Arabian Horse World’s annual tribute to some of the outstanding women who have made the Arabian horse part of their lives. It’s our pleasure to share these exceptional women’s devotion to the Arabian horse — they are indeed, the “Women of the World.”
Nicole Reed
GHOST PINE FARMS
New Kensington, Pennsylvania
HFS Carrousel was the first Arabian I ever laid eyes on. She was a classically beautiful snow-white grey *Etiw daughter. Of course, she was at a local boarding barn where everyone referred to her as the “crazy Arab.” Crazy, she was not. Misunderstood, most definitely. By some stroke of good luck, my mom, who knew absolutely nothing about horses, met Carrousel and fell in love with her dark, expressive eyes, those small, tippy ears, and blowy attitude. So many of the traits that sucker us in and doom us for eternity! Needless to say, Carrousel became a family member in 1995 and kicked open the door to this wonderful industry that my mom and I love dearly. With this one mare, I was introduced to the all-consuming world of showing, both winning and losing. How to mount from a snowbank and gallop around in a halter and lead rope. Her annoyed head toss taught me to ask more kindly. Patience was found trying to catch the uncatchable on those perfect summer days. And hard work became the norm. We bred her, loved her, and watched her teach others how to have soft hands too. Carrousel was the perfect introduction to the Arabian breed, and she helped ignite the spark that keeps me coming back for more.
My family and Arabian horses are my life. From the moment I wake up to the moment I go to bed, I am usually thinking, talking, reading, looking up, or following something related to the Arabian horse. With 50 pretty heads at our farm, it’s hard not to be consumed! Many, if not all, of my decisions factor in or are governed by the horses under my care. I know it has been said by many, but this really and truly is a lifestyle more so than it will ever be “a job.” There is a passion for caring for these animals and a constant desire to get up every morning and do better… be better. Even when I am so exhausted, and my bed is the most comfortable place on Earth, I get up. I don’t know many other careers that put that kind of drive and sense of accomplishment into a person.
Arabian horses have given me more than enough. I just hope to continue learning from and being around them for as long as possible.
Morgan Moore
MLM ARABIANS
Valley View, Texas
I encountered Arabian horses in my childhood on a frequent basis, but it was a boarder’s stallion at my mother’s facility when I was young that first captured my attention. He was charismatic, energetic, and joyful- but also sweet and craved human affection. His name was “Mike,” and I believe he was unregistered, but his beauty captivated me. After a neck injury ended my polo and jumping aspirations, I knew I wanted to find my own Arabian horse. I grew up with Thoroughbreds and Argentine polo ponies, which I still love to this day, but there is nothing quite like an Arabian horse. That interest that I cultivated with Mike led me to purchase my first Arabian horse at the age of 13: the black stallion RB Cavalier who became the foundation of my breeding program, launched my show career in Arabian horses, and served as my best friend for 19 years.
My life is crafted around the horses that exist in it. My human friendships, hobbies, vacations, and free time heavily revolve around horses in general, but my small Arabian program is so intertwined into my daily life that I’m not sure I would know my own identity without them. I have the luxury of riding and enjoying my horses at home (as well as training facilities), and that frequent connection influences virtually every facet of my life.
The Arabian horse has given me so much that I am not sure I would ask for it to give me anything more. I want to give the Arabian horse a broader reach, new human enthusiasts, and quality individuals to continue driving the breed forward.
LETICIA COLANGELO, DVM
SAHARA SCOTTSDALE
Scottsdale, Arizona
I grew up in Brazil, surrounded by various horse breeds. I owned Quarter Horses, and with barrel racing being such a popular sport there, it was a big part of my early years. When I was 15, my dad gave me a stallion—Half-Arabian/Quarter Horse. The Arabian influence was unmistakable in his refined features. I loved that horse deeply. After he passed, I became determined to learn more about the other half of his heritage—the Arabian side. Though at the time it felt like a distant dream to be around purebred Arabians, the curiosity had taken root, and over the years, it quietly grew into a true interest. Fast forward to 2017, when I began my veterinary journey in the United States, life took an incredible turn. I had the chance to work at one of the world’s most renowned Arabian horse farms—Michael Byatt Arabians. It was there that I not only began my professional career in equine reproduction but also discovered a new and profound passion: the Arabian horse.
