Above: Multi-National Champion & National Champion producing mare; She Be Envied++++// soaking up the attention from the kids at the Experience Barn.
By Ashley Lauren Toye
As featured in the Winter 2025 issue of Arabian Horse World
Most of us have experienced moments that take our breath away or make the hairs on the back of our neck stand up, or even had tears flood our eyes when we witness something that moves us emotionally. These magical moments stick with us and remind us what is important in life. For an event or moment to create this emotional response, it must evoke the passion from within us and cultivate an engaging and exciting experience.
The Arabian Horse Association of Florida has done just that. For over 50 years, AHAF has built a community where the Arabian can flourish and is committed to the promotion of the Arabian horse, not only in Florida but around the world. From out of the box thinking in horse show development, to generating opportunities where newcomers can experience the connections made with our incredible horses, the AHAF Team dreams, builds, expands, and continues for the future of the Arabian horse.
MD Matteo (IBN Farid x MD Alihandra), and Ann Gauntlett’s Reserve Champion Weanling Filly, Wanderlust Heartsong (MD Zlatan x Wanderlust Ethereal) meeting new fans.
Over Thanksgiving week, the renowned World Equestrian Center in Ocala welcomes thousands from around the world with an enchanting winter wonderland display with over one million twinkling lights and show-stopping decorations. The opportunity this presents for AHAF is unprecedented. “Grateful for the outreach this brings to our fingertips, we are always working towards making this show a success!” says, Laurie Salmi, Show Manager and President of the Arabian Horse Association of Florida.
Camaraderie and teamwork is the key to the success AHAF has had, Salmi continues, “This event would not be what it is today without the generosity and support of our members and sponsors. It is truly magical to see everyone come together to build this show up into the event that it has become. We gave away $43,650 in prize money this year, and I have high hopes we will surpass that in 2025!”
While making this a ‘bucket list’ horse show and a favorite event of the year for many, the AHAF Holiday Festival is so much more than just a horse show. In conjunction with the Keystone Experience, thousands of people are introduced to the Arabian horse over the weekend. From ringside presentations and educational conversations to face painting and meet and greets, there is a constant flow of people coming to meet the Arabians. The volunteers and everyone who gave their time and shared their horses at the Keystone Experience Barn should be applauded for their commitment and dedication in their outreach efforts.
The experience provided in Ocala is something clubs around the country should strive for. Location makes a huge difference, but we all have an opportunity to welcome in and introduce newcomers to our horses. Expansion and education need to be made a priority. Mary Trowbridge, an advocate for outreach programs within the industry, expresses an urgency in utilizing every opportunity we have. “I challenge every club no matter your location to do these events. Whether we get ten, one hundred, or one thousand people, we can only grow a lasting appreciation for this horse by introducing new people to them and watching the connections build.”
On Friday evening, ten colts and fillies were presented in the $5,000 Weanling Jackpot. Michael Wilson explains, “This class is such a thrill for our breeders. It’s exciting to watch these youngsters blossom at their first show experience. The depth and quality was impressive, but it was Saturday afternoon where the real magic was experienced.”
Medrano Arabians’ Champion Weanling Colt, MD Matteo (IBN Farid x MD Alihandra), and Ann Gauntlett’s Reserve Champion Weanling Filly, Wanderlust Heartsong (MD Zlatan x Wanderlust Ethereal) were brought out to the Experience barn with trainer Michael Wilson and assistant Zach Trewyn, to meet close to one hundred people.
Ashley Lauren Toye, AHAF photographer describes, “Watching these young horses connect with the people was incredibly touching. I haven’t seen anything quite like it. In excitement, a group of young girls ran up to the filly, hands up to touch her face, one even jumping up at her to reach, and this filly just stood there quietly and lowered her head so the girls could touch her.”
