Arabian Horse Times - Vol.53 No.2 - Issue 2

Unanimous Scottsdale Champion Senior Stallion

(Ever After NA x Margarita PSY)

“Blessing”

Beloveds One Blessing

(Beloved One NA+ x Rohara MarcAlyssa)

2017 Region 12 Champion Yearling

2018 Region 12 Unanimous

Res-Champion Yearling

2018 Region 12 Unanimous

Res-Champion Spotlight Schatzberg/Osteen photo

ALL PROGENY SHOWN HAVE REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HONORS AT EVERY HORSE SHOW ATTENDED.

* Progeny not shown at U.S. Nationals.

“Angie”

Beloveds Earth Angel

(Beloved One NA+ x Magnums Angel JD+)

2017 Region 12 Unanimous Champion Yearling

2018 Region 12 Unanimous Champion 2-Year-Old 2018 Region 12 Unanimous Champion Spotlight

“Dude” Beloveds ArchAngel

(Beloved One NA+ x Magnums Angel JD+)

2018 Region 12 Reserve Champion Yearling

2019 Region 15 Unanimous Champion Jr. Stallion

“BB”

Beloveds Behold

(Beloved One NA+ x Valori TRF+)

2018 Region 15 Unanimous Champion Yearling

2018 Magnolia Spring Classic Unanimous Champion

“Mayo”

Beloveds Marc One

(Beloved One NA+ x Rohara MarcAlyssa)

2018 Region 12 Unanimous Champion Yearling

2018 Las Vegas World Cup Top 3 Yearling

2019 Region 12 Reserve Champion 2-Year-Old Colt

Proudly owned & loved by Patricia Dempsey 352.430.3456

Patricia@BelovedsFarm.com | www.BelovedsFarm.com

10 Cover Story: Aria Rakeem … A Cornerstone In The Making by Theresa Cardamone

16 2022 AHT Readers’ Choice Awards

18 APAHA 2022 Awards

20 Boisvert Farms Captures Two Breeder Of The Year Awards by Colleen Scott

4 HALTER Aria La Croixx … A Colt Too Good To Pass Up by Theresa Cardamone

6HALTER An Interview with PCF Arabians’ Sam Peacemaker with Jeff Wallace

18HALTER Today’s Halter Horse

21HALTER Rae-Dawn Arabians … A 25-Year Reflection of Grassroots Beginnings, Turned Global Aspirations by Braden Davidson

44 HALTER Post Pandemic Progress: A Path Forward For The Global Arabian Horse Community by Scott Benjamin

46HALTER Meet The Personalities: Mike Weinstein, Part I with Jeff Wallace

58HALTER Breeding Q&A … A Conversation With Today’s Halter Leaders

102 The 68th Annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show … Another Memorable Year by Ally Edwards

Owner/Publisher

Lara Ames

Managing Editor

Charlene Deyle

Production Manager

Melissa Pasicznyk

Content Marketing & Project Manager

Erin Zetterberg Creative & Business Development

Ashley Gallún Advertising Account Executive

Lesley Blain Mazur

Contributing Editor

Mary Kirkman

Contributing Writers

Scott Benjamin

Theresa Cardamone

Ally Edwards

Colleen Scott

Jeff Wallace

Contributing Designers

Wayne Anderson

Jaime Johnson

Emily Maita

Cat McKenna

Brandy Phillips

Riyan Rivero

Ashley Toye

Jenn Trickey

Mieke Opsteyn

COMMENTS from the publisher

F TI S S TTS A 0

Every year, we basically begin the new North American show season at Scottsdale, the world’s largest outdoor horse show, which annually gives us a chance to evaluate where we are as an industry and a community. Let me say—with so much gratitude—that each time I do it, I find positive things to say.

However, since I spend February running at warp speed, it is not until afterward, when I look back and reflect, that I catalog the many aspects that predict a good year to come for our breed. Here’s what stands out to me for 2023.

** Every year, the quality of the horses is amazing. Perhaps the really amazing part is that the quality seems to increase every year. With the excellence of the past, that’s truly impressive. They say that first impressions are the strongest, and Arabian horse owners seem to confirm that. When we have new stars, we debut them at Scottsdale; add in the returning champions of years past, and you have a potent mix of talent on display.

** The amateur classes were super deep in quantity and quality, and that cannot be anything but good for the breed. Much of the energy in our industry is the partnership of horse and human, and that is clearly seen in so many competitive amateurs.

** It appeared to me that this year the open classes were stronger than I have seen them in a long time. That’s not only exciting to watch, but also an indicator of success in the future, because eventually, many of those horses will be competing with amateurs. We’ll be enjoying these horses for years to come!

** Everyone I spoke to was selling horses, which builds a strong economic foundation for years to come.

dba Arabian Horse Times is not responsible for the accuracy of advertising content or manipulation of images that are provided by the advertiser.

ARABIAN HORSE TIMES (ISSN 0279-8125)

Volume 52, No. 8, July 2022, is published monthly, except April, May, June, August and November, by AHT, Inc. dba Arabian Horse Times, P.O. Box 70, Jordan, Minnesota 55352.

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For subscription information, call 952-492-3213. ARABIAN HORSE TIMES P.O. Box 70, Jordan, MN 55352 Fax:952-492-3228 www.ahtimes.com

** For me, an important highlight of Scottsdale is always how we come together to demonstrate our support of a better world, not only for our friends and associates, but beyond our community as well. One of my favorite events is the Ames Family Gala, with its three goals: it fundraises in support of the Mayo Clinic’s cancer research, as well as aids families that it affects; it raises awareness of the benefits of our breed through the Arabian Horse Promotional Fund; and it serves as home to the prestigious Readers’ Choice Awards, traditionally the opener of Scottsdale Week. I can’t thank our many generous sponsors enough.

Meanwhile, the longstanding social close of Scottsdale is the Horseman’s Awards Dinner, held in support of the Arabian Horsemen’s Distress Fund. It’s always exciting to recognize each year’s deserving awards winners, and so heartwarming to see our incredible family of Arabian horse lovers come together to help its own through life’s hard times.

Maybe that’s one thing that I love best about Scottsdale—the deep and abiding camaraderie of our community. Our love of Arabian horses brought us together, and the relationships we build with each other can last a lifetime.

For more information visit www.AnvilArabians.com Follow at anvil_arabians

2023 Filly | Dominic M X Oula Aljassimya, by Marwan Al Shaqab

Proud Supporter

WHISKEY GIRL KM

(Khadillac PGA x PF Kool Elise)

2023 Scottsdale Signature Champion Western Pleasure Futurity with Joe Reser for Dan & Suzanne Acevedo

C e ty ARIA RAKEEM: A

Cornerstone in the Making

By THERESA CARDAMONE

Aria Rakeem has been turning heads ever since he was born, his sensational pedigree and captivating charisma luring ve dedicated breeders to band together as coowners before his show career even got o the ground. e Aria Rakeem Group consists of John and Debra Mitchell (CME Arabian Equities), Joe and Kim Orr (Rose City Arabians), Ruel and Virginia Gober (Dreamco Arabians), Stuart and Carol Nierenberg (Silver Box Southwest), and California breeder Rick Richetta. e group is co-managed by minority interest holders Je Sloan and Greg Knowles, the marketing manager at Royal Arabians, where Rakeem stands at stud.

When Knowles showed Rakeem to Joe and Kim Orr as a baby, they were both smitten and became the rst partners to write a check to be included in his future. “Kim and I are layering our breeding program to eventually get all Rakeem llies,” Joe explains. “ ey will not be for sale; they will be our foundation broodmares.” Each of the Rakeem Group owners are dedicated to sending their nest mares to him and see his show career as a pathway to his eventual legacy as a transformative breeding horse.

e tall bay son of FA El Rasheem and the exquisite international champion MD Hibat Allah stamped his passport into the top echelon of Arabian show horses with his unanimous victory as the 2023 Scottsdale Champion Senior Stallion. Moving as if his barely contained energy would explode at any second, Rakeem won the judges over with his near-perfect conformation and undeniable presence. e win was an endorsement of his previous unanimous victory as the 2022 Arabian National Breeder Finals Senior Champion Stallion.

Elianna Rose (x Elena Enigma SA), another rising superstar sired by Aria Rakeem.

Knowles, whose history with the Arabian horse is decades long, believes that Rakeem has the potential to make a signi cant contribution to the breed. “He brings things to the scenario that are missing in contemporary breeding,” states Knowles. “If he can emulate his mother and father, a pedigree that is absolute royalty, I think this horse has a shot at becoming a cornerstone breeding horse, and that’s the most exciting thing. He has long legs that are well-placed on his body, a beautiful hip, and a short, short back. He also has a great shoulder, a long and elegant high-placed neck, and big, beautiful, expressive black eyes. I don’t know of another breeding horse out there that is 15.3 with his characteristics and re nement. Both phenotypically and genotypically, he has the potential to produce a lot of horses with those highly desired qualities. It’s the look that everyone wants that isn’t available in the current market.”

Aria Rakeem will rest on his show laurels while he handles a full book of over 100 of the nest mares in the world. With breeding packages sold to South America, Europe, and the Middle East, Rakeem will spend the spring and summer serving mares in Scottsdale at Royal Arabians and the fall and winter being collected and frozen for the international market. “ is horse has a great brain, is highly trainable, and is a pleasure to work with,” Knowles explains. “We want to keep it that way. He will not go back to the show ring until the U.S. Nationals in 2024. We don’t want to put him through the pressure of doing it all in one year. Winning at Scottsdale has created the energy that will bring the best mares and give him the shot that he needs to prove that he is what we believe he will be, a cornerstone of the Arabian breed.”

Senior Stallion CHAMPION

PYRANHA ON PESTS GONE.®

WATER-BASED FORMULATION PLUS SILICONE

LASTING EFFECT WITH NO RESIDUE LEFT BEHIND

- MADE

AHT READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS TO OUR WINNERS! 0 Congr on

JR Bella Sorpressa & Lucho Guimaraes earn Breeders

World Cup Silver Champion Yearling Filly for owner and breeder Joanne Gunabalan

Stachowski Farm

Howard Schatzberg

Margaux Rodrigues – Rae-Dawn Arabians

Midwest Training Centre

Royal Arabians’ Living & Performing Art

Jaime Johnson

Jaime Johnson

Canada’s National Arabian Championship

Rex White

Jamie Hagale

Hagale Family Arabians LLC

Boisvert Farms LLC

LaRae Fletcher Powell … A Beautiful Life – Sept. issue, by Catherine Cole Ferandelli | Designed by Ashley Toye

September – RGT Mercury Rising & Dr. Joe Kinnarney

Jenn Trickey

October – Amazing Horse Woman LLC

Michel Reboulaz

Signature Oak Stables’ U.S. Nationals Jumbotron video, produced by Danielle Crawford

Soul of Marwan AS, owned by Cindy McGown or Mark Davis & Arabian Soul Partners Ltd.

Ballerina BF, owned by Laura Sha er

A res Heir, owned by Dr. Joe Kinnarney

Cindy McGown

Andrew Sellman

Colby Powell

ARABIAN PROFESSIONAL & AMATEUR HORSEMAN’S ASSOCIATION

In collaboration with Arabian Horse Times

2022 APAHA AWARD Winners

CONGRATULATIONS! a night to remember...

HORSEMAN OF THE YEAR

SKYLAR POWELL

HORSEWOMAN OF THE YEAR

LIZ BENTLEY

AMATEUR OF THE YEAR

LORI CONWAY

BREEDER OF THE YEAR

BOISVERT FARMS

INSTRUCTOR OF THE YEAR

LAURIE LONG

PROFESSIONAL HALTER

TED CARSON

PROFESSIONAL HUNTER/SHOW HACK

WENDY POTTS

PROFESSIONAL WORKING WESTERN

COLBY POWELL

PROFESSIONAL ENGLISH

JOEL GANGI

PROFESSIONAL WESTERN

COLBY POWELL

YOUTH/ADULT AMATEUR HALTER

YOUTH HUNTER/SHOW HACK

SOPHIE YIH

YOUTH WORKING WESTERN

ALANA BECKER

YOUTH ENGLISH

REX WHITE

YOUTH WESTERN

PAYNE HARPER

AMATEUR HUNTER/SHOW HACK

LORI FOSTER

AMATEUR WORKING WESTERN

MICHELLE PEASE-PAULSEN

AMATEUR ENGLISH

ZACHARY WHITE

AMATEUR WESTERN

KATIE RUSSELL

RISING STAR

NESTOR GONZALEZ

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE

JUAN STUCKEY

MURRAY POPPLEWELL

Sincere thanks to all who voted for this years Readers’ Choice Awards. We are incredibly humbled and grateful to have been honored this year and look forward to seeing everyone in the show season ahead.

Jim, Mary Martha, Jamie, Jennifer, Chris & Jen

RisingStar NESTOR GONZALEZ

STACHOWSKI FARMS | SAN MARCOS, CALIFORNIA

AGE: 35

YEARS IN INDUSTRY: 17

DISCIPLINE FOCUS: English/Hunt

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT

Winning the 2022 APAHA Rising Star award is de nitely one accomplishment I’m most proud of. It’s a great privilege to be honored in this way amongst my peers and friends.

5-YEAR GOAL

I plan on doing what I’m doing! I love what I do, and I hope to still be doing this in the next ve years and longer.

SECRET TO SUCCESS

I would have to say the owners. The trust they give me to help make their dreams come true and to bring out the best in their horses has allowed me to accomplish what I have. Without them I wouldn’t be able to do what I do.