The Arabian horse has shaped me in countless ways over the years. It has pushed me to become a better horsewoman, think creatively, embrace challenges, and grow—not just in my career as a veterinarian but as a person. Today, I serve as the veterinarian at Sahara Scottsdale, where my primary focus is equine reproduction. Being part of the process of creating some of the most exquisite foals in the world and contributing to the ongoing legacy of the Aria Collection is something I deeply treasure every single day. Not only do I have the privilege of supporting Sahara Scottsdale, but I also find deep fulfillment in collaborating with other local breeders to bring their unique breeding visions to life. I take great pride in contributing to the growth and success of our local Arabian horse community.
The Arabian horse has already given me so much. If I could wish for one thing in the future, it would be the opportunity to share this remarkable breed with more people. I want others to experience the Arabian’s true nature—kind, personable, and deeply intuitive. What makes them so special is their unique ability to recognize their people and form lasting, meaningful bonds. It’s this rare connection that I hope to share with others.
ANGELA ALIOTO
KAMILAH PRODUCTIONS
San Francisco, California
I was eight years old when my parents gave me Bonito, a Half-Arabian/Quarter Horse. He was a beautiful Palomino, an amazing show/parade horse, and then a fantastic rodeo horse. I loved him very much. He and I were best friends forever. We roped calves and did Dressage— we were pretty versatile. I lost him when I was 18 years old. He will always be in my heart!
Forty-six years later, after four children and five grandchildren, a law practice, and a political career, I finally bought the dream of my life, Om El Salmaan, a purebred Arabian. We were “visiting” Om El Arab, and Salmaan and I met eyes, and that was a fait accompli; we fell in love. He is my heart horse. We literally communicate about everything in life. He is the King of our ranch and of the other horses. He literally lets me know when something is different that he thinks I need to know about. He is amazing. After buying Salmaan, we bought Zips High Noon from Jesse Saldana. He is a palomino Half-Arabian/Quarter Horse, very much like Bonito. His stable name is Wyatt, and everyone rides Wyatt.
Then, we bought Om El Shahnoor, just a dream. Rock star in the arena, and absolutely gorgeous. She is a dream. I don’t know exactly how or when we decided to breed her to gorgeous ATTICUS ENB, it’s a blur. That happens when you are passionate about Arabians… it just happens. Our amazing filly Shah Milika al-Kamilah was born on March 16, 2022. A perfect, gorgeous little filly. Today, she is a 3-year-old miracle after a horrible accident by a vet when she was just 5 weeks old. Our miracle Kamilah has a film coming out this year on her extraordinary life. I believe with my whole heart that the strength of her Arabian pedigree is the reason that she is the miracle she is today.
Lastly, we now have a brand new baby colt in the stable. His name is Marrashah Maximiliano. We bred Marrakesh ENB (Kamilah’s half-sister owned by Psynergy Equine) to Om El Maximus (owned by Om El Arab). Now we have our gorgeous little black Arabian colt! How cool is that?
KERI O’NEAL, DVM
Waialua, Hawaii
I grew up in Cave Creek, Arizona, as a horse-obsessed little girl who started riding at five in a hunter/jumper barn; Arabians were nearly synonymous with the region. The first Arabian I called my own was a colt I purchased at fifteen. He had all the charisma and presence that drew me to the breed—but soon after bringing him home, he was diagnosed with cerebellar abiotrophy. That experience, though heartbreaking, was a turning point. It ignited a passion for Equine Health and ultimately led me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. That colt taught me the depth of responsibility and care our horses require — and inspired everything I do today, from breeding to acupuncture.
