Arabian Horse Show
 September 24 - 26, 2010 *All dates subject to change
Presented by Bayer Animal Health
 In 2007, the Arabian horse show drew horses from several mid-western states. Horse owners were able to enjoy one last show for 2007 and display their horses to an enthusiastic crowd. In 2008, Saturday Night will be our big event, with the highlight being the Liberty Class. Exhibitors display their horses in this class by allowing their horses to run free to selected music and display their beauty their own way to the crowd. In addition to the Liberty, there will be a full night of classes.
No doubt the most colorful show in the Series, the competition features the Native Costume Class, with horse and rider in full regalia. Also, the crowd favorite Liberty Class where the horses are individually turned loose in the arena to strut their stuff to music and the cheers of the crowd.
See an exotic spectacle of native costumes and amazing horsemanship in the Arabian Show. Watch horses and riders from around the Midwest compete in classes designed to show off the stamina, spirit and versatility of this proud breed.
 Come on down to the American Royal, pick up a daily schedule of events and competitions, grab a cold drink, walk through the stabling area and pick out your favorite horses, visit the Marketplace and then settle in to Hale Arena to watch your favorite horses compete. Don’t miss the Native Costume classes, or the Liberty Class where these noble animals are set loose in the arena. It is one of the most thrilling competitions and a traditional crowd favorite.
Information on Arabian Horses
Beauty, athleticism, and versatility characterize Arabian horses. Noted for their elegant features, they are also talented competitors and rigorous work horses. It is their performance ability that is showcased at the American Royal Horse Show. In Western and English Pleasure classes, the Arabians give a smooth and enjoyable ride, while in Park and Liberty appear animated and high spirited. These horses navigate complicated jumper courses and even perform in driving classes. To complete the spectrum of versatility in equine sports, Arabian horses are showcased in the Native Costume classes; horse and rider parade around the arena in their elaborate native Arabian dress. Unique to Arabian equitation, these classes celebrate the heritage of this remarkable breed.
 The Arabians have a long tradition of excellence and hold the distinction as the oldest living breed of horse. Historians have identified Equus Agilis, one of the four original species of horses, as the Arabian horse. As early as 400 B.C., ancient Bedouin tribesmen depended on these horses for labor and transportation. But more than beasts of burden, Arabians were so cherished for their ability and comportment that close bonds and mutual loyalty often developed between master and horse.
Their exhibition history dates back to their premiere appearance during the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair where Bedouins exhibited 29 horses. But it was not until the 1940’s that popularity for Arabian horse shows have expanded since their early days. Today, The Arabian Horse Association (AHA) coordinates and approves Arabian shows, events and award programs. AHA consists of eighteen regions across the United State and Canada, each offering an annual horse show. Horsemen and women have increasingly recognized the brilliance and ability of the Arabian breed.
The beauty, intelligence, endurance, and temperament characteristic of Arabian horse have endured due to careful breeding. While Arabian breeders have coveted these positive traits for years and developed a strong genetic stability called prepotency, other breeders have looked to Arabians to improve their own stock. In fact, every light horse breed in existence today is genetic descendant of the Arabian horse. In order to be registered, Half-Arabians must have one registered, purebred Arabian parent and one parent of any other breed or mixed breed. This extraordinary breed is recognized by its dished head, large eyes, arched neck and high tail carriage---strength tempered by gentle elegance. An old Arab saying describes Arabians as follows: “A neck curved like a crescent moon and a nose that could fit into a tea cup.” The sportsmen and women performing at the American Royal Horse Show have harnessed the power of the Arabian horse while accentuating its natural beauty; the Arabian horse exemplifies strength and grace.
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