the world over.
This same collective passion, vision and endeavor is also on the rise in Southern Africa, where the Namibian Arabian Horse Society, in cooperation with the larger Arab Horse Society of South Africa and the aspirant Arabian Horse societies in neighboring Botswana and Zimbabwe, hosted the first Southern African Open Championships during the annual Namibian National Show. Determined to pool resources to assist each other and to expand Arabian horse activities and ownership in the vast geographical region, these breeders and owners are amongst the most inspiring and praiseworthy people on the planet, prospering in spite of improbable challenges of climate, nature and politics. Industrious and insightful Arabian horse breeders in Australia and New Zealand have also joined forces in the last year by creating the Australasian Arabian Breeders Coalition (AABC), dedicating themselves to cooperate with and support each other as both breeders and owners through the promotion of purebred Arabian horse breeding, education, activities and stewardship in the region by reaching outwards for both genetics and professional assistance. The AABC hosted its first breeding assessment event in December, utilizing an innovative evaluation scorecard that holds breeding animals accountable to the millennia-old global breed standard of the desert ideal, followed by the inaugural Australasian Arabian International Championships a few months later, the first international-style show of its kind organized in the South Pacific. The enthusiasm generated as a result of both events has energized both the Australians and the New Zealanders to not only expand their breeding efforts locally, but to plan more travel abroad to discover the possibilities that abound internationally, bringing the world a little closer and more well connected in the process.
As 2023 unfolds, I look forward to returning to many of these same events, to meeting and working together with so many friends and colleagues that continue to drive the innovation and energy of the global Arabian horse community. I would encourage everyone to look around and get involved, as there is profound progress unfolding the world over at every level of the industry. As modern-day stewards of this ancient breed, it is up to all of us, wherever we may find ourselves, to give the best of our abilities and resources with which our lives have been enriched, to ensure a better and brighter future for our beloved Arabian horse. n
with JEFF WALLACE
Welcome to my exchange with Mike Weinstein! I have known Mike since 1985 when I worked at Lasma Arabians. Mike and his family owned Aries Arabians in Wisconsin. They developed an amazing breeding program that was global before the word global existed in our breed and business. Mike has a very rich past and present with Arabian horses. I’m certain his future with our beloved breed will be just the same. He is one of the few breeders who has been in our world for approximately 50 years. He continues to create beautiful horses and interesting programs wherever he goes. Let’s start the conversation!
Tell us what lies behind the name of your farm? Where did it come from?
Psynergy Energy Enterprise Development LLC is a name of the company that owned real estate, horses, and other assets. We wanted to separate the horses and real estate, so we ended up moving out the other assets and retained PED or Psynergy Enterprise Developments, LLC. Initially we came up with Synergy for our company, but later added the “P” on the front because we liked the ties to psychology and psychiatry, etc.
Facing page: Sandro Pinha, Atticus ENB, Mike and Gil Valdez Top: Kajora (Kaborr x *Edjora)Tell us a little of your background and your childhood.
I grew up in Highland Park, Illinois which is a suburb of Chicago until the age of 8. We then moved to Aspen, Colorado for a short time and then my mother, Lissa and I moved to West Los Angeles, California where I went to school in West Hollywood. On a funny side note, the Jackson 5 would ride my bus to school. We also lived next door to Paul Newman and became friends with Lissy Newman. She was also a horse lover. I loved living in California, but we moved back to Chicago a few years later. My father bought us a farm in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and our first Arabians were purchased in 1974. Two mares were bought from Daalda Arabians. Early on, we met breeder Dick Patterson because of his interest in the Polish import, *Piesn. He recommended that we breed her to *Bask, so we did! Unfortunately, she aborted twin colts. We also bred our champion mare *Aramus daughter, Daalda Artemis to *Bask. We were lucky and got two fillies! Sadly, however, the filly born the first year died. We tried to breed back to *Bask but then he died. This was our beginning. Later we purchased a few mares through Ted and Christy Gibson and later started to add Pure Polish mares to our program.
Tell us about the package of mares that you purchased from Lasma that included the legendary mare Kajora.
