When you ask about Poland in a London pub – you surely get an answer: “Wojciech Szczęsny”. Polish tourists in Athens often hear the references to other football players as Józef Wandzik or Krzysztof Warzycha, whereas in any endurance event in Abu Dhabi or Dubai a password “Poland” would immediately evoke a response: KAMILA KART, because this tiny, blonde girl is doing very well at their endurance routes.

“Polish Rider Rules Endurance Race” – that was the title of an article published in March on the gulfnews.com website, informing about news from the Persian Gulf. In its sports department ran were also results of the most significant endurance events held in the United Arab Emirates. At that time Kamila Kart hit the headlines of the papers, when she won a three-days-long CEI*** competition, taking place at the distance of 240 km (3×80) in Abu Dhabi. This start was a summary of a magnificent season of the Polish girl riding endurance in the United Arab Emirates.

To conquer the Emirates

In the beginning of 2011 Kamila Kart decided to accept a job in the endurance training center Emirates Stable, owned by the Sheik Al Maktoum. A new chapter of her career she began from winning the Ladies` Cup, sponsored by the Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, held at the distance of 100 km in March 2011 in Dubai. She covered the distance in 3h 43’4”, what made an average speed of 26,9 km/h. Next successes came in the season 2011/2012. The Polish rider gained more experience and took part in more events, paying her employers back for their trust with good results. In international competitions for 120 km she was placed second and third, respectively. In the event CEI***, for 160 km – The President Cup – she was placed 7th atop Shah Khan (Elcatero – Shananaa/Figaro, bred by Tjust Araber, Sweden), whereas she won the “ladies only” competition for the UAE President`s Cup, at the distance of 90 km. A resume of the successful season was the already mentioned, impressive win in a three-days-long competition for 240 km, held within the Endurance Festival, named after the Sheikh Sultan Zayed Al Nahyan.

Earlier in Poland

Before her setting off to conquer the desert, Kamila represented the “Champion” Equestrian Club, near to Łódź, for more than ten years. She began her career with an impressive success in 2002, when, in the age of 18, she won the Senior Championship of Poland. “The first significant wins of Kamila Kart should be associated with a purebred Elban (Balon – Elekta/Palas, bred by Janów Podlaski), whom they made a perfect couple with. In 2001 Elban became the Champion of 6-year-olds, whereas next year, in 2002, this pair won the Championship of Poland. It was held on the distance of 2×100 km, covered by Kamila and Elban with an average speed of 20,36 km/h”, recalls Ewa Szarska, an international endurance judge.

Next important successes Kamila gained, riding another Balon son – the gelding Cert (Balon – Certoza/Set), bred by Robert Talarek. Together they won a Bronze Medal in Junior and Young Riders Endurance Championships, 120 km, in 2005, Silver in Senior Championships of Poland in 2006, whereas in 2008 they got the Gold.

And now the Championships!

Despite many successes in Poland, she represented her country only once in an international competition of a championships rank. In 2009, together with Cert, she took part in the Senior Riders European Championships at Assisi, Italy. Unfortunately she didn`t finish the competition, like the rest of the Polish team. In August 2012 she will have a chance for improving the results, because she is going to represent Poland, together with Beata Dzikowska and Olga Ciesielska, in Senior Riders World Championships in Euston Park, Great Britain.

“I expect a very good start of Kamila, because she is in a fantastic form now. She is a leader of riders` ranking by the International Equestrian Federation and I hope she confirms her good form in the Euston Park Championships”, says Andrzej Bereznowski, the Chairman of Endurance Committee in Polish Equestrian Union. “It`s important, that during those Championships she will ride Wened”, adds Bereznowski. Wened (Espadero – Włócznia/Borek, bred by Adam Sobczuk), after a successful season of starts under Krzysztof Czarnota (winning of CEI*, 80 km, at Babolna, Hungary and CEI** 120 km, at Kuźnia Nowowiejska, Poland), was exported in the end of 2011 to Dubai. Ridden by Kamila, he covered a distance of 160 km there, with a speed of 19,42 km/h. In the beginning of June our pair was placed second in a CEI** 120 km, with a speed of 21,27 km/h, at Euston Park, where for the European part of a season Dubai horses are stabled.

Such results are promising and raise our hopes for a successful start in the World Championships. “The endurance season 2011/2012 in the Arab Emirates was very fruitful for Kamila”, sums up Olga Ciesielska, Kamila`s friend from the “Champion” Equestrian Club, an endurance competitor, who now lives and starts in Italy. “She is the first Polish lady rider, who achieved so many successes in the Middle Eastern arena.”

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During when the eyes of most Arabian enthusiasts were turned to the Autumn Show in Janów Podlaski, Warka hosted the most important event in the endurance calendar in Poland: the Polish Senior Championships conducted as part of an international competition.

On Friday, September 5th, the Sielanka equestrian centre held the domestic competitions. Victorious in the 1* contest was Alicja Sobieska atop Empir (2000, Harbin – Embola by Balon, bred by Stanisław Redestowicz), who tackled the 65 km course with an average speed of 17,41 km/h. Second was Piotr Komosa atop Gaj (Malopolska breed) by the pure bred stallion Borek. Both pairs fought for the victory in an effective finish at full gallop. Unfortunately, this contest was not an example of cautious and sensible riding. Four horses completed the first lap at a speed of 25 km/h! Three of them needed almost 20 minutes to walk into the vet box (during that time their speed decreased to 18,5 km/h), after which two were eliminated due to metabolism. It was an excellent display of how not to ride endurance contests.