MENTOR/BEST ADVICE

It’s hard to pull out one person; everyone I’ve worked with and interacted with in this industry has provided me with guidance in some way. One piece of advice that I’ve been told and that I still follow is to keep working hard!

HARD LESSON

Probably just not trusting myself or my own instincts.

INDUSTRY PROS & CONS

I think it’s very exciting seeing the programs growing and all of the excitement surrounding the money classes associated with them. What concerns me is many of the local “smaller” shows that we all used to love are getting too small to run.

PERSONAL MOTIVATION

My daughter Bella! I work hard for her future, and the joy that the Arabian horse brings her keeps me inspired.

INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTIONS

My whole life is dedicated to this industry because without it, I wouldn’t have what I do. There is no “outside” because this is my everything; and I think that’s what I contribute most. I do my best to keep the industry growing and to keep the owners excited to keep doing this.

BEST ADVICE TO BEGINNING, YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

The same advice I’ve received … keep working hard, but also listen and continue learning. You can never stop learning.

U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPION • ABWC GOLD CHAMPION • SCOTTSDALE RESERVE SENIOR CHAMPION Delacroixx x La Belle Shawan HVP | Owned by Aspire Arabians, LLC

A HALLOFCHAMPIONSMATRIARCH

ARIA LA CROIXX...

A Colt Too Good To Pass Up

by THERESA CARDAMONE

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 rst saw him as a yearling. ey 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 rst. 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 con rms.

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. “ en 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 e ervescent 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.”

e 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 rst 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. “ e 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. ere 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. ey aren’t in the horse business for the social aspects, they are in it because they truly love their horses.”

ey showed both colts again in the new Breeding Pays Futurity at the 2022 U.S. Nationals. is 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 con dence, and sparkle that a winning show horse needs. A lot of colts his age negotiates with their handler constantly. is 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 e ective 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. en, we’ll get ready for Nationals.” ■

With Sam Peacemaker with Je Wallace

Beginnings...

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. e rst horse I purchased was an o the racetrack oroughbred in 1995 named Ginger. A er doing some groundwork on her and retraining, and reselling her for a pro t, I was hooked! e 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 Magni coo. Bill’s passion for Arabians was a big in uence 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 speci cs 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?

e 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 rst 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

Giana Leah PCF

Today...

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. is lends to a higher likelihood of a predictable outcome. I like this approach rather than matching individuals that would potentially x 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. e rst 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. e 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. ey 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 signi cant 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. ank 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. is year, in some classes in the show, it was simply my turn. I do try to stay away from the “ avor of the day” and try to focus on getting all those attributes we all love, all into one horse. is, in my opinion, has nothing necessarily to do with who just won. Still, one must put in the work to nd 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. e 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 PCF

Wilma PCF

Congratulations on all the horses with your su x in the pedigrees of winners, not only in Scottsdale, but around the world. You have made a great contribution to the breed. Bravo!

- Michael Byatt

We 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’ di erent 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.

- Joe Orr Sam,

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

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. e main bene t 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 rst place this year in the Scottsdale International Yearling Filly class and Bronze Champion in the nal. I plan on keeping her to breed in the future.

It must be really thrilling to see three di erent PCF related llies out of PCF mares chosen by three di erent 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 llies to make three di erent 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 lly 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 con dence 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 o en 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?

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 sta , are what I believe will give my horses the best chance of success in the show ring.

And nally, 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?

Versailles PCF

2023 Dam of Distinction...

2023 Scottsdale PCF-Related winners …

40 Entrants … 34 Placed

16 Champions

10 Reserve or Silver Champions

2 Bronze Champions

46 Top Tens

In Halter, Hunter and Western Pleasure

Stallone PCF

1st Place Sr Yearling Colt

Reserve Champion Jr Colt

Shanelle PCF

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

Arabian Horse Times 2022

North American National Halter Leaders

Includes U.S., Mid Summer, Youth and Canada’s National Halter Champion and Reserve wins Championship classes only. No Showmanship - Based o AHA Supplied Results at end of show

OVERALL LEADING HORSES

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

IH Azariah

1 championship, 2 reserves Sara Embury

3 reserves Stella Bella Arabians LLC

2 championships

2 championships

2 championships

2 championships

Inexxess 2 championships

Jairo CA

Lexxus NS

2 championships

2 championships

Luck Be A Lady Toknight2 championships

MC Jasmara 2 championships

ARABIAN LEADING HORSES

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

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

Tempest FEA 1 championship, 1 reserve Tex Kam

HALF-ARABIAN LEADING HORSES

by number of wins Owner

1. Hercules SBA 2 championships, 2 reserves Stella Bella Arabians LLC

2. Sasha Fierce LR 1 championship, 2 reserves Sara Embury

3. Aftermath VH 2 championships Lori Foster

GFF Evita Always 2 championships Monica Dumont

Inexxess 2 championships

Luck Be A Lady Toknight2 championships

Lisa Gaudio & James Kazanjian

Arianna Bell

4. AFA Pursuit Of Happiness1 championship, 1 reserve Caroline Reid

Berlynetta 1 championship, 1 reserve Learl & Janine McDonald

Donatella Versace 1 championship, 1 reserve Gary Kehl

Elle Vitorina 1 championship, 1 reserve Lisa Gaudio & James Kazanjian

Epiic Butter y T 1 championship, 1 reserve Duke & Renae Mendel

He Be Jammin 1 championship, 1 reserve Lorraine Prowse

Arabian Horse Times 2022 North American National Halter Leaders, continued...

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 own 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.

“Re ecting 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 rst 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 rst 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 rst foal born earlier that Spring. “Shirley brought the lly 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,” re ects 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 rst 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 rst 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,” nishes 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 rst United States National Championships as spectators, which were being held in its nal 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.”

RD Jornada+

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 ery bay colt somehow sparked a re within Murray, and as they say, the rest is history. That colt was then 2-year-old Bey Ambition and was perhaps the most signi cant 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 in uence 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 gure 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 nd 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 ~ Scottsdale

And 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 nd 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 re ecting 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

Scottsdale Success

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

Proudly owned by Royal Sky HBV

UNANIMOUS CHAMPION  ARABIAN JUNIOR COLT AAOTH with Amanda Pagan

Soul Of Marwan AS x Rhadashah Arabco

Proudly Owned by Royal Arabians

www.RoyalArabians.com

Proudly owned by Royal Arabians

FASTFACTSABOUTTHE PROGRAM

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 RADMAN

(AJ Mardan x AJ Rahifa)

Owned by: Ajman Stud

Standing at: Royal Arabians

ATTICUS ENB

(*El Nabila B x Om El Benedine)

Owned by: Psynergy Enterprise Developments, LLC

Standing at: Arabians International

BERLIN MP

(S.M.A. Magic One x Baraka MP)

Owned by: Mindy Peters

Standing at: Arabians International

*DOMINIC M

(Da Vinci FM x Rose La Valentina)

Owned by & Standing at Orrion Farms, LLC

EL TINO

(DA Valentino x Imprimista CF)

Owned by: Desert Sky Arabians

Standing at: Royal Arabians

FAROUK PALAZZOTTO

(D Seraj x D Feddah)

Owned by: Hagale Family Arabians

Standing at: Orrion Farms, LLC

HALYR MEIA LUA

(Ajman Moniscione x Halya De Jylbert)

Owned by: Cindy McGown or Mark Davis

Standing at: Royal Arabians

RHAN AL SHAHANIA

(Marwan Al Shaqab x Jwaaher Al Shahania)

Owned by: Al Shahania Stud

Standing at: Michael Byatt Arabians

JR FRANCOIS

(Kavalle MI x JR Francesca)

Owned by: GRK Farms, LLC

Standing at: Guimaraes Arabians

POLIDORO FC

(DA Valentino x Abha Palma)

Owned by: Stuart & Sue Larsen

Standing at: Michael Byatt Arabians

ROYAL ASAD

(El Tino x Lumiar Ethna)

Owned by: Cindy McGown or Mark Davis

Standing at: Royal Arabians

SHARIF ALZOBAIR

(FA El Rasheem x Risalah Alzobair)

Owned by: Jiaxin S A

Standing at: Midwest Training Centre

BEY AMBITION

(Regal Actor JP x Bey Shahs Lady)

Owned by: Murray or Shirley Popplewell

Standing at: Rae-Dawn Arabians

GARAVANI AN

(Polidoro FC x Maria PCF)

Owned by: Anivia Equine, LLC

Standing at: Midwest Training Centre

PRELUDIO OSB

(Dominic M x Partyssima OS)

Owned by: Valley Oak Arabians

Standing at: Arabians International

*SOUL

OF MARWAN AS

(Marwan Al Shaqab x RD Challs Angel)

Owned by: Cindy McGown or Mark Davis and Arabian Soul Partners LTD.

Standing at: Royal Arabians

SCAN

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 Boggs

to

www.ArabianHalterFuturity.com

see the full list of nominated stallions and mares

Post Pandemic Progress: A

Path Forward For The Global Arabian Horse Community

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

MEET THE PERSONALITIES

MIKE WEINSTEIN, PART I

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)

Right: *Menes (Nabeg x Metropolia)

MEET THE PERSONALITIES

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 rst 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 llies! Sadly, however, the lly born the rst year died. We tried to breed back to *Bask but then he died. is 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. at 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. e Fidelis partnership included Simon Chilewich, an American businessman who was the rst American to have an o ce 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!

Let’s talk directly about *Menes himself, tell me about his breeding.

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! at 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 O r daughter Mammona. *Menes was a magni cent experience. We even made a lm of his importation and took a crew from New York City to Moscow. In his rst foal crop, a lly 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.

In Conclusion

For the next 20 years or so, Mike Weinstein would not focus on Arabian horse breeding but instead on nishing 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.

HALTER

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

BERGEN AN

(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

LADY NICA SRA

(EKS Alihandro x Lady Dominica JSZ)

H: Andrew Sellman | O: eresa 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

DIAMOND SKY

(AJ Radman x OFW Jewel Of Marwan)

H: Austin Boggs

O/B: Desert Sky Arabian LLC

SCOTTSDALE 2023 BREEDING/IN-HAND CHAMPIONS

STRAIGHT EGYPTIAN SENIOR STALLION

KLA AIZAAN SHAHEEN

(Shaheen Al Waab x Luna ee 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

( ee In del 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: Je Collins | B: Je & Sybil Collins

Scottsdale 2023

PHOTOS SPONSORED BY ANVIL ARABIANS & EQUINE ATHLETE VETERINARY SERVICES

AHT candid photos by Madison Bradshaw, Ally Edwards, Meaghan Estes, Dallas Gerbrandt, Renee Holt, Alexis Kiesner & Cecily Sotomayor Photos available for purchase at ahtimes.com/photos

BREEDING A CONVERSATION WITH TODAY’S LEADERS IN THE HALTER COMMUNITY

DAVID BOGGS | Midwest

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.

Do you visit farms in your own country?

Yes, non-stop! I visit farms throughout the United States and all over the world.

GREG KNOWLES | Royal Arabians

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?  ere are many through the years. Because I really like the re nement of the Arabian, I would say that most top mares have that unique distinction. At our farm, I think Jude Aljassimya exempli es 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? ere 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!

IVAN OSORIO |

Aspire Arabians

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 Shawan

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?

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. ere 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?  eir 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? is 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?

at’s a di cult 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.

JAMIE HAGALE | Hagale Family Arabians

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. ere’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 signi cantly. 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. e 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 exempli es what a halter horse should be. It’s hard to take your eyes o 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 rst.

If we gave you a bumper sticker that said, “Arabian horse? Of course!” would you apply it to your bumper proudly?

Hell yes!

JOHNNY DOWNING | Rancho Las Potrancas

What does your ideal Arabian horse look like?

e 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. e 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! ere’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. e 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? ere 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 magni cent!

LARA AMES | Cedar Ridge Arabians

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 nal 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?

Per nka, the rst time I saw her when she got o the trailer. For doing a long ight 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.

TED CARSON | Allgood

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. ey 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 de nitely been at the top for years. Abroad, there are a lot of great breeders, but for the last ve or six years at least, Dubai Stud has dominated. ey have bought the best horses and are producing the best o spring. When we rst decided to let Exxalt out of our hands, we decided to trust Dubai Stud with him. ey 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

SCOTTSDALE

68 TH ANNUAL SCOTTSDALE ARABIAN HORSE SHOW FEBRUARY 16-26, 2023

ALL WIN PHOTOS BY OSTEEN/SCHATZBERG PHOTOGRAPHY

Scottsdale 2023 ANOTHER MEMORABLE YEAR

BY ALLY EDWARDS

February for the Arabian horse world means only one thing - Scottsdale. Even though the term “sunny Scottsdale” might have been a bit of a stretch this year - more like soggy, freezing, windy Scottsdale - its Arabian horse show still holds up as the greatest horse show on earth.

Horses and riders from all over the country gathered in the desert for 11 days of showing at WestWorld for the 68th Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show. Just under 2,000 horses competed in every discipline and division imaginable. Sometimes with ve arenas going all day, there was main performance, halter, working western, and sport horse classes throughout the week.

e show started o with the beautiful Richard and Georgiann Ames Family Foundation Gala held at the Talking Stick Resort ballroom. Attendees dressed up right before the show began to celebrate those making a di erence and have a chance to bid on exciting auction items to support the Mayo Clinic and Arabian Horse Promotional Fund, while also enjoying excellent food and company. Another big part of the night was Arabian Horse Times’ Readers’ Choice Awards. Many nominees were present, and the winners were acknowledged on stage with their trophies.

Come 8 a.m. the next morning, the show kicked o full swing. e rst ve days are commonly known as Youth Weekend, as all youth classes fall over the long President’s Day holiday. e Equidome is a constant stream of talented young riders showing o their stunning partners.