Arabians shape my life in every way. I live in Hawaii now, where my days often begin and end at the barn with Biankkha Z, the dam of my stallion Inconceivable V. As a mixed species Veterinarian and Veterinary Acupuncturist, I spend my time helping animals move and feel their best— physically and mentally. Though Inconceivable V lives in Texas with my trainer, Katie Steiner, I’m deeply involved in his care and development. Katie has guided all of his under saddle work and provides the day-to-day care that keeps him thriving in and out of the show ring. My roots in Arizona, my work with horses, and this incredible breed have shaped my life.
I would ask the Arabian horse for continuity in the future — a legacy of sound, kind, and versatile horses who carry the breed forward with heart and elegance. I hope the foals we produce can be ambassadors for the Arabian’s adaptability, whether in the show ring, on the trail, or in the hands of a young rider falling in love with the breed for the first time.
RANDI CLARK
RANDI CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY
Waco, Texas
It was 1985, and with God’s grace—and a lot of hard work—one of my early photos was published on the inside back cover of Arabian Horse World magazine. I was just 19 years old. Needless to say, for a young artist with no experience in publishing and just learning to use a “good” camera, that was more than just a great start. My love for Arabian horses, art, and photography truly blossomed at Bentwood Farm, Inc. We had so much fun on that farm—1,500 acres and all day to enjoy unforgettable moments with the horses. And let’s not forget the parties—we threw some of the best around! One of my favorite horses as a kid was *Cleopatra. Lisa put me “in charge” of her. I must have been about 15, and she was already an older mare. Watching her gentle transformation when she foaled was the sweetest thing—and I completely fell in love with her.
After some time away from the horse world while building a new home, I’m reminded of my deep connection with Arabian horses—and the people who love them just as much. These horses aren’t just special to me—they’re family. They always have been and always will be!
Today, here we are again—on the inside back cover of the legendary Arabian Horse World magazine! This time, featuring a striking World Champion Arabian stallion named Hadidi—a Texas-bred Gleannloch horse, no less. Thank you, Gail, for giving me the honor and privilege of capturing this magnificent stallion through my lens.
If I could ask the Arabian horse for one thing, it would be its continued trust and maybe one more beautiful AHW cover!
KRISTY GILLOT-HOGUE
VARIAN EQUESTRIAN CENTER
Arroyo Grande, California
I started riding lessons at four on a small Arabian breeding farm named Sun King Farms. They had a wonderful Arabian stallion that they gave lessons on who was the quietest and most gentle soul. It was then that I knew nothing other than the Arabian. On my 7th birthday, my dad bought me my first Arabian mare. Her name was Rainbows End (Bow), and she was what you would call the ultimate all-around horse. She won in jumping, hunter, western, and high point horse at most open shows we went to. We also taught her how to drive and would go to team pennings… there was nothing she couldn’t do. I pretty much lived out there with her, and she completely shaped my life. She taught me how to have responsibility. She helped me through the ups and downs of school and relationships, and I have been a member of the Arabian Horse Association ever since. She directed me and my love of Arabian horses to Varian Arabians when I was 16, where I would groom horses and help in the summer.
The Arabian horse and horses ARE my life. My life revolves around the care of the horses and the ranch. I worked for Sheila Varian for 15 years and now manage the Varian Equestrian Center (formerly Varian Arabians), where we are still at least 75% Arabian-based out of 150 horses on the property. I am thankful everyday for the Varian Arabian and Arabian horses and what they have helped me through in my life. They were my constant when I needed it in the worst of times. They still bring me peace and joy when I get to spend my quiet time with them. I also now get to share them with my husband and my 4 1/2 year old son, which gives me the greatest joy to see how kind these horses are with them.
Arabians have already given me everything I could have asked for and more. I truly don’t know where I would be without them. They have given me a career I can truly say I am thankful for. I wish more could have grown up with the special Arabian horses that I was lucky enough to know.
