Over the many years that we have attended Aachen there have been many wonderful moments that we have treasured. Medalj, owned by Hans and Cecilia Bourghardt, winning the stallion championship is but one of the many, and Al Adeed with his wonderful triumph rates among our most treasured memories. But it was perhaps this year, and the achievements on so many levels, that might make 2008 the best ever.
Every time a Gazal Al Shaqab child wins, wherever the arena, whoever the handler, or the owner, we rejoice in the win. For it is our win as well. The duo of Marwan and Pianissima at the same show, at the peak of their lives, and the most famous horses of their day, both being by Gazal, is a tribute to the many people that have been involved in these horses’ lives. Returning to the memory of Kajora and Farid, being owned by us, and the decision to breed them….
Marwan returned to the ring after a 6 year absence from Europe to claim the stallion championship and in the process he won over a few more hearts. Arguably the most influential horse on the planet, Marwan displayed not only his unique beauty but also his kind and loving spirit. Being led, or being ridden, Marwan was the epitome of what an Arabian stallion should be; a beautiful, intelligent athlete. Marwan was not only the champion stallion but also the leading sire of the show. His children won the titles of Junior Champion Colt (Baanderos), Reserve Junior Champion Filly (Abha Palma), and Reserve Champion Mare (Abha Myra). It is a safe bet that the return of Marwan was viewed as an enormous success. His father, Gazal, siring the Champion Mare and Stallion may well have been the number 2 sire of the show. This is a role the Al Shaqab stallions have often played.
As mentioned above Abha Myra being named the Reserve Champion Mare to her “aunt” Pianissima was a great win. Abha Myra was part of the very first foal crop Marwan sired; from the time he was standing in Mallorca, at Ses Planes, the world renowned stud owned by Marieta Salas. Abha Myra has many titles around the World including the U.S. Reserve National Championship, Spanish National Champion, and recently the Champion Mare title in Towerlands. In addition to this win the Al Shaqab beauty, Venetzia, won the first section of mare 4-6 years old. Shown perfectly by Giacomo Capacci she has had an amazing show career in Europe and is currently leading the contenders for the Dubai World Cup!
The Junior Championship for colts was won by the Marwan son, Baanderos. Baanderos was selected for the famed Al Khalediah Farm by Michael Byatt as a yearling and has a long list of accomplishments. He too leads the point standing for the prestigious Dubai Cup. Baanderos was shown to his win by Mr. Philipe Hosay.
In the filly championship Michael Byatt Arabians was pleased to have 4 fillies in the finals. In the second spot in 3 divisions, and winning 1, it was a great display of wonderful horses and superb presentations. Winning the Championship was FS Magnums Madonna, shown by Michael Byatt for Mr. Paul Gheysens. Magnums Madonna showed herself brilliantly from the opening moment of the competition. Trained and conditioned at Jadem Arabians by Mr. Philipe Looyens we were honored to have been asked to present this lovely filly. In addition to the great job preparing Magnums Madonna, Philipe also trained and showed the dynamic Abha Palma to the Reserve Championship in the filly division for Al Mohamadia Farm of Riyadh. Manager Bruce McCrea was on hand for the awards ceremony – and it was a very satisfying win in a very tough class.
To have the Michael Byatt Arabians breeding, showing, and marketing program present and successful in every single Championship is an honor and testament to the hopes and dreams of our program. We consider it a privilege to participate and never take this lightly. To all, and especially to Marwan himself, a heartfelt thank you.
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Dakharo- Unanimous East Coast Champion Stallion
Dakharo, fresh from quarantine, wins the East Coast Stallion Championship by unanimous decision with Michael Byatt Arabians.
On to Senior Stallions at Nationals!