In 1981 something very big happened. Jerry Wight of Lasma called me and said, “I have a package of mares for you and your dad.” So, we purchased the package, and for those of you who have been around the breed for a while, you will probably recognize some of them. That package included four daughters of *Bask such as Aglow, Dancing Heart, Balaquina and Mark IV Coronation. Also in that package was Kajora, her mother *Edjora and the mare Snodansk by Gdansk.
You purchased a major stallion when you bought *Menes, tell us how that played out.
We felt we should have a major breeding stallion, so we put together a partnership called Fidelis International. The Fidelis partnership included Simon Chilewich, an American businessman who was the first American to have an office in Russia. Before traveling to Russia, I asked David Boggs
who was the best sire in all of Russia, to which he replied “Absolutely *Menes!” We did our homework and ended up with an appointment to see *Menes at Tersk Stud in Russia. We took the Arabian judge Cindy Reich with us, as she was very knowledgeable about Arabian horses and that was the beginning of a very long and great friendship with Cindy. So many people wanted *Menes and we ended up getting him due to the Chilewich’s relationship with the former USSR. Cindy then became our farm manager!
We loved *Menes because he had a classic Pure Polish pedigree that was also Straight Russian, with no Egyptian blood. Breeder Mustafa Sabankaya said *Menes was Classic Pure Polish and Straight Russian, best of both worlds! That was a phrase we used in the advertising and promotion of *Menes. Dick Patterson also referred to *Menes as Stolen-Polish because his granddam, Mammona, was stolen from the Poles during WW2. *Menes was a son of Nabeg and Metropolia, both descendants of the Ofir daughter Mammona. *Menes was a magnificent experience. We even made a film of his importation and took a crew from New York City to Moscow. In his first foal crop, a filly named Parada became the Star World Grand Champion Mare and the Junior Champion Filly of Scottsdale, all as a yearling. Also, there was the Kajora daughter, Mejora, that was pinned Santa Barbara Junior Champion Filly the same year. In his second foal crop came World Champion Stallion Emperator, who was also United States Champion Futurity Colt and Scottsdale Reserve Champion Stallion. Both Parada and Emperator were out of Pure Polish mares.
For the next 20 years or so, Mike Weinstein would not focus on Arabian horse breeding but instead on finishing college, moving to northern California in 1996 and in 2005 starting a business. Vast changes in our tax laws and enormous changes in Mike’s father’s business would close the doors to Aries Arabians. When we meet again, we will begin with Mike’s trip to the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show in 2007 and all that unfolds thereafter.
ARIA RAKEEM
(FA El Rasheem x MD Hibat Allah)
H: Ricardo Rivero | O: Aria Rakeem Group LLC
B: NJ Arabian Horse Ventures LLC
ARABIAN JUNIOR COLT
(Beijing BHF x Maria PCF)
H: Keith Krichke
O: Casey Campbell | B: Stacy Sachen
ARABIAN SENIOR MARE
ALESIA ENB
(Atticus ENB x Aliyah Vision PCF)
H: Alcides Rodrigues | O: Murray Popplewell
B: Psynergy Enterprise Developments LLC
ARABIAN JUNIOR FILLY
(EKS Alihandro x Lady Dominica JSZ)
H: Andrew Sellman | O: Theresa Lungwitz
B: Lady Dominica Holdings LLC and Dan & Maureen Grossman
ARABIAN SENIOR GELDING
BELLAMY
(Cadance PA x Belladona PA)
H: Sandro Pinha
O: Renae Mendel | B: Pegasus Arabians
INTERNATIONAL SENIOR STALLION
FUERTE PL
(Shanghai EA x Frymuszka)
H: Ricardo Rivero
O: Mark Davis | B: Jan Dobrzynski
ARABIAN JUNIOR GELDING
OFW ALIKAI
(EKS Alihandro x OFW Praise)
H: Andrew Sellman