Triumphant in the style classes with a speed limit were, respectively: in the P class – 55 km Katarzyna Nyklewicz atop the pure bred Elpas (2002, Arzgir – Elema by Wermut, bred by Tarus Arabians) with a score of 34,71 points, and in the L class – 30 km Iwona Mikulska atop Diana (“Noble” Warmblood breed) with a result of 15,87 points.

Saturday was a day of the international competitions. Triumphant over the longest CEI distance of 160 km was the pair Kamila Kart – Cert (1997, Balon – Certoza by Set, bred by Robert Talarek) from the Champion Equestrian Club, gaining at the same time the title of Polish Champion. Additionally Cert received the Best Condition award. The next two spots were occupied by competitors from the Czech Republic. Overall the contest was completed by only three pairs out of the ten gathered at the start line, including seven Polish ones.
For Kamila Kart it is already a fourth medal from the Polish Championships, including second gold. She triumphed for the first time as a 17 year old in 2002 atop Cert’s half-brother – Elban (1995, Balon – Elekta by Palas, bred by Janów Podlaski). She tackled the then unusual course of 2 x 100 km (200 km in two days) at a speed of 20,36 km/h! She celebrated the next successes with Cert – “Ginger”: a bronze in 2002 at the Polish Junior and Young Riders Championships (120 km) and a silver in 2006 at the Polish Senior Championships (160 km).

Competing in the CEI contest over 120 km were 6 pairs, including 3 Polish – unfortunately none of them completed the course. The CEIJYR contest over 120 km for juniors and young riders saw 5 pairs at the start line, including 2 Polish ones. The course was completed by 3 pairs, unfortunately both Polish horses were eliminated. The winner was Sophie Mauritsch from Austria atop the Anglo-Arabian Aledano at a speed of 15,99 km/h. The Best Condition award was handed to Arista, who was third at the finish line under Katerina Hemzalowa from the Czech Republic (with a speed of 14 km/h).

Competing in the CEI 80 km contest were 3 pairs, all whom completed the course. Victorious was Jakub Kysely from the Czech Republic atop the gelding Woody at a speed of 18,87 km/h. Third at the finish line was Wojciech Kot atop Efezeusz (1997, Ecaho – Efezja by Falsyfikat, bred by Michałów Stud), who after a fast ride on the first lap (19,46 km/h) resigned from racing and decidedly slowed down, which resulted in a mediocre average of 15,11 km/h.

The CEIJYR 80 km contest had just two horses, with both of them completing the course. The winner was Petra Trojakova from the Czech Republic atop Eman 1 (an average speed of 14,16 km/h). Second was Milena Kalata atop Nokturn (2002, Emigrant – Nowalia by Pasat, bred by Janów Podlaski) – 13,69 km/h.

Recapping this event we must first of all mention the very hard weather conditions: horses and contestants had to fight the kilometers that lay ahead in a nearly 30˚C heat. Without a doubt it was the main reason for such a large number of eliminations due to metabolism. The Polish horses could not have been prepared for a fast ride in such weather, as they did not have a chance at training in such high temperature. August was rather chilly and rainy. Those who risked a fast ride did not come out very well… In these circumstances Kamila Kart’s and Cert’s win gains even more value. In the history of the Polish Championships the distance of 160 km was conquered faster only by Kajusz Krzemieniecki atop Nenufar (1991, Palas – Nejtyczanka by Banat, bred by Kurozwęki Stud) in 1999 with a speed of 15,47 km/h and Lesław Gałka atop Bajus (1989, Partner – Bajeczka by Bandos, bred by Janów Podlaski Stud) in 2001 – with 16,92 km/h. On a European scale we can regard the results of our champions as proper (considering the weather, not terrain) However on a Polish scale, especially compared to the last couple of years, it is a really good result. What’s sad is that the podium was not fully occupied, but currently only a couple of Polish pairs are able to complete 160 km. On the 6th of September this feat was managed by one, but in great style.

The weekend of the 17th-20th of July was a busy date for the Kuźnia Nowowiejska Equestrian Center (near Żyrardów), as the club held competitions in endurance racing: the Polish National Championships for Young Riders and Juniors, an international competition and an All-Polish competition in this discipline. Altogether nearly 40 pairs from Poland, Czech Republic, Lithuania and Sweden competed in 7 contests.

On Friday the domestic contests were held. Victorious over the shortest distance – 30 km (L rank) – was a competitor from the Champion Łódź Equestrian Club, Katarzyna Nykielewicz atop the stallion Elpas 2002 (Arzgir – Elema by Wermut), bred by Tarus Arabians. In the P ranked event (50 km) triumphed Olga Ciesielska with Peoria 2002 (Balon – Peseta by Eldon), bred by Janów Podlaski Stud., also under the flag of the Champion Equestrian Club. Apart from the distances where style mattered, also held that day was a racing contest ranked 1* over 70 km. Unfortunately, none of the five pairs who competed managed to finish this distance – all horses were eliminated due to lameness. In part this could’ve been a result of the going of the course, which (as far as Polish conditions go) was hard and required particular attention from the riders.