Menton, France and the Mediterranean Championships – June 2008
For the second year in a row I decided to take one of my children with me to my favorite horse show during the summer schedule. Located in France, on the glorious Cote De Azur, just to the west of the Italian border, and to the east of the famed Monte Carlo, Menton is a village of extraordinary beauty. The show grounds are located at the water edge, with the turquoise water of the Mediterranean on one side, and the mountains on the other. Last year my son Griffin accompanied me and together we made memories that will last us both a lifetime. This year, my 13 year old daughter, Hannah, was in tow; her first trip to Europe and what a place to begin! After a few days in Paris we arrived to Menton ready to see the horses, our friends, and enjoy the show!
Prior to arrival in Menton there had been a lot of talk about several of the new horses that would be in the competition; the buzz was that this would be one of the best ever. Giacomo Cappaci, a great friend and the man in charge of all the Al Shaqab horses in Europe, showed me all of our entries and I knew we were ready to compete. I was very anxious and excited to show the new filly I purchased on behalf of Al Shaqab, the Brazilian National Champion, Miss El Power. She did not disappoint me; she won her section and went on to be named the Junior Champion filly! In addition to these titles she also won the “Most Beautiful Head” in this class.
The second section of the yearling fillies was won by a beautiful daughter of Marwan Al Shaqab, Najdah Al Zobair, owned by Al Zobair Stud, and presented by Schoukens Training Center. She was wonderfully presented and prepared. Winner of the “Most Beautiful Head” in the second section of yearling fillies (pictured left) , was the Australian owned filly AJA Aphrodite – she is sensational! Congratulations to Mystica Arabians!
The two year old filly division was won by another Marwan beauty; this one being, Abha Palma. Abha Palma collected some nice 20’s plus the title of Most Beautiful Head! Bred by, Marieta Salas / Ses Planes in Mallorca, Spain, Abha Palma, was purchased at this show by Al Mohammadiah Farm of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This will be one to watch for in upcoming shows. She was presented by Phillip Loeyens.
In the three year old filly class Giacomo showed the Marwan daughter, PS Rose of Marwan (pictured right), to a second place in a tough class. It was very exciting in that “Rose” tied with the winner, Om El Bernadette, but ended second due to the type score.
Next up was the young mare class and it was exceptional. A top five was not enough to justify all the wonderful entries in this class. Winning this class was the amazing Venetzia! 3 20’s on type and 3 on head and neck plus great movement scores insured victory. Shown by Giacomo Cappaci for Al Shaqab, Michael Byatt Arabians is justifiably proud to have selected this beauty for Al Shaqab. Venetzia went on to win the Mare Championship plus the Best in Show! In 2007, Venetzia was also the Junior Champion and Best in show!
There were several great colts contending for the top honors on Sunday, and in the end, another colt proudly marketed by Michael Byatt Arabians, bred by Taylor Arabians, took the honors; this being Baanderos, by Marwan Al Shaqab and out of the Besson daughter HB Bessolea. Baanderos went on to be named Best in Show for the males. Baanderos is owned by Al Khaeldiah and presented by Philipe Hosay.
There was so much energy at this show. The horses were great, the crowds enthusiastic, and the setting beyond compare. Talking to Jeff McGlinn, of Mystica Arabians, he said, “This is the best show I have been to – I love it!” I agree, I say well done to Madame Chazel and her staff. I am already counting the days until Menton 2009!
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Winter in the Middle East
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – January 2008
The Middle East is without a doubt one of my favorite places to see horses. The collections of great horses in this part of the World are absolutely staggering. The combination of great horses, wonderful people, and interesting locations make this area and irresistible attraction.
Al Khalediah held its 1st annual International Show at Al Khalediah Farm, and one had to have been there to believe it. Every detail from hospitality, buses, catering, and entertainment was attended to in a brilliant and complete fashion. Melanie Mannix and Abdul Moniem must have worked around the clock to insure things went off without a hitch. Good job!
Over the last decade, the Michael Byatt Arabians program has been well represented at shows throughout the Middle East. It was a great honor to be invited, not only to help exhibit horses, but to see the years of selection and placement of our horses compete in this inaugural event.