O: Hagale Family Arabians LLC | B: Orrion Farms LLC
INTERNATIONAL SENIOR MARE
SAPPHIRE RB
(Emerald J x Symphony RB)
H: Ricardo Rivero
O: Royal Sky HBV | B: Adriana Espindola B De Moura
INTERNATIONAL JUNIOR COLT
TASHEEM PMA
(Taj Raheem x Chiara Luna)
H: Andrew Sellman
O: Felix Cantu | B: Amy Voliva or Pat McGinnis
INTERNATIONAL JUNIOR FILLY
AJS SIGIS SONG
(HP Ali x Om El Badra)
H: Ted Carson
O/B: Al Jood Stud
INTERNATIONAL YEARLING COLT
STA HIGH VOLTAJ
(Taj Raheem x Rose CME)
H: Sandro Pinha
O: Marion Maschke | B: Marion or Andreas Maschke
INTERNATIONAL YEARLING FILLY
(AJ Radman x OFW Jewel Of Marwan)
H: Austin Boggs
O/B: Desert Sky Arabian LLC
STRAIGHT EGYPTIAN SENIOR STALLION
KLA AIZAAN SHAHEEN
(Shaheen Al Waab x Luna Thee Cielo)
H: Ted Carson
O/B: Kleio Arabians LLC
STRAIGHT EGYPTIAN JUNIOR COLT
IBN BAHA NAJMA
(Baha AA x DSA Sahara)
H: Sandro Pinha
O/B: Muhammad Faisal
STRAIGHT EGYPTIAN SENIOR MARE
ASILA ARABELLA CA
(Thee Infidel x Bella Asila RCA)
H: Michael Wilson
O: Caledonian Arabians | B: Warren and Gwendolyn Soong
STRAIGHT EGYPTIAN JUNIOR FILLY
BARMYRE ANEEKAH
(ESA Adlai x ESA Malaaka)
H: Michael Wilson
O/B: Barbe Jo Myers
EGYPTIAN HERITAGE SENIOR STALLION
BATON ROUGE LKH
(Bellagio RCA x TLA Miss Charisma)
H: Joseph Alberti II
O: Hamid Ali | B: J. Lancaster Havice
EGYPTIAN HERITAGE JUNIOR COLT
DOMAIN RA
(QR Marc x Star Noir)
H: Sandro Pinha
O/B: Rancho Arabians
EGYPTIAN HERITAGE SENIOR MARE
TEMPEST FEA
(Laheeb IASB x Tempermental)
H: Carson Ehret
O: Tex Kam | B: Dr. James Ferlita
EGYPTIAN HERITAGE JUNIOR FILLY
PORSCHIA BIANCA CW
(Exxalt x Porsylenia)
H: Ted Carson
O: Jeff Collins | B: Jeff & Sybil Collins
PHOTOS SPONSORED BY ANVIL ARABIANS & EQUINE ATHLETE VETERINARY SERVICES
What does your ideal Arabian horse look like?
My ideal Arabian is extremely well-balanced with long legs, a short back, an upright, elegant neck, vibrant motion, a refined, expressive face, and undeniable charisma. Add a gleaming coat, a high-carried tail and flowing mane to get the complete picture.
What horse living or deceased most embodies that ideal?
The Great *Padron, hands down.
Do you try to breed this ideal-looking horse in your own program?
Yes, of course, we always try to breed toward our ideal. Midwest remains instrumental in promoting and marketing *Padron bloodlines, which now appear in the pedigrees of most of the world’s finest Arabian horses.
What horse that you bred is closest to your ideal? Is athleticism important to you when breeding halter horses? If yes, what is important about it and how do you try to accomplish it?
The *Padron grandson, Brazilian National Champion Stallion *Cajun Prince HCF Athleticism movement, is very important and must be judged and rewarded accordingly. Good movement is an indicator of the
overall balance and structure of the horse, particularly the shoulder and set of the neck, and is part of the historic romance of the breed.
What made you fall in love with the Arabian horse?
Fortunately, I was born into an Arabian-horse-loving family. And now, the Arabian horse has become my life’s dream, and that of my children.
Do you think it’s possible to breed a global Arabian, meaning one that can compete in halter competitions anywhere in the world?
Yes. We are seeing more and more horses travel around the globe to compete and win on multiple continents. It is an achievement that has been reached.
What is your favorite show destination on the planet and why?
The Scottsdale show is my favorite because it is typically the first time in the season when we get a peek at the new horses coming up, particularly the yearlings. It also sets the stage for older horses who are seeking momentum for the show season and stimulates breeding interest in our stallions.
