TAOPHINA MCX (The Magician V x Princess Grace C) 2015 Filly
A Bit of History ...
I was a novice in the Arabian horse world when I came upon Varian Arabians. I had been “researching” Arabians online as a novelty with no intent on acquiring a horse, just interested in keeping occupied during the winter months on our farm. After viewing as many websites online as possible, Varian Arabians was at the top for various reasons—clarity of her philosophy, the Varian history, videos and photos. I had previously researched purebred dog breeds that I was interested in and ultimately owned, which allowed me to develop a clear vision on what to look for online. It was clear that Sheila had been in Arabians for many years and that she ran a larger operation, but other than that, I had no clue how important her contribution to the Arabian horse was or had been. Yes, Sheila had decades of show wins, important, but to have a real vision in how to assess and breed a beautiful versatile Arabian was her gift.
I signed up for the Varian newsletter and one day The Magician V was featured and being offered for sale. My interest was perked and I started researching his pedigree, going back as many generations as possible and finding as many photos of his ancestors as I could, having no clue who they were but realizing the beauty and quality of most. The Magician V’s pedigree was like a finely composed symphony. As a lark, I printed this photo onto photo paper showing it to my friends, stating, “See what I just bought!” As time passed by, this lark started to turn into a possible reality.
I eventually contacted Varian Arabians. Sheila, Angela and myself had several long conversations about Magician, owning a stallion and this novice’s interest in possibly purchasing him. Sheila and I both, were hesitant for this first-time horse owner taking on a stallion. We worked together to ensure that if I purchased The Magician V, that he would have the best life going forward, and the rest is history. Anyone who knew Sheila, knew how humble, kind, intelligent and witty she was, as well as an astute businesswoman. Sheila was encouraging and very supportive; her phone calls always giving deft and at times, humorous advice.
After purchasing The Magician V, my personal education continued into the Arabian horse and only then did I start to realize the depth of importance Sheila contributed. Her foresight with her breeding program was exemplary, such as recognizing Khemosabi as a two year old and leasing him; her purchase of Sanadik El Shaklan and her kindness selling him back to Om El Arabians; her re-discovering Audacious PS. Integrating these stellar Arabians into her program with her foundation of Bay-Abi, Bay el Bey, Baychatka and Naganka created a beautiful Arabian, The Magician V. It was Sheila’s courage—all Master Breeders like Sheila have to be courageous—of going in different directions while staying true to her principals, and her continuing to expand her knowledge that has allowed newcomers to the breed to have the opportunity to breed forward further generations of beautiful, versatile Arabian horses. I know the privilege and responsibility I have with The Magician V and he is breeding true to his pedigree that Sheila Varian created. Thank you, Sheila, for your generosity. We miss you. I will be skidding in sideways shouting, ‘WOW, WHAT A RIDE!’ when we meet again … The Magician V – MCX Inc. CEO Leslie Bartlett and CFO Richard Bartlett
THE MAGICIAN V — MCX INC
Leslie Bartlett Calgary, AB
Sheila Varian | 37