In her first show ever, Sara Al Mohammadiah, bred by Michael Byatt Arabians, was able to claim top honors in the yearling filly class. Sara was acquired by Al Mohammadiah Farms through Dr. Bruce McCrea in the summer of 07. She remained at Michael Byatt Arabians until she was old enough to travel and at last arrived in Riyadh. At first sight, her new owners were thrilled and her wins solidified their expectation. Sara is a daughter of the great Marwan Al Shaqab. Sara fended off tough competition by the 2 and 3 year olds to win the Junior Championship in her debut performance.
Also competing was the multi Champion, Baanderos. In a very strong class which included the super-star QR Marc, Baanderos made a brilliant showing, tying with QR Marc, but taking the second spot due to one less 20. The finale saw both of these wonderful sons of Marwan claim the Champion and reserve spots. Another superstar sold by Michael Byatt Arabians was the great Marquis who was named the Reserve Champion Stallion.
Congratulations also go to Janow Podlawski Farm in Poland on their win with the phenomenal Piannisima. This lovely daughter of Gazal Al Shaqab was the Champion Mare.
On a personal note it was a real pleasure to be a guest at the farm where I was able to leisurely walk all over the grounds seeing the horses, the gardens, and meeting the people on a daily basis. The Al Khalediah show was a top experience in my long list of experiences. Thank you to all concerned.
Doha, Qatar – February 2008
It was a tough call but wanting to do both I had to find a compromise. The Scottsdale All Arabian and the Qatar International show conflicted for the final weekend of the Scottsdale show so I decided to do the best I could; stay in Scottsdale for the first week, then depart for Doha so I could enjoy a little of everything. And, just as I had hoped, I did! We showed a few young horses in Scottsdale, and then I flew off to Doha to show.
Never to back away from a little pressure and excitement, Shk Hamad Bin Ali Al Thani, one of the directors of Al Shaqab and one of the great personalities of the Arabian horse breed, decided to bring Al Adeed Al Shaqab to Doha for one last outing! As his handler, I gasped a little at the thought. Here was a horse that had not been in conditioning for years, and up to this point undefeated in his entire life. Would this be the right thing to do? The decision had been made, so now it was time to make it work. Any horse that is as well made as Al Adeed does not need to be in a day in and day out hard work regime so; we decided his condition was good enough. Now the question was whether he would he show well?
The beautiful moon lit night highlighted by strong stadium lighting made the oyster white Al Adeed seem to glow. From across the parking lot Al Adeed pranced into the collecting ring; it was as though he knew what was at stake. There was so much buzz in the crowd because at this point everyone was waiting. It had been a long evening yet no one had left; they all wanted to see the King of Al Shaqab back to continue his reign. The presentation was beautiful, the crowd respectful, and the judges rewarded Al Adeed with a handful of 20’s insuring his victory. Taking the top spot, Al Adeed was surrounded by local admirers, from Sheikhs to workers, everyone wanting their picture taken with the local hero. At the close of the show, Al Adeed was to win for an unprecedented 4th time. It was an honor to be at the lead.
Michael Byatt Arabians was once again proud to see the beautiful Venetzia triumph as Champion Mare. One year ago, Venetzia made her show ring debut in Qatar, where she was named Junior Champion Filly. Here, a year later, we see her continue to amass a stellar record; this time in her first outing in the mare division, and again being named the champion!
In addition Al Shaqab took the reserve Championship in the filly division with Abha Al Shaqab, a filly bred by Marieta Salas, and purchased as a weanling by Al Shaqab. We were also pleased to see Marquis, a son of Marwan Al Shaqab, and a many times champion, take the Reserve Championship in the stallion division. We thank all of the owners who allowed us the opportunity to play a role in the selection of their wonderful horses.
Dubai and Sharjah – March 2008
The Dubai Cup, the richest prize on the Arabian horse show circuit is comprised of a series of shows in the Middle East and Europe. Points are accumulated throughout the year and the highest points win the coveted Dubai Cup, plus a sizeable paycheck!