JOYCE MICALLEF
MJM ARABIANS
Rancho Cucamonga, California
While building our first house and ranch in Alta Loma, CA, my husband and I met our neighbor on his stunning Arabian stallion, Zaraden. Prior to him riding up on his stallion, we had planned on building a small horse ranch to have a few trail horses to ride around the surrounding lemon groves and grape vineyards. Inspired by the Arabian’s beauty, we went shopping for our own Arabian and ended up buying a Gai Parada daughter from Gainey Arabians. This marked the start of our 50-year Arabian breeding and showing program.
Everything I do reflects the beautiful and blessed life I share with my Arabians. Their sensitivity and intelligence teach me to let go of everyday frustrations, relax, and embrace the present moment. Arabians possess a unique ability to delve deep into my soul, forging an unbreakable lifelong connection. Since my husband, Mike, passed away three years ago, my daughter, Laura, and I have been dedicated to keeping Micallef Arabians afloat. Unfortunately, we no longer have our beautiful ranch in Redlands, CA, and our horses are now boarded. This limitation in the number of horses we have and the time I can spend with them deeply saddens me. However, I will forever cherish the love and attachment I have for these magnificent creatures.
In the future, I would request the Arabian horse to grant me the gift of comprehending people’s genuine intentions. Additionally, I would like them to assist me in swiftly evaluating individuals and imparting the wisdom of distancing myself from those who are detrimental while placing trust in those who are worthy.
LEE COURTNEY
LEE COURTNEY LUXURY REAL ESTATE
Scottsdale, Arizona
I was blessed to receive my first Arabian horse for my birthday in 2010. Owning a horse was a lifelong dream of mine. Sharing my life with my beautiful mare, SR SSequin, opened my life up to many amazing adventures and the best people, too.
Today, I have two Arabian horses, both of whom are in training with Justin Cowden at Royal Arabians. I see my dreams and passion for life in my horses and I believe my life is more full and complete with these beautiful horses.
The only thing I would ask of the Arabian horse is to remain in my life forever. I can’t imagine my life without these beautiful animals.
CARLA THORNTON
ASPEN CREEK ARABIANS
Grants Pass, Oregon
My first Arabian found me. At a local barn, a rescue, and coming from a Quarter Horse family, I’ve never seen any horse with so much personality, charm, and the innate desire to be in my space. We had to fix the space issues a little later on, but each day, I found myself gravitating toward his stall, and eventually, his charm and a really good price won me over to my family’s dismay. From that point, I was hooked, and within a year, I had three or four more.
They are my life, passion, joy and hope. My broodmares are my family; we share morning coffee when I’m home, the destination on my afternoon strolls, and in them, I find peace and purpose in my crazy busy life.
I would ask the Arabian for patience—patience for us humans to figure out their future—to keep the antiquity of our breed whole and safe, accepting of diversity, protective of its history, and never forgetting the foundation that made them the beautiful heart and soul that we all love and gravitate towards.
SOPHIE YIH
Danville, California
The first Arabian horse I ever encountered was when I was very young. I leased a kind-eyed hunter named Maggie—elegant, intelligent, and endlessly patient. Even at just eight years old, I was captivated by her presence and sensitivity. Riding her wasn’t just about skill; it was about connection and trust. She’s the one who drew me in—and from that moment on, I was hooked.
To me, Arabians are the pinnacle of beauty and elegance, yet strong and powerful. Whether I’m at the barn or just watching the classes at a horse show, their energy and intelligence inspire me to live my life with the same power and grace.
If I could ask one thing of the Arabian horse for the future, it would be legacy. I hope their power to inspire, teach, and change lives keeps reaching the next generation. I want future riders and horse lovers to feel that same magic and connection that pulled me in from the start.