Saturday saw the international contests over 120 and 80 km. The 120 km event also served as the Polish National Championships for Young Riders and Juniors (competitors up to 21 years of age). In the CEI 3* 120 km contest triumphed Ryszard Zieliński atop the pure bred Arabian gelding Gent 2000 (Samsheik – Gryzetka by Wojsław), bred by Michałów Stud, with an average speed of 14,77 km/h. It’s the second competitive season for this horse, who in his 4 seasons at the racetrack won as much as 43 races. So far everything seems to show that his stamina and sound health will also be proven in endurance. Second came the author of this article (Maciej Kacprzyk) atop the experienced Małpolska breed mare Sahiba (by the Arabian Grandorr), who the next day received the award of Best Condition. These two pairs held a short, dynamic fight to the finish, with Gent coming out winner. Five pairs competed in this contest, with four completing the course.

A finish in full gallop finish was also present in the case of the Young Riders and Juniors Championship. First to cross the wire was Milena Kalata atop Euroland 1997 (Ecaho – Eunona by Eukaliptus), bred by Michałów Stud, before Anna Tarnowska atop Bader 1998 (Ararat – Barkarola by Alegro), bred by Janów Podlaski – both pairs represented Jasiorówka Equestrian Club. Unfortunately Euroland did not pass the final vet check and was eliminated due to lameness. And so the Championship was awarded to Anna Tarnowska and Bader, who finished the course with an average speed of 14,5 km/h. Bader also received a trophy from the Polish Arabian Horse Breeders Society – whose originator was Mateusz Jaworski – for the best horse of the Championships. However the victorious pair was not classified in the international contest, because they did not have a valid passport required by the FEI. For that reason in the CEIJY 3* 120 km contest first place went to Maria Hagman-Eriksson from Sweden atop Wigor 2001 (Egmont – Wenezia by Emblemat), bred by Agneta Alfredsson of Sweden, with an average speed of 13,78 km/h, who was the only one to have completed the course out of five pairs.

In the senior CEI 2* 80 km contest the winner was Beata Dzikowska atop Ferid 2002 (Borysław – Formuła by Pesal), bred by M. Nowakowska, with an average speed of 17,13 km/h. In the junior-youth classification over this distance triumphed Katarina Kysela of Czech Republic, atop the mare Poesia (an average speed of 15,99 km/h).

All in all, despite the humble line-up, the competitions can be considered successful. It was an endurance debut for the organizers, which they handled very well. After cancelling the event in Ciosny they had not much time to prepare for the organization of an international event in the new to them equestrian discipline. And it is the “discovery” of Kuźnia for endurance that is perhaps the largest success of this event.

When Europe is making use of its winter break in the endurance season, an endurance fever overtakes the Arabian Peninsula.

In countries such as the United Arab Emirates or Bahrain, an international competition which gathers contestants from not only that region, takes place nearly every week. Endurance in those countries is a very popular sport regarded with high esteem. There this discipline is constantly evolving: new facilities organizing events are being established, the prize money is increasing, the contender lists are becoming longer and longer. The competitions are held on flat, rather easy desert terrain, which enables the courses to be conquered at great speed. Every now and then a new record is set over particular distances, „galloped” at a speed exceeding 25 km/h.

What’s interesting, the horse to whom the record over a distance of 160 km belonged to for a long time was the mare RO Fabiola, whose pedigree was saturated with Polish ancestors. In 2005 this mare won the prestigious President’s Cup in a (then) record time of 7 hours and 2 minutes (with speed just above 22 km/h). In 2004 her half-brother, RO Super, triumphed in the same competition, while RO Fabiola herself was third. Both horses are the descendants of the Michałów bred stallion Wagram 1998 (Tallin – Wendeta by Palas), who was sold to Argentina, where he is used at the Haras Los Estribos stud. The progeny of Wagram is practically the only example of such fresh trace of Polish blood in the pedigrees of the best endurance horses during the last years. Unfortunately direct progeny of horses bred in Poland among the horses placing at the top positions at the most important events in the Middle East cannot be found – it is even hard to find Polish ancestors in the pedigrees of horses at further positions or even in those simply entered. At the events held in the countries of the Arabian Peninsula mainly horses bred in France, Argentina and Urugway compete (and win).

The history of starts of Polish contestants at events organized in the Middle East is rather humble. Our team competed at the World Championships organized in Dubai in 1998 (Krystyna Romszycka atop Elekt placed 52nd and Małgorzata Kruk atop Elam Mokate placed last – 78th). At the World Championships in Dubai in 2005 competed four Polish pairs (Tomasz Tura – Bohun, Marcin Tobiasz – Ester oo, Maria Wągrowska – Barbakan oo and Marek Zając – Wiatrak oo), but none completed the course.

Decisively the most frequent guest at the events held in that region is veterinarian Piotr Szpotański, who is regularly invited to Dubai as a member of the Veterinary Commission.

The 2007/2008 season in the Middle East began with the Souroh College competition in November, won by Thani Mohammad Al Muhairi atop the 8 year old part bred gelding Royal Rebellion, by the Arabian stallion Idris 1978 (Sadi – Dargement by Dargee), bred in the UK.

