Not long ago the ECAHO pyramid of shows was joined by some new shows of lowest rank: D Regional Shows. A kind of shows one day long, closed for the horses that won a class at C show or upper rank. These shows are being judged by one judge only by comparison or with the point system 0-10. There must be at least one DC member speaking local language present. The affiliation fee is 90 €. This kind of show was run during the XXIVth Championships of Balearic Islands (9-12.10) at Inca, Mallorca. The whole event took 4 days with 120 entries of Pura Raza Espaňola, 11 Pura Raza Aá, 6 Pura Raza Menorquina (pure breds of Menorca, as P.R.E., but always black), and 31 Pure Bred Arabians with 28 taking part. Thursday, Friday and Saturday were dedicated to the three breeds first mentioned as well as the dressage championships for P.R.E. stallions. On Sunday the Arabian show was run with liberty class and championships – also for P.R.E. horses. The additional attractions were special awards for best breeder, exhibitor, handler etc. Unusually, the awards were presented in the evening and it must be pointed out that the organizers didn’t save their money spent on these trophies which is a good point – no matter what rank of show it’s always a nice reminder of the event – even for 3rd place.

Arabian horses competed in 9 classes. Yearling fillies class was attended by 6 horses sired by ELART, ELTON, OM EL EXTREEM and ALFABIA DAMASCUS. The winner was the outstanding ANJELINA B.V. (ELTON – AVENIDA/EUROPEJCZYK) with Polish backgrounds in front of NOOR EL EXTREEM (OM EL EXTREEM – FLAVIA/THAMIL), both bred and owned by Yeguada Bautista Vich. Amongst 3 yearling colts the best was KAROLUS MAF (MAF ROMULUS – KASTILIA MAF/ELART) – bred and owned by Ingalil Martensson – who became Reserve Junior Champion. Second placed was his stablemate KAVALIER MAF (ELART – KATUN/CRUSADER).

Amongst two year old fillies 5 competitors appeared, sired by MARWAN AL SHAQAB, ABHA ELJI, ELART and GLADYSZ. The winner was beautiful grey KANKAN MAF (ELART – KATUN/CRUSADER) – full sister to KAVALIER MAF and Junior Champion Mare at the end of the day. Second was AM QAHI (ABHA ELJI – AM HIMYARI/EL PERFECTO), br/o. L’Eresta S.L. She was also Junior Reserve Champion elected. There was only one 2 year old colt to compete – well matured ABHA PUNJAB (MARWAN AL SHAQAB – ABHA JAWHARAH/EL PERFECTO), b/o. by well known Ganaderia Ses Planes S.L., who became Junior Champion Colt later that day. In three year old fillies group there were two to compete: ZINGARA PSYCHE (PADRONS PSYCHE – ZGUBA/ENRILO), b/o. Yeguada Bautista Vich and GUAL HAMMURABI (ABHA ELJI – GUAL VAIRA/BENI-HAMUD), br. Antonia Comas Llabres, o. Mª Teresa Gual De Pons. They were placed the same as mentioned.

 

The group of mares 4, 5 and 6 year old was won by KORAL (ELTON – ELECTRIC SILUETE/MONOGRAMM), b/o. Yeguada Bautista Vich, in front of ISEULT, out of ABHA JAMAICA by EL PERFECTO, a daughter of KHIDAR used in Poland as well, bred by Ramon Gomez Pardo, owned by Ganaderia Ses Planes S.L. At the end of the day they got the trophies as follows: for the Senior Champion and Reserve. In the class of stallions the same age the winner was very massive Michałów-bred ZAKAZANY OWOC (GANGES – ZALETA/PIECHUR), o. Yeguada Bautista Vich, in front of the tiny and elegant GUAL GHORKI (KHIDAR – GUAL TESSA/ABHA HARIM), o. Mª Teresa Gual De Pons, o. L’Eresta S.L. – Reserve Senior Champion Stallion later on. Mares 7 year old and above group was represented by AM SHARIZAR (GUAL SADAM – AM SHILKA/GUAL JAZIR), b. Martin Amengual Mascaro, o. L’Eresta S.L., that unfortunately couldn’t compete at the Championships due to health problems. At the same group of age of stallions outstanding type and condition had Michałów-bred NORMAN (MONOGRAMM – W.N. NASTASEA/NABOR),o. Yeguada Bautista Vich, that was also awarded with Senior Champion title in front of his son ASTON out of a beautiful Janów-bred AVENIDA by EUROPEJCZYK, b/o. Yeguada Bautista Vich.

LIBERTY class was divided into 2 groups: two stallions and four mares. The best male was ASTON, and female AM QAHI. The horses were running free on the space of the whole show arena of dressage paddock size. On Saturday it was a showground for dressage competition. For the halter classes it was reorganized and flowers decorated. The whole event was well and economically organized without any pointless costs. Even the fact that the event combined four pure breeds was economical itself. The same accumulation of shows for different breeds I saw in Italy as well: why to do one show only when few events can take place each weekend at the same ground? There is no need to move the show facilities, tables, boxes. The atmosphere was nice and peaceful. Classes were starting when all the competitors were ready so not exactly with the time schedule but of course everybody knows that the good preparation needs some time and a lot of work and too much rush is undesirable…

The people there are very nice and open but their life is much more different than we used to in Poland. In the mid day there is a long lunch break and the social life starts late in the evening. This is probably why the prize giving ceremony took place at 8 pm on Sunday. The spectators made quite a big crowd though most of them seemed to be more interested in Spanish breeds with characteristic high-up movements then Arabian. About these last ones – good bodies and big Polish and best foreign stallions influence should be mentioned. It seems that Spanish breeders love their home breeds very much and sometimes it looks like they want their Arabians to resemble them a bit. They take very good care of their horses that causes also „too good” condition of Arabian ones. It also seems to be a very good idea to join the dressage test for P.R.E. stallions that makes 25% their final score. Maybe it would be a good idea to introduce this method for Pure Bred Arabian stallions.