Yes, non-stop! I visit farms throughout the United States and all over the world.
What does your ideal Arabian horse look like?
For me, the perfect Arabian has perfect harmony between Arabian type and conformation.
What horse living or deceased most embodies that ideal?
There are many through the years. Because I really like the refinement of the Arabian, I would say that most top mares have that unique distinction. At our farm, I think Jude Aljassimya exemplifies our ideal.
Do you try to breed this ideal-looking horse in your own program?
We constantly try to breed this ideal in our program. However, unfortunately, perfection in breeding horses is a lot like golf, it’s extremely hard to obtain, but we continue to try.
What horse that you bred is closest to your ideal? Is athleticism important to you when breeding halter horses? If yes, what is important about it and how do you try to accomplish it?
We have bred along with our clients, many special horses, and some very close to our ideal. Athleticism is very important when breeding halter horses; we have a complete performance division also, so every cross we make we consider the athleticism aspect. For us it’s very simple, if in fact you want to include athleticism in your program, you must focus on creating harmony between Arabian type and conformation.
Do you think it’s possible to breed a global Arabian, meaning one that can compete in halter competitions anywhere in the world?
I do, but until we all decide what that horse looks like, it probably won’t happen.
What is your favorite show destination on the planet and why?
For me by far, Scottsdale is the favorite show. A break from winter, all the new babies from the latest stallions appear, huge prize money for amateurs, huge shopping and vendor section … can visit with friends from all over the world. Also, not only great golfing, shopping, and restaurants, but some really exciting events at all the major farms centrally located in Scottsdale.
Name one breeder in this country and one abroad that you feel is getting it right, so to speak?
In the U.S besides us, there are many. I am very impressed with the Popplewells Rae-Dawn Arabians, and I also like what Sam Peacemaker’s PCF Arabians is doing. Abroad for me, number one is Murilo Kammer. He not only breeds beautiful horses, but he is a very ethical breeder.
Has a certain horse’s beauty ever put a lump in your throat? If yes, whom? There has been a few—I have been around a while—but for so many reasons, including some personal, I would have to say Magic Dream!
What does your ideal Arabian horse look like?
I will respond somewhat in the abstract, even though the answer must be tangible and easily grasped by everybody. I think the ideal horse must be proportionate. By that, I mean the horse must have symmetry, harmony and balance.
What horse living or deceased most embodies that ideal?
FA El ShawanWhat horse that you bred is closest to your ideal? Is athleticism important to you when breeding halter horses? If yes, what is important about it and how do you try to accomplish it?
I don’t know if the answer is meaningful because we have been doing this for a relatively short period of time, but I would say Ernando AA is a horse somewhat close to our ideal. Athleticism is exceedingly important. There is as much, if not more beauty in movement as there is in conformation. We accomplish it by using Polish bloodlines that are, regrettably but surely, losing importance in halter pedigrees.
What made you fall in love with the Arabian horse? Their look! Of all the breeds, they are the most proportionate.
Do you think it’s possible to breed a global Arabian, meaning one that can compete in halter competitions anywhere in the world?
It is possible, but to what end? Globalization for its own sake? This is about aesthetics. It is futile to attempt to homogenize tastes.
What is your favorite show destination on the planet and why? Scottsdale or Nationals because we can see both halter and performance.
Name one breeder in this country and one abroad that you feel is “getting it right,” so to speak?
That’s a difficult question to answer. I think that breeders follow their own aesthetic concept, their own esthetic views, what pleases them the most. To the extent that each breeder accomplishes that, this breeder is succeeding.
Has a certain horse’s beauty ever put a lump in your throat? If yes, whom?
I think that the largest lump was probably caused by Abha Palma. I saw her at Michael Byatt’s a few years ago. She is a mare bred by Marietta Salas in Spain.
What made you fall in love with the Arabian horse?
My family saw a beautiful grey Arabian out in a pasture while driving by. My mom said she wanted that horse. We ended up buying the mare for little to nothing. We were all hooked quickly. There’s nothing that embodies the allaround beauty and elegance of an animal like the Arabian, in my opinion.
Do you think it’s possible to breed a global Arabian, meaning one that can compete in halter competitions anywhere in the world?