Many classes (not only youth but adults well) needed eliminations due to the high numbers competing, as the youth classes continue to be some of the most competitive of the show. e caliber grows every year and they were all smiles as they came out of the arena, whether with ribbons, or roses, or nothing. It seems these kids do know just how lucky they are to get to compete with these beautiful horses and that the sportsmanship and horsemanship is more important than any ribbon.

Unfortunately, due to a wide variety of less-than-ideal weather, many of the halter classes that usually happen under the bright Scottsdale sun were moved inside to the International arena. A more intimate setting, some of the most beautiful horses in the country were presented. ese horses are testaments of how skillfully the top breeding programs choose pairings of sire and dam. e result is textbook conformation and Arabian type littered throughout these halter classes; it seemed like it would be impossible to even pick a winner. e Scottsdale Senior Stallion this year was Aria Rakeem with Andy Sellman for Aria Rakeem Group LLC, and the Senior Mare was Alesia ENB in a very emotional and exciting win with Alcides Rodriguez for Rae-Dawn Arabians.

What makes Scottsdale a show unlike any other is the spectator attendance. No other Arabian show draws in crowds like this one. Especially on weekends, the grounds are crawling with people admiring the beautiful horses. And not only are the Equidome and Wendell arenas packed, but people surround the reining arena and swarm the cutting pen and dressage stands. ere really is something for every type of horse enthusiast to enjoy - all thanks to our versatile Arabian.

Elementary schools take eld trips to the Scottsdale show and this year they were treated to a meet-and-greet with everyone’s favorite fuzzy competitor, “Guinness”, aka Khasta Beaujalais DT. A fan favorite at last year’s show, his owner, Stephen Bishop returned with Guinness and gave the kids an introductory lesson on the Arabian horse and what sets them apart from other breeds. e kids and parents followed that up with each petting Guinness and giving him carrots, then going to the Cedar Ridge stalls to visit their horses. A chorus of squeals and giggles echoed as noses tickled ngers trying to grab treats. Kids and adults alike all seemed delighted to get to be close to the horses and Guinness was a star, being perfectly patient as little kids ran back and forth.

On the nal Saturday night, tickets were sold out and the Equidome was packed. With a stacked line-up of favorite classes, the session started with the very competitive adult Egg and Spoon contest, ultimately won by Tamara Burkman. Even running late into the night, the stands were full, watching classes that included the Arabian Open Western and the Half-Arabian Park. ere’s nothing quite like a full arena yelling and cheering for their favorite horses. It adds a whole other level of excitement to showing when you perform for people, most of them strangers, and they cheer for your success.

At the end of the week, on the last Sunday, the APAHA Awards were held at the event center of WestWorld. A er a long and tiring show, many still took the time to clean up and enjoy a nice evening honoring some of the best riders and trainers of the year.

Accompanied by a cocktail party and a delicious meal, it was a lovely closeout to the show. In an emotional night, brothers Colby and Skylar Powell were awarded Western Trainer of the Year and Horseman of the Year respectively; showing that there is something to be said for the camaraderie and support throughout this industry.

ere’s always a melancholy mood that settles when the Scottsdale show ends. e best show of the year is suddenly another year away, and a er a few days of catching up on sleep, you wish you were back at WestWorld surrounded by beautiful horses and good friends. So, here’s to our countdown to next year and crossing our ngers for a little more warmth!

Scottsdale 2023

AHT candid photos by Madison Bradshaw, Ally Edwards, Meaghan Estes, Dallas Gerbrandt, Renee Holt, Alexis Kiesner & Cecily Sotomayor Photos available for purchase at ahtimes.com/photos

SADDLE SEAT

Scottsdale 2023

PHOTOS SPONSORED BY HAGALE FAMILY ARABIANS LLC

AHT candid photos by Madison Bradshaw, Ally Edwards, Meaghan Estes, Dallas Gerbrandt, Renee Holt, Alexis Kiesner & Cecily Sotomayor Photos available for purchase at ahtimes.com/photos

SCOTTSDALE 2023 SADDLE SEAT CHAMPIONS

ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE OPEN

ROL ASCENSION

(Black Daniels x HA Ghrace Under Fire)

H: Wyatt Budd

O: Felix Cantu | B: R O Lervick Arabians

ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE JUNIOR HORSE

MALEFICENT FS

(VJ Royal Heir x Mac Ni cence A re)

H: Leah Beth Golladay

O/B: Je Prem

HALF-ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE OPEN

TOOSKCANDALOUS RT

(HA Toskcan Sun x Topline)

H/B: Rene Ramirez

O: Rainie Kuchynka

HALF-ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE JUNIOR HORSE

AMERICAN AMBITION

(Inception x Sweet ‘N Nutty)

H: Jonathan Ramsay

O: North By Northwest LLC | B: Marty Shea

ARABIAN COUNTRY

ENGLISH PLEASURE OPEN

MALACHI KW

(Mamage x KW Sapphire)

H: James Lowe

O: Sara Sherman Glaser | B: Kingswood Farms

ARABIAN COUNTRY

ENGLISH PLEASURE JUNIOR HORSE

SPITFIRE VM

(A res Heir x A rey Temptress VM)

H: Joshua Shino

O: Shelley Lee | B: Fishgold Family

HALF-ARABIAN COUNTRY

ENGLISH PLEASURE OPEN

G EAZY

(HA Toskcan Sun x Up In e Heir)

H: Chris Wilson | O: Hagale Family Arabians LLC

B: Shawn and Ava Stachowski

HALF-ARABIAN COUNTRY

ENGLISH PLEASURE JUNIOR HORSE

SR CRACKLIN THUNDER

(Black Daniels x under Woman)

H: Joel Kiesner

O: Sherman Ranch | B: Martin Sherman Jr. Family Trust

0 0

Ar abian Country English Pleasure AOTR Maturity

CHAMPION

OH DANCING ON HEIR

(A res Heir x DD My Dance)

H/O: Lindsay O’Reilly French

B: 5 G and M Ltd Partnership

RESERVE CHAMPION

CP MANIFESTO

(H Mobility H x A re Charmm)

H/O: Sophie Yih

B: Cal Poly Pomona

www.arabianenglishperformanceassociation.com

Proudly Owned by Felix & Ceci Cantu | Mexico City Represented by Johnny Downing

Black Daniels x HA Ghrace Under Fire

Breeding information contact Kiesner Training Ashton Kiesner Cell: 865-556-0412

SCOTTSDALE CHAMPION

H/A

RESERVE CHAMPION

H/A

Proudly bred & owned by Sherman Ranch THESHERMANRANCH.COM

Black Daniels Thunder Woman SCOTTSDALE

Country English Pleasure

JOTR 15-18 with Peyton Bergstad

Afires Heir x Pineapple Express Scottsdale Res-Champion English Pleasure JOTR with Peyton Bergstad

Congratulations to Ashley Yelavich on his addition to your family!

Country English Pleasure Junior Horse with Joel Kiesner

Thank you to Kiesner Training for the impeccable preparation and presentation of our horses.

“I am who I am today because of the choices I made yesterday.”

“From the thrill of the beautiful ride to the ever more nerve racking ones, I learned determination, perseverance, and true grit. Life lessons and skills learned that will guide me through future challenges and endeavors. I am gateful for the wins and for the many humbling defeats.” ~ Hadley Ames

Proud Family Tony & Michelle, Larry & Marcia and Lollie Ames

Proudly riding under the direction of Kiesner Training

~ Eleanor Roosevelt ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Mamage x KW Sapphire, by Baske Afire Proudly owned by Franklin Farm, LLC

3X CHAMPION & 2X RESERVE CHAMPION, Ben There Dunthat RA

2X CHAMPION & RESERVE CHAMPION, Jaborrs Jersey

2X CHAMPION, SwiftKickInThePantz

CHAMPION, Create N Illusion CRF

CHAMPION, Nirvanas Mirage CRF

CHAMPION, Nobelistic CRF

CHAMPION & RESERVE CHAMPION, Amadeus RA

CHAMPION & RESERVE CHAMPION, Gone N Dunit RA

2X RESERVE CHAMPION, Thorn InMy Slide RA

RESERVE CHAMPION, Charlotte Ames

RESERVE CHAMPION, Dun And Done+/ RESERVE CHAMPION, Noble Supreme CRF

RESERVE CHAMPION, Delirious

RESERVE CHAMPION, Mozarts Snapshot RA

The Ames Family | Jordan, MN | www.Cedar-Ridge.com

12 Championships

12 Reserve Championships

31 Top Tens

Congratulations to all owners & exhibitors on your tremendous success aboard Cedar Ridge bred horses!

WESTERN PLEASURE

Scottsdale 2023

PHOTOS SPONSORED BY HAGALE FAMILY ARABIANS LLC

AHT candid photos by Madison Bradshaw, Ally Edwards, Meaghan Estes, Dallas Gerbrandt, Renee Holt, Alexis Kiesner & Cecily Sotomayor Photos available for purchase at ahtimes.com/photos

SCOTTSDALE 2023 WESTERN PLEASURE CHAMPIONS

ARABIAN WESTERN PLEASURE OPEN

PA MCKOY

(PA Kid Khan x Maggie May V)

H: Stanley White III

O: Melinda Roberts | B: J. Frank Chisholm

ARABIAN WESTERN PLEASURE JUNIOR HORSE

REDEMPTION HA

(Bentley SF x Heartbreaker RA)

H: Josh Quintus

O: Jeremy Harper | B: Jeremy or Chad Harper

HALF-ARABIAN WESTERN PLEASURE OPEN

PACHECO BLUES

(Rodan LTD x First Class Bluey)

H: Steven Scoggins

O: Dennis Clark | B: Liz Alward

HALF-ARABIAN WESTERN PLEASURE JUNIOR HORSE

GIRLFRIEND SF

(Poco Van Star Two x Candy Girl V)

H: Joe Reser | O: Shamrock Farms LLC

B: Setting Sun Stables LLC

ARABIAN WESTERN PLEASURE CHOICE AATR 19-39

SCOTTSDALE 1ST PLACE WESTERN PLEASURE CHOICE AATR

2023 SCOTTSDALE RESERVE CHAMPION

(Monticello V x JBB Maijah)

Proudly owned by Represent Equine, LLC

Trained by Joe Reser of Shamrock Farms

WITH LESLEY MAZUR

JUNIOR HORSE WITH JOE RESER Sired

HUNTER PLEASURE

Scottsdale 2023

PHOTOS SPONSORED BY HAGALE FAMILY ARABIANS LLC

AHT candid photos by Madison Bradshaw, Ally Edwards, Meaghan Estes, Dallas Gerbrandt, Renee Holt, Alexis Kiesner & Cecily Sotomayor Photos available for purchase at ahtimes.com/photos

SCOTTSDALE 2023 HUNTER PLEASURE CHAMPIONS

ARABIAN HUNTER PLEASURE OPEN

ROYAL MAESTRO

(Pershahn El Jamaal x Aria Marchestra)

H: Justin Cowden

O: Mark Davis | B: Cindy McGown or Mark Davis

ARABIAN HUNTER PLEASURE JUNIOR HORSE

PS MYSTIC MIRAGE

(Mirage V x Mata Hara)

H: Justin Cowden

O: Mark Davis | B: Paul or Marcella Mehew

HALF-ARABIAN HUNTER PLEASURE OPEN

DONT STOP B-LIEVEN

(H Mobility H x Dream Of Success)

H: Jonathan Ramsay

O: Bianca Massman | B: Hennessey Wilson Partners

HALF-ARABIAN HUNTER PLEASURE JUNIOR HORSE

DONALI PCF

(Exxalt x Donatella Versace)

H: Isabella Heath | B: Sam Peacemaker

O: Culbreth Equine Training & Management LLC

SCOTTSDALE

AHPA HUNTER PLEASURE AOTR CHAMPIONS

ARABIAN

HALF-ARABIAN

HOLANA E

(Hermez E x Hologram)

H/O: Leigh Jasper

B: Enzo Ltd

SKY HIGH LR

(Majesteit x Nottalooza)

H: Leah Perczak | O: Mari Perczak

B: Lindsay Rinehart

SCOTTSDALE CHAMPION

Half-Arabian Country English Pleasure

JTR 14 & Under Select

Christy Higman-Clements chctrainingocala.com l Ocala, Florida l 305-606-0645

Brooke Peterson

SCOTTSDALE CHAMPION

Hunter Seat Equitation JTR 14 & Under Reserve Champion Half-Arabian Hunter Pleasure

JOTR/JTR 14 & Under

SCOTTSDALE CHAMPION

Arabian Hunter Pleasure JOTR 14 & Under

Proud Parents Mark and Debbie Peterson

Alexis Peterson

WORKING WESTERN

Scottsdale 2023

PHOTOS SPONSORED BY EQUINE ATHLETE VETERINARY SERVICES

AHT candid photos by Madison Bradshaw, Ally Edwards, Meaghan Estes, Dallas Gerbrandt, Renee Holt, Alexis Kiesner & Cecily Sotomayor Photos available for purchase at ahtimes.com/photos

BSF TEKHALILA SUNSET

(TA Khalil x Sonatinas Sunset)

H: Colby Powell

O: Sara Hymas | B: Buckshot Farms

HESA TAYLOR MADE

(Hesa Zee x CMS Centerfold)

H: Colby Powell

O: Jenna Curley | B: Eleanor Hamilton

SHESA DIVA SS

(Hesa Zee x Cassandra SS)

H: Danny Miller-Gerardi

O: Amazing Horse Woman LLC | B: Connie Cole O’Brien

3-WAY CHAMPION ARABIAN REINING FUTURITY

3-WAY CHAMPION ARABIAN REINING FUTURITY

3-WAY CHAMPION ARABIAN REINING FUTURITY

HALF-ARABIAN REINING FUTURITY

LJ CHARLOTTE

(Al-Marah Matt Dillon x Special Kinda Nite)

H: Crystal McNutt

O: Lori Cantero | B: Linda Jacobs

ARABIAN REINING OPEN

E ZEE SLIDER

(Hesa Zee x Zee Starlight)

H: Nathan Kent

O: Connie Walling | B: Ken & Connie Walling

HALF-ARABIAN REINING OPEN

YELLOW BUG

(Yellow Jersey x Czars Fire Bug)

H: Crystal McNutt

O: Linda Clark | B: Lisa Coulter

2023 LEADING SIRES e

CHAMPIONSHIP CLASSES ONLY

Not included: Sport Horse, Dressage, Equitation, Working Hunter, Jumper, Showmanship/Horsemanship

OVERALL HALTER

BY # OF WINNERS

BY # OF WINS

CADANCE PA

DOMINIC M

OVERALL PERFORMANCE

AFIRES HEIR

SF AFTERSHOC

SIGNATURE STALLION PERFORMANCE

RD HABANERO

HA TOSKCAN SUN

A Judge’s Perspective 2023

Scottsdale Show

Mark Himmel Western/Hunter Carmelle Rooker English

Bruce McCrea Western/Hunter Debby Cain Halter

Liz Bentley Western/Hunter

Sufian Taha Al Husseni Intl. Halter

Marianne Tengstedt Intl. Halter

Roxanne Schall Halter

Lisa Blackstone Halter

Jeff Schall Halter

Tracy Lynch Halter

Michell Combs Dressage/Sport Horse

Allan Ehrlick Sport Horse

Lindsay Rinehart English Mary Trowbridge English

Duane Esser Halter

WHAT WAS THE MOST COMPETITIVE CLASS YOU JUDGED?