The Arabian halter classes were judged by Anna Stojanowska.

The high emotions of one of the most difficult and prestigious Arabian horse events passed a bit – it’s time to make a review of 26th All Nations Cup in Aachen. In ECAHO show pyramid this is one of the Title Shows, placed on top next to the World Championships. It’s requirements for qualification are the highest so we could see the creme de la creme of show horses from around the world – megastars as: Om El Bernadette, PS Rose of Marwan, Baanderos, Pianissima, Venetzia, Marajj, Marwan Al Shaqab, Khidar or Imperial Baarez, as well as some of younger raising stars: Djoonam OS, Miss El Power JQ, Ali Moniscione, Abha Palma or Zawah De Lam and crowds of other more or less world recognized horses. The show contained 133 entries in total with 22 from Poland and Great Britain, 15 from Belgium, 14 from Qatar and UAE, 8 from France and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 7 from Germany, 5 Swedish, 4 Danish, 3 Dutch, 2 Egyptian and Italian and single representatives from: USA, Austria, Switzerland, Slovakia, Australia, South Africa and Norway. It seems that Poland is still leading in breeding quality horses and it was confirmed at the end of the event.

Amongst the youngsters the biggest number of entries were by AJMAN MONISCIONE, WH JUSTICE, MAGNUM PSYCHE, PSYTADEL and MARWAN AL SHAQAB, that gives an impression about the most fashionable stallions currently. It seems that the first (and the youngest of them) will join the leading group for some longer period. Few of those famous sires were competing themselves with MARWAN AL SHAQAB being the most successful as a show contender and the sire of champions – two Reserves and one All Nations Cup Champion.

As there were 18 entries in yearling fillies the class was split in two due to the ECAHO rules. The younger group competed as the “a” section quite equal in quality – the difference between the winner and the last, 8th horse, was only 2,5 pts. It was won by F.M. GLORIAA (WH Justice – Psity of Angels/Psytadel,) br/o. Mieke Sans BE, scored 91,3 in front of (90,7) AJA APHRODITE (WH Justice – Lovin Psyche SSA/Padrons Psyche). These paternal halfsisters are inbred to Padrons Psyche. At class’ top five there was another WH Justice daughter scored 90,2 – JUWANDA OS out of Shak Lavanda by ZT Shakfantasy, placed after (90,4) a Marwan Al Shaqab daughter BINT BESSOLEA (out of HB Bessolea/Besson Carol) and the Res. Champion of Vilhelmsborg show (A) JUMILLA (Thee Apprentice – Artemis/Borneo), scored the same as the second one in this class. PALABRA (Enzo – Palmeta/Ecaho), br/o. SK Janów Podlaski, unbeaten in Poland, didn’t enter the top five (89,7). Probably the other competitors were more harmonious and in better condition.

In „b” section the fight was exciting with two stars competing. The winner (scored 92,9) was DJOONAM OS (Ajman Moniscione – Khaleifa/Kubinec), br. Gestüd Osterhof DE, o. Haras de Djoonam FR, the Elran Cup (A) Champion, who has beaten (with 92,4 pts) Menton (A) and Towerlands (A) Junior Champion MISS EL POWER JQ (Power World JQ – Elkada Sahibi/Sahibi) bred in Brazil. Third was (90 points) ASH DONATELLA (WH Justice – Dahma/Warandes Plakat), fourth (89,1) ROHARA CASHMERE (Sir Fames HBV – Psykla/Padrons Psyche), fifth (89 pts) PSE RASHEEKAH (Royal Colours – Imperial Bareezah/Imperial Baarez). MELODY (Psytadel – Mina/Monogramm), br/o. M.&J. Pietrzak, one of the Polish representatives, was placed as 6th (88,8). It was already the second (after Palabra) performance example that horses that were highly scored at the local shows are not always successful at „Title” or A shows, where the average level is simply higher. ECAHO pyramid of shows has its reasons. And it was not the last disappointment for the Poles in Aachen…

At the class no. 2 – yearling colts, Poland had no representative. It was won beautifully by correct and pretty colt but unfortunately with a lot of white markings ALI MONISCIONE (Psytadel – Alianna Moniscione/Focus Highlander), br/o. Azienda Agricola Buzzi IT, that I had a pleasure to watch at B show Terme di Boario IT, when he became Junior Champion. Moreover he seems to be progressing still. The second was (92 pts) another Ajman Moniscione (by WH Justice) son, JUMANCI OS (out of Praetoria by Kubinec), that won the Vilhemsborg (A) championship; third (91,6 pts) Reserve Towerlands (A) and Wels (A) show champion AJA JUSTIFIED, by WH Justice again, out of Aja Beneja by FS Bengali. Fourth with the same total but lower scored for type was MVA COLOUR ME COOL (True Colours – SKF Tiaara/Imperial Baarez), fifth (90,9 pts) FARAA AL SHAQAB (Marwan Al Shaqab – Maria El Besson/Besson Carol). Few other well known colts were out of the top five as A shows champions and reserves: SHANNAN EL MADAN (Shael Dream Desert – Perla K/CG Balih El Jamaal) and GAZWAN AL NASSER (Gazal Al Shaqab – Ftoon Al Shaqab/Al Adeed Al Shaqab).