CYNTHIA & LAURA OSBORN
DEER CREEK ARABIANS
Wilton, California
Laura and I are both educators and have been involved with showing and breeding Arabians for 35 years. Our first Arabians came into our lives when Laura was about 10. His name was Gran Premier, aka “Chewy.” Chewy was a Khemosabi son and had a lot of training before we got him. We kept him at home, took lessons, and showed him in every class we could. Chewy could do it all! Country, Showmanship, Hunter Pleasure, and Western Riding. Laura and Chewy were undefeated in Western Riding and Showmanship, thanks to trainer Scott Scheili in Tucson. She won all around youth two years running. I enjoyed Dressage and trail riding. After meeting our dear friend Lucy Whittier, we started breeding one or two horses yearly, aiming for good-minded Performance horses that could also do Halter.
Laura currently loves Hunter Pleasure best but also enjoys Western Pleasure. I have started really enjoying Ranch Riding. Laura is currently showing a beautiful black gelding we bred named Blacksands. Nancy Steffan previously owned him, and he produced several champion beautiful Half-Arabian offspring while a stallion for her. Our babies include offspring competing successfully in Western Pleasure, Hunter, and Competitive Distance Riding. One of our foals sired by Blacksands successfully completed the Tevis Cup.
Our plans are to continue showing and enjoying all aspects of our Arabian horses. Laura will continue to compete with Blacksands and has a new baby, Guardian Galaxy, a three-year-old Half-Arabian Hunter horse. We are thankful for all the wonderful trainers we have worked with and all the friendships we have made along the way.
MARY DRYSDALE
DRYSDALE ARABIANS
Benbrook, Texas
I did not personally encounter an Arabian until later in life. Still, I think I came out of the womb with an innate curiosity and obsession for horses. My mother encouraged my interest, and to my great joy, I began riding lessons at a young age. I cherished every minute. As with most of us, getting a college degree, building a career, and marriage took precedence over my passion for horses. It would be several years later when I saw the opportunity to learn about Arabian horses, in this case, specifically Straight Egyptian Arabian horses. I was invited to a workshop at a leading breeding farm in Waco, Texas where I was enlightened about the different ways one could begin as a breeder of these fantastically beautiful animals.
At the workshop, they offered young fillies, most still on the mother’s side, as well as a unique option where one could lease a mare that was checked in foal to one of their top stallions for the resulting baby. The lease option was significantly less of an investment than the purchase of a filly, so I pursued a lease mare and gave my criteria to Shawn Crews and Adam Schwalm. As I love riding and am not tall, producing a smaller foal was key. With that in mind, on my next visit, I was shown three of their proven broodmares that were available for lease. Shawn really encouraged me on one of the three mares, and I chose another because she had little to no white markings. The mare I leased and the second mare both had colts. The mare Shawn had pushed for had a stunning black filly with almost no markings. I swear that lady is psychic! At this writing, that mare’s foals are all over the world. Long story short, I bought that amazing filly. She is the love of my life, and I named her after my dear, sweet mother. Her name is Princess Petronella.
Today, most of my schedule revolves around visiting my horses, traveling to their shows, and being close to home for the birth of their babies.
These horses’ gifts have already blessed me many times over. They ignite a love in most of us that we have not known. When a thousand-pound animal on a light lead rope says, ‘Yes, I will follow you,’ and they let us get on their back, you must know that God created these horses for man. I strive to never take their loyalty and love for granted, and to be a protector of their future for now and generations to come.
ALLIE EGGERT
SOUTH TEXAS ARABIANS
Hempstead, Texas
The first Arabian horse I encountered was on a trip in 2016 with my dad to visit a Straight Egyptian Arabian horse farm in Waco. We attended a seminar where they highlighted the Arabian horse’s unique characteristics, versatility, and heritage. I fell in love with their beauty, intelligence, and gentle yet spirited nature. We purchased a foal from their lease mare program and were blessed with a beautiful black bay filly we named Hurriya Belle “Belle.” Over the years, we have shown her successfully in halter, and Belle is now one of our foundation mares. She foaled a beautiful filly that looked almost identical to her, named Belle’s Reflection. The introduction of Hurriya Belle into our family eventually led to an increase in our herd by several more Arabian horses, which helped create South Texas Arabians, our family’s Arabian horse farm. Our farm has grown to include a breeding program and competing in halter. This year, we will compete in performance competitions. In January, we had the unique opportunity to purchase an outstanding Straight Egyptian Arabian stallion, Marbach RCA, standing at stud in Virginia at Amethyst Acres Equine Center, Inc. and managed by Shawn Crews of Shawn Crews International. My involvement and excitement continue to grow in the Arabian horse industry, ignited by the love I felt from day one with our first Arabian horse, Hurriya Belle.