RINEHART: Amateur Half-Arabian Hunter

TROWBRIDGE: I was really inspired by the increased depth in the Scottsdale Signature auction classes since the last time I judged this great show. All the classes have improved dramatically in the quality of young horses that participated as well as the numbers. I thought the Saddle Seat Western class was the best class I saw at the show, with the winner being one of my favorite new horses that I saw over the 10 days. The amateur western classes also rose to the top of the competitive scale by the end of the week, in all levels, and for both Half-Arabians and purebreds. Arabians truly make some of the MOST beautiful western horses in that discipline of all breeds, and their carriage, control and quality of gaits are excellent.

BENTLEY: My favorite was the one I was call judge on: Western Pleasure Elite. The qualifier was filled with beautiful presentations of many national champions. The class stayed together both ways and was the most competitive western class with great depth that I have judged in many years. The winner of the qualifying class was perfection—the horse was so soft, smooth and consistent.

HIMMEL: There were actually two; the purebred Open Western Pleasure and the purebred Junior Western Pleasure finals classes.

ROOKER: Narrowing down one most competitive class is nearly impossible. Most classes were deep in quality and competition. The AHPA class as well the junior exhibitor country pleasure classes were presented and ridden very well.

MCCREA: We had so many competitive classes! We saw Junior Exhibitor classes the first five days and talented kids on great horses in all divisions. The last five days we had many amazing amateur classes!

CAIN: I have been honored to judge the International classes previously, and the greatly increased quality, type and motion this year were particularly notable. The classes for both the yearling fillies and colts were both very competitive and a joy to judge. This exquisite group make the future in the breeding shed look very bright.

J. SCHALL: From the first JTH class we judged until the last International championship, each individual class told its own story, and in most every case was ultra-competitive! It is so enjoyable to see the excitement that the exhibitors and owners experience when their special horse performs well and subsequently scores/places high.

TAHA AL HUSSENI: The yearling fillies class was the most impressive, strong class in my opinion to judge; the quality was outstanding and was really difficult to judge.

TENGSTEDT: I really enjoyed the filly classes. With some really nice horses, it’s looking great for the future.

R. SCHALL: At the core we all realize just how highly competitive this event is. With that, I genuinely enjoyed the sportsmanship and support that I witnessed in both the halter and performance arenas.

BLACKSTONE: The Scottsdale Signature Stallion Yearling Filly ATH class was especially competitive! Some exquisite fillies were presented by some talented amateurs!

ESSER: I would say probably the most competitive class I judged in Scottsdale was the Signature Yearling Filly class with 50 entries. This particular class this year was filled with quality along with the quantity, which is a rare combination in such a large class.

LYNCH: The Scottsdale Signature Stallion Yearling Fillies ATH class was by far the most competitive class that I judged. It was full of the beautiful Arabians that we are striving to breed. Any of the top five in the class could have been first on my card. However, the winning filly had that extra spark that put a smile on my face when she was in the arena.

COMBS: I judged some large sport horse rail classes. With every class, I hope that each horse and rider have a great, personal-best ride!

EHRLICK: Sport Horse Stallions In-Hand.

WHAT DOES THE SCOTTSDALE SHOW DO BETTER THAN OTHER EVENTS?

RINEHART: It’s no fluke that Scottsdale is the “Greatest Horse Show On Earth”. The Arabian Horse Association of Arizona is comprised of excellent horsemen, women and professionals. The staff is welcoming, exhibitor friendly, and the behind-the-scenes organization is tremendous, bringing new people in to see and touch Arabian horses!

TROWBRIDGE: No question—it resonates with the outside world and invites NEW people to meet and learn more about the Arabian horse while giving outstanding customer service to their patrons, exhibitors and spectators.

The Scottsdale Association’s outreach efforts this year were out of the park. Many people probably missed the chance to get to Fashion Square Mall to see the “Arabian Horses For Humanity” Statues that were displayed by the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Stallion Stampede, but I can tell you personally, that it was INCREDIBLE to walk into one of the country’s high-end shopping areas and see our Arabian horses displayed for the world in such a beautiful and artistic way. They had their booth at Barrett-Jackson Auctions again this year, a presence at the Golf Tournament, and advertisements throughout the community, from the airports to the hotels to the airlines … wherever you went.

Similarly, the Scottsdale Arabian show’s outreach efforts are a year-round cornerstone of this horse show and have been for decades. The results of those efforts are a testament to the necessity and result of long-term commitment towards promoting this breed beyond our existing community. Over 67 years, Scottsdale is STILL a cornerstone of the Arabian horse world in terms of farm population and the ability to reach new people, and that’s because the management and committee have NEVER wavered from promoting this breed beyond our existing borders while putting on this event. Outreach and promotion have to be consistent, and should be, and were meant to be, the cornerstone of ALL Arabian horse shows. It’s tough to do, because our shows have also become participant events heavy with classes, but this show still puts on crowd pleasing events such as Liberty, the Gambler’s Choice Jumping, and this year, the Keystone Experience Egg and Spoon, along with barn tours, riding and hands-on experiences, and many other efforts while extending second-to-none customer experiences to the exhibitors.

The entire Scottsdale show committee are engaged and focused on making sure that their customers come first while they continue to investigate and embrace new ways to promote the breed. A successful event these days has

many masters to manage, but the two most important continue to be the people that support the event as sponsors and exhibitors, and those we are hoping to attract to the Arabian breed—those outside of our existing community. This show is the gold standard of those efforts.

Their success has kept Scottsdale an Arabian horse hub for generations—as we were reminded again this year; it is NOT just the weather that keeps people coming back year after year! We must have faith in our outreach and stay the course. We may not all become what Scottsdale has become, but if we don’t play, we can’t win. If we all do not keep these two caveats at the forefront of all our efforts, the Arabian horse will be the biggest loser.

BENTLEY: The Scottsdale Arabian horse show is the greatest show in the country because it is such a well-run and organized machine. Many of the committee have run it for years and they don’t miss a beat. It’s the best judging experience I’ve been fortunate to judge three times.

HIMMEL: The Scottsdale show allows the exhibitor in each division the ability to show their horses multiple times.

ROOKER: From a center ring “judges” perspective, the Scottsdale show commission puts in place the most organized, competent people; capitalizing on each individual’s specialty and expertise to keep center ring, show arenas, and paddocks running in a very smooth and efficient manner. Everything has been thought of and nothing is left to “chance”.

From an exhibitor and/or spectators view, Scottsdale is the “greatest Arabian show on earth”. They promote the Arabian horse to the general public and put on an event in a beautiful area that draws people to our horses and community.

MCCREA: Scottsdale is just a superbly run show. To have that many horses in that many difficult arenas is very impressive! Great weather always helps!

CAIN: There is no show that compares to Scottsdale. Bad weather or good weather, it really is the greatest show on earth thanks in great part to the management team. The vast array of classes and the quality of horses is wonderful. AAHA’s amazing community outreach throughout the year, ads in magazines, display horses in the mall, and parades, are all an integral part of what makes the show so memorable and introduces many to the Arabian horse. The thousands, often first-time spectators, that visit are

intrigued by what makes the Arabian horse so special and this year’s show, like previous years, was spectacular. It was an honor to judge with such a great panel of judges. Although our backgrounds spanned the world, it was inspirational to note how similar our placings were and our shared mutual respect.

J. SCHALL: The Scottsdale show’s plethora of class options give everyone wonderful opportunities to compete.

TAHA AL HUSSENI: Scottsdale is an iconic historic show. Every judge in the world would be honored to judge such a great prestigious event. Many breeders, spectators and media personnel seek pilgrimage to this event. I have judged hundreds of shows worldwide and Scottsdale was a special event for me. The show was wonderful, super organized, and the quality of horses were superb.

TENGSTEDT: It’s great to see so many horses in all the disciplines the makes Scottsdale special.

R. SCHALL: I have a great appreciation for the incredible job that the Scottsdale Show Committee does. As they delicately and diligently handle every situation that arises, it is evident that their goal is to do the right thing and put the exhibitor first. This philosophy combined with the incredible venue and typically favorable weather conditions make it a perfect storm.

BLACKSTONE: So many things, from event promotion to scheduling myriad activities, the Scottsdale show

management sets the bar very high! From a judge’s perspective, one small detail got my attention. It may seem trivial but made a big difference. It was nice to receive daily text messages with pertinent show information, such as ‘the show will start at 9:00 instead of 8:00’ … ‘classes will be held in West Hall instead of Wendell’. That information affects how you dress that day for the weather and simply makes your job easier.

ESSER: The Scottsdale show itself is just amazing. The time of year and the destination sets the show up for success in so many ways. The show is extremely large, hosting so many different disciplines to watch every day. It gives the spectator a chance to soak in so much.

LYNCH: I believe the Scottsdale show does an amazing job at bringing in “non-horse” people to the show through advertising, special things like the “Meet an Arabian” activities, and I also think the rich history of the show and how the City of Scottsdale embraces it is what continues to make the show such a success and keeps both exhibitors and spectators wanting to come back year after year.

COMBS: I was particularly impressed with the sport horse show office—everyone was positive, team-oriented and seemed to enjoy their time at the show. The volunteers were exceptional as well.

EHRLICK: It has great ambiance, and they make you feel that they really appreciate you being there.

WAS THERE A HEARTWARMING INCIDENT YOU WITNESSED THAT YOU COULD SHARE?

RINEHART: Watching the pure joy our breed brings to people is the best! The thrill of the win, the pets an exhibitor gives their beloved horse in the lineup, hearing the crowd cheer loudly with excitement, the list goes on and on. We are all very blessed to have the Arabian horse in our lives!

TROWBRIDGE: Dale Brown’s 14-year-old son, Reece, went with him to this show for the first time as a worker, and was with his dad the whole time showing and assisting full time. At the end of the week, Reece accompanied Dale to the APAHA Horseman’s Awards, where there was a Paddle Raise fundraiser for the AHDF to benefit Rebecca and Stuart Vesty’s pursuit of a cure for her very rare form of breast cancer. Reece turned to his dad and asked if they could donate the money he had been working for during the show to the cause, which the two did on behalf of Dale Brown Performance Horses. Do we need much more

indication than that about how good the outside of a horse is for the inside of a human and how much we all have to be grateful for, thanks to this incomparable breed?

HIMMEL: When I’m the call judge, I stand right by the entrance of the show arena. It was a purebred amateur western pleasure class and I looked at the eye of every horse entering the show arena and each horse had the most kindest, relaxed, and sweet look about them that you only see in Arabians and their personal attachment to people.

ROOKER: Being in center ring you don’t get to witness much other than what goes on in the main ring, but … when exhibitors are truly and genuinely excited and proud of their rides, they just beam! Also, the little girl waving to the crowd in the lead line class. :)

MCCREA: It’s been fun the last two years seeing the gentleman from Colorado showing his unclipped horse in several divisions and thoroughly enjoying himself!

CAIN: There was one notable little guy showing his favorite halter horse that made us all smile. The Arabian horse is certainly a show horse, but the Scottsdale show proved again, a family horse as well.

J. SCHALL: I was extremely pleased with the style of halter presentation. As a general rule, the overall balance and care given by the exhibitors and their coaches throughout the show was spot on.

TAHA AL HUSSEINI: I witnessed a lady cheering with her baby on her lap and the baby was enjoying the moment as if he or she totally understood what was going on!

TENGSTEDT: I too, enjoyed the kids waving to the audience in the lead line class. It’s so important to get the kids and young ones involved and make them feel comfortable while having fun.

BLACKSTONE: The winner of a big class came up to us after the show and thanked us for appreciating her entry.

She was so choked up, with tears streaming down her face, she could hardly get the words out. It made us tear up as well.

