• Slug: Sports–Arabian Horse Show, 720 words.
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By Gregory Graves
Cronkite News

SCOTTSDALE – Under the bright Arizona sun, the world’s finest Arabian horses took center stage as the Global Champions Arabian Tour made its anticipated debut in the United States.

Known as one of the greatest horse shows on earth, this prestigious event draws top contenders from around the globe, showcasing the beauty, athleticism and heritage of the storied Arabian breed.

Whether a lifelong equestrian or a first-time spectator, the show offers an intimate glimpse into the tailored suits, private dining areas, and world-renowned judges that have made it a premier event of the horse industry since its recent development.

For owners, trainers, breeders and fans alike, Scottsdale marked the beginning of the U.S. tour, which has future competitions planned in Miami (April 17-19) and Las Vegas (Sept. 27-28) , with every participant eyeing a coveted spot in the grand championship in Doha, Qatar.

The GCAT Arabian Horse Show not only showcased the beauty of Arabian horses but also highlighted the dedication of those who devote their lives to caring for, training and preparing these animals.

Beyond their natural beauty and athleticism, success in the arena comes down to the meticulous training and handling of each horse.

Reese Rasmussen, a horse trainer based in Arizona, understands what it takes to prepare these animals for competition.

“The judges are looking for horses with nice, clean movement, good bodies, and pretty faces,” Rasmussen said. “Some are everyday perfect students, while others need a little more direction and guidance, but we love them all the same.”

Even with careful preparation, horses can sometimes be unpredictable in the ring. When that happens, Rasmussen takes a calm, methodical approach. This patience and dedication are what allow trainers to bring out the best in each horse, ensuring they shine when all eyes are on them.

“I take a deep breath, relax and really think about what the next step is to make things better,” he said.

For those behind the scenes and not in tailored suits, the GCAT Arabian Horse Show is more than just an exhibition – it’s the culmination of months, if not years, of training and preparation. Kyle Edsall, stallion manager at Orrion Farms in Scottsdale, oversees the conditioning of show horses, ensuring they are primed for their best.

“Our horses are conditioned like athletes, and we take care of them like they’re preparing for a beauty pageant,” Edsall said. “What we’re doing here is kind of comparable to something you’d see at the Westminster Dog Show.”

Each horse follows a tailored regimen designed to enhance its strength, agility and presentation.

“All of our horses do various conditioning programs. It’s all individualized because every horse is going to prepare to be their best in a different way,” Edsall said.

Their training is complemented by specialized diets, with equestrian nutritionists crafting the perfect balance of feed and supplements to support optimal health and performance.

This level of precision and dedication sets the GCAT Arabian Horse Show apart, this more than just sport or leisure. For people like Edsall, this is a life’s work being highlighted in the pinnacle of horse competition.

One recurring question surrounding similar events is whether they qualify as a sport. Gary McDonald, vice president of the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona and an international judge for the Arabian Horse Association, highlights key factors that define it as such.

“Horses are judged on their athletic ability. They compete for prize money, and these horses literally travel the world for this competition,” McDonald said, reinforcing the idea that it shares the same competitive nature as any other sport.

The acknowledgment goes far beyond the vice president – it extends to those who get their hands dirty behind the scenes.

For Francisco Chaedaz, one of the many groomers at the show, his job means everything. To Chaedaz the connection between his work and sport extends far beyond the stables.

While the spotlight is on the horses, breeders, trainers and groomers alike, are the true backbone of the Arabian Horse Show. Their dedication ensures these horses maintain their beauty from Scottsdale, Arizona to Miami, Florida all the way to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

“The passion for the horse, everybody puts their heart into each of their horses.” Chaedaz said. “You put this kind of love onto the horses, you check after them and take care of them, so you get excited when you see them running.”

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