This years winners were, Layyan Al Khalediah for fillies, Marquis for colts, Dakharo for stallions, and Magora for mares, all owned by Al Khalediah Farms! For Michael Byatt Arabians these results were huge! We sold Marquis and Dakharo to Al Khaeldiah, plus Dakharo was the sire of Layyan, and Magora is by Gazal Al Shaqab! What a success! In addition, Venetzia was the reserve winner in the filly division. But there were two important shows before these prizes were awarded.
Sharjah saw two Al Shaqab winners, those being Abha Myra, the Reserve Champion Mare, and PS Rose of Marwan, the Reserve Champion filly. Both of these beautiful ladies were sired by the legendary, Marwan Al Shaqab. In addition, Marquis was named the Champion stallion.
In Dubai, we saw what is now a familiar scene! Dakharo and his daughter Layyan were the champion stallion and champion filly, a repeat of the World Championship results. We also saw Venetzia and Rose of Marwan collect trophies in their classes. And in the colts another star from the Michael Byatt program took top honors, Baanderos was named the champion colt.
We congratulate the owners, handlers, and everyone who works very hard behind the scene to make these great wins possible. On another personal note, I had the pleasure of being accompanied to the Dubai show by my 18 year old son, Griffin. I have long held the belief, that the more we travel and the more we see the more open minded we as people will become. Griffin and I took the week between the shows to tour around, both on boat and on land. It was great to expose him to this vibrant part of the world. But better than all of that were the experiences he and I shared with people from this part of the planet. We both agreed, the more we share time and space with people of other cultures, the more we realize that we all are indeed one people.
On to the summer schedule and more fun on the circuit!
Region 9 Results
EKS Bey Al Gazal Champion Stallion with Michael Byatt
Ssantana Champion Gelding AOTH and Open
OFW Magic Wan
Champion Colt with Michael Byatt
Fiorello
Champion 2 yr. Gelding with Raphael Curti
Aachen 2008
Marwan returned to the ring after a 6 year absence from Europe to claim the stallion championship and in the process he won over a few more hearts. Arguably the most influential horse on the planet, Marwan displayed not only his unique beauty but also his kind and loving spirit. Being led, or being ridden, Marwan was the epitome of what an Arabian stallion should be; a beautiful, intelligent athlete. Marwan was not only the champion stallion but also the leading sire of the show. His children won the titles of Junior Champion Colt (Baanderos), Reserve Junior Champion Filly (Abha Palma)
, and Reserve Champion Mare (Abha Myra). It is a safe bet that the return of Marwan was viewed as an enormous success. His father, Gazal, siring the Champion Mare and Stallion may well have been the number 2 sire of the show. This is a role the Al Shaqab stallions have often played.
, won the first section of mare 4-6 years old. Shown perfectly by Giacomo Capacci she has had an amazing show career in Europe and is currently leading the contenders for the Dubai World Cup!
of wonderful horses and superb presentations. Winning the Championship was FS Magnums Madonna, shown by Michael Byatt for Mr. Paul Gheysens. Magnums Madonna showed herself brilliantly from the opening moment of the competition. Trained and conditioned at Jadem Arabians by Mr. Philipe Looyens we were honored to have been asked to present this lovely filly. In addition to the great job preparing Magnums Madonna, Philipe also trained and showed the dynamic Abha Palma to the Reserve Championship in the filly division for Al Mohamadia Farm of Riyadh. Manager Bruce McCrea was on hand for the awards ceremony – and it was a very satisfying win in a very tough class.
Dakharo, fresh from quarantine, wins the East Coast Stallion Championship by unanimous decision with Michael Byatt Arabians.
For the second year in a row I decided to take one of my children with me to my favorite horse show during the summer schedule. Located in France, on the glorious Cote De Azur, just to the west of the Italian border, and to the east of the famed Monte Carlo, Menton is a village of extraordinary beauty. The show grounds are located at the water edge, with the turquoise water of the Mediterranean on one side, and the mountains on the other. Last year my son Griffin accompanied me and together we made memories that will last us both a lifetime. This year, my 13 year old daughter, Hannah, was in tow; her first trip to Europe and what a place to begin! After a few days in Paris we arrived to Menton ready to see the horses, our friends, and enjoy the show!