ESSER: The exhibitor that showed the unanimous champion yearling filly in the Signature Stallion Yearlings Fillies. She did an extraordinary job exhibiting this particular horse. She was focused and did her homework—very business-like in her presentation. In the end when the filly had won, she was very emotional and showed a tremendous appreciation to this beautiful horse that she had shown. It was quite touching.

LYNCH: I LOVE seeing all of the little kids riding horses in the exhibit hall!

COMBS: Some of the early morning dressage classes sported frisky horses and the riders just took the bounces in stride, smiled and carried on. I was impressed with the sportsmanship!

EHRLICK: I saw an owner/breeder crying when he found out his horse had won.

WHAT WAS THE MOST ENJOYABLE PART OF THE SHOW FOR YOU?

RINEHART: Being in Scottsdale and judging some of the very best Arabian and Half-Arabian horses. What could be better!?

TROWBRIDGE: As always, the Scottsdale show is able to bring in a huge array of different horsemen and women to judge the event, and this year was no exception. It’s such a great reset to spend time with such a wide variety of Arabian horse aficionados—breeders, trainers, amateurs, owners, and volunteers, all of whom come together to officiate and help put on this massive production. As an exhibitor, I of course know those people, especially the volunteers, are always behind the scenes; but when I judge or put on an event, I get so much more interaction with this eclectic and varied group of people, and a few more minutes to connect and hear how Arabians have brought us together. Everyone has a great story behind their love for this breed, and it is always at the forefront of each person’s consciousness when they are involved with event production. So great!

HIMMEL: The most enjoyable part of the show was getting to know all the other judges of the show and judging some of the best horses in the country.

ROOKER: Being able to watch and judge the high caliber of horses, trainers and exhibitors showing at Scottsdale.

MCCREA: Scottsdale is always a favorite show to judge. You have lots of free time to hang out with great friends and colleagues.

CAIN: One of the joys of a five-judge panel is spending time not only in the ring, but during off hours. Two of the International judges wanted to buy things that were hard to find in their respective countries, so we went when we didn’t have classes. While in Walmart, we turned around and there was Jeff Schall, one of our panel. Throwing out his arms, he said, “There are my people!” and working together we felt like we were! The same comradery was evident in the ring, as barns cheered for each other.

J. SCHALL: The camaraderie that I witnessed and experienced, from the judges to the owners and exhibitors, was amazing! I live and breathe Arabian horses and have the most incredible respect for them from the inside to their wonderful exterior.

TAHA AL HUSSEINI: The championship ceremony and prizes given was the most enjoyable part of the show … handlers jumping in the air as they hear the number of their horses being announced, tears in the eyes of winners hugging there love ones, celebrating their victory.

TENGSTEDT: I loved judging the championships because there you have all the best in front of you and you can express your selection.

R. SCHALL: I was incredibly fortunate to be paired with two lifetime horsemen on my judges panel that encouraged and respected me. This helped to create the ideal environment in which I was able to make difficult and rewarding decisions throughout the competition. I can’t help but smile every time I reflect on just how fortunate I was to be a part of the magic that was Scottsdale 2023!

BLACKSTONE: Seeing the pure joy and delight on the faces of winners, breeders, handlers, and owners, who have poured their hearts and souls into their accomplishments.

ESSER: The most enjoyable part of the horse show is just the fact of being involved in such a wonderful event. It is

such an honor to judge such beautiful Arabian horses. Also, I was very appreciative to have such a great panel to work with: Lisa Blackstone and Tracy Lynch. It was a true pleasure.

LYNCH: When I was standing center ring in the South Hall on Sunday judging the Stallion Championship, the electricity in the air when those beautiful stallions came in, one by one, to the music from The Greatest Showman, and then stood up with nostrils flaring, ears up and muscles tight, gave me goosebumps. All I could think of was, “What an honor to be out here with these beautiful horses that we all love so much!”

COMBS: I love to judge. I hope that my comments, scores and decisions make a difference to the riders and help with the training. I enjoyed the comradery with the sport horse show staff and volunteers as well.

EHRLICK: Judging high quality horses and being thanked for the job I did.

WHAT ADVICE IF ANY, WOULD YOU GIVE TO FUTURE EXHIBITORS THAT STOOD OUT AS A CONCERN TO YOU?

RINEHART: The Scottsdale show makes you feel excited and reminds us why we love our amazing breed. We need more of this energy across the board. We need to be excited to breed, to show, and keep sharing our beautiful Arabian horses for many years to come.

TROWBRIDGE: To all exhibitors, whether professional, amateur or youth, remember, that the welfare and survival of the Arabian horse, this breed that has touched the very essence of your being, is not dependent on whether you win or lose each time you enter a show ring. Its survival is dependent on how the world sees us enjoying our horses and the gifts that they bring to our lives, and how we share these gifts with the world beyond. If you can’t grasp that concept, spend some time remembering the reaction of the entire crowd, both from within our folds and from outside our world, to Stephen Bishop and his gelding Guinness. If you are showing in this breed, then you are passionate about this breed. As great as our horsemanship and horses are, our breed is at risk of extinction. One of us winning is not what helps it survive. All of us enjoying and sharing and exhibiting our gratitude for the gifts these animals bring us is what has allowed the Arabian breed to survive for over 2,000 years.

BENTLEY: We judged some horses three times in one afternoon and then more often after that. Several horses we liked a lot had lost their luster when the finals came around. My advice would be not to over show the horses.

HIMMEL: It’s not a concern; but the advice I could give to future exhibitors is relax, smile, have fun, and show your horse.

ROOKER: I have seen many exhibitors that are over mounted or have too much horse for their current ability. Mount yourself with horses that showcase your ability and can show your horse to the best of their ability, for the best results in the show ring.

MCCREA: We need to slow down the Country Pleasure horses and quit overriding them!

J. SCHALL: I would implore all breeders (including small breeders) to not stop believing in the future of our breed. We need all of them to continue to raise unique individuals that will become a part of the future regardless of the discipline.

TAHA AL HUSSEINI: My request, if I may, would be to make the score sheet numbers bigger and more vivid; that helps us make less mistakes, and also have someone available to drive the international judges around if they want to visit historical sites or museums, or need to go to a shopping center on their free time.

BLACKSTONE: Not sure this is advice, rather a statement: our trend of halter handlers trotting in clockwise with their horses and getting so far behind the horse while on the rail concerns me. I witnessed several handlers narrowly missed by a cow kick. I wish we would move away from that practice.

ESSER: I would honestly have to say I did not come away from the Scottsdale show this year with any great concerns of any sort. Advice I would always give to exhibitors is to enjoy your time showing at these special events. Appreciate and love what the Arabian horse does for all of us and how it brings us all together.

COMBS: Know what is expected of your class and enjoy each ride.

EHRLICK: Practice the Sport Horse triangle pattern over and over.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO WHEN NOT JUDGING?

TROWBRIDGE: Something else with Arabian horses! Training, riding, teaching and promoting the breed and sharing them with folks that have not had the opportunity to meet them. It’s one of the most rewarding and easiest ways to bring joy to another human being—give it a try!

BENTLEY: When not judging, the camaraderie of the other judges was so much fun.

HIMMEL: I train or work the horses at our farm and then enjoy the moment when they are actually shown.

ROOKER: My favorite thins is when I’m in the barn working horses and teaching others. Aside from horses, I love to go to music concerts, hang out with family and friends and (weather permitting) enjoy time on the lake.

MCCREA: Doing things with my incredible daughter, golfing, and riding my Harley.

CAIN: I love judging, and Scottsdale is an amazing experience, but my career as an Aflac agent fulfills me on a daily basis, helping other people protect their assets when unexpected health challenges arrive.

J. SCHALL: My interest outside of horses is my faith and a little bit of sports on occasion. For example, I predict that the MN Vikings are headed to the Super Bowl this coming year!

TAHA AL HUSSEINI: I like to go to the gym in my spare time and shop at nearby shops. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to stay longer after the show to visit farm presentations, but I really enjoyed my stay and mostly judging our breathtaking creatures.

TENGSTEDT: I am involved in a lot of different horse projects concerning Arabian horses and I highly appreciate my trail rides with my friends and family. This upcoming summer I will travel to Ireland to ride the horses there and enjoy the special nature.

R. SCHALL: My world outside of Arabian horses is small but wonderful, it includes family, kitties and making sure my husband is fed!

BLACKSTONE: Watching the rest of the show! There are so many beautiful horses all together in one place for one tremendous week; you just can’t miss it!

ESSER: Probably one of my most favorite things to do when not judging is to get to know the people I’m working with more. When we’re at horse shows exhibiting, there’s very little time to ever get to know people the way you would like to. This gives more opportunity for that to happen and I’m always appreciative to have that time.

LYNCH: I enjoy showing my horses. But it’s not just the showing, it’s the friendships and family that we all share at horse shows! Other than that, I love traveling out to the mountains of the west and to our place in Wyoming with our horses, and certainly love taking in a few rodeos throughout the year!

COMBS: I teach, ride and clinic throughout the Southwest. Most of my life is surrounded by horses in some way. The only other thing I started learning about, that isn’t horserelated, is the women’s biohacking industry. It has some interesting lessons and topics.

EHRLICK: Riding my horses is my passion. n

Crossing with Afire Bey V, Baske Afire, and all Huck-bred mares, Coltrane offers his beauty and superior athleticism, with length of neck and strong hock. There is a need for this and he‘s the answer!

IXL Noble Express x Brassmis Multi-Futurity Program Nominated

Proudly owned by Peter & Lori Conway | Trainer Jennifer Schmitt | 319.361.5011 For breeding information call 352.234.7987 | Lori@conwayarabians.com 8894 NW Highway 320 | Micanopy, Florida 32667 | www.ConwayArabians.com

GA Valor … A Classic Never Goes Out Of Style

Spotlight Cover Story

Holly Hill Farms’ mother and daughter team, Renee and Morgan Pelzman, are enthusiastically ramping up the debut of a new face in the western pleasure show ring and breeding pen. Well known for making English division sire Fire And Goldd a household name, Renee and Morgan decided to continue the tradition by purchasing GA Valor, a young, full sibling to SF Veraz; but this time they’re doing it with a western twist.

Possessing true beauty from his iconic sire Gazal Al Shaqab and dam Veronica GA (by Versace to Fame VF), Valor brings a perfect semi-outcross western pleasure pedigree forward. ‘Val’ is exactly what we were seeking in a candidate for western pleasure showing and breeding,” Morgan enthuses. “He will bring the immortal Fame VF talent and beauty to the show pen for years to come.”

e Fame line needs no introduction. Bred by the Radamachers and owned primarily by Dick Adams, Fame VF is the sire of innumerable national champion winners and producers in halter and western pleasure.

Renee adds, “We’ve enjoyed a love a air with Fame VF progeny for many, many years. eir beauty, athleticism, trainability and phenomenal temperament come through, generation a er generation.”

Personifying just that is their 29-year-old Fame granddaughter SDA Evening Star (by LBA Lode Star), the dowager queen of Holly Hill Farms’ pastures.

Valor is currently in training with Colonial Downs Training Center’s Dwane Hankins, and Morgan is pleased to report that his athletic talent clearly points to an exciting western pleasure career. “He’s got the right look for the modern show pen with a great mind and wonderful gaits, plus great bone and conformation.” And talk about sweet … “He’s a real love sponge,” says Renee. “We think good temperament is an overarching necessity in a western pleasure mount. A horse can be talented as all get-out, but unless he’s tolerant and willing, he will be di cult for all but the most experienced of amateur riders. Valor has the same Fame VF talent and beauty and a huge heart.”

Morgan and Renee, though eager to share Val’s allure, will stick to their tried-and-true philosophy of waiting to show a horse when he lets you know he’s ready. “Val got a bit of a late start but he’s really coming along in his training,” Morgan says. “Even so, we concur with Dwane that there’s no need to push him. e party will start when he gets there!”

Renee adds, “As amateur riders, our goal is to breed horses that check o all the boxes: type, disposition, beauty, long lasting soundness and above all, amateur-friendliness. e Fame VF bloodline has always brought us these desirable traits. We see any number of horses by popular modern stallions who are beautiful and talented but look like their amateur riders can’t relax for a minute. It’s time to reintroduce what Fame VF brought to the table back when, before people had to take a talented western mare and breed it to a main ring halter horse to get the ‘right look’ at the expense of other traits. Fame VF’s progeny were the entire package, looks and talent and great temperament all rolled into one. at’s the recipe not just for success, but for having fun doing it.”

Morgan and Renee’s 2023 plans for Val are to promote him as both a performance halter and western pleasure sire. He will be bred to their mare Bint Famous Lace IA (Ever A er NA x BA Famous Lace, by Fame VF) for a 2024 foal. ey’re also contemplating a cross with their Half-Arabian mare Trash N Burn (Gunnatrashya AQHA x SDA Evening Star) to produce a three- quarter Arabian foal loaded with western pleasure pedigree talent. “Milli, as we call her, is adorable,” says Renee. “She has her momma’s beautiful head and huge eyes, with a sturdy ‘big booty Judy’ build. Like her sire, she’s on the shorter side. So Valor will contribute height and a terri c topline without diluting her other awesome attributes. We’re excited to see some other new, young stallions earn their share of the spotlight; it’s something any discerning breeder would welcome to preserve great bloodlines other than the ones that are currently in vogue. It’s just as true of horses as it is with clothing, a classic never goes out of style.”

Always viewing breeding as a long-term plan, Renee and Morgan focus on results that are amateur-friendly and aim to produce horses that owners will want to keep long past their junior years. Renee says it best, “We love the fun aspect of breeding, showing, and enjoying the new owners of our babies who love them as much as we do. is business has gi ed us with countless friendships, both human and horse. e least we can do is perpetuate a bloodline that has produced so many fabulous horses and give back that gi .”