Two year old fillies class was extremely interesting with two outstanding horses to go: FS MAGNUM’S MADONNA (Magnum Psyche – Tai Bey Brittney/Bey Shah) and ABHA PALMA (Marwan Al Shaqab – Abha Gazali/El Perfecto). Both scored 93,7 pts, but the first one with 5×20, and second 6×20. The higher scores for type gave the first place to FS MAGNUM’S MADONNA, br. Strydom Arabians ZA, o. Paul Gheysens BE. Third was (91,3) the small ZAWAH DE LAM (AS Kayro – Wilaya De Lam/Ekla De Gargassan), very successful so far with „TOP TEN JUNIOR FEMALE” in Paris. Fourth was the elegant (90,9) GHALIA AL SHAQAB (Marwan Al Shaqab – Aliaa Al Shaqab/Besson Carol), fifth (90,7) JB PRIZCILLA (El Amin – Estetica/LM Limaal). In this class there were also three Polish competitors: ESPIRIA (Psytadel – Ekspiacja/Emigrant), br/o. Lech Błaszczyk, and from Falborek Arabians SOTIKA (WH Justice – Słonka/Wojsław) and WASA (WH Justice – Waresa/Empres), scored as following: 89,4; 90,6 and 88,2 points. The two last mentioned were not successful though they competed with their new foreign trainer on a lead. It should be pointed that more and more private Polish breeders choose foreign trainers for their horses (after Aachen show also MELODY and LORD BEY SHAH from Minnesota Arabians left abroad changing the trainer for the second time this season as well as ESPIRIA of Lech Błaszczyk). But is the lack of success in Aachen just a matter of inappropriate training or the inappropriate was the politic in their promotion or just the show was too difficult for them? It’s always right to compare yourself with the best – one never knows in what condition will be his own horse or the other competitors. However it seems that too many changes of trainers is not a good situation for horse’s psychic. On the other hand it may be useful to place the horse closer to the future showgrounds.

Class no. 4 brought satisfaction to Polish fans at last: Polish National Jr. Champion and Białka Show Champion KABSZTAD (Poganin – Kwestura/Monogramm), br/o. SK Michałów won his class (92,4 pts). Second was with score of 91,6 ORION OS (Om El Bahreyn – Vetla/Aromat), in front of DON GIOVANNI J (MPA Giovanni – Jer-Aangel/Psymadre) – 91,2; and further: „TOP TEN JUNIOR MALE” from Paris PREEMIUM (WH Justice – Pricilla/Andrus) – 90,1; and ASH DREAM OF GLORY (WH Justice – Donna Diva/Ekstern) – 89,2, closing the top five. Polish National Res. Champion colt LORD BEY SHAH (Psytadel – Lady Aphrodite/Padrons Psyche,) br/o. M.&J. Pietrzak, was scored 88,8 points. Some very good colts like ALTIS, HIPNOTIC IBN ETERNITY, AJA SANSTORM, ASH ANTARES were not competing this time.

The class 5 gathered 8 outstanding 3 year old mares, all scored higher than 90! The winner was (92,4) Sharjah (A) Champion and Towerlands Reserve (A) OM EL BERNADETTE (Om El Shahmaan – Om El Benedict/Sanadik El Shaklan), br. Om El Arab International USA, o. Al Khalediah Stables KSA. Second, (91,9) Dubai (A) show Reserve champion, beautiful PS ROSE OF MARWAN (Marwan Al Shaqab – PS Rose Mahogany/Padrons Mahogany); third (91,5) – SHOWNEL (Showkayce – WR Jullane/Jullyen El Jamaal). As fourth (91,3) was quite unexpectedly placed Polish HERLINA (Ekstern – Heroldia/Eukaliptus), from Białka Stud – it was her day this time! Fifth was (91,2) HARMATTAN REYHANNA (Magnum Psyche – Hamy De Gargassan/Vladimir De Falgas), with the title of „WORLD TOP TEN JUNIOR FEMALE” on her account. Polish National Reserve Champion Filly EKSTERNA (Ekstern – Emanta/Pamir,) br/o. Falborek Arabians, was sixth scored 90,6.

Unfortunately there were only 4 colts 3 year old to compete, but two of them of great quality: BAANDEROS (Marwan Al Shaqab – HB Bessolea/Besson Carol), br. Taylor Arabians USA, o. Al Khalediah Stables KSA, who gained the titles of Junior Champion at Dubai (A), Menton (A) and Towerlands (A), and Reserve at Elran Cup (A) this year, scored 92,9 pts, and AJ DINAR (WH Justice – Deska HJE/Lumiar Amadeus) – Qatar Show Champion (A) and Reserve in Dubai (A), scored 92,8 pts. BAANDEROS is a more correct stallion but AJ DINAR was better in movements. The first one was also more successful at shows and though some were bidding on AJ DINAR, BAANDEROS was better again. The third was (90,8) SHAGRAN AL NASSER (Ansata Selman – Dana Al Nasser/Mujahid), and fourth (89,9) – FAHRENHEIT GAT (El Nabila B – Hannah K/Borsalino K).