Although I maintain a full-time job outside of the equestrian world, I am involved in our family Arabian horse business by attending horse shows when possible and helping take care of horses at our farm. The Arabian horse has led me to volunteer at a therapeutic horse facility that helps children with disabilities experience horses and gain confidence in their lives. This has allowed me to witness how truly special horses are with their natural gift of helping others overcome challenges, which is so heart-warming. The Arabian horse has opened doors for me that I never could have imagined. They are truly a blessing.
I would ask the Arabian horse to help me share my love for and knowledge of the Arabian horse with others who have never experienced their beauty and the pure joy of being around these amazing horses. So many of my generation and younger generations have never been exposed to horses, and I would love to see that change. We often have guests and children’s groups visit our farm who have never been within ten feet of a horse, much less touch, brush, feed carrots or ride these magnificent animals. I have witnessed how horses help people discover the better part of themselves and find peace and confidence while forming a special bond with horses. The Arabian horse is a gift that should be cherished and shared with others.
Sharon Redman
SHARMEL ARABIANS
Chino Valley, Arizona
I had been interested in the Arabian horse for as long as I could remember, so I sought a program that used Arabians when my 5-year-old daughter started riding lessons. We were introduced to a grey gelding named Pegasus, who was truly a unicorn and took excellent care of his tiny student. He was beautiful, intelligent, gentle, and kind. My equine experience up to that time was riding working ranch horses and also professionally as a veterinarian. It was apparent that he was different, and I was hooked!
I have owned Arabians for about 23 years and delivered my first foal 19 years ago. I have scaled down over the last few years, with the goal of keeping my champion stallion Sentebale SA, a couple of mares, and my riding gelding Baja Baloo Moon. I have relocated to Arizona and am looking forward to getting involved with the local Arabian horse club, trail riding, and promoting the use of my stallion and other quality Straight Egyptians in modern halter and performance breeding programs.
I am so blessed to have the gift of breeding and owning Sentebale SA. He gives me such pride and happiness, and we have a bond that is magical. He has produced three very nice foals. While I only own one of the three, I am very happy with my champion daughter Nailah SA. It also makes me very happy to have a role in the existence of the other filly and colt and to know how happy their owners are with their Sentebale babies. Therefore, I will consider it a privilege and a gift as Sentebale continues to have the opportunity to pass on his quality through his progeny.
Ashley Toye Wilson
Sorrento, Florida
I started riding lessons on a pony named Bonnet when I was seven. Alison and her mom, Marilyn Morris, showed Arabians, and Alison had a beautiful bay Western Pleasure horse named Maduro. When I was nine, my parents bought me Sirfyre, a bay gelding, from Marilyn. We would go on to compete at Canadian Nationals by the time I was 13, being named Reserve National Champion in Hunter Seat Equitation, and I’ve never looked back.
The Arabian horse is intertwined in my daily life in many ways. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to work in graphic design and photography within the industry. Mixing my passion for the Arabian horse and creativity is truly special.
I breed, raise, and train my own horses, and their role in my daily life is what makes life beautiful.
The Arabian horse owes me nothing. They bring light, love, lessons, connection, and a sense of peace by just being. They have brought me and my closest friends together, and I am forever grateful!
I just appreciate living alongside of them.
Ally Nelson
SAHARA SCOTTSALE LLC
Scottsdale, Arizona
As a very young girl, my best friend had Arabian horses in her backyard; I was immediately enthralled! The first horse I bonded with and introduced me to the show scene was a Half-Arabian Palomino mare named Maraffa. From trail rides to costume classes and Hunter Pleasure, Maraffa taught me so much and fostered a lifelong love for the Arabian horse.