Out of the events held so far the most important can be considered those under the name of Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup 2008, which took place on January 12th on the premises of the Dubai International Endurance City (UAE). They were the highest subsidized event in the history of endurance rides: 277,000 euro was divided among the 25 best contestants of the event, whose title sponsor was Omega, while the winner grabbed 46,000 euro. Beside prize money the first four contestants also received off-road cars.

Chief contestants from all across the world came to the event – at the invitation (and expense) of the organizers. Participants of the event included: Australian Meg Wade, German Sabrina Arnold (German Championships 2007 bronze medalist), Italian Fausto Fiorucci (European Champion 2001, World Reserve Champion 1998), French Jean Philippe Frances (European Champion 2007) and Spanish Jaume “Juma” Punti Dachs (European Reserve Champion 2007), who is also the trainer of horses belonging to Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and runs a training stable in Dubai. Maria Alvarez Ponton, the star of the previous endurance season, privately Juma’s wife, unfortunately could not compete due to an injury. The line up at the start also saw Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, the king of Malaysia – where the next year’s Championships will be held.

The sport rivalry was led by the representatives of the hosts. Horses which arrived from Europe shortly prior to the start, trained in totally different conditions and climate, simply had no chance against the local steeds.

The contest was won by 22 year old Omair Husain Al Bloushi (UAE) atop the 11 year old pure bred Arabian gelding Charlandre El Sharif. They conquered the 160 km route at a speed of 24,71 km/h, reaching a speed of 30,29 km/h on the final lap (19 km). This pair’s result is a new world record over this distance, besting the previous one by more than 13 minutes (it belonged to the pair Sheikh Khaled Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and gelding ZT Faraventure: 6:41:33). The winning pair is also the holder of the record over 100 km.

Second came Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri atop the 8 year old mare Leblond (with a speed of 23,32 km/h).
Finishing the contest at the third spot was Mohd Rashed Saeed Al Subosi atop the 14 year old gelding Genio II (22,07 km/h). Genio II is a French part bred by the Arabian stallion Jokua 1980 (Negus II – Nundina III by Saludo).
The best European contestant turned out to be the French Laurent Mosti (9th place) atop the pure bred Arabian mare Khandela des Vialette 1999 (Regal de Khan – Habdurella by Habdur). This pair averaged a speed of 20,20 km/h.
The Spanish Jaume Punti Dachs was 12th, also atop a pure bred mare – Zannarah Pashina, born in 1996. The contest was completed by 33 pairs, while 74 were eliminated.

The next prestigious event – the President’s Cup 2008 – where we can expect a strong cast of serious contenders and perhaps another speed record, will be held on February 16th.

The 2007 endurance season in Poland has come to an end. Contestant-and-horse pairs bravely took on the long kilometers during 10 events: one of international rank (Warka), four labeled as All-Polish (thrice in Koczek and once in Bieruń) and five regionals (Gieniusze, Zabajka, Bieruń). A couple of events scheduled in the calendar did not come to pass, including an international competition in Ciosny near Łódź. There were also problems with the attendance, only the Polish Championships in Warka drew a larger number of contestants and horses.

This year in the riders’ ranking, composed by the Endurance.pl website which adds up points for each start using the same method for the last 4 years, 48 riders were classified. The winner was Beata Dzikowska from KJ Champion, who gained 454,9 points (with three completed events). Second came Kamilia Kart, also from KJ Champion, who scored 452,8 points (with five completed events). The third place belonged to Marcin Tobiasz from JKS Pogórze, who achieved 432,2 points (with two completed events). Among the juniors and young riders the highest classified contestant was Olga Ciesielska from KJ Champion Łódź – placing ninth in the general classification with 222,9 points for three completed events.

In the horses’ ranking, composed using the same rules as the riders’ ranking, 54 horses were classified. The most points were gathered by Cyryl 1995 (Sinus – Cyrla by Algomej), bred by Kurozwęki, who scored under Beata Dzikowska. Together they grabbed the silver medal of the Polish Senior Championships, among others. The second place belonged to Ester 1994 (Wermut – Eskadra by Algomej), bred by Kurozwęki, who competed under Kamilia and Marcin Tobiasz. It is worth to mention that Ester and Marcin Tobiasz were the only Polish pair who completed the 160 km ride this year. At third spot we find Shanokk 1998 (Santos – Sinjah by Eskan), bred by Saleska Arabians (DE), who gained his points under Olga Ciesielska and Kamila Kart.

In the young horse championships, which for many years have been compiled by Ewa Szarska, 19 horses were classified in all (six 4-year-olds, four 5-year-olds and nine 6-year-olds). The young horse classification is based taking into consideration marks from the veterinary card and the length of the race, while the 6-year-olds also have the additional factor of speed.

And so the 4 year old classification was won by the Kabardian gelding Neron under Patrycja Bereznowska.

In the 5 year old age group the winner was the pure bred Arabian mare Pisarka (Pesal – Pytia by Pepton), bred by A. Wójtowicz, under Maciej Kacprzyk (author of the article). This robust mare, after a very successful season, was purchased by Dorota Krzywicka, who plans a further sport, as well as breeding career for her.

Among the 6-year-olds the top spot was occupied by the Małopolska breed gelding Koral under Maja Kijowska.

