Akhal Teke for Endurance? [Archive]

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QacarXan

Feb. 26, 2011, 09:57 AM

Hello everyone--this is my first post here. I love reading the discussions on this board :)

I was wondering how the Akhal Teke stacks up in endurance riding. The Teke of today is not the same horse as it was prior to Russian subjugation of the Turkmen (though in Iran, there are many Turkmen with the old bloodlines predating Russian influence). I've read in many places that the Thoroughbred was highly influential in forming the modern Akhal Teke, and making it less of an endurance horse, as well as breeding practices that promoted looks or short-distance racing over its traditional role as a nomad's best friend.

Any Teke owners out there who can compare, say, the endurance Arab to the endurance Teke? Can Tekes still be capable of endurance feats as they were in 1935 and 1988, riding from Ashgabat to Moscow with no shelter and little water?

http://www.teke.ca/2007/06/05/racing/

Sorry for all the questions--it's a topic I've been wondering about for literally years. Thank you!

rainechyldes

Mar. 2, 2011, 10:16 AM

Kyzteke can help you out on this question better then most I would think. I know a lot less about ATs, although I've randomly followed them as a breed over the years, because I've always planned on buying one.

Ats have been bred (I may be wrong) for the last several generations or more mainly for flat racing - so there might be a bit of the whole breed for speed, not other qualities going on in some aspects,, as happened with TBs- but I would say they are still more than viable as endurance horses. -They have the right built, right muscle structure- etc

QacarXan

Mar. 5, 2011, 09:26 AM

Thanks for your input! They have definitely been geared towards flat racing in the Turkmenistani and Russian breeding programs, though the Turkmen are going to start a new national breed registry soon. I also have read statements by one of the Turkmen Ministers of the Horse (not sure if he's still the current one) saying he wants to preserve the old type Teke, not the Russian-manipulated one. I'm hoping that proves to be the case, both for the genetics of the breed and the restoration of the most potent symbol of the old Turkmen way of life.

I messaged Kyzteke, and hope they join us here soon.

There have been something like 5 Teke or Teke x Arab in the Tevis cup apparently in the last decade or so (at least!), which considering there are only 32 registered in the AERC altogether, certainly seems to indicate considerable aptitude.

I also found that a long-distance rider went from Isfahan (Iran) to Paris on an Iranian Turkmen horse, a cousin/sibling to the Teke but with no TB infusion.

I hope to buy one someday as well, preferably from the Iranian strains. I'm Iranian (albeit in political exile) and may be able to finagle that if the political situation changes in the next 50 years :-)

I'd also like to breed Teke x Arab crosses, preferably Teke x Muniqi strain, which, Raswan argued, was likely descended from Teke. In Iran, these crosses are called "Chenaran" and are famed, of course, for their endurance even when compared to purebreds of either Arab or Teke.

Gindarkh

Mar. 6, 2011, 09:31 AM

Hello QacarXan,

I am an Akhal-Teke breeder, though my program is geared more towards producing Tekes for the FEI-discipline sports. I admire endurance, and would love to take a stab at it, but I don't have enough time for what I am already responsible for...

Most of the Teke breeding today is unfortunately geared towards producing the exotic, snake-eyed look so prized in Russia- the more extreme, the more rewarded. Not many breeders select for performance, except racing, and those who do usually attempt to change the intrinsic qualities of the breed to make them "more competitive" with other mainstream breeds. Search carefully for breeders who favor and attempt to maintain the same qualities that you mention, more of the original historical types.

I dabble in crossbreeding occasionally, but I personally feel the Teke purebred is a better horse than the halfbreds, but I am a purist...:) Especially since the Teke-Arab cross with the most AERC miles was sired by my stallion ! But the purebreds are not for everyone. I don't know where you are located but you are welcome to come and visit to see them in person.

I spoke with Kyzteke last night ( she is my good friend ), she knows about the thread and she hopes to chime in but she is really busy right now !

QacarXan

Mar. 6, 2011, 09:57 AM

Thank you for sharing your experience--it sounds like your take on the Teke is exactly the kind that would (and apparently HAS) produce the kind truest to the original nature and intent of the breed. That's so exciting that one of yours is so capable in endurance!

I'm definitely a purist too, though once in a while I'd like to have a Chenaran (Arab x Teke) gelding as well. Reading about the old Teke in English and Farsi, and looking at pictures of the original horses of Turkmenistan and the current horses of Iran, there are huge differences with the breed being propagated by the Russian programs. Here are some photos of current Turkmen horses in Iran.
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=129182163758999&v=photos

It's also great to hear that the purebreds are so capable. I am saddened by the gradual loss of genetic diversity in the breed outside of Iran, especially given its age and intrinsic value. I'd very much like to contribute to the preservation of the breed someday. My ancestors rode these horses for at least hundreds of years, and loved them deeply, so I have a vested personal interest.

I'm in Virginia too (Loudoun County) and would love to see your horses sometime!

Gindarkh

Mar. 6, 2011, 11:49 AM

Yes, you are quite close to me, just a few hours. As soon as yak season is over, come on down !

It is very frustrating watching what is going on in the breed today. Those qualities which made it the legendary animal written about for centuries are those which are being bred out the fastest, particularly the movement, which is quite unique in it's true form.