Region 12 Spotlight Right Holders

and

Futurity

Participants ...

e Region 12 Spotlight Board of Directors, o cers, and volunteers are extremely excited about what we have in store for you in 2023. “GAY PAREE, AN EVENING IN PARIS”, is the theme for this year’s party, beginning on Wednesday, May 3rd, with a wine and cheese social and Spotlight Stallion Presentation at 3:00 P.M., followed by our Spotlight Cocktail Party starting at 5:30 P.M., and the Spotlight Stallion Breeding Auction at 6:30 P.M. We will make an announcement concerning the stallion presentation location prior to the event, and the cocktail party and auction will be on the WEC Hotel Veranda as it has been for the last two years.

During this year’s event, o spring from previously nominated Arabian Stallions will have the opportunity to compete for prestigious titles in a variety of disciplines and an available prize pool of about $136,000. We will begin the ONLINE Auction, Monday, April 24th, and close it Tuesday, May 2nd to prepare for the LIVE auction. Only stallions that reach a bid of at least $1,000 in the ONLINE auction will be presented for bid at the Wednesday evening live event. At the conclusion of the live auction, those stallions that didn’t go to the live auction will be back online for an additional 10 days before bidding closes.

e Spotlight Right Holders meeting will be held immediately after the Friday morning session. Anyone with an interest in the Region 12 Spotlight Futurity is invited to attend. e meeting location is the Mezzanine at Arena 4.

CHANGES FOR 2023:

Reserved table seating for 6 is $1,250 per table. Dinner and wine will be served table-side instead of our past bu et style. Additional seating will be available in the wings of the Hotel Veranda. Please review all Spotlight Rules and Regulations prior to the event. If you have questions, please ask one of our Spotlight O cers, or Directors for clari cation.

We hope you will join us on Wednesday evening for this year’s memorable event to celebrate our beautiful Arabian horse and support our nationally recognized Region 12 Spotlight Program!

Charles Moseley  Region 12 Spotlight Futurity, President www.spotlightfuturity.com

�

Gay Paree

| MAY 3, 2023

Auction Breeding can be used the same year purchased if approved by the stallion owner.

EXTRA INCENTIVE

Buyers of the breedings for Egyptian Stallions participating in the Auction will also receive a Certificate to win prize money in a special class during the Region 12 Egyptian Championships.

ONLINE PRE-AUCTION RUNS APRIL 24TH - MAY 2ND

All Stallions attaining a minimum bid of $1000 will go to the Live Auction on May 3rd! ahtimes.com/auctions

VIEW THE STALLIONS AT www.SpotlightFuturity.com

For phone bidding contact, Melissa Bradshaw |843-601-0569

nk !

VALUED SPONSORS

ALISTAR ARABIANS

ARABIANCENTRIC

ASPIRE ARABIANS

BARTA SHOW HORSES, LLC

TED CARSON

CHESTNUTHILL ARABIANS

DOLOROSA ARABIANS

FREEDMANS HARNESS

GEMINI RANCH

HAGALE FAMILY ARABIANS

HENNESSEY ARABIANS

JON MCCARTHY PHOTOGRAPHY

J.P. RANNENBERG SHOW HORSES

KLEIO ARABIANS

KYRIE ARABIANS

MAGNOLIA FARMS

PALMETTO ARABIANS

RENEE & MORGAN PELZMAN

RAINMAKER ARABIANS

REGION 12 EGYPTIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

ROLAND WILLIAMS/K. WATERS

SOUTHWIND ARABIANS

TALARIA FARMS

UTOPIA FARM ARABIANS

WILSON TRAINING & BLOODSTOCK

WINDY GAP ARABIANS

Ranch Arabians

be in the It Pays to

2023 FUTURITY PAYOUTS

Auction Yearlings

$21,056 Colts

$21,056 Fillies

Futurity Yearlings

$13,514 Colts

$13,514 Fillies

$136,000 PAID OUT TO EXHIBITORS

Futurity 2-Year Olds

$4,166 Colts

$4,166 Geldings

$4,166 Fillies

3 & 4-Year Old Futurity Performance Classes

$12,097 Western Pleasure

$12,097 Hunter Pleasure

$12,097 English Pleasure

5-Year Old Maturity Performance Classes

$5,988 Western Pleasure

$5,988 Hunter Pleasure

$5,988 English Pleasure

Judges: Bruce Bates, Karen Homer Brown, Joe Polo & Mary Trowbridge

ven

Gay Paree An Evening In

EVENTS “IN THE SPOTLIGHT”

TUESDAY, MAY 2ND

Online Pre-Auction Ends

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3RD

Stallion Presentation sponsored by Elle Mustique (Hunter 4 Arena) - 3:00pm

Cocktail Party (Hotel Veranda) - 5:30pm “LIVE” Auction (Hotel Veranda) - 6:30pm

Spotlight Futurity 3 & 4 Year Old Western Pleasure “Calcutta” Open Bidding will start the Auction

FRIDAY, MAY 5TH

Afternoon session

Class #111 Spotlight Futurity Western Pleasure 3 & 4 Year Old Calcutta

Annual Spotlight Right Holders Meeting following morning session at the Mezzanine Arena 4

SATURDAY, MAY 6TH

Hunter 4 Arena - 8:30am Region 12 Classic Egyptian Championships

SPOTLIGHT DISTINCTION AWARDS

The leading Stallion and Breeder of class winners from the 2023 Region 12 Championship Horse Show will be announced during the final weekend. Thank you to Freedmans Harness for sponsoring these awards!

BIDDER PADDLE REGISTRATION

New for 2023!

Come join us on the Veranda and enjoy refreshments during the Auction by registering for a Bidder Paddle. Skip the line by preregistering starting April 1, 2023 with Arabian Horse Times.

Paris

Elle Mustique

AJ Radman

Alizandros

Allgood Avicii

Always A Jullyen V

Aria La Croixx

Arslan Aljassimya

ASA Scandalous Affair

Atum

Baha AA

Barmyre Aslee

Bentley SF

Berlin MP

Black Daniels

Botswana

Coltrane SS

Conquest BR

Cool River Kid

CSP Grand Caymon

D Shakhat

DA Javoni

DA Prodigy

Dominic M

El Rey Magnum RCF

2023 SPOTLIGHT

Elle Mustique

Farouk Palazzotto

GA Valor

H Mobility H

Ibn Farid

Jaipur El Perseus

Kha Ching CA

Khadillac PGA+

KLA Aizaan Shaheen

KM Bugatti+++/

Life Inthe Fazt Lane

Malik El Jamaal

Man About Vegaz VA

Marval Z

Mayaan Al Nadir SA

MD Zlatan

Monaco Jullyen V

Moonlight Heir VA

O Sherlock

PA Frontier Kid

PA Kid Khan

PA Phoenix Kid

Possesion PGA+//

Preludio OSB

Razeer Serondella

Royal Asad

SF The Patriot

SW Ovation

Taj Raheem

Tempezst+

Truse

Trussadri

Viper MFA

Viquator Aljassimya

VJ Royal Heir

Zarev

Still accepting Stallion Nominations

To view an updated list of Stallions, please visit us online at:

WWW.SPOTLIGHTFUTURITY.COM

Conway Arabians was a beautiful kick-o to the 2023 APAHA Seminar Series!

Conway Arabians celebrated the opening of their spectacular new facility in Micanopy, Florida with 3 days of camaraderie, educational seminars and outstanding horses. Sunny skies and perfect temperatures set the stage for the ideal opportunity to share the Arabian horse with newcomers and educate fellow horsemen with training techniques taught by professional horsemen, judges and accomplished trainers, Joel Gangi, Brian Murch and Conway Arabians resident trainer, Jenn Schmitt.

e 3-day event included an intimate poolside dinner at Peter and Lori’s exquisite home on Friday night. Saturday was spent learning some of the training techniques used by Joel, Brian and Jenn in the following categories:

Evaluating Conformation

Beginning Basics of Early Long Lining

Breaking To Drive

Western Pleasure

English Pleasure

Country English Pleasure

On Sunday, the Conway Arabians breeding program was on full display as horses were shown at liberty in the “ground breaking” new bullpen designed by Peter and Lori, and visitors took the opportunity to have their photo taken with National Champion, Coltrane, and sitting atop the beautiful Arabian mare, Mary Maya V.

Weekend captured by

Kharismatic PGA+// Ladys Dance+//

Khadraj NA+++/ Aphrodite FA

Sundance Kid V SDA Lady Jabask

Ponomarev

Khatreena NA

Fame VF

ANW Simplicity

Desperado V

Sweet Shalimar V

GG Jabask+/ SDA Bey Elegance

2021 & 2022

SCOTTSDALE CHAMPION WESTERN PLEASURE

AWPA Enrolled Region XII Spotlight Stallion Sweepstakes Nominated Sire Scottsdale Signature Stallion

Proudly bred & owned by Dr. Marta Wasiak & Dr. Babu Rankupalli

Schatzberg photo

See

by

Heir, Moonlight Heir VA, Arrowhead’s Unlike Any Other, and H Mobility H.

HEATHER RODGERS

YEARS INVOLVED WITH ARABIANS: 18

FAVORITE RIDING STYLE

Saddle Seat! English speci cally.

MOST RECENT WIN

Scottsdale Champion Half-Arabian English Pleasure AATR on CSP Island Dance!

YOUTH TO AMATEUR CHALLENGE

e youth division is certainly competitive, but the adult amateur classes have so many incredibly talented horses and riders—it can be intimidating.

FAMILY TRADITION

My dad and big sister showed before me, and my little sister, Caroline, is competing as a youth rider currently. I am so grateful to be able to continue participating in this sport which has brought my family so much joy for the last 30 years.

FAVORITE HORSE

e Real Slim Shady and CSP Rum Chata—I love them both so much, I couldn’t choose a favorite!

DREAM HORSE

Second Editions Debut. I never got to see her go in person, but I’ve heard so much about how beautiful and talented she was.

EVENTS PER YEAR ATTENDED

I try to make it to as many as I can, but between college and work, I usually make it to three or four events a year.

FAVORITE EVENT

e Scottsdale show! It’s such a fun show to kick o the season with!

OUTSIDE OF HORSES

Between horses, work, and school, I don’t have time for much else. But I love to swim and take my dog Zeus for a walk when I do get some free time.

YOU PROBABLY DON’T KNOW

My major is Cybersecurity.

GRATITUDE

It’s hard to pick just one person, but it would have to be my dad for being so supportive of me over the years.

15 YEARS FROM NOW

I hope to own and show my own horse! I would also love to get into breeding!

by SCOTT BENJAMIN

Why The Scottsdale Show Is ‘TheGreatest Horse Show on Earth!’

‘The Greatest Horse Show on Earth!’ – emblazoned in bold white capital letters on an attentiongrabbing imperial red background – proclaims the banner adorning both sides of the walkway above the entrance to WestWorld’s iconic Wendell Arena. This decisive identifying statement implies both authority and longevity, a claim the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show can rightly make as one the world’s longest running and still the breed’s largest, showcase of Arabian horses on the planet. It is this annual show, modestly initiated by the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona 68 years ago in 1955, that has transformed the desert outpost of Scottsdale into the undisputed Mecca of the Arabian breed worldwide, an epicenter of Arabian horse breeding, training, trading and exhibition still unrivalled on the global stage.

Now encompassing 11 days of competition and nearly every imaginable discipline in which the Arabian horse competes, ‘Scottsdale’, as the show has become affectionately known the world over, remains, unquestionably, the largest gathering of Arabian horse owners, breeders, professionals, aficionados, and enthusiasts from every inhabited continent on the annual calendar. There is often more business conducted, ideas exchanged and new projects initiated leading up to and during Scottsdale than at any other time during the year as a result of the optimism, expectation and opportunity inherent in this cornerstone Arabian horse event.

There is something for everyone at Scottsdale, from the novice and newcomer to the seasoned professional with decades of accrued attendance and experience. This unique ‘melting pot’ experience, once central to the best of our Arabian horse activities, still thrives at Scottsdale, ensuring that devotees of all disciplines from all backgrounds and countries of origin can mix, meet and mingle for over one week and a half, providing ample opportunity for everyone to enjoy, appreciate and connect with the entire spectrum of the Arabian horse industry and community.

Despite a few challenges from Mother Nature at times, including gale force winds (that wreak havoc on nearly everyone’s set-up), near freezing overnight temps and a few intermittent showers that are expected in the latter half of February, the sun is reliably bright and warm most days, with more show days dry and pleasant than not.

Perhaps no event is more conducive to corollary social activities off-site from the showgrounds than Scottsdale, with a multitude of local breeders and training facilities in close proximity to each other and to WestWorld. This year, stallion presentations were showcased at both Orrion Farms and Royal Arabians to kick-off the breeding season, while generations of success were on proud display for the breeding programs of both Rae-Dawn Arabians and Psynergy Equine, the latter hosted at Arabians International following an impressive presentation of sale horses and stallions at stud, and a fire charmer warmed up the crowd prior to Sahara Scottsdale’s well attended evening event of horses imported from around the world. A celebration of peers bookended both the first and final evenings of the 11-day show, with awards dinners – the AHT Readers’ Choice Awards at the Ames Family Foundation Gala on Thursday and the APAHA Awards on Sunday –which set the definitive celebratory mood to both open and close Scottsdale 2023.

I remain perpetually impressed by the inherent ability of the Scottsdale show to not only expose so many members of the general public to the Arabian horse, but to engage, educate and entertain these same people on so many occasions throughout the 11 days.