Prior to arrival in Menton there had been a lot of talk about several of the new horses that would be in the competition; the buzz was that this would be one of the best ever. Giacomo Cappaci, a great friend and the man in charge of all the Al Shaqab horses in Europe, showed me all of our entries and I knew we were ready to compete. I was very anxious and excited to show the new filly I purchased on behalf of Al Shaqab, the Brazilian National Champion, Miss El Power. She did not disappoint me; she won her section and went on to be named the Junior Champion filly! In addition to these titles she also won the “Most Beautiful Head” in this class. 
The second section of the yearling fillies was won by a beautiful daughter of Marwan Al Shaqab, Najdah Al Zobair, owned by Al Zobair Stud, and presented by Schoukens Training Center. She was wonderfully presented and prepared. Winner of the “Most Beautiful Head” in the second section of yearling fillies (pictured left) , was the Australian owned filly AJA Aphrodite – she is sensational! Congratulations to Mystica Arabians! 
In the three year old filly class Giacomo showed the Marwan daughter, PS Rose of Marwan (pictured right), to a second place in a tough class. It was very exciting in that “Rose” tied with the winner, Om El Bernadette, but ended second due to the type score. 
There were several great colts contending for the top honors on Sunday, and in the end, another colt proudly marketed by Michael Byatt Arabians, bred by Taylor Arabians, took the honors; this being Baanderos, by Marwan Al Shaqab and out of the Besson daughter HB Bessolea. Baanderos went on to be named Best in Show for the males. Baanderos is owned by Al Khaeldiah and presented by Philipe Hosay.
The Middle East is without a doubt one of my favorite places to see horses. The collections of great horses in this part of the World are absolutely staggering. The combination of great horses, wonderful people, and interesting locations make this area and irresistible attraction. 
Also competing was the multi Champion, Baanderos. In a very strong class which included the super-star QR Marc, Baanderos made a brilliant showing, tying with QR Marc, but taking the second spot due to one less 20. The finale saw both of these wonderful sons of Marwan claim the Champion and reserve spots. Another superstar sold by Michael Byatt Arabians was the great Marquis who was named the Reserve Champion Stallion. 
Never to back away from a little pressure and excitement, Shk Hamad Bin Ali Al Thani, one of the directors of Al Shaqab and one of the great personalities of the Arabian horse breed, decided to bring Al Adeed Al Shaqab to Doha for one last outing! As his handler, I gasped a little at the thought. Here was a horse that had not been in conditioning for years, and up to this point undefeated in his entire life. Would this be the right thing to do? The decision had been made, so now it was time to make it work. Any horse that is as well made as Al Adeed does not need to be in a day in and day out hard work regime so; we decided his condition was good enough. Now the question was whether he would he show well? 
From across the parking lot Al Adeed pranced into the collecting ring; it was as though he knew what was at stake. There was so much buzz in the crowd because at this point everyone was waiting. It had been a long evening yet no one had left; they all wanted to see the King of Al Shaqab back to continue his reign. The presentation was beautiful, the crowd respectful, and the judges rewarded Al Adeed with a handful of 20’s insuring his victory. Taking the top spot, Al Adeed was surrounded by local admirers, from Sheikhs to workers, everyone wanting their picture taken with the local hero. At the close of the show, Al Adeed was to win for an unprecedented 4th time. It was an honor to be at the lead. 
Venetzia made her show ring debut in Qatar, where she was named Junior Champion Filly. Here, a year later, we see her continue to amass a stellar record; this time in her first outing in the mare division, and again being named the champion!
We were also pleased to see Marquis, a son of Marwan Al Shaqab, and a many times champion, take the Reserve Championship in the stallion division. We thank all of the owners who allowed us the opportunity to play a role in the selection of their wonderful horses.