We are fortunate here in the US to have descendents of some really good horses, the first imports into this country, though considered "culls" by the Russians and therefore sold at auction, gave us some bloodlines very rare now in the rest of the world, and some really excellent foundation stock that was quite true to old-type. But then the extremeness fad took over, and everyone ignored these Tekes, many proven in sport, in favor of those more exotic imports suddenly available after the fall of the Soviet Union, so now there are many of those here as well, lovely to look at, but you don't ride a hooded eye or a "zatylok" neck or a hairless mane...

Since you are from Iran, you might be interested to know that I have the only two Akhal-Teke/Caspian crosses I know of in the world here too, my attempt to see if the DNA points true to the theory that those two breeds created the Arabian...:)

spook1

Mar. 6, 2011, 04:18 PM

Thank you for this threat!!! I am interested was well! I love the history and like you guys I love following the pure bloodlines. I follow S.E. Arabians and I do endurance. I came across the Teke horse by a friend who read some article and that how my interest started.

Gindarkh...what is the temperament of the Purebred Teke? Or do you have a wed site or can you recommend any sites?

horsefaerie

Mar. 6, 2011, 07:14 PM

I was lucky enough to ride a purebred for Endurance many years ago.

Very smooth but more competitive than myself. Only bad habit was that if he saw a horse and rider in the distance you needed to cross your reins and weight your stirrups because he was catching them.

Very protective at vet checks. Kept between the vet and myself. Protective of me like a GSD with other people and horses at home or away.

Cooled out more quickly than my arabs. More brave but less trusting in my judgement.

Very intelligent and opinionated.

Extremely safe.

I miss him!

QacarXan

Mar. 6, 2011, 07:53 PM

Since you are from Iran, you might be interested to know that I have the only two Akhal-Teke/Caspian crosses I know of in the world here too, my attempt to see if the DNA points true to the theory that those two breeds created the Arabian...

I'd never heard of that theory, but now that I've thought about it and googled pictures of your horses (sorry if that's google-stalking but I couldn't resist :sadsmile:) it makes complete sense to me. Caspian spine and head, Teke endurance, etc...your crosses could definitely pass for Arabs.

I was lucky enough to ride a purebred for Endurance many years ago.

Very smooth but more competitive than myself. Only bad habit was that if he saw a horse and rider in the distance you needed to cross your reins and weight your stirrups because he was catching them.

Very protective at vet checks. Kept between the vet and myself. Protective of me like a GSD with other people and horses at home or away.

Cooled out more quickly than my arabs. More brave but less trusting in my judgement.

Very intelligent and opinionated.

Extremely safe.

I miss him!

That's great to hear! So biologically, you feel that the Teke is more than equal in potential to Arabs due to its structure and physiology?

It's interesting to hear about his protective instincts. That's another thing the Russian program seems to be breeding out a lot, but it's something the Turkmen valued very highly and one of the reasons they treated their mounts like exactly what they were: family. There are many anecdotes of how protective of their riders these horses were in combat.

Thank you for addressing both the physical capabilities, and character. Those are so important in any horse, but especially when on the trail for miles and hours in a variety of situations. You've clarified a lot of my questions.

Gindarkh

Mar. 7, 2011, 08:24 AM

I'd never heard of that theory, but now that I've thought about it and googled pictures of your horses (sorry if that's google-stalking but I couldn't resist :sadsmile:) it makes complete sense to me. Caspian spine and head, Teke endurance, etc...your crosses could definitely pass for Arabs.

LOL, you didn't have to Google me, my webpage is listed here under my member info, but I'm glad you liked them ! The pictures are old and I will update them after they shed out this year.

Horsefaerie, who were you riding ? How long ago was it ? Your comments were right on the mark, they are indeed protective of their riders, once they have bonded to their person, they tend to feel a great responsibility to look after them, which can tend to hinder their performance if their rider feels it necessary to dictate such things as jump-takeoffs- when you ride one you have to give up complete control and accept an equal ( and sometimes smaller !) partnership in decision-making, they are so intelligent they need to be part of the equation all the time. They also get bored VERY easily and cannot stand repetitive drilling, you have to vary their routine a lot and find new and innovative ways to train them. But I have never ridden anything more athletic, supple or elastic, and you truly cannot wear them out.

Gindarkh

Mar. 7, 2011, 08:35 AM

Forgot to mention there was another thread on here recently about the breed : http://www.chronofhorse.com/forum/showthread.php?t=288849&highlight=akhal-tekes, with some comments by other owners about their Tekes...

Kyzteke

Mar. 7, 2011, 11:23 AM

Well, it seems like you guys are doing just fine without me....and I'm learning alot as well.

Gindarkh & I have had a number of spirited discussions about the breed, and, although we disagree about many things, I think I can safely say we DO agree that the Russian management of the breed (currently at least) is not leading the breed in a great direction.

As G. has mentioned, it seems there is more emphasis on "type" than performance (other than flat racing). It goes without saying that generations of this has (IMHO) weakened the breed, certainly in the area of endurance.
Also, because the so-called "mother" studbook is controlled, not only by the Russians but by ONE single person, many horses of quality from other countries are excluded (like all the ones from Iran for instance). ALL the horses who wish to be registered in the Russian studbook are evaluated & graded by this ONE person and have been for many, many years. She has the ability to include or exclude a horse and when a Teke breeder tells you a horse was the highest scoring horse in Europe (for example), keep in mind that is the opinion of one, single individual.