Today, I eat, sleep, and breathe the Arabian horse daily. From my career managing Sahara Scottsdale LLC (a herd of 150 purebred Arabian horses) and holding the title of Executive Director for the Arabian Horse World Magazine to my personal performance horses that I show with Royal Arabians LLC, there is not a part of my life that the Arabian horse does not touch.
Professionally, I hope the future holds two things:
• Beautiful and conformationally correct foals being born at Sahara Scottsdale
• To continue sharing the Arabian horse throughout the globe though education and editorial with Arabian Horse World
Personally, I plan to continue growing and enjoy my Western and Hunter horses. Owning both of them since they were young and watching their growth is extremely rewarding. Nothing can make me smile as consistently as Aquarius J!
Chelsea Johnson
SAHARA SCOTTSALE LLC
Scottsdale, Arizona
Horses have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My mom often shared stories about her Arabian horse from her childhood, while my dad recounted his trail riding adventures with my grandparents. My grandparents had some horses on their property when I was young, and I seized every opportunity to ride whenever I could. My mom’s love for Arabians never waned, and she was the inspiration behind getting my first Arabian when I was six years old. His name was Lucky Break, a sweet and easygoing chestnut gelding. The bond we shared was truly special, and some of my fondest memories as a child involve riding him bareback in his stall and around the boarding facility. As we progressed, we transitioned to a show barn, Priceless Arabians, where my mom and I competed together in the early 2000s with our new horse, MLC Millennium, whom we purchased at the Ventura Farms auction. Our dreams became a reality when we earned titles at Scottsdale and Youth National Championships. The Arabian horse has always been a passion for my family—from my mom and me competing to my dad and brother cheering us on.
I feel incredibly fortunate to have the Arabian horse in my daily life. I work alongside Ally Nelson at Sahara Scottsdale and Arabian Horse World with her and Allyssa. As an Arabian horse obsessed child, I always dreamed of building a career in the Arabian horse industry, and now I’m living that dream. I often pinch myself at the opportunities I’ve been given and make sure to seize every moment.
If I could ask the Arabian horse for one thing, it would be to continue providing the opportunities it has already offered me. I hope it remains my source of comfort during difficult times and inspires all my future endeavors. I am excited to share my love for the Arabian horse with my one-year-old son, who already lights up when we walk through the barns at Sahara.
BRIANNA YORK
Albany, Oregon
I grew up riding jumpers and had only seen one Arabian horse in my early teens. The barn I grew up riding in made fun of them, saying they were “crazy” and couldn’t do anything a Thoroughbred could do. However, when my reliable Quarter Horse mare got hurt, I was offered the chance to ride a local legend in Oregon, WA Bhu Sabi +//.
We got to take Bhu to Scottsdale that first year when I was riding him while my mare was laid up, and the rest is history. I fell in love with this special horse and the special community that the Arabian horse show world offered. Without ambassador horses like Bhu, so many of us would never have discovered Arabians, and I owe both Bhu and his owner, Harmony Pugh, so much gratitude for helping me get involved in the breed.
I was a trainer for a couple of years during the recession in 2009. While I had to hang up my spurs in this area of my riding life, horses are still a major part of who I am and what I do every day. I have made the switch to primarily riding Sport Horses, and have spent the last three years developing my purebred gelding, Marc My Wordz, to Grand Prix with the help of my amazing trainer, Tracy Pierce. We are seeking our Gold Medal this year, and I am so humbled every day by his heart, talent, and enthusiasm for his job.
Over my years of involvement with the Arabian horse, I have been blessed to ride so many amazing horses. They are truly the most special, kind, people-focused horses you will ever meet.