I do think it is possible. However, the judging standards vary significantly. I think to be competitive internationally, you must have something very special; a horse that is undeniably the best.
What is your favorite show destination on the planet and why?
I love the Scottsdale show. The energy is high because everyone is ready to be back at it after a winter break. It’s a nice time to evaluate where you and the horses stand for the upcoming show season.
Do you visit farms in your own country?
Yes, I love the experience of walking through other facilities. It lets me in on a sense of others’ thrills and what they get to embrace when doing what they love. It’s enlightening hearing a trainer take you through their program.
Has a certain horse’s beauty ever put a lump in your throat? If yes, whom?
Farouk Palazzotto. He is something special. When I see him come through a gate, his presence can take your breath away. I believe he exemplifies what a halter horse should be. It’s hard to take your eyes off of him.
Does your social life today revolve around “things Arabian”?
Absolutely. When I’m home in CO I take advantage of every day. I love where I live and what I do here. On the other side of that, I’m always counting down to the next show or visit to our farm. I base my physical training around being an equestrian/handler. I decline or accept social activities based around upcoming events. If I feel it’s something that will take too much out of me before a long show (a river trip, a girl’s trip), I will sit it out. Horses come first.
If we gave you a bumper sticker that said, “Arabian horse? Of course!” would you apply it to your bumper proudly?
Hell yes!
What does your ideal Arabian horse look like?
The Gladys Brown Edwards photo is really close to what I believe is the standard, although I’d prefer a bit more leg and I’d clean up the neck a little.
What horse living or deceased most embodies that ideal?
The *Bask daughter Fame from the 60’s was my cup of tea. I still have her image in my mind of what an Arabian should be. Most recently, Scottsdale’s current champion mare Alesia ENB and Jr. Champion Filly Lady Nica SRA are excellent examples of Arabian type. I love them both.
Do you try and breed this ideal looking horse in your own program?
Yes. Felix Cantu and I are always striving to breed to the standard—type, balance, symmetry.
What horse have you bred is closest to that ideal? Is athleticism important to you when breeding halter horses? If yes, what is important and how do you try and accomplish this?
Athleticism has always been important and that’s why I’ve gravitated to Polish lines over the years. Just recently I worked with Rancho Las Potrancas’ breeder and owner Felix Cantu, in acquiring the stallion ROL Ascension to infuse more “performance” lines into the program.
Do you think it’s possible to breed a global Arabian, meaning one that can compete in halter competitions anywhere in the world?
Yes. And I believe we already have many horses that are competitive on a worldwide basis. Taste may vary, but excellence is apparent to everyone.
What is your favorite show destination on the planet and why?
My favorite show is the Brazilian Nationals. I love the enthusiasm of the breeders and exhibitors as well as the wonderful horses they breed. The farm tours that are held the 2 or 3 days after the show are the icing on the cake. And of course, the Scottsdale show! There’s nothing like it!
Name one breeder in this country and one abroad that you feel is getting it right, so to speak?
Sam Peacemaker, PCF Arabians in Gilbert, Arizona, is a guy who gets it right... a lot! I’m never disappointed when I visit his farms. He has an eye for a horse and a great sense of what to do breeding wise. So often when I visit farms, I’ll see one or two horses that appeal to me. But at Sam’s, it’s always a lot! And over the course of many years, I’ve been impressed with the breeding results of Dr.
Jairo Jorge’s Haras Dos Faveiros program in Tres Lagoas, Brazil. The sire line he developed with his stallion World Series is impressive.
Has a certain horse’s beauty ever put a lump in your throat? If yes, whom?
There are way too many! Outstanding English pleasure horses in particular can really give me the chills. I recently watched some older videos of the mare Heirs Noble Love. Wow! And one of my most memorable was watching Magnum Psyche win his Argentine National Championship in Buenos Aires. He was magnificent!
What does your ideal Arabian horse look like? One that has good form to function. I love a horse that has a beautiful soft eye, tight ears, great shoulder, legs, and a high set tail that has a long tail bone.
What horse living or deceased most embodies that ideal? Padron
Do you try and breed this ideal looking horse in your own program? Of course. We breed performance horses too and it is very important to breed pretty, athletic horses.