So, while experienced breeders & horsefolks (like G & myself) might go their own way in terms of their choices in breeding, the newbie first investigating the breed might be very impressed with this "high scoring" stuff.

Therefore there have been a number of horses brought into this country (usually from Russia) who look good on paper, but have some serious structural or mental faults.

In fact, one of the highest scoring Tekes in America fits into this category. This horse was not only widely promoted because of his high scores, but also widely used -- and IMO did the breed absolutely no good and possibly did some harm.

Unlike G., I am NOT a "purist", especially in this case. I did start out this way, but the more I investigated breeding, the history of breeding and the various breeds I have been involved with, the less of a purist I became.

Perhaps it was because my first Akhal-Teke (and the mare from which all my stock has come) was not considered a PB by the Russian registry. Although her dam (great-dam? help me out here G.) left Russia w/ PB papers, the studbook manager mentioned above felt the use of TB blood in the breed was still going on, so she purged the SB of many animals she felt might contain TB blood added after the first studbook was formed (keep in mind that TB blood added prior to this was not pentalized, so most of the modern Tekes in Russia contain TB blood -- some of them a surprising amount % of it. So, while they DO carry "purebred" papers, they are not genetically "pure").

Many of her decisions were based on little or no evidence (this was long before DNA and even before blood-typing); in the case of my mare, it was (per her statement) based on a single letter received from a single person who had worked at the stud farm over 20 yrs prior.

If that information was true, that made my mare something like 89% Teke. I think G. will back me up on this, but all of her foals (all by different stallions) certainly look like Tekes, move like Tekes and act like Tekes, so if she does contain TB blood, it certainly didn't impact her production.

Also, I think it is extremely important to note that over 1/3 of the horses listed in the first studbook did NOT have confirmed, written pedigrees. And, while I don't have the numbers in front of me, at least 1/3 of the horses who took part in the famous 1935 ride were not "pure" Akhal Tekes. Some were cross-bred and some were Yomuds, which is another strain of Turkomen horses. Instead, the participating animals (and riders) were pulled from Turkomen soldiers and their mounts who routinely patrolled the borders -- horses & riders who were extremely fit.

It's also very important to point out that, especially in the beginning, record-keeping was faulty to the point of being almost ridiculous. Horses who were listed as half or part breds in the first stud book miraculously became "purebreds" by Book III. Even as recently as several years ago, scores given at an inspection here in the States changed when the inspector returned to Russia. This sort of stuff is very common, so many "fact" are not actually factual.

Also people must realize these horses were not breeding or being utilized in a vacuum. During the time when the studbook was being created, or when these animals were being bred, Russia was a communist system, private-property frowned on (at least for the proletariat; for the rich folks it was ok ;)) and graft was rampant. In fact, a well-known Russian breeder who is now in the States laughingly told a friend of mine that for the right amt of $$, he could make sure any horse could be a "purebred." And I have no doubt he was telling the truth.

All of this in extremely important information, because you cannot accurately look at the history of ANY breed without looking at the political and social environment in which they were created. Man is doing the creating, and man must do what it takes to survive in his enviroment. This sort of political and historical stuff, while perhaps rather boring, is key to understanding the accuracy of information on any breed and why some horses were used and others weren't.

Now, because of my involvement with Tekes and with WBs, my opinion on breeding has changed over the years. The WB is a shining example of a "purpose-bred" animal and clearly illustrates the success of this method, coupled with rigorous testing and culling.

Over the years, my involvement with TBs & Arabs has clearly shown me that so-called "purity" in and of itself bring absolutely NOTHING to the table other than a verifiable pedigree. It does not bring quality, it does not bring ability, it does not even bring "type" (which is the line most breeders will give you.). It, in fact, brings nothing.

All one has to do to prove my point is examine the wide variety (in all the areas mentioned above) in such purebred breeds as Arabs & TBs. or instance, check out this horse:
http://mandolynn.com/Stalliions-Virgule%20Al%20Maury.html (http://mandolynn.com/Stalliions-Virgule%20Al%20Maury.html[/SIZE][/SIZE])

And then this one:
http://www.rolervickarabians.com/stallions/OutOfCyte/ (http://www.rolervickarabians.com/stallions/OutOfCyte/)Both PB Arabs. Doesn’t look like even the same breed, but less the same “type.” So much for the theory that purity sets type.

So, slowly over the years, I have change my mind about breeding and I am now firmly in the camp of "purpose-bred" breeding. After all, purpose-bred breeding is what created such amazing animals as the original Teke and Arab.

Now, folks will tell you that all of the pedigrees of these horses were committed to memory and the breeders (and users) of these two breeds put great stock in "purity." Perhaps this was true, but I'm betting that they put far MORE stock in performance. After all, their very lives depended on it.[/SIZE]

For example: let's say Turkoman Raider "A" swoops down on his enemies’ village and steals a horse. This horse turns out to be strong, brave, fast, hardy -- top-notch stuff if you are TM warrior.