While I know the horse industry is going through some tough times, I am so heartened to see everyone pulling together to keep our shows alive. I cannot imagine showing any other breed. There isn’t anything else that Arabian horses can give to me that they have not already given over and over and over again. I only hope that our breed continues to grow and thrive so that everyone can share in the joy that comes from being part of the Arabian horse community.
ALLYSSA BAIRD
MARASHAH ARABIANS
Scottsdale, Arizona
I grew up with horses in my family from an early age. My mom had an Arabian mare, and my dad had an Arabian stallion. We were certainly what would be considered a “backyard” operation. Once I started taking lessons with a trainer who also did primarily Arabians, my dad’s stallion turned gelding became my show horse. He was pure Russian and came off the racetrack, which certainly came with some idiosyncrasies. He was challenging and taught me a lot about patience. This was just the beginning of my lifelong love.
Arabians are my life. I am a breeder, owner, exhibitor, and Executive Director of Arabian Horse World. I co-own and operate Marashah Arabians with my mother, who also loves Arabian horses. We breed a few foals per year with our special mares to produce high-quality babies. My favorite part of breeding is working with the foals to gain trust and teaching them new things. Along with breeding, I also love to show and show a couple of horses per year.
The Arabian horse has already given me so much in my life, and I don’t want ever to have to imagine a day when they are not in it. Every day I go to the barn, the outside world fades away, I don’t pick up my phone, and I enjoy being in the moment and making a connection with my horses. Arabians connect to their people in an intricate way compared to other breeds, and it has to be experienced to truly understand their magic.
HANNAH FELDMAN
HIDDEN GEM FARMS
Petaluma, California
My grandfather, a longtime Arabian horse breeder, surprised me with a young Arabian filly on my sixth birthday. We truly grew up together, going to many schooling shows and play-days and countless hours of “red-light, green-light.” She taught me responsibility and hard work from an early age, which I’ve carried with me throughout the years, in and out of the industry.
My family owns Hidden Gem Farms, a training facility in Petaluma, California, where our trainer, Donna Waggoner, is based. Last year, we bred two mares for the first time, so my recent involvement has revolved around raising babies. I still show when I can, but until these babies grow up, I’m enjoying the process!
I think it’s difficult to ask the Arabian horse to give more than what it has already given me. I have learned so much through these incredible animals; they have such an amazing blend of sensitivity, wisdom, and love. I would ask the Arabian horse to continue to teach me new things with every interaction – I always want to continue to enjoy and promote this wonderful breed so others can experience what I’ve had the honor of experiencing all these years.
DIANA CANTEY
ZAJADDI EGYPTIAN ARABIANS
Mount Vernon, Arkansas
The first Arabian horse I encountered over four decades ago was a fiery, chestnut stallion descended from the esteemed Crabbet lineage, specifically Lewisfield Sun God, sired by Aaraf (who was by Raffles) and out of Aarafa, also by Raffles. Known for their beauty, temperament, athleticism, and distinctive chestnut coloring, I was immediately captivated by him and decided to breed him to my Quarter Horse-bred mare. She blessed us with a lovely filly, bringing me one step closer to the Arabian horse community. Many years later, after marrying, Arabians re-entered my life. My husband and I dreamed of owning a horse farm, and after his military career, we made that dream a reality. Our shared passion for the Arabian horse’s history, beauty, and spirit led us to purchase two Straight Egyptian Arabian mares in 1999, who traveled from Texas to our family ranch in Idaho. However, our stay there was brief, as we relocated to central Arkansas for a job change. In Arkansas, we found a beautiful farm where we successfully raised and bred horses for over 20 years.
Today, Arabian horses are not a part of my daily life since we no longer breed. However, I continue to support the Arabian community through photojournalism, education, travel, sales, marketing, and consulting.
If I could ask one thing from the Arabian horse for the future, it would be the opportunity to forge even deeper connections and friendships within the Arabian community, both in the U.S. and internationally. To collaborate with breeders and Straight Egyptian Arabian horse enthusiasts in a festival environment to celebrate this gift God bestowed upon us to protect and preserve for future generations.