Do you think it’s possible to breed a global Arabian, meaning one that can compete in halter competitions anywhere in the world?
Yes, but I try to breed what is best for the style of horse that we like.
What is your favorite show destination on the planet and why? Wendell Arena on the final Sunday morning is the best and the the World
Equestrian Center in Ocala is amazing. I hope more people from around the world come to visit Ocala.
Name one breeder in this country and one abroad that you feel is getting it right, so to speak?
In the halter world, PCF Arabians and Dubai Stud—very smart breeders.
Has a certain horse’s beauty ever put a lump in your throat? If yes, whom?
Perfinka, the first time I saw her when she got off the trailer. For doing a long flight and being fat and long haired, she was a sight to see, but a young man trotted her around the bullpen and it’s a day I will never for forget.
Does your social life today revolve around “things Arabian”?
One hundred percent, and I love every minute of. I am blessed that I get to do this with family and friends.
What does your ideal Arabian horse look like?
When I was a child, I grew up with them all around me. It’s what I knew from the beginning and continued with through my life.
Do you think it’s possible to breed a global Arabian, meaning one that can compete in halter competitions anywhere in the world?
We have done it; it has taken a lifetime to do. We are 25 years into breeding toward our vision. We have bred a world champion, and were recently at Dubai Stud to see Exxalt, who is there on lease as an outcross of sorts for their mares. They are breeding their best mares—some of the best mares in the world—to him. You must have a vision, you must be stubborn, and you must have patience.
What is your favorite show destination on the planet and why?
My favorite for a long time, easily, has been Menton. Its natural beauty is incredible and the Arabian horses that show up there are fantastic.
Do you visit farms in your own country?
I wear three hats: trainer, breeder and judge. If you want to be good at any or all of it, you have to go to farms and see the mares; otherwise, you aren’t understanding it very well. If you want to be a good breeder with a good vision, you need to go see the mares.
Name one breeder in this country and one abroad that you feel is “getting it right,” so to speak?
In the U.S., a small breeder that has been doing it right for a long
time is Joel Desmarteau, of Markelle Arabians. He owns just a few horses, but he bred horses like Marajj, Elle Flamenca, and others who are not only world champions themselves, but are also producing world champions. He doesn’t get a lot of credit, but he has definitely been at the top for years. Abroad, there are a lot of great breeders, but for the last five or six years at least, Dubai Stud has dominated. They have bought the best horses and are producing the best offspring. When we first decided to let Exxalt out of our hands, we decided to trust Dubai Stud with him. They are at the top of the breeding world right now.
Has a certain horse’s beauty ever put a lump in your throat? If yes, whom?
There have been quite a few over 30 year’s time. Each horse has their accredited pieces that make them special. I’ve had great horses come through my hands and I am grateful for that. Some of these horses have such an ethereal quality and dynamic personality. Those two things are what give me goosebumps.
Does your social life today revolve around “things Arabian”?
Absolutely, my life revolves around horses … and baseball. Our son is 14 and loves baseball, so if we’re not doing horses with the people who love them, we are doing baseball.
If we gave you a bumper sticker that read, “Arabian horse? Of course!” would you proudly apply it to your bumper?
I have never had a bumper sticker before, but since I’ve made the Arabian horse my life, I guess I probably should!
PERFIRKA | Gazal Al Shaqab x Perforacja | 2003 Mare
ANGEL EYES TM | Magnum Psyche x Ames Mirage | 2011 Mare
SQ JIZETTA | Sultan Al Zobara x Luxemere Jizette | 2016 Mare
PADRONA AMES | Padron x Perfinka | 2021 Filly
OFW SUNRISE | Sundown KA x Silhouette FF | 2021 Filly
AMES ARMARETTO KISSES | Polidoro FC x Angel Eyes TM | 2022 Filly
AMES DARK JET | Harjeet MA x Wieza Bella | 2022 Colt
2023 COLT | RFI Farid x HDF Barcellona
2023 FILLY | Dominic M x Elena Enigma
EXPECTED 2023 | Sharif Al Zobair x RFI Sophie Al Maktub
The Ames Family | Jordan, MN | www.Cedar-Ridge.com
Padrona Ames