Saturday competition was ended by two divisions of 4-6 year old mares: 7a and 7b. In the A section there was competing the beautiful VENETZIA (Versace – Giavanna/NV Beau Bey), br. Rojo Arabians & Sandy Nicolas USA, o. Al Shaqab Stud QAT, gaining 7×20. With the total of 94 pts she won of course. This year she already got the titles of Senior Champion in Qatar (A), Menton (A), Elran Cup (A), Reserve in Dubai (A) and Towerlands (A). What a great collection!
The second and third places went to Michałów Stud for: PISTORIA (Gazal Al Shaqab – Palmira/Monogramm) scored 93,4 pts and EJRENE (Gazal Al Shaqab – Emocja/Monogramm) – 92,9 pts, Wels Senior Champion Mare this year (A). It’s worth to mention that three first mares of this class gained already the titles of „WORLD TOP TEN JUNIOR FEMALE”, and VENETZIA „JUNIOR FEMALE RESERVE CHAMPION” as well! Fourth was (91,9) MAYA DES ALPES (Simeon Sadik – Eamt Marihuana/BJ Thee Mustafa), fifth (91,6) CR JASMEENAH (WH Justice – Fforget-Me-Not/Ffatal Attraction). Just after her was placed Michałów-bred NORMA (Gazal Al Shaqab – Nina/Monogramm) scored 90,8.

In the second division the ideal PIANISSIMA (Gazal Al Shaqab – Pianosa/Eukaliptus), br/o. SK Janów Podlaski, brought down to the knees not only the spectators but also the judges who scored her with 11×20 and 95,3! It seemed that no other horse can achieve such total at this show… Second was Towerlands Senior Champion and Reserve in Sharjah (A) ABHA MYRA (Marwan Al Shaqab – ZT Ludjkalba/Ludjin El Jamaal), scored 93,9 pts (4×20), followed by: LUMIAR BINT BALZAC (Luminar Balzac – Supreme Foccus/Foccus) – 91,1, MAGNUM SILHOUETTE (Magnum Psyche – JK Padroness/Padron) – 90, and Arabian Breeders World Cup Las Vegas Champion JJ POLACA (Magnum Psyche – Sol Magic/Soltice) – 90,3. Another Janów bred mare BELGICA (Gazal Al Shaqab – Belladona/Europejczyk) was scored 89,9.

On the second day of All Nations Cup the badly glued show catalogues were messed up totally. It was the only thing that was not perfect during this show as the rest of it was really great. Even the crowds were as big as expected cheering their favorites. One of the reasons of it were surely the high scores given to the horses on Sunday. Sometimes the judges seemed to miss some bad legs and bodies… But forgetting it, waiting for next “twenties” was really exciting!

Class 8, mares 7-10 year old, was traditionally a battle of Polish bred mares and was won by Michałów-bred EMESA (Laheeb – Etopka/Eukaliptus), with 8×20 and 94,5 pts. Just after her was, looking great, Janów-bred but owned in Qatar SIKLAWA (Laheeb – Siewka/Eldon) scored: 4×20 and 94,1 pts total. Further places were taken by: NERL (Balaton – Nevesomost/Mukomol) – 5×20 for movements and total of 93,2 pts; EMIKA (Eldon – Emoza/Ernal) – 91,9 pts – from Białka Stud; and FER MIA (JK Nasser – Martinique/Ansata Sinan) – 91,6.

The oldest mares group contained 4 entries only – but what a horses! The lowest total of this class was 91,4! It was a score of Michałów-bred EGNA (Eukaliptus – Egzotyka/Probat) owned in the UK. She was beaten by NAG OLLA BEZ (SW Beatiw – Sweet Saff/Gai Chagall) scored 92,6. Second place (4×20 and 93,5) went to EMANDA (Ecaho – Emanacja/Eukaliptus) from Michałów, and the deserver win – to MARTINIQUE (Ansata Sinan – Marratxi/Gual Moghar), br. Susanne Reiter DE, o. Dubai Arabian Stud UAE, who was scored with 7 „twenties” and the total of 94,4. It is also a valuable broodmare what she has proven being a dam of FER MIA mentioned above.

During male classes the emotions goes usually very high. In Aachen it was also like that this time thanks to great horses entered and the atmosphere of the show. In the younger group of stallions (4-6 year old) 12 were competing. 2008 Reserve Champion of Sharjah (A) and Dubai (A) shows MARAJJ (Marwan Al Shaqab – RGA Kouress/Kouvay Bey) took the leadership quickly gaining 7×20 and 94,1 points. He was bred by Joel Desmarteau in the USA and is owned by Al Bidayer Stud UAE. Also Polish National Reserve Champion Michałów-bred DRABANT (Gazal Al Shaqab – Demona/Monogramm), has shown great abilities and was scored as high as 94 pts and 6×20: 5 times for movements and one for type. He has unexpectedly beaten his one year older stablemate ESPARTO (Ekstern – Ekspozycja/Eukaliptus) scored 0,2 pts less. Last year Esparto took the title of „WORLD TOP TEN SENIOR MALE”. Fourth place (93,0) went to SAVIO (Dreamcather SMF – Om El Shadina/Sanadik El Shaklan), with funny face markings (which doesn’t disturb him gaining good scores) while fifth was (92,7) ESPINHO (Espano Estopa – Mayana/BJ Thee Mustafa). ETNODRONS PSYCHE (Pandrons Psyche – Etnografia/Aloes), owned by Paweł Redestowicz, very elegantly shown by his handler took a high score of 91,3 and qualified to the top ten of his class what should be considered as a success as it was the highest score given to a Polish private horse at this show.