Well, first of all, do you really think they are going to NOT use this animal for breeding just because they don't know his pedigree? Of course not! They are going to breed the snot o/o him! So how the heck are they going to determine his pedigree, much less his level of "purity?" I doubt the thief stopped on his way out to ask...:lol: Send a fax to his yurt?

No, alot of things have changed, but human nature has not. I suspect in these cases the guy either made something up or...made something up.;). Probably involving some god or miracle or some other thing that would explain the creation of this miraculous animal. But the only thing that would make him go to all this trouble in the first place would be if the horse could PERFORM -- if he could excel at his job....and his job was NOT standing around looking elegant and shiny.

THIS is how the breed came forth and so many horse breeders of so many breeds have lost sight of the fact looks has little to do with how well a horse performs. And, to repeat myself, neither does "purity."

So, if I was in charge of the Teke world :D, I would put far less emphasis on who the Russians call "pure" and far more what the horse looks likes, moves like and performs like. Also how they produce. I would incorporate stock from places like Iran and TM, although I would want pedigrees to be verified and all horses DNA'ed from the start (there is much talk that TM especially is not keeping very accurate records in terms of their breeding stock).

As far as the Teke breed today and his ability for endurance, I can't really say. Not enough of them are out there doing it, at least in this country. The Russians (that I've spoken with) don't consider "endurance" much of a sport and aren't breeding for it.

And, yes, a number of Tekes have competed in Tevis, but only one has actually finished. It is interesting to note that this single animal (a mare) was one of the Tekes which here in America we call a 'highbred', meaning she falls in the same category as my mare; somewhere back there an ancestor was tossed out of the purebred studbook because of suspicion of outside (non-Teke) blood.

The purebred Teke with the highest number of AERC miles has only a pathetic 450 miles to his credit.

The Teke with the highest number of AERC miles was also a highbred - I think he had about 1100, which, again, is not a HUGE number of miles, but still better than 450. He was gelded and sold by his owner because he was not "pure." Stupid, stupid, stupid. Oh, did I say how stupid that was?:mad

]My foundation mare only competed once -- her FIRST (and only) ride was a 75 miler:rolleyes: and she placed 7th.

Her son, Kinor, has only produced one Teke offspring and he is not yet 1 yr old, but I'm hoping he will do well in sport (endurance or otherwise). Kinor also has a fair number of crosses (mostly Arabs, but also other breeds) out there, but the oldest is only coming 5 yrs old, so their careers as endurance horses have barely started. The oldest one did his first 50 last year and did well -- finished in good condition in a ride where about 1/4 of the horses were pulled. This horse is o/o a breeding stock Paint mare, incidentally.

Mel Hare and Kerry Redente, both very knowledable and successful endurance riders (Kerry was AERC's '09 National High Mileage Champion) have Kinor/Arab offspring in their barns, just waiting for them to grow up. Mel's horse will be 3 this year, so still along way from proving himself as an endurance mount.

In fact, if you look, you will see that this is one area Tekes need to improve on -- "proving" themselves a performance arena.

Phil Case, the man who brought the very first Akhal-Teke into this country (and also lives near G. and the OP), spent HUGE amounts of $$ promoting his stock and putting them in training -- mostly eventing -- back in the '80's and early '90's. One of his Tekes was even long-listed of the Olympic team in this sport under Craig Stevens. And eventing is a sport that was almost custom designed for Tekes, because almost any Teke can jump. But since then the dirth of true "performance" Tekes has been noticable and that hasn't helped the breed either.

Currently, G. probably has more of her stock out there performing -- mostly in eventing & stadium jumping -- and this speaks very highly of her breeding program. I'm sure many of these horses could do well in endurance too, since I feel a horse who can do well in higher level eventing, can be a successful endurance horse as well. Maybe not a Tevis winner, but definitely good at the sport.

As for disposition -- well, this is another area where G. and I argue constantly. It has been my experience, not only with my stock but also with others, that Tekes can be "difficult" to handle -- but that is because they DO tend to be rather opinionated and they are a very sensitive & intelligent to boot.They are not a breed that suffers fools well. They DO bond deeply with "their" person and they tend to pick that person themselves. I could tell you numerous stories of Tekes (or even Teke crosses) I've bred and handled for the first year or two of their lives, then sold. YEARS later, even after they have been under the care of their new owner for ages, I would visit & was able to get them to do things their owner could not -- and, while I consider myself a very capable horsewoman, I'm certainly no horsewhisperer.

And I am not alone in this opinion. Kerry Redente, who has bred her mares to Kinor 3-4 times (and who is a FAR better horsewoman than I) said just recently that "those Tekes sure are different."

However, then there is the fabled Absent, who competed under two different riders in the Olympics, so if he started out being fussy, he certainly got over it.

But it can be (and is) an issue with many of the breed, so keep that in mind (or buy your horse from G., who swears none of her's are like this:)).

However, I will say that once you get that bond going for you, a Teke is almost dog-like in their response and bond to their owner (again, my experience).

When Kinor was returned to me (I bred him, but he was sold as a weanling), he came back as a very ill-mannered 20 month old stallion who had already pasture-bred one mare :eek:. It took quite awhile before we got to that happy place between us, but the last 2 yrs of his life I could not only breed him in nothing but a rope halter (well, I wore more than that, but HE wore only a rope halter ;)). The last year of his life we had things down so well I could lead the mare into his pasture and, just through hand signals, he would wait till I had her in position and all ready to go. Then I would give him the signal and he would approach and breed her. Anyone will tell you this is NOT an easy thing to get a breeding stallion to do.