Summarizing the 2007 season we must say that there was as much crisis as during the last two years. Few contestants, few horses, neglect from the organizers – these are the problems that have haunted this equestrian discipline for years. The positive aspects are the numerous and successful starts of our contestants abroad – anyone who was able to tried their luck in Germany, Holland, France, Slovakia or Hungary. These results can be considered as the most valuable:

– 2nd and 3rd place over 100 km in Ermelo (Holland) by Beata Dzikowska on the mentioned Cyryl and Dorota Krzywicka atop the Małopolska breed Sahib (by Grandorr oo),
– 2nd place over 160 km at the event in Topolcianky by Marcin Tobiasz atop Ester
– 45th place at the Young Horses’ World Championships by Ewelina Preis atop Ashmin 1999 (Fawor – Aktorka by Embargo), bred by Z. Górski, who after a successful performance was sold to France.

Also the Senior Polish Championships, won in style by Sebastian Karaśkiewicz atop Grand 1997 (Entyk – Greczynka by Etogram), bred by Kurozwęki, can be considered successful. Their level was indeed high.

For the upcoming year three All-Polish events have been initially planned (April – Gieniusze, May – Ciosny, October – Koczek) and two bearing an international rank: in Ciosny (Young Riders’ and Juniors Championships) and in Warka (Senior Polish Championships). I

personally still lack such places as Janów Podlaski or Białka on the endurance event map. As a comparison the stud in Babolna, which has been organizing international events for a couple of years now, will organize the Young Riders’ and Juniors European Championships in 2009.

The overall picture of endurance after the 2007 season is not heartwarming, but among the chaos of amateurism and mishaps it is possible to notice some bright marks, which allow for some cautious optimism. Endurance rides, being the quickest developing equestrian discipline in the world, are simply destined for success, especially in Poland – a country renowned for not just beautiful, but also valiant Arabian horses.

This past weekend Topolcianky (Slovakia) hosted the finals of the Central European Endurance Cup (CEEC). The competition saw 35 horse-rider pairs from 8 countries at the start line, including representatives of Poland – Kamilia and Marcin Tobiasz.

The organizer of the event was the National Topolcianky Stud (Narodny Źrebcin Topolcianky). The stud breeds the following horses: Arabian (shagya and pure bred), Lipizzaner, Hucul (Carpathian) ponies and Slovak Warmbloods. The facilities of the stud include, beside the head office in Topolcianky, the farms: Rybnik (Arabians), Breziny (Huculs) and Hostie (Lipizzaners). Every year more than 80 foals are born here – mostly of the shagya and Lipazzaner breeds (about 25 each), a bit less pure-bred Arabians and Huculs (some n-teen foals each). The stud organized the CEI competition for the first time.

The pair Marcin Tobiasz – Ester 1994 (Wermut – Eskadra by Algomej), bred by Kurozwęki Stud, covered 160 km with an average speed of 15,49 km/h, which gave them second place.

„Our start was burdened with a need of completing an international event this season in good pace. For Ester it was to be yet another 160 km and a qualifier for the World Championships, which will be held in Malaysia next year”, says Marcin Tobiasz, the only Polish contestant who finished the classic endurance distance of 160 km. “The course was designed fair, not very hard. A bit of a grassy going, a few forest ducts, some hard-surfaced dirt paths, not many asphalt roads with an alternative on the fields. It was divided into three loops: 40, 30 and 20 km, alternatively, very well marked. The only thing missing was an even shorter loop for the final kilometers.”

Kamilia Tobiasz atop the mare Mu-Zahrat 1999 (Dobryń – Mu-Gaza by Gazon), bred by Zygmunt Tobiasz, placed 4th over a distance of 80 km with a good average tempo of 17,22 km/h, additionally grabbing the prestigious title of Best Condition. The mare’s breeder comments their start:

„With Mu-Zahrat we wanted to cover up the bad impression from Compiegne. We wanted to complete the race at a good speed and make an attempt at Best Condition, which we fully succeeded. For this pair it was also a presentation before the international judges and veterinarians, having in mind the start at the European Championships in the Czech Republic in 2009.”

„We settled on participating in Topolcianky after a few events in Poland were cancelled and due to the lack of consent from PZJ (Polish Equestrian Federation) for Mu-Zahrat’s start at the Polish Championships in Warka”, he adds. “We definitely do not regret this decision. The Central European Endurance Cup drew contestants from 8 countries, mainly those that still had a chance for improving their position in the general classification. An excellent performance in the CEEC was displayed by riders from Slovakia: Feiruz Boulbolova and Feras Boulbol, who received the awards for best horse and best rider. An interesting fact: they ride atop Arabian horses from Syria, which are not registered in the WAHO.”

Our contestants praised the organization, as well as the preparation and infrastructure of the stud in Topolcianky very high. According to them, everywhere you looked you could see the traditions of the Austrio-Hungarian Empire:

„Beautiful, historic stables, a hunting palace with a hotel in the park. And in the center of the Topolcianky village – a huge dressage arena. Additionally a race track for flat racing and steeplechases with tribunes and a sound system, a place for the start line, the finish and vet checks. In other words, an ideal place for competitions of any equine discipline. An event superbly organized and run by a team of cooperating international judges and veterinarians. Supported by a computer program, supplied by Harald Grinschgl (known from judging in Warka), they worked very efficiently. Outstanding information from the route and vet checks are the contribution of Harald and his team”.

Topolcianky are yet another equine facility, after the Hungarian Babolna Stud, which organized an international endurance event. A question which immediately comes to mind is: when will we see a CEI Janów Podlaski or CEI Białka?