National Arabian Horse Day is a brilliant idea that will always occur annually within the timeframe of the Scottsdale Show, and no event is better positioned to celebrate this occasion and to create more converts to the breed. The finals evenings on both Friday and Saturday nights are sell-outs without fail, with the Gambler’s Choice Jump-Off, exhilarating Native Costume classes and the always highly anticipated and competitive Freestyle Liberty, sure-fire crowd pleasers made all the more engaging by the immeasurable talent of Equidome announcer Scott Christmas. When a stellar line-up of Arabian Western Pleasure horses jog through the gate in one of the performance highlights of the show, one is reassured that there is no place like Scottsdale to experience the entire exhilarating gamut of life with the Arabian horse.

I was also a first-hand witness to the magic of Scottsdale Barn tours for the very first time this year, when more than 200 guests, including the kindergarten and fourth grade classes from a local school, descended upon Cedar Ridge Farm’s stables at noon on the final Friday. The incomparable star of the show was Khasta Beaujalais DT or ‘Guinness’ as he is affectionately known, the 14-year-old bay gelding owned by Dr. Stephen Bishop, who stood patiently, in his full winter coat, for more than 40 minutes without a single uncomfortable or ill-intentioned moment, as literally hundreds of people poked, patted and plodded past. As Dr. Bishop answered questions and told well-informed stories for almost an hour, I stood quietly holding the lead on ‘Guinness’ offside, privileged to be his companion and in total awe and admiration of this extraordinary horse who calmly and acceptingly took it all in. Epitomizing everything we love and hold dearest about the Arabian horse, Guinness proved to be the most invaluable horse on the entire showgrounds that day, worth far more than his weight in gold for the gift he gave all those eager newcomers. It was this moment, entirely unexpected and out of the spotlight of competition and glory, that was the most transformative for me – a poignant reminder of exactly why I fell in love with this breed more than 45 years ago and a reassuring affirmation of my choice to serve the Arabian horse as a steward, caretaker and unapologetic advocate for as long as I am able. n

An Evening of Giving & Gratitude

was spent celebrating life and legacy at the second Ames Family Gala on ursday, the 16th, at the Talking Stick Resort to kick o the 68th Scottsdale Show.

Committed to improving the lives of others, through sickness and in health, by aiding Mayo Hospital’s cancer research while assisting those very families a icted, and expanding awareness to the bene ts of the Arabian horse through e Arabian Horse Promotional Fund (AHPF), e Richard & Georgiann Ames Family Foundation, with the help of multiple generous sponsors, hosted a VIP gathering of 300+ attendees who, in the spirit of giving, also received, through various silent and live auction items available.

Where the event succeeded most, was in providing a place to share a meal and fellowship, where all those involved shared a commonality, be it through the main purpose of giving or in celebrating those selected by their peers for excellence within the Arabian horse industry, through Arabian Horse Times’ 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards.

“ e Ames Family were some of the rst folks we met when we joined the Arabian horse industry, and we truly adore their passion and inspiration. We love supporting their causes and strongly believe that giving back is one of the most important things we can do. is year’s Gala was outstanding, and the new venue made the evening spectacular!”

ank you,

Platinum Sponsor Hagale Family Arabians; Bronze Sponsors Southern California Equestrian Center, PCF Arabians, Orrion Farms LLC; Supporting Sponsors Whispering Pines, Equine Athlete, Signature Oak Stables, Ho man Realty, Desert Sky Arabians, Canada’s National Championship, Joe & Katie Russell; and Trophy Sponsor C. Jarvis Insurance Agency, for your abundant support.

~ Steve & Christina Poore

“ e Ames Family Foundation Gala and AHT Readers’ Choice Awards has become the premier kick-o event of the annual Scottsdale Show. Festive and celebratory, with just the right amount of glamour and camaraderie, the night honors not only those most appreciated for their professional contributions to the Arabian breed by their peers, but makes a serious e ort to give back to those most in need by raising substantial funds to support charitable organizations.

Incentive was provided courtesy of dozens of generously donated and immensely appealing live and silent auction items, from apparel, tack and equipment to exclusive vacation packages, breeding services and the purchase of the soon to be crowned Scottsdale Reserve Champion Junior Gelding, all of which made the fundraising interlude, made all the more emotionally relevant with a profoundly moving opening video interview between the Jeromes (Larry and Shelly) and Ames (Lollie and Lara), the unquestionable highlight and spiritual anchor of the evening. With half a million dollars raised on the night with the assistance of charity ‘auctiontainer’ extraordinaire Letitia Frye, there was an overwhelming sense of community, support and purpose shared by everyone in attendance. e incredibly special evening remains a highlight of the entire Scottsdale Show experience. I am already looking forward to coming together with everyone again in 2024 for this monumentally important night which celebrates the best of our breed and the best we can be!”

~ Scott Benjamin

“ is night was truly spectacular in so many ways. It brought us all together as a community to celebrate the best. e Mayo clinic and hospital are near and dear to my family as well as the Arabian horse, which brought us all together, as it did the night of the gala. e money and energy in the room was amazing, and we cannot thank everyone involved enough, in making this night magical.”

~ Lara Ames

Learn more about the Richard & Georgiann Ames Family Foundation

Scan to see the complete list of AHTimes Readers’ Choice Award Winners

We were thrilled to participate in the Ames Foundation Gala. It is a privilege to work beside the Ames Family in their philanthropic e orts to support incredibly important causes while coupling that with a wonderful social evening highlighting the Arabian horse, trainers and exhibitors. What fun to create real connections and bonding relationships among so many enthusiastic supporters of our breed.

~Jim Hagale

Award-winning breeder names Arabian filly in honor of patient care assistant

By UMA THANGARAJ

ough Larry Jerome and Asiya Awad come from di erent worlds, they developed a special connection during Larry’s hospitalization at Mayo Clinic. And when a “beautiful, extremely exceptional lly” was born on his farm, Larry chose to honor his new friend by naming the horse a er her.

When a colleague told Asiya Awad that a patient had asked her to stop by his room, she expected it was just to visit.

Despite their di erences in age and culture, Asiya and the patient, Larry Jerome, had developed a close friendship and chatted o en about their lives and families.

“I call him Mr. Fantastic,” Asiya says. “He’s really special to me.”

When she got to his room, Larry — who breeds prize-winning Arabian horses and other animals at Jerland Farms — showed Asiya a video of an Arabian lly that had been born the night before.

“Oh, she’s so cute!” Asiya said. Larry smiled. “I’m naming her a er you.”

Asiya became emotional. But she tried not to let it show. A er hugging Larry, she went to the bathroom and cried.

“In my head, I was just doing my job,” Asiya says. “I was not thinking of me. I was thinking of him, and how the patient comes rst. e patient deserves everything. But he thought I deserved something, too.”

A long journey to Rochester

Asiya’s journey to Mayo Clinic began when her family ed their home in Somalia and moved to a refugee camp in Ethiopia.

“Because of the civil war, Somalia was not safe,” she says. “We’d hear shots and bombs in the middle of the day. My mom said anywhere is better than hearing shots red every day.”

In Ethiopia, the family lived in a structure made of cardboard, tree branches and clothing.

“I just bought a TV and the box it came in reminded me of my home in the refugee camp,” Asiya says.

Once a month, an aid organization would distribute food: grain, beans and oil. Water came from a well and milk came from goats.

“When we got to the U.S., we wondered why there were nine di erent kinds of milk,” Asiya says. “ ere were so many choices! Why so many milks?”

A er 10 years in the camp, the Awads learned they would be able to immigrate to the United States.

“My brother has muscular dystrophy, and that’s why we were able to come to the U.S.,” Asiya says. e family — Asiya, her parents and six siblings — arrived in San Diego in 2014.

Two hours a er their plane landed, Asiya was rushed to the hospital by ambulance and diagnosed with tuberculosis. She spent her rst two weeks in the U.S. in isolation in a hospital.

“ e doctors, nurses and PCAs were all so nice,” she says. “ ey all wanted to help me.”

She’d remember their kindness when choosing her own career path.

From California to Minnesota

In San Diego, Asiya began working as a housekeeper and taking English lessons. A er two years, the family moved to Rochester to so that her brother could receive care at Mayo Clinic.

Asiya resumed English classes at Hawthorne Education Center, where she also learned about career opportunities. Two options stood out: becoming a paraprofessional educator or a certi ed nursing assistant.

“When I was younger, I wanted to be a teacher,” she says. “But when I thought about everything people had done for me in the hospital, I decided, ‘I want to do that for someone.’”

A er earning a CNA certi cate from Rochester Community and Technical College, Asiya began working at a nursing home. She loved the work, but a er three years was ready for a new challenge. She became a patient care assistant at Mayo Clinic in March 2021.

“I help patients with daily life activities,” Asiya says. “I take their vital signs, help them in the bathroom and help with feeding if needed.”

But she does much more than that.

“I want the patients to feel happy,” Asiya says. “I don’t want them to feel like a patient. I want them to feel human and to feel they are home when they are in their room. And I want them to know that they’re not alone, that I am here for them.”

She now asks patients the question that her care team in San Diego asked her: “What can I do for you?”

Honoring a new friend

For Larry Jerome, the answer to that question was o en simply to share conversation.

“I’ve traveled and worked internationally, and I’m very interested in other cultures,” Larry says. “I like to learn. I asked

lots of questions about Asiya and her family, and she asked me about mine.”

e two shared a sense of humor.

“I joked around with her and she gave it right back,” Larry says. “She is a charming, charming individual. She impressed me. She made me happy.”

When it came time to name that new lly, Larry wanted to choose a name connected to his stay in Rochester.

“I try to make the names of my animals meaningful,” he says. “I have a line of horses all named a er Nat King Cole songs, and a line of blues – Blue Moon, Blue Jay, Forever in Blue Jeans.”

He didn’t have to think long about the right name for the “beautiful, extremely exceptional lly” who he believes may one day grace the cover of a magazine.

“I wanted to honor Asiya,” Larry says. “She is a phenomenal person and pretty special to me. Now, when people ask me about the horse’s name, I’ll be able to tell them Asiya’s story.”

“It’s mind blowing that Larry did that for me,” Asiya says. “I’m very grateful and happy that he thought of me. “

Asiya is also grateful to be at Mayo Clinic. It’s a place she plans to stay for a long time. She’s begun working toward her nursing degree, which will give her new opportunities to care for patients.

And while she still believes she would have enjoyed teaching, her name suggests she’s living her destiny.

e meaning of Asiya?

One who tends to the weak and heals.

This year saw the first anniversary celebration of February 19th’s National Arabian Horse Day, an annual Government-recognized National Holiday developed and applied for by the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona’s hard-working promotional experts. The day began with The Keystone Ambassador Horses greeting the crowds as they came in the gate to visit the horse show. Six in total took shifts for a hands-on experience offered to adoring fans. The number of selfies was immeasaurable!

Khasta Beaujalais DT 2009 Bay, Arabian Gelding

Khasanova DT x Starberry Wine Owned & Loved by: Stephen J Bishop, MD

Jude Aljassimya - 2013 Grey, Arabian Mare WH Justice x Toscana PGA Owned & Loved by: Royal Arabians

Double Stuffed Oreo - 2002 Black Tobiano, Half-Arabian Gelding Allionce’s Knight x In Hot Pursuit Owned & Loved by: Julie Daniel

Special thanks goes to our Keystone Ambassador Sponsors:

Hagale Family Arabians

Apex Riding Academy

Royal Arabians

Arabian Horse Times

Shannon & Jody Feinroth

Aria Marchestra - 2007 Bay, Arabian Mare Marwan Al Shaqab x GC Merpsydita

Owned & Loved by: Royal Arabians

SCF Aathena Bey - 2005 Grey, Arabian Mare AA Apollo Bey x Savannah E A Owned & Loved by: Alexis Cole & Catherine Cole Ferandelli

Nobles Heir - 2011 Chestnut, Arabian Gelding

Afires Heir x Noble Aphroditie

Owned & Loved by: Shannon & Jody Feinroth

Throughout the ten days, Eileen Verdieck’s HoofbeatZ USA riding program was offering visitors live horseback and immersive experiences at the front of the vendor area, and some notable Keystone Ambassador horses joined them for the Sunday festivities.

National Arabian Horse Day became the inaugural debut of Scottsdale’s Keystone Egg & Spoon Challenge, generously sponsored by Orrion Farms. Their Nationally loved Arabian stallion, PA Kid Khan, did the honors with Rob Bick, as he sent off the competitors in this fun game Sunday for the Youth, then again the following Saturday night for adults. Youth winner Bailey Fleming, was also chosen the crowd favorite by those voting online during the class, taking home $1,360.

Adult Class winner: Tamera Burkman & Tsamurai Mac, earning over $1,000!

Crowd Favorite: Mariah Wilson and I’m Just Perfect, earning $500!

BY MARY TROWBRIDGE

Late last fall, word started to travel that an equine art festival was being planned for the Scottsdale community, designed to coincide with the Super Bowl, Barrett-Jackson, e Phoenix Open, and several other big community events. Area resident, Lee Courtney, an avid Arabian horse fan, connected with Scottsdale Horse Show manager, Taryl O’Shea, who then connected with e Arabian Horse Promotional Fund and Arabian Horses for Humanity representative, and the vision of AHA’s Market Development and Promotional (MDP) Committee from nine years prior came to fruition.