I don’t think there was anyone doubting about the winner’s name while the class of stallions 7-10 year old entered the arena with MARWAN AL SHAQAB (Gazal Al Shaqab – Little Liza Fame/Fame VF), br/o. Al Shaqab Stud QAT – such megastars can not loose! He looked like a statue being in perfect condition. He was shown perfectly at stand however when he was not asked to pose it seemed he might be a bit spoilt or difficult. He achieved the same total as PIANISSIMA, even the same number of 20s! Second was ROHARA BACARA (Padrons Psyche – Sidia/Sidi-Brahim), scored 93,6 and 5×20 for movements. Further places belonged to: HS ETIQUETTE (Simeon Sadik – Etenta/Monogramm) – 93,1; MCA MAGNUM GOLD (Magnum Psyche – Litique/Litigator) – 91,9; and Michałów-bred EMILIUSZ (Laheeb – Emocja/Monogramm) – 91,2. Just after was Janów-bred POGANIN (Laheeb – Pohulanka/Pepton) – 91,1. His result was far from expectations especially as the horse was looking and presented very well.

The last class no. 12 – for stallions 11 year old and above – has seen 7 horses scored 91 pts, including 3 higher than 93. At last the leadership (93,9) was taken by a bit feminine, beautiful IMPERIAL BAAREZ (PVA Kariim – BB Ora Kalilah/Orashan), br. Imperial Egyptian Stud US, o. El Farida Stud EG, who was named Reserve Champion Stallion of Elran Cup (A) not long ago. 0,2 point less was given to Reserve Champion of Wels (A) and Vilhemsborg shows (A) KHIDAR (Ansata Sinan – Elizja/Esta-Ghalil). Third was (93,4) „TOP TEN SENIOR MALE” of 2007 World Championship PILIGRIM (Balaton – Popova/PodSnejnik), fourth (92) RICHTER HM (EL Halimaar – Fasarra/Farazdac), and fifth (91,6) HADIDI (Norus – Hebet Allah/Morafic). Polish representative PIAFF (Eldon – Pipi/Banat) gained the score of 91,5.

It was easy to guess Senior Champions – watching the presentation was such a pleasure! We saw a group of wonderful horses placed first and second in their classes and scored from 90,7 to 93,7 at „Juniors” and from 93,4 to 95,3 at „Seniors”. The winners were very harmoniously conformed, long legged with great necks and beautiful heads.

Junior Champion Mare was named the best out from 8 fillies, dark, well built FS MAGNUM’S MADONNA. Reserve – her fellow and scored the same total – two year old ABHA PALMA, br. Ganaderia Ses Planes ES, o. Al-Mohamadia Stud KSA. Junior Champion Stallion was awarded greatly shown BAANDEROS, and ALI MONISCIONE as Reserve. Unfortunately KABSZTAD was not in his best mood that day.

Senior Female Championships were of course won by unbeaten PIANISSIMA. Reserve choice might have been harder and it ended with the trophy for ABHA MYRA, br. Ganaderia Ses Planes, o. Al Shaqab Stud, who competed being placed second in the class after Pianissima. The same incomparable competitor of the championship, next to Pianissima, was MARWAN AL SHAQAB. Al Shaqab Stud took perfectly a chance for his promotion – the spectators had a chance to touch the champion and see him even ridden bareback! It seemed that the Reserve title would go to his son MARAJJ. But what a surprise it was when the judges decided that the better one was IMPERIAL BAAREZ! It’s a pity that the show doesn’t contain the „Best in Show”. What a competition it could have been!

Besides the classes and championships some special activities took place during the event: the traditional All Nations parade and charity bidding for MARWAN AL SHAQAB breeding. The performance horses were awarded as well as German WAHO Trophy was presented to PAMIR I 1990 (by Penthagonn) accompanied with the „Simply the Best” song sang live next to the horse – that gave a lot of fun to the public. Even more louder was during the Handlers Cup 2008. The trophy is being given to the handlers nominated and cheered with the loudest applause. This time Frederik Van Sas from Belgium was the lucky winner.

At the end of the day two main trophies were presented: The Lady Harmsworth Blunt Memorial Trophy – All Nations Cup, and Breeder’s Trophy – The Major Ian Hedley Memorial Trophy. The first is given to the country owing the horses registered at its stud book within the closing date of entries for the show estimated by points collected by the horses during the All Nations Cup. The second trophy goes to the country having the horses who collected the highest points in the rank registered in the moment of their birth. Poland for the third time in a row and for the 5th in the show history won the All Nations Cup in front of Spain and Italy while Breeders Cup was won by USA in front of Poland and Germany and UK ex aequo.