Summer’s last weekend (21st–23rd of September) graced Sielanka Farm near Warka with beautiful, sunny weather – a fine setting for the international competitions in endurance races together with the Polish Championships, which for the first time were carried out in three age categories: seniors, young riders and juniors.

The Polish Seniors’ Championships (over a distance of 130 km) and Young Riders’ Championships (over a distance of 90 km) belonged to contestants atop Arabian horses. In the seniors’ category won Sebastian Karaśkiewicz with the stallion Grant 1997 (Entyk – Greczynka), bred by Kurozwęki Stud, leading from start to finish. This horse-and-rider pair were the decisive heroes of this event. Apart from the gold medal, Grant won the Best Condition award from the Veterinary Committee and the trophy for the highest ranked Polish-bred Arabian horse in the Polish Seniors’ Championships, awarded by the president of the association, Izabella Pawelec-Zawadzka.

Second at the finish line was Beata Dzikowska atop the stallion Cyryl 1995 (Sinus – Cyrla), bred by Kurozwęki Stud and third Agata Karaśkiewicz (privately the wife of the gold medalist) atop the gelding Winograd 1999 (Druid – Wina), bred by Janów Podlaski Stud. Kamila Kart and Shanokk 1998 (Santhos – Sinjah), bred by Saleska Arabians (DE) came in fourth.

Present at the competition was Peter Reichmann, a German rider, who owns a stud and training stable in the Czech Republic, who told polskiearaby.pl:
„I’m very much impressed by Grant. He is a handsome stallion, with a balanced character. He presented himself very well at the vet checks, had the pulse go down quickly and moved without flaws. He caught my eye so much that if there had been such a possibility, I would consider his use in breeding. He is a fine example of a beautiful Arabian horse suitable for use under saddle.”

The gold medal in the Young Riders’ category belonged to Milena Kalata atop the gelding Euroland 1997 (Ecaho – Eunona), bred by Michałów Stud, the silver was taken home by Anna Tarnowska atop Bader 1998 (Ararat – Barkarola), bred by Janów Podlaski Stud and the bronze went to Natalia Wierzbicka and Melik El Nil 1999 (El Amor – Mereżka), bred by H. Opolska-Igańska.

The juniors fought for the coveted medals over a distance of 70 km. First at the finish line was Agnieszka Zieńko atop Mocar (małopolska breed), second – Maja Kijewska atop Koral (małopolska breed) and third – Maciej Kosicki with the Arabian Amper 1998 (Batyskaf – Arika), bred by Białka Stud.

In the longest CEI 3* event over a distance of 160 km only foreign horse-and-rider pairs took part. Among the six participating pairs only three completed the entire course. The fastest was Peter Jadlovsky, representing the Czech Republic, atop the 15-year-old mare Sumika. This competition was not of a high standard, the contestants fought only against the kilometers and the clock, there was no battle for the positions. Each lap was completed at a slower and slower tempo, which does not say anything good about the condition of the horses and proper allocation of their strength.

In the regional competitions, over a distance of 59 km Arabian horses also took part. The 7-year-old Czech Amanda S, boasting a French-Russian pedigree, under Tereza Kopecka, came out the winner. In three weeks’ time this mare will enter the 120 km race at the CEI in Topolcanky (Slovakia) to qualify for the European Young Riders’ Championships in 2008. At Warka she was to cover 130 km, but her owners did not manage to get her FEI passport done in time, so she was entered into a shorter race for training purposes. Second came the Polish pair Maciej Kacprzyk – Pisarka 2002 (Pesal – Pytia), bred by A. Wójtowicz and third – Olga Ciesielska – Ferid 2002 (Borysław – Formuła), bred by N. Nowakowska.

This year the Polish Equestrian Federation decided to lower the difficulty and shortened the distances at the Polish Championships. Up until now the races were carried out over 160 km (seniors) and 120 km (young riders together with the juniors), which were the same distances as those at the World or European Championships in the respective categories. This intervention was to increase the number of entries on the start line, which was rather poor over the last couple of years. And so in the Seniors’ Championship 10 pairs took part (8 completed the course), in the Young Riders’ Championships were 6 (5 completed), while in the Juniors’ – 4 (all completed). These are still not impressive numbers, and the quantity definitely did not improve the quality. To be honest only the Seniors’ category stood at a decent level. Carrying out the Championships over a distance of 90 or 70 km is purely a means of handing out the medals and squandering the titles. Decreasing the requirements is not the best way of increasing the level.

Unfortunately with each year (and this being the third Championships in Warka in a row) the organization equals the sport level of the races. Sielanka is a facility with splendid infrastructure ready to take on large competitions of international rank. However a superb hotel for the judges and veterinary officers, as well as a Saturday party gala is not enough. Endurance races require a good course and the one this year was simply scandalous – the contestants cursed circling the facility on a 4 km long loop, which they had to tackle n-teen (!) times. A usual problem is the color of the competition shirts – the same for seniors, young riders and juniors, which confuses everyone to the point that they do not know who is racing with whom. The information about the competitions was also poor – a quick preparation of the results is still a tough task for our judges.