SPIRIT

Sponsored by: e Rotary Club of Scottsdale

Artist: Vanessa Ortiz-Zapata

5.) BIDZIIL

Sponsored by: a Scottsdale Family Artist: Luann Beardmore

6.) DESERT PRINCE

Sponsored by: Arabian Horse Association of Arizona Artist: Wendy Morris-Tank

7.) EPIPHANY

Sponsored by: e Dream Center Artist: Jana Peterson

1.) INSPIRE

Sponsored by: e Rotary Club of Scottsdale Artist: Vanessa Ortiz-Zapata

2.) ARIZONA BEAUTY

Sponsored by: Sunbrella Properties

Artist: Laura urbon

3.) ARIZONA

Sponsored by: TGen Artist: Nicole Laizure

4.) ASAD

Sponsored by: Arabian Horse Association of Arizona

Artist: Wendy Morris-Tank

8.) ESPERANZA

Sponsored by: e City of Scottsdale

Artist: Julie Mason

9.) PROCESSION

Sponsored by: Sunbrella Properties

Artist: Laura urbon

10.) RANSOM

Sponsored by: e Barrett Jackson Charities

Artist: Niki Woehler

e idea behind the Arabian Horses for Humanity statues was to develop an unparalleled berglass Arabian horse statue as a canvas for artistic renderings that raise funds for charities picked by the individuals and corporations that sponsor them. It was the MDP’s feeling that this would be one beautiful way to promote the gi s that Arabian horses bring to people’s lives, in a way that would expose the breed to people beyond its own community.

Renowned equine artist, Karen Kasper, donated the mold of the statue she had made years prior to celebrate National Champion Stallion Fairview Klassique, a er remodeling it slightly to mimic and upgrade the breed standard originally produced by Gladys Brown Edwards nearly 80 years ago for the then International Arabian Horse Association and the Arabian Horse Registry. What evolved, was a berglass statue with so much true-life detail, that it was easy for horses and humans alike to mistake the painted animals for a live Arabian horse!

When Scottsdale Stallion Stampede chairman Charlie Kester heard the story behind the Arabian horse, and the Scottsdale association purchased the naming rights for the statues, the Arabian Horses for Humanity statues became one of only two horse statues selected for the event. Area companies sponsored the purchase and painting of the additional statues, and each was individually painted to represent the winning artists’ visions of how they should be depicted.

e nal result found the majority of the Arabian horse statues breathtakingly displayed in the mall of the world-famous Scottsdale Fashion Square, placed there in January, and exhibited until April. On April 15, 2023, the statues will move to the beautiful Royal Arabians farm in Scottsdale for the Evening Gala and Auction, with donations aimed at several local and national charities. Each statue wears a plaque identifying it as an Arabian horse and directing them to the Promotional website where they can learn more about the breed and nd Arabian farms in their immediate area.

e Gala will bring to fruition many people’s visions of sharing and promoting the incredible Arabian horse with people beyond its community when the public will be able to meet and greet live, beautiful Arabians at the McGown/Davis farm in Scottsdale the night of the event. Bidding for the purchase of the statues will be available both in person and online. To purchase tickets or bid on one of these fantastic outdoor, one-of-a-kind artistic pieces, visit: www. stallionstampede.com.

To learn more about the Arabian Horses for Humanity statue project, visit: https://arabianhorsepromotionalfund.com/arabian-promotional-fund/horses-for-humanity/

14.) SSEQUIN II

Sponsored by: Lee Courtney Luxury Realtor Artist: Tina Hillstrom

15.) SUNFLOWER SOUL

Sponsored by: City of Scottsdale Artist: Tiesha Harrison

16.) TRIUMPH

Sponsored by: AZAdvances Artist: Nichole Laizure

17.) STARDOM SKY

Sponsored by: Desert Sky Arabians Artist: Wendy Morris-Tank

11.) LEXIES DREAM

Sponsored by: Lexie’s Voice Artist: Laura urbon

12.) ROSIE

Sponsored by: Rose Law Group Artist: Andrea Rogers

13.) SCOTTSSTALLION - OT

Sponsored by: Royal Arabians Artist: Scottsdale Mayor, David Ortega

REGION 12 & SPOTLIGHT FUTURITY COVERAGE

YOUTH YEARBOOK & NATIONAL CONTENDERS

MID SUMMER NATIONAL CONTENDERS

CANADA’S NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP CONTENDERS/PREVIEW

SADDLE SEAT & WESTERN LEADERS

PHOTOGRAPHERS

DALLAS GERBRANDT

MEAGHAN ESTES

FEATURED ORRION FARMS

RAE-DAWN ARABIANS

ROYAL ARABIANS

ARABIANS INTERNATIONAL

SAHARA SCOTTSDALE

ORRION FARMS

t onP e e t on AND pe a

Orrion Farms hosted and welcomed over 500 visitors to their brand-new facility over several days located on Arabian Park Drive, opening their doors for guests to walk through and view the beautiful new barn and surrounding facilities and grounds. Steve and Christina Poore enjoyed sharing their slice of heaven and exquisite Arabian horses with enthusiasts from all over, under the warm Scottsdale sun. n

RAE-DAWN ARABIANS t onP e e t on

To celebrate 25 years of involvement within the Arabian horse industry, Rae-Dawn Arabians hosted a presentation of their impressive stallion lineup on February 21st. A beautiful coffee bar from a refurbished two-horse trailer was available for the 300 guests in attendance. Along with the stallions, a Breyer© horse creation of RD Marciea was presented, which was then gifted by Murray and Shirley Popplewell to Gabriele, a young boy from Brazil. The highlight of the event … Murray presenting the beautiful Bey Ambition to close out the evening. n

ROYAL ARABIANS t onP e e t on

What better way to spend a Friday evening appreciating phenomenal bloodstock than at Royal Arabians, as they hosted over 350 guests at their annual Stallion Presentation. The weather was beautiful and the stallion lineup spectacular! The presentation included U.S. National Champions, Scottsdale Champions, and champions from around the world, including Aj Radman and Soul of Marwan AS. Always a must-attend event to witness and consider the vast amount of potential breeding lines available during the Scottsdale show, the team at Royal Arabians is already looking forward to next year! n

ARABIANS INTERNATIONAL t onP e e t on AND pe o e

Sandro Pinha and Gil Valdez were on hand to welcome over 500 guests to their Arabians International open house and stallion presentation on the 25th. Multiple National Champion-decorated stallions were on-hand from several breeding programs, including Psynergy Enterprise Developments’s Conqueror ENB and Atticus ENB and Valley Oak Arabians’ Preludio OSB, as well as Scottsdale Champion Stallion Berlin MP owned by Mindy Peters, and the up-and-coming Versaces Eros and youngster Marval Z. A high point of the event was the introduction of a baby colt by Berlin MP. n

SAHARA SCOTTSDALE

OPEN HOUSE Cha e e Cha pa e

On the last Saturday evening of the Scottsdale show, over 400 guests in attendance to Sahara Scottsdale were presented with a beautiful charcuterie spread to enjoy while viewing their recent Arabian imports and stallion lineup. A fire dancer added to the entertainment.

D Shakhat, who is part of the Aria collection, was a noted highlight of the evening. n

2023 Scottsdale Show Digital

PhotographyContest

sponsored by the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona Amateur Committee

Best of Show Grand Champion & $300 prize

(courtesy of Paul and Sabrina Glans)

Two Arabians and Little Girl

Submitted by Robin Andrisen

Arden & Patricia Forehand

Two icons of the breed have sadly passed: Pat on February 15th at the age of 82, and the love of her life, Arden, two days later on February 17th at the age of 84.

Pat and Arden were high school sweethearts and married at a young age of 16 and 18 in 1957. Their three children, Terry, Laurie and Curt, would complete the family.

Pat always had a love for horses and was known for riding her father’s work horses.In 1957 before their wedding, Pat sold her riding horse to help pay for their honeymoon, but Arden promised his new bride she would have other horses.It didn’t take long for him to realize what an eye Pat had for top horses and expensive ones at that!

Arden and Pat were not afraid to work hard together to make a difference, and they achieved success in many endeavors.After falling head over heels for the Arabian breed, the Forehand family soon found themselves active in 4-H and the Minnesota Arabian Horse Assn. in numerous areas, including the youth and youth judging. Pat traveled with the team to many regional and national competitions, winning many, and Arden became President of the MAHA one year, beating Dick Ames, for which Dick never let him forget!

“Pat was also an invaluable mentor,” says Anita Anderson Grant. “I can’t begin to tell you the fun we had. We allcame from a time where most did their own training. We bonded and helped one another. All three of Pat’s grandchildren would go on to receive National or top ten awards in Canada.”

The foundation of their breeding program at ARPA Arabian Farm in Cannon Falls, MN was Gamaar (Niga x Gay-Rose, by Ferzon), whom they purchased in 1970. In the 60s, MAHA hosted the largest classes and shows in the country, and Pat noticed that she would always place behind foals sired by Gamaar. In 1969, she would test her knowledge, and breed her only purebred mare to the stallion. In January of the following year, before the foal was born, and Arden believing in Pat’s judgment, purchased Gamaar from Bob and Claudia Erdman, who had decided to retire and offered him for sale with a Geym granddaughter named Jualeta. Pat and Arden stood him at stud and wisely guided his career.Gamaar sired a number of champions, including Nationals. In 1975, he met with tragedy, but survived a broken leg thanks to Pat’s devotion to him. He would soon recover and breed 200 more mares.

The Forehands lovingly believed that a good disposition is the single most important asset of any animal and is a characteristic which must be bred for and should never be sacrificed or given up for any other qualities.

Robert Eugene Whitlatch, 83, of Polk City, Iowa passed away March 7, 2023.

Bob was a jack of many trades; he worked in the grocery store business, was an amazing ballroom dancer, and was a retail extraordinaire selling horse equipment.

Horses were one of Bob’s lifelong loves. He and his first horse, Major, started showing around 1957, and Bob gave lessons to little ones for many years.

He and Helen Nymeyer were a dynamic duo for years before Bob went to work for Schneiders Saddlery. Driving his mobile tack trailer, Bob never felt so free, leaving all his worries behind, traveling down the road and doing what he loved, while impacting a lot of “horse people” along the way. He was a constant presence at horse shows; always there if anyone needed something, and his beloved dog, Katy, was never very far behind.

In the mid 80s, Bob had another dream come true, that of ringmaster at the U.S. Nationals. Amongst the beautiful lights and green sawdust, Bob was in center ring, dressed in one of his best suits, looking dapper and happy as always.

Bob loved to pull pranks (he was a master at it!) and he loved to laugh. He was also one of the most generous, kind, and funny men.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Amos and Gelene Whitlatch, sister Phyllis and brother Larry. He is survived by his sister Lela Mae Cameron (Reuben), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob Whitlatch (1940-2023)

Gamaar

Roger Lervick

Roger Lervick of R.O. Lervick Arabians peacefully passed on March, 18, 2023. We celebrate his ceaseless generosity, unwavering loyalty, endearing humbleness, and fervent passion for the Arabian horse and its community.

Though no longer part of this earth, his horses and wisdom will continue to guide. Breeder of over 450 purebred and Half-Arabians, Roger and his wife Linda have spent the last 45 years producing, generation after generation of show champions, including champion producers such as Cytosk, Cymply Red, and AHT 2019 Dam of Excellence Singularcylection to name a small few, who excelled in the Halter, Saddle Seat and Driving disciplines, culminating in their most recent win with ROL Ascension, the 2023 Scottsdale Arabian English Pleasure Champion. His legacy continues on ...

IN MEMORIAM

PWA Tusea (1992-2023)

Despite no major show wins herself, PWA Tusea’s quality was evident which she passed on to her progeny, earning her AHT’s Dam of Excellence in 2019. Purchased in foal with her last baby, Kimberley Kay Munro and Steve Manuik allowed Tusea to live out her well-deserved retirement in Canada.

Bred by Paint The Wind Arabians, PWA Tusea (HF Toluce x Magic Dancer, by Bright Bask), leaves behind get with 103 National titles, primarily in English and Country Pleasure, as well as Park, Show Hack, Native Costume, Driving and Hunter Pleasure, in all divisions, adult and youth. Her get includes GSF Ambienze, Titleist, Christian Grey GSF, and GSF Rizing Son, PWA Tusea’s most prolific sire, himself siring 65 get including U.S. National’s 2022 Champion $100,000 AEPA Futurity winner Ballerina BF, and multi-national Half-Arabian champions Jean Laffitte BF, Money Talks BF, Chasing The Son BF and Rizing Stock BF; his get alone amassing 152 more national titles. In total (since this writing), PWA Tusea’s grandget have earned 197 National wins, 75 of them champion and reserve.

PWA Tusea’s impact on the Arabian industry will live on for decades to come.

Monticello V (2006-2023)

Tragically gone too soon, Monticello V (Jullyen El Jamaal x Mosquerade V, by Huckleberry Bey) took the western pleasure arena by storm. Bred by Varian Arabians, over half of his National wins were won with his owner Carolyn Lesley of Lesley Farms LLC. In addition to his seven championships and one reserve win at every regional showing, he added to his record seven western pleasure open, junior horse, futurity and amateur championship and reserve wins in national competition.

Sire to over 100 progeny, Monticello V’s get will continue his legacy. A Leading Sire of AWPA-winning Arabian progeny and payouts earned, he has produced successful national performance winners for all ages and divisions in both western and hunter, including his oldest: Mona Lissa SS, Honeys Rockin Cello, Cello Shots SS, Monello V, Tequila Sunrise DSA, Mighty Maggie May, and the beautiful black Hendrixx WB. Now, his very youngest, Bella Ciello and LCA Cello Out, are proving his foals have the halter look too, with regional championships and reserves in Yearling Fillies and Colts. Monticello V will be greatly missed by everyone who loved him, bred to him and admired his stellar show ring performances.