Out from the 21 Polish bred horses entered (7 private and 14 state owned), 9 took the top fives of the classes, all state bred and owned. Amongst 7 younger mares only one (HERLINA) was fourth, amongst 2 colts – 1 (KABSZTAD) won his class. The best were Polish elder mares – 6 out of 8 took good places: first (PIANISSIMA, EMESA), second (EMANDA, PISTORIA), third (EJRENE), fourth (EMIKA). Stallions were a bit worse as out from 4 competitors only DRABANT was second – but in a great style. Polish bred and foreign owned horses did very well: ESPARTO, EGNA, EMILIUSZ and particularly SIKLAWA.

Is it a good result? It seems that worse results of younger horses may be a bit worrying as well as only one Polish horse was able to compete in the championship successfully. PIANISSIMA is a daughter of GAZAL AL SHAQAB, as well as the Senior Male Champion MARWAN AL SHAQAB. Reserve Senior Champion Mare was his daughter ABHA MYRA, and the other one, ABHA PALMA – Reserve Junior. Junior Champion Stallion became Marwan’s son: BAANDEROS. The only „exceptions” were Junior Champion Mare FS MAGNUM’S MADONNA, Reserve Junior Champion Stallion ALI MONISCIONE and Senior Stallion IMPERIAL BAAREZ. This is why I would say that the biggest winner of 2008 All Nations Cup was Al Shaqab Stud.

 

 

Read more: Aachen: Pianissima’s eleven „20s”! The coverage of the first day of the competition

                    Aachen: the Nations Cup for Poland third year in a row. The coverage of the 2nd day of the competition

 

                       

The first show of the season took place in mid January – the Al Khalediah First International Arabian Horse Show (B), organized as part of the Al Khalediah Arabian Horse Festival in the heart of the Arabian peninsula, about 100 km from Riyadh. His Royal Highness Prince Khaled bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud invited a group from Poland to participate in the show. The organizer covered the costs of transportatiom, as well as funded the flight for two owners, a trainer and groom and accommodation in the hotels. A very high standard provided for the guests placed everyone in good moods from the very start!

The first day of the Festival saw the horse auction, which took place on the beautiful racetrack on the Al Khalediah Farm, on the grassy paddock where horses are presented before the race. There were no great show stars of Al Khalediah Farm in the auction catalogue (66 lots). Despite an average quality of the offered horses (mostly stallions – often probably future

geldings), the auction turned out unexpectedly well. The bidding was conducted in Saudi Riyals (1,53 SAR = 1 PLN, 1 euro = 3,6 PLN). The prices for the sold horses were three, four times higher than those achieved for similar quality animals in Poland! Unfortunately horses with Polish accents in their pedigrees did not achieve high prices.

The guests were treated to snacks, sweets, traditional Arabian coffee, sweet tea and peppermint. Observers could watch the auction sitting in comfortable, plush chairs set outside or inside the luxurious pavilion. An extremey low temperature – not much above zero – caused only the hardiest to sit outside.

Planned for the second day were four races on the well maintained, embedded with flowers sandy racetrack, with a lake in the middle and swans swimmimg in it. Looking at the desert around it was easy to appreciate the enormous labor that went into this facility! The first race over the longest distance of 1800 m was meant for imported pure bred Arabians, 5 year old and up, the second (1600 m) for domestic bred Arabians, 4 years old and up, the third (1200 m) for three year olds also of domestic breeding, while the fourth (1600 m) for Saudi

Arabians, the so-called Pure Desert Breed Horses. The prize money in all the races was the same – the pool amounted to 100,000 SAR with 45,000, 25,000, 16,000, 8,000 and 6,000 SAR for the owner of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth horse respectively.

The first race was won surely by the mare BINT BU DHABI, second was BARIQ AL SAYF, third AL NASSE AL WAHEEK.

After the decoration came a special show by the Al Khalediah owned World Champions and Reserve Champions from Paris 2007: LAYAN AL KHALEDIAH (by Dakharo), MARQUIS CAHR (by Marwan A Shaqab) and DAKHARO (by Dakar El Jamaal), which was a sort of clash: it showed how different Arabian horse can be. The horses that participated in the races usually did not resemble the Arabian breed at all.

In the second race the first three places were easily taken by horses from Al Khalediah Stables: NASHWAN AL KHALIDIAH (1), JALEELAT AL KHALEDIAH (2) and SABBAQ KHALIDIAH (3). In the third race the well-looking representative of the hosts NAYEF AL KHALIDIAH finished the race at the second spot. First came SHDAD AL THALITH, third – SHAMEKH MOZFER. The fourth race was once again taken by Al Khalediah Stabes – first came MANSOUR EL BIWABIYA, second – MUZHILAT AL KHALIDIAH and third – BINT OBEYAT AL KHALIDIAH.

In the evening the invited guests had the pleasure of participating in an elegant dinner in a pavillion situated in an idyllic park located on the enormous estate of His Royal Highness Prince Khaled bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The pavillion is tapestried from the outside with fabric and there are plenty of references to a traditional Arabian tent inside. The huge glass windows allow to look at a panoramic view of the meadow and lake, as well as an illuminated fountain. In front of the building graze antilopes, zebras, giraffes. You can walk out to them, as they are tamed. It looks like an animal lover’s dream… The ever-present splendor and exquisite details of the interior would be tacky in Europe, but here, gathered in one place, they make a huge impression.