The big picture of Polish endurance races in Warka did not prove very reassuring, but luckily in all the chaos and amateurism a couple positive features could be seen. First of all we must mention the professional preparation of most horses and good results in the Seniors’ Championships. Two of them, Grant and Cyryl, fought a very even battle. These Polish bred stallions show the meaning of the less and less up-to-date phrase “brave and beautiful”. It is worth to mention that both of these stallions are the results of breeding ideas of the director of Kurozwęki Stud, Władysław Guziuk, who after many years got to confirm his concepts. Today most of the Kurozwęki lines are maintained at Agricola Farm.

More photos from Warka in the endurance gallery:
http://www.polskiearaby.pl/?page=galeria&lang=en&typ=endurance

Just in few days on Friday and Saturday (21–22.09), at Sielanka equestrian center at Warka near Warsaw the most important event in Polish endurance calendar will take place: Polish Senior Nationals (130 km), Youth Riders Nationals (90 km) and the Junior Polish Nationals (70 km).

This is the first time when the Nationals are divided into these three age categories and the shorter distances than before. For example, the senior World or European Championships take place on 160 km and youth (18-21) and junior riders (under 18) start on 120 km.

At the same time the international competitions on four distances will take place at Warka: 160, 130, 90 and 70 km, where some riders from Czech Republic, Hungary, Germany, Slovakia and Finland are entered. Besides, the two competitions for Polish beginners – horses and riders will be ran – on 29 and 59 km.

For the first time Polish Arabian Horse Breeders Society is a founder of the trophy for the highest placed Pure bred Arabian horse Polish-bred in senior Nationals.

The current senior Polish National Champion title holder is Marcin Tobiasz with Ester (Wermut – Eskadra, br. Kurozwęki). This couple won three Polish Nationals’ medals so far: two golden and one silver. Who will be the winner this time we will see on 22nd September.

During when the world of Polish Arabian aficionados followed and rooted for the National Championship and Pride of Poland Sale, the town of Kreuth, Germany hosted an international competition in endurance races. More than 100 horse and rider pairs participated in races over 3 various distances, but the enormous equestrian center actually saw several hundred horses that weekend. The Arabian and Half-Arabian Breeders Association (ZSAA), which has its headquarters there, supports the use of Arabian horses in all equestrian disciplines. Dressage, jumping, eventing and western competitions were held simultaneously to the endurance races. However the latter were of most importance.

True stars of this sport are drawn to Kreuth by exemplary organization and superb infrastructure. Strong teams arrived from France and Italy. Among the participants were: Italian Fausto Fiorucci (European Champion from 2001), French Barbara Lissarague (World Champion from 2005), Dutch Carmen Romer (European Junior Champion from 2007), German Klaudia Al Samarraie (German Champion from 2007 and the wife of the show’s organizer – Achmed Al Samarraie), as well as multi German Junior and Young Riders Champion – Annette Schwartze.

The event’s route was hilly and the going hard – parameters typical for most European races. An additional handicap was the weather, as it rained nearly all Saturday and the humid air

made breathing difficult. Nonetheless the experienced, multi-titled contestants ensured the event’s high standard. In the most important contests the tone was set by the Italians and the French.

The 160 km race was won by Vincent Dupont from France atop the 8-year-old mare Ulysse De Suleiman (by Ceres de Lafon out of Sandy du Cayrou). This horse also received the Best Condition award the next day. Vincent Dupont is also French Champion from 1998 over the extremely difficult route of the Florac race. The Endurance Nations Cup (CEIO) was won by the French team.

The senior 120 km route was won by Sandra Bechter from Switzerland. Among the young riders and juniors triumphed French Nina Lissarague atop Aicha De Bozuleus. In the team ratings the top spot was once again taken by the French. 11th in this race was Vittoria Ciuchi

representing Italy atop the Polish-bred Abisyńczyk 2000 (Druid – Abisynia). The fact that Abisyńczyk completed the race delighted his breeders from Sowiniec Stud, who try to follow the careers of their pupils.

Poland was represented by Artur Landau (from the „Champion Łódź” Equestrian Club) atop the stallion Hint (Entyk – Harmata), bred by Kurozwęki Stud. Our pair placed 7th over a distance of 80 km.

In comparison to competitions in which Poles participated this year (Babolna, Ermelo, Goettingen), Kreuth is by far an upper league. It’s a pity that Poland was represented by only one pair. The event in Kreuth is the closest place where the best Polish pairs can go against the French or Italians. Let’s hope that next year there will also be a possibility of seeing such confrontation and that Poland will be represented on a bigger scale at this largest event in Germany.

Last weekend Goettingen was home to the CEI***/CEI-J-YR*** endurance competition, combined with the German Endurance Championships. Out of all the starts abroad, these were without a doubt the toughest for our representatives. A mountainous route and extremely hard weather conditions caused many problems for all riders. There were a lot of eliminations and the veterinary officers could not complain about the lack of work.

Poland was represented by four pairs, all from the “Champion” Riding Club (KJ Champion) from Łódź. The longest distance of 120 km was tackled by Ewelina Preis and the 8-year-old Ashmin (Fawor – Aktorka by Embargo, bred by Z. Górski). She was the only contestant to  finish the race and with a pace of 11,99 km per hour took first place. The slow pace was due mainly to the lack of rivals, as only two pairs turned up at the start line (although 5 had been entered). Our contestant rode solitarily over most of the distance, which definitely made it difficult to race against the clock. However, this start can be considered a satisfactory test before to the World Championships for 7 and 8-year-old horses, which will take place in August in France. Furthermore, the veterinary panel awarded Ashmin with the title of Best Condition.