I will say that in my life time I have had extensive experience (both as a pro and currently as an ammie) with several breeds and I feel that many Tekes ARE different in their attitude and disposition.

Well, I've offered about as much as I can to this discussion. Between other commitment and computer/connection issues, I will respectfully bow out and leave you in the capable hands of G., who knows far more about the state of breed than I, although my opinions are usually more correct. :D

BTW, here is a great example of an Arab/Teke cross very well suited for endurance. He was rather tense that day, since he hadn't been off the farm since he was a foal, but you can see how the Teke will improve the gaits (at least imho)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hy9uu4Mos

Trakehner

Mar. 7, 2011, 12:33 PM

Friends were assigned to Turkmenistan and leased a pair of Akhal Tekes...what a horrible place to be a horse. Typically no vet care and no vaccinations (we helped them sneak vaccines for both horses in a vacuum thermos.) The horses didn't hold up to the hard work...there was some sort of neck-shoulder weakness/problem that seemed to do in most of the horses. When they were lame/injured they were turned out to die. You'll see the Akhals on the side of the road starving.

The Turkmenbashi, leader, when he took power from the Russians had every non Akhal Teke either killed or if a stallion, gelded. On Akhals were allowed to remain as a symbol of Turkmen pride.

citydog

Mar. 7, 2011, 01:15 PM

Great thread.

Could you please post some links to the different types of AT you reference?

Kyzteke, that youtube link doesn't work.

Gindarkh

Mar. 7, 2011, 01:28 PM

Well, I've offered about as much as I can to this discussion. Between other commitment and computer/connection issues, I will respectfully bow out and leave you in the capable hands of G., who knows far more about the state of breed than I, although my opinions are usually more correct. :D

Love you too !! ;)

monicabee

Mar. 7, 2011, 01:35 PM

Perhaps because they were not bred by a government organization for most of their 5,000 year history, but developed as a tribal horse, ridden to war but kept at home, the horses we now know as Akhal Tekes do not conform to a single standard in the first place. There are different lines within the breed, and as they are dispersed around the world, regional differences will probably evolve as they have with the thoroughbred. Even within North America there is also disagreement about what is correct or desirable -- but then this is a vast and diverse nation.

As an "end user," you don't need to debate these issues, fortunately.

I can say that from a riders' point of view, the small sample that I have ridden (five or seven, depending if you count crosses) all had in common the "glide ride" and the ability to tune in to my plan. Because they are the kind of horse I like in the first place (I have always ridden TB's), I was instantly smitten.

I am no hardcore endurance rider but I have done a little bit (on a Teke and a Teke cross), so I laughed when I read what horsefaerie wrote. Once they figure out what the drill is, the strong-willed ones will try to get ahead a few steps -- but there are very pliable characters in the breed too. I am working with two of these right now.

Many of the horses competing in endurance are "owner/operator" horses, which suits them, but they are not always with riders who can compete as often as they would like and don't rack up the miles or top 10 finishes at a very impressive level.

However, both purebreds and crosses are showing up in increasing numbers at rides here in the PNW. I made a list when putting together the breed brochure for the WEG (pm me if you'd like and I can send you a link to the brochure - G. provided me with a little factchecking help on it).

There were 10 Akhal Tekes (pure or impure) who had completed at 50-100 mile distances that I could verify from AERC records and quite a lot more part-breds. I don't claim my list was complete - and obviously from what K. says there are quite a few more in training. In addition, Monica Bennett (that's NOT me) is aiming for Tevis this year with her cross Inde.

They are not going to take over the sport anytime soon. As has been pointed out, they are not a flavor for everyone, but they have attracted new riders to endurance (like me!) and Tekes with the size, build, temperament and hoof quality to excel in endurance are easier to find now than before. I expect there will be continued growth in this area as well as in eventing.

One thing is for sure - if you do anything in public with a Teke, you will meet an increasing number of people who know about and are fascinated with the breed. You have to be a fast study!

Kyzteke

Mar. 9, 2011, 12:56 PM

There were 10 Akhal Tekes (pure or impure) who had completed at 50-100 mile distances that I could verify from AERC records and quite a lot more part-breds. I don't claim my list was complete - and obviously from what K. says there are quite a few more in training. In addition, Monica Bennett (that's NOT me) is aiming for Tevis this year with her cross Inde.

First of all, I hope you have Karma on your list! She is my foundation mare, (currently 24 yrs old) and dam of Kinor, therefore granddam of every Arab x I've bred. She is in the AERC records, which shows the ONE race she took part in was a 75 miler here in the PNW, where she Top 10'ed.

That would make her the granddam of this horse I mentioned above and tried to post the link to his video. I've tried again, and for some reason it just won't connect. But if you are interested, go to YouTube and look up videos by user RecklessHeartRanch. You can see videos of Kinor, and several crosses sired by him. The one related to INDE is named Cisco Rose RHR.

This horse is also a half-brother to Monica Woodman's "INDE", (same dam). Inde was sired by a PB Teke who was a half-sibling to Karma, so they are closely related.