The next day was scheduled for the show. Poland was represented by three horses which as it would turn out soon, would make a stand at battling it out for the highest trophies: PSYCHE VICTORIA, bred and owned by Chrcynno Pałac Stud, ALTIS, bred and owned by Falborek Arabians and PIANISSIMA, bred and owned by Janów Podlaski Stud. The catalogue also listed: ESPARTO – representing Ajman Stud, EMILIUSZ – owned by Liezl Els, Agmal Arabians and FERNANDO of Turban Stud. Among this group only PSYCHE VICTORIA and ESPARTO, under a foreign flag, could boast full Polish pedigrees, that is they had both the sire and dam originating from Poland.

The yearling fillies class was divided. Series A was won with a score of 91,25 points by decisively the best SARA AL MOHAMADIAH (USA) by Marwan AL Shaqab, owned by HH P. Abdullah Bin Fahad Bin Abdullah Al Saud. Second, with a score of 90,25, came another mare from the same owner: JAWHARAT AL MOHAMMADIAH (SA) by Farres. Third – AL ANOOD (SA) with a mark of 89,75, a typey bay daughter of Psytadel, bred and owned by King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz and his sons.

The poorly cast series B of the yearlings class was won by the royal BINT NAJD (SA) by Koronec with a low note of 89,25. Second – AL ARYAM NOJOOM by Enzo from the United Arab Emirates, owned by Al Aryam Arabians, gained 88,75 points, third – SALMA AL MOHAMMADIAH (SA) by Farres – scored 88,5.

The class of two year old fillies was also divided. In the first series three fillies achived a score of 90,25! The winner was BALLERINA BVA (USA) by Ames Charisma, another horse property of HH P. Abdullah Bin Fahad Abdullah Al Saud. Second came the pleasant daughter of Aja Sangali – ASEEFAT AL KHALIDIAH (SA) bred and owned by the host of the event, third – the very mature SWEET CAROLINE LL (USA) by Legacy of Fame Moon OA, owned by Ajman Stud.

In series 2B all the rivals were bested by the excellently performing PSYCHE VICTORIA by Ekstern from Chrcynno Pałac Stud with a total score of 90,5 points. Behind her, with a score of 90,25, placed the Brazilian bred SOPHIE EL POWER JQ by Power World JQ, owned by Az. Agr. Tripodi, who unfortunately has a trait which disables her from achieving the highest laurels: ears set on the sides at a funny angle. Third, with the same score as the previous filly, came the property of W. & A. Norden, Lonhult Araberstut – ARTIC EL AMINA (SWE) by El Amin, granddaughter of Psytadel, another interesting product of this „factory“.

In the three year old fillies class the best proved to be the already known from European rings FS CAYENNE by A.S. Natsir-Apal, owned by Ajman Stud – with 92,50. Further places were taken by NOWARAT AL KHALIDIAH (USA) by Marwan Al Shaqab, owned by the host – with 91,75 and MARYLLA (SWE) by Gazal Al Shaqab (sister to the famous MAGORA), owned by Sheikh Abdul Mohsen bin Abdulmalik Al Sheikh – with 91,25.

Only half of the 16 entered yearling colts showed up on the ring. With a large point advantage (91) won the royal NUMAS AL THANI (SA) by Sabea Al Sahraa Anapurna. Second, with a score of 89,75, was another offspring of the superb sire Marwan Al Shaqab – NAIF AL MOHAMMADIAH (USA), owned by HH Prince Abdullah Bin Fahad Bin Abdullah Al Saud. Ending his performance at the third spot (87,75) was the well-prepared NAYEF AL SHAQAB (Q) owned by Mohammed Abdul Rahman Al Yousef from Saudi Arabia.

The class of the two year old colts was divided into two series. Stars known from the European rings: HYPNOTIC IBN ETERNITY (90 pts) by Eternity Ibn Navarrone-D and AJA SANDSTORM (89 pts) by Psytadel had to make way before ATAA Al KHALIDIAH (SA) by Aja Sangali (91 pt), bred and owned by the host.

In series B the „race“ was led „from start to finish“ by the Polish ALTIS by WH Justice, bred and owned by Falborek Arabians. He gained 90,75 points, including 2 x 20 for movement. Second, with a score of 89,75 was SAQER AL SHQAYIR (SA) by F. Shamaal, bred and owned by Sheikh Abdul Mohsen Bin Abdulmalik Al Sheikh. Third (with 88 pts) – FAWAZ AL MOHAMMADIAH (SA) by Shakaar Ibn Sanadiva.

Many people awaited the small group of the three year old colts. It starred the highly promoted, purchased for an enormous sum by Paul Gheysens (Belgium) QR MARC (USA) by Marwan Al Shaqab. He is a colt with a beautiful, chiseled head and neck (he received 5 x 20 – two for type and three for head and neck), but also with a poor left fore hoof, which might have an affect on his breeding career. He gained a total score of 92,75 – the same as his

well-known half brother on the spear side BAANDEROS (USA), owned by the host. QR MARC bested his rival with better notes for type. BAANDEROS changed for the better, growing into a mature and robust horse. Behind them, with a much lower score of 89,25, placed WATHIQ AL KHALEDIAH (SA), a decent son of Thee Ricochet, who lacks a bit of Arabian beauty.

The group of 4-6 year old mares was divided into two series. The first was won with a score of 92,5 points by the pleasant daughter of Khidar – BILKIS BEGUM (E), owned by the host. Second came the performance-loving PORCELAINNA (USA) by Psytadel, known to all show passionates, with a score of 91,25 points. The owner of this mare is Anjuli Bethell from Great Britain. Third place (with a score of 90,25) was taken by LLAYLA (BR) by El Nabila B, owned by the host.

The second series – which was not difficult to predict – was easily won by the daughter of Gazal Al Shaqab – PIANISSIMA from Janów Podlaski Stud. She received the highest score of the show: 94 points, including four 20s for type and head and neck. Behind her, with a score of 91 points, came the daughter of Galba, LAHA AL KHALEDIAH (SA), who has a somewhat long body. The next mare (also with a poor body) was R.S. BANAFSAJ (UAE) by Maleik El Kheil, owned by Al Aryam Arabians, with a total mark of 90,50 points.

The class of 7-9 year old mares was won by the favorite – the bay EAGLERIDGE PASSIONATA

(AUS) with a score of 92,75, owned by Ajman Stud (UAE). Behind her came: KHARELLE (USA) by Dakar El Jamaal, owned by HRH Prince Fahad Bin Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (91,75) and LOREDANA K (BR) by Borsalino K, owned by the host (90,75 points).

In the senior mares class, which opened the fourth day of the festival, only 5 horses competed. None surpassed the 90 point mark. 89,50 points gained by MADINAH BINT

SAARIYAH (UK) by Imperial Madheen, owned by Khalid Saad Al Haddad, was enough to win this class. Behind her came: the royal MIRA NAIR (D) by Kubinec (89), a bit on the fat side, next – LOVINS KHISS (USA) by Khadraj (88), owned by Waheeb Omer Abdullah Bawazeer. All three performed under the flag of Saudi Arabia.

The 4-6 year old stallions class was won by Michałów’s ESPARTO (91,75) by Ekstern representing Ajman Stud. The second and third horse had the same total score – 90,75, but

higher notes for type were handed to AL MILAN (D) by Al Lahab, owned by Sax Arabians. The unlucky loser was BS PAPARAZZI (D) by Kar Papageno, owned by Sheikh Abdul Mohsen Bin Abdulmalik Al Sheikh (KSA).

The refined, a bit feminine son of Laheeb – EMILIUSZ (PL) – won the 7-9 year old stallions class. Behind him, bearing the colors of Saudi Arabia, placed: MANKIND (USA) by Jullyen El Jamaal (90,25) and HAMRAS AKID (D) by Ali Valentino (90), owned by HH P. Abdullah Bin Fahad Bin Abdullah Al Saud.

The rivals from the senior stallions class, thanks to 20s for type, head and neck, as well as movement, with a score of 92,25, were bested by the stallion of the King of Saudi Arabia – PADRONS IMMAGE (FR) by Padrons Psyche. Second (with a score of 91,25) was the Michałów bred FERNANDO, representing Turban Sud. Half brother to the winner on the spear

side – SHAFE PSUEDE (USA), owned by the host, received 90,5 points, which gave him a third place in this class.

Classes 13, 14, 15 and 16 were meant for Arabians of desert breeding from Saudi Arabia. These horses do not resemble modern Arabian showhorses. They have a straight head profile and often slanting hindquarters. However this group is a stictly protected genetic pool, which might prove useful in the future.

After a special show of dancing horses combined with the Sponsors Parade came time for the Championships, which were observed by His Royal Highness Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

A surprise was the awarding of the title of Junior Champion Mare to the yearling filly SARA AL MOHAMADIAH. The favorite (in terms of score points) – FS CAYENNE had to settle for the title of Reserve. The results of the other Championships were not a surprise to people following Arabian horse shows. QR MARC became Junior Champion Stallion, BAANDEROS – Junior Reserve Champion Stallion. The Senior Mare Championship was won by PIANISSIMA, while the Reserve went to EAGLERIDGE PASSIONATA. The title of Senior Champion Stallion was awarded to the 14 year old PADRONS IMMAGE and the Reserve – to ESPARTO.

Besides the honorary awards there were also prizes, including high quality watches for a first place in a given class and luxurious cars for the champions and winners of the desert-bred classes. The Saudi orchestra, who played also during the race day, performed anthems of the winning countries.

For dessert – a pompous party was thrown with a short concert by a Lebanese singer atop a

galloping horse, theatre scenes, a light show, a horse in the smoke, baloons flying and lying on the ground (as it turned out – to be able to step on them) and finally – fireworks. The crowd of spectators was hugely moved by this impressive spectacle.

The clashing of cultures, but definitely the same passion – this thought comes to mind when summing up this adventure. The invited people from the non-Arabian world got to know the splendor, luxury and comfort. Buses were driving all the time, so that no one’s legs would hurt. The women were presented with and asked to wear traditional, black, ornamented

„abayas“ in public places (it was not necessary on the farm), because there are severe punishments for showing the head and ankles. During the show everyday there were three breaks for a prayer. Nobody rushed, there was plenty of time between classes. Everything was carried out in a calm manner.

Less polite was the fact that all guests were scanned about a dozen times, also their hand baggage was checked everyday. The Saudi airport held a record in this „discipline“ – three times scanned and searched and a disinfection in the plane! Although this is for security reasons, such thorough examination is a hassle for travelers.

However without a doubt for many of us it was a first occasion to visit this beautiful, desert country, the cradle of the Arabian horse. It turned out to be an unforgettable experience.

See also more pictures by Erwin Escher in our photo gallery from the Al Khalediah Show