I’m very happy that I was able to finish the event, albeit the tough conditions’ says Ewelina Preis. ‘A mountainous route, a hard going (slippery mud interchangeable with stony paths) and unfavorable weather conditions (stuffy air and rainy) made this endurance ride very hard. It was the first start over such a long distance for Ashmin, so I should be even more than happy. I think that we could have easily finished the ride at a faster pace, but we fell short of opponents, who could help us achieve that.

The competition in Goettingen was also meant as a test (before the French Championships) for the stallion Efendi (8-year-old, Harbin – Eutrofia by Palas, bred by Białka Stud), as well as for the recently purchased half-bred Arabian gelding Malik Kerrous from France by Beata Dzikowska. Unfortunately, both horses, which took part in an 80 km race, were eliminated after the second vet box check (on the 61st km) during a re-control for lameness. However up until the elimination they were in good condition. The source behind Efendi’s problems (with Olga Ciesielska up) was rather surprising – the veterinary officer found that due to the stress his intestines displaced, which caused problems in the urinary system and with the urination and in the end – a movement disorder and lameness. Whereas Malik fell ill during transport, had a cough, but after a vet check was conditionally allowed to take part. The change of weather (high humidity and rapid warming) caused a deterioration of his health.
We must add that the selection at the vet boxes was very strict and as the problems of our horses showed, the vet’s decisions were 100% just.

I’ feel sorry that I did not finish the race’ says Olga Ciesielska. ‘This was my third elimination ever and I’ve been participating in these competitions for 7 years now. Nevertheless I am pleased with my horse. I consider this elimination as a misfortune. Efendi will prove his worth during the next competition. I very much believe in him. The route was technically hard, although I personally prefer tough and challenging routes in the mountains.’

The fourth of our contestants – Artur Landau – took part in the race over a distance of 60 km. But his steed, a 6-year-old French-bred Arabian Cricket Du Pecher lost a shoe and the hard and stony ground “completed the destruction”. The lame Cricket was taken off the route after the 15th km.

The CEI* (60 km) competition was won by the gelding Komet 2001 (Santhos – Kanasta by Pamir), bred in Germany but boasting a Polish pedigree. The Janów-bred gelding Haret 1998 (Pasat – Harpia by Ernal) came in third. The French, but of Polish origin, gelding Piove 1992 (Piruet – Alwernia by Celebes), participating in the CEI*** (160 km) competition did not finish the race, while the German Khami 1992 by Michałów’s Festiwal (out of Kazandra by Taktik) placed second to last (11th place).

The results from Goettingen turned out worse than expected. After very successful starts in Babolna (Hungary) and Ermelo (Holland), topped off with large appetites, Polish representatives achieved a poor result. The main aim of this start – that is a “mountainous work-out” was somewhat achieved. Ashmin and Efendi carried out a good performance and have a chance at a successful start at the World Championships.

Last weekend in Ermelo, Netherlands, the International Endurance Championships took place. In all distances – 160 km, 125 km, 100 km and 60 km – the winners were Pure bred horses that have been given the special trophies from Arabian Horse Breeders Society of Netherlands as well.

Polish representant – Beata Dzikowska from KJ Champion has taken second position (19 entries) at CEI** – 100 km, for seniors, riding stallion Cyryl 1995 (Sinus – Cyrla), b. SK Kurozwęki, with good average tempo 17,98 km/h. Third was Dorota Krzywicka from TKJ Garbówek on Malopolska breed mare Sahiba (by Grandorr oo) – 17,21 km/h, 8th Kamila Kart from KJ Champion Łódź on bay stallion Shanokk (Santhos – Sinjah), b. Saleska Arabians [DE] – 14,99 km/h, 9th Artur Landau, also from KJ Champion Łódź, riding 10 years old stallion Hint (Entyk – Harmata), b. SK Kurozwęki – 14,98 km/h. Maciej Kacprzyk who also took part in this concourse didn’t finish and resigned on the second turn-round due to his horse’s contusion (Lozanna mlp.).

At CEI** – 100 km for juniors and youth riders Olga Ciesielska from KJ Champion Łódź on handsome Efendi (Harbin – Eutrofia), b. SK Białka has taken 4th place – 14,20 km/h. This young and talented rider finished just after Beata Dzikowska, placed first. Unfortunately the faults on the last turn-round and the finish passes in wrong place caused her last, 4th position.

The longest distance (160 km) was won by UK-representant Fiona Hamilton, on 9 years old Pure bred mare Sharifah.In this concourse also the National Championships of the Netherlands were held. It was won by Yvonne Van Der Velde on Joy Touch of Cherain. This horse was also Best Condition awarded.

The weather was very good and the participants were satisfied also with the way signage the various turn-rounds and central vet gate.

Organization system seemed to be good as well – after each gate the competitors were given the information about their speed, current place and the next part departure time as well as the time of entering the vet gate and examination results.

Poles were very satisfied with their start. Their results has proven that the distance between Polish and foreign teams is getting smaller and in this case it was no difference at all – Poles were fighting for the best places. Horse conditioning, equipment, technique and good services confirms the good disposition of our team.