BTW, Inde (Registered name is Atash) was bred by me -- he was the second horse I ever bred. I still have his dam, Maja. Just ask Monica what Inde was/is like to deal with ;). Hotter than a $2 pistol!
Thank goodness she ended up with him.

However, I really can't put all the blame on his Teke side -- Maja CAN throw hot. She had a Teke x colt by Kinor who was just as spicy as INDE. But the horse in the video (Cisco Rose RHR) is not like that...he is actually very good-minded.

Oh -- and I hope you also have Octopelle on your list, although he hadn't done his 50 if you made your list prior to WEG. Octopelle is just starting his endurance career with Shannon Mayfield -- this will be his second year. As I mentioned, he is o/o a breeding stock Paint mare.

whicker

Mar. 25, 2011, 09:05 AM

Jeannie Waldron is my freind and long time vet. I talked to her yesterday about the tekes and asked her if she had ever had the opportunity to ride or work with one.

She admire the breed, but has never had the funds to buy one.

My thought is that if there is an interest in promoting the breed by having a double world champion and Hall of Famer work with one, here is your opportunity.

I am very interested in the breed, so that is where this idea comes from.

TalkTeke

Apr. 8, 2011, 02:46 PM

Great thread!

Spankin' new to the forum, and here I find a thread near and dear to me!

I recently bought a colt as my next prospect for endurance. He is a Teke x Arab. Unfortunately, another 2 years before competition age.

K, fascinating stuff! Though I am curious as to which stallion you speak of (the one that is not your cup o' tea). PM if you like; b/c I am nosy, and wondering why you did not like. I am always wanting to learn more about the lines.

G, love your horses!

OP, I think Tekes, in general are great for the sport. So long as they are soundly built! Some of them are poorly built, and would not hold up to the many miles. But the light build, allowing for quick and efficient cooling is VERY important. So there is an advantage there.

Only reason I didn't buy a PB was economics, and I fell in love with the individual colt I got. Breed was incidental.

CZF

Apr. 8, 2011, 03:17 PM

I can't answer your questions but I have to say Akhal Teke's have the COOLEST coats!!!

TalkTeke

Apr. 8, 2011, 09:29 PM

Was thinking about the OP's question and had to come back to add...

Teke's, as a breed, are just as suited to endurance as Arabs! You need to take it on an individual basis. The sport is not nearly as breed specific as many seem to think. Arabs are most used because they were developed to be able to do it, and there is a higher percentage of them that can still do it (even though most are no longer bred to be able to handle it). However, there are LOTS which are no longer suited to do it well. They are bred for the ring, harness, jumping, etc... Now, they can still do it, but are not as good at higher levels, or require more conditioning.

There are plenty of exceptions to the rule (I mean the breeds standards). In my local club, there is a Canadian Horse (sister breed to the Morgan) that invariable out-performs a purebred Arab... actually a few Arabs!

I would like to see, in a few years, the stats on the PB and part bred Tekes that are being bred for and used in endurance. I do know that a few small breeders/ stallion owners are producing for endurance. I've heard good things about Kinor and his offspring and the MV horses.

Kyzteke

Apr. 10, 2011, 10:02 AM

I would like to see, in a few years, the stats on the PB and part bred Tekes that are being bred for and used in endurance. I do know that a few small breeders/ stallion owners are producing for endurance. I've heard good things about Kinor and his offspring and the MV horses.

As you noted, much depends on the individual, although I do maintain that if you took, say, 25 random Arabs and 25 random Tekes and tried them out in endurance, the Arabs would out perform the Tekes.

I may be wrong, but my exposure to the Teke breed in the last 15+yrs has shown me that very few of the PBs are being proven in performance of any kind, and more and more are being graded/judged on 'type' more than anything else.

It's common knowledge around almost any Teke breeder that the Russian inspector is very casual (or unable to recognize) a whole slew of conformational faults, including leg issues.

So, in other words, a horse may have 4 legs that point 6 difference directions, but if it's close to 16hh, has a hooded eye, long back, highly metallic coat, it's going to be graded higher than the correct horse with less type.

Now, is that any way to breed?

Granted, the mythical Teke of almost 200 yrs ago (which is when Russian annexed Turkmenistan and began to "tame" the tribes who made raiding part of their livelihood), could have matched any Arab out there, but 200 yrs is a LONG time in the history of the breed and I personally doubt there are too many Tekes out there who are the match of that fabled animal of yore.

But the only way to know is to try them out and breed the ones who do well.

TekeTalk -- Personally, I think you did better getting an Arab/Teke x rather than a PB (or even highbred) if you want to be successful in endurance.

What is the breeding of your guy?

TalkTeke

Apr. 10, 2011, 08:34 PM

Murgab out of a nicely bred Arab mare. Not bred for Endurance. Bred for jumping.

I jump like a sack of potaotes, but liked his look, so got him anyway. We'll see in 2 years how he does (he's just comming 3 now) in endurance. I'm not going for high level competition.

He has his sire's movement. At least he'll be a comfortable ride!

Familiar with Murgab?

Kyzteke

Apr. 10, 2011, 11:45 PM

Murgab out of a nicely bred Arab mare. Not bred for Endurance. Bred for jumping.

Familiar with Murgab?

Indeed I am. Cindy Swanson & I are good friends.

But if it's a Teke, it SHOULD be bred for endurance....that is what the breed was bred for. Arabs too.

Gindarkh

Apr. 19, 2011, 09:54 PM

Familiar with Murgab?

HI TalkTeke !

Murgab is the first son of one of my broodmares, he got his outstanding movement from her, she has the original old-style, very slinky movement that is what makes the breed so awesome.

Hope he does well for you !

Timex

Apr. 20, 2011, 06:37 AM

NOT an endurance rider, but have always thought the ATs were stunning! Just my $.02. ;)

Nootka

Apr. 20, 2011, 11:44 AM

Love the Tekes :yes: My mare was a Czech with Teke background and had the most metallic coat and VERY protective. I was walking her and someone was talking to me and went to touch me and she tried to bite her:eek:

I loved that mare and wish I never sold her:(

Carol Ames

Apr. 20, 2011, 04:56 PM

Fwiw, I said the same about AT suitability to someone who, happened to be a two-time winner:cool: of the old dominion here in Va. He is himself:winkgrin: breeding for endurance; and said Ats are not suitable due to "lack of bone:confused:" I lived on the at stud farm of Phil and Margot case, thanks to their hospitality:yes::yes:; and saw first hand that Ats’ conformation and temperament does seem to vary :yes:widely; as in any other discipline ; it is a matter of choosing the :winkgrin:right two individuals ; doing your homework:yes: and then crossing your fingers:lol:; I would be interested to see what you got:yes:________________
breeder of mercury!

QacarXan

Jul. 30, 2011, 03:53 PM

Hi all! Sorry I fell off the map for so long--life emergencies hit with a vengeance, though all's well now. I remembered this thread today and was delighted to see how much has been posted since last I could check.

It is so wonderful to hear all these experiences. I'm learning a great deal.

Regarding Russian vs. old-time breeding of the Teke, many Iranian breeders in Iran have the old type since Russia never subdued the Turkmen tribes in Iran. Here is a group that still breeds them--note that some ARE Russian bred, but many are not. The difference is striking:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=129182163758999

Also, in Iran, there are many strains of Turkmen horse, of which the Teke is just one. Iranian Teke tend to be bred to Yomud (another tribe's breed of Turkmen) mares, so they aren't "pure" Akhal, but are still entirely Turkmen. Yomud horses are famed for their endurance but are less physically attractive than Teke, and are shorter. They likely had an infusion of Arab blood around the 14th century, according to Iranian sources, and their different conformation may also be a product of Central Asian Mongol-type influence as well.

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=120529761314847

An Arab sire crossed to a Teke dam produces what is called a Chenaran horse in Iran, a cross famed for being hardier than either breed alone, in Iranian historical annals. I think Kyzteke has bred a number of reverse-Chenarans (Teke stallion, Arab mare) with great results. When I have a more stable economic situation I'd love to get a Chenaran!

Did those facebook links work?

Thanks!

TalkTeke

Jul. 30, 2011, 04:15 PM

But if it's a Teke, it SHOULD be bred for endurance....that is what the breed was bred for. Arabs too.

Yes it is what the breed was originally bred for. But that doesn't mean that is what all individuals will excell at. Like not all Arabs can do endurance.

Wait, having a brain fart; do you mean that all breeders of the two breeds should be breeding a horse that can excell at endurance?? Because that is what they went ment to do in generations past? Sorry, poor sleep last night and not sure I'm reading right.

I do agree that all Teke breeders should strive to breed a horse with good legs and feet, clean moving and therefore could do endurance, at least at the lower levels. But just because they have these characteristics do not necessarily make a great Endurance horse.

I think that takes extra selection from the norm to consistantly reproduce.

What about other markets Teke's excell at? Dressage or jumping? I have friends that do these sports, and they look for a horse confo much differnt than I do.

TalkTeke

Jul. 30, 2011, 04:24 PM

An Arab sire crossed to a Teke dam produces what is called a Chenaran horse in Iran, a cross famed for being hardier than either breed alone, in Iranian historical annals. I think Kyzteke has bred a number of reverse-Chenarans (Teke stallion, Arab mare) with great results. When I have a more stable economic situation I'd love to get a Chenaran!

Did those facebook links work?

Thanks!

Facebook links work. Very cool, nice horses!

I own a "reverse-Chenaran". Wonder if they differ from a Chenaran? :winkgrin:

Talking to other cross owners, they are more laid back than their parent breeds. I have yet to speak to anyone with a competition age one yet though.

QacarXan

Jul. 30, 2011, 04:31 PM

Facebook links work. Very cool, nice horses!

I own a "reverse-Chenaran". Wonder if they differ from a Chenaran? :winkgrin:

Talking to other cross owners, they are more laid back than their parent breeds. I have yet to speak to anyone with a competition age one yet though.

Interesting to hear about their laid-back attitude--also in the historical record, they were most popular for serving as military mounts in Iran's army. Perhaps the laid-back attitude lent itself better to having multiple riders of varying skill, as would be common in the military, whereas a more possessive and intense horse might lend itself better to an individual or family's ownership?

QacarXan

Aug. 2, 2011, 11:32 AM

Hi Teke afficianados--just found something that might interest endurance riders who wonder what the Teke is traditionally fed before a long, long endurance ride.

This is excerpted from Demetrius Charles Boulger's "The Turkmen" from 1879.

"The Turkmen horse is not less an object of affection to his master than the Arab is to his. When it has been decided to carry out a raid into Persia, the Turkmen puts his horse through a regular course of training, of which the following is a description. For thirty days before the time appointed for the start the animal is exercised daily, part of that exercise being to gallop at full speed for half an hour. Some hours after he is brought in he is fed, his food consisting of six pounds of hay, or clover-hay, and about three pounds of barley or one-half the usual allowance of corn. During this period as little water as possible is given to the horse. Sometimes this period is shorter than the time specified, particularly if the animal appears to be in the necessary hard condition. But the preparatory course of training does not stop here, although the start for the scene of the proposed foray, or chapaoul, is then made. Each Turkmen takes with him an inferior horse called yaboo, which he himself rides until he reaches the place of action. It then serves to carry back the plunder. The charger, as it may be termed, follows bare-backed and without bridle his master, and the advance is graduated so that the daily march shall not be excessive. During this later stage, which lasts from the time of starting until the arrival at the scene where it is proposed to assail the Persian village, the horse's food is changed to four pounds and a quarter of barley flour, two pounds of maize flour, and two pounds of raw sheep's-tail fat chopped very fine. These are well mixed and kneaded together, and given to the horse in the form of a ball.

While taking this no hay is given to him, and this food is much liked by the horse. After four days of this food he is considered to be in prime condition, and capable not only of attaining the greatest speed but also of sustaining the most protracted fatigue. Then the yaboo is discarded and left in the rear, while the Turkmen on his charger goes forward to carry out the design which has occasioned the whole enterprise. It is said that when in this high state of training the Turkmen horse can perform a daily journey of one hundred miles, and continue the same degree of sustained speed for several days. There is no valid reason for doubting this statement, and the performance of this almost unequalled feat rests upon testimony of the most unequivocal kind.

The grand secret of the treatment of their horses by the Turkmen is undoubtedly to be found in the fact that they most carefully prevent their taking any green food. The character of the soil of Kara Kum is peculiarly favorable to the practice of this sound theory, for it produces only during the spring anything green at all. During that period the Turkmen are always quiescent; but in the month of August, and sometimes before, the horse is put upon his regular allowance of dry food, viz. seven pounds of barley mixed with dry chopped straw, lucerne, and clover hay.

This treatment undoubtedly tends to give the horse a stamina and higher temperature than any other horse of which we know, not excepting the Arab. The horse is also treated by these people with quite as much sympathy and affection as he is in Arabia. He is never ill-treated, and any Turkmen who attempted to ill-use him would be visited with the scorn of all men. The feeling is clearly traceable to the companionship which exists between the master and his horse from the time when the latter was a foal; and as the Turkmen's safety often depends exclusively upon the good qualities of his charger, it is intelligible that that affection should become stronger with age instead of weaker. "

nate5

Aug. 3, 2011, 10:15 AM

I am new to this board. I am finally at the point where I can purchase my first horse and I have wanted to do endurance for the last ten years. I have also wanted an Akhal Teke since I saw the picture of the shiny palomino stallion in some old horse encyclopedia when I was a kid.

Although I have never participated in endurance racing, various forums over the last few years have shaken my confidence to get a teke for endurance (because so many of them seem to be beauty pageant winners but not capable of the abilities once attributed to them)

This forum was the first mention I have heard of an old type of these horses existing in Iran.

Has anyone seen these horses in person, does anyone in the states own one?

Is it possible to import horses from Iran? Are there other breeders out there (hopefully in the states) breeding specifically for endurance?

I still have the dream in my head of having one of these horses but since I cannot have an unlimited number of horses I want to have a horse that has a realistic possibility of being able to race in endurance. I know the easy answer is just get an arabian but I am not ready to let go of legendary shiny horse dream just yet :)

Thanks!

Lisa Preston

Aug. 3, 2011, 10:32 AM

I can't help ya with info on importing from Iran but there are certainly purebred and partbred Tekes competing in endurance. Inde is scheduled for Tevis (it's in October, this year). Darginka just won an LD (25 miler--she pulses down fast).

There are some very cool Teke Arabs kicking around. Can't wait to see wht they'll do down the road. Another member has an extremely nice 3 yo!

There does seem to be a trend for Tekes to get taller as the Russians breed for racing, dressage and jumping. Top endurance horses tend to be upper 14/lower 15 hands..and for the step-child of enduro, R&T, there's no way you want something approaching 16, unless you AND your partner are quite tall. That said, there are a couple of shorter studs. Murgab outside of Alberta is classic, shorter and has exceptional movement. Kuwwat in OR also isn't too tall--and he's been bred to an Arab and to a Mustang...hmm, which makes an AkhalTang. Or a Musteke.

Welcome, Nate.

QacarXan

Aug. 3, 2011, 10:42 AM

Hi and welcome!

Your best bet is definitely finding a good place to buy in North America with the help of the experts here (they are obviously VERY helpful!).

Sanctions laws prohibit basically any commerce between here and Iran, such that you would get a very hefty jail sentence just for sending money to a bank account there. The political situation, frankly, is a real tragedy for the horses (and the humans). If anyone knows of any Iranian-derived bloodlines outside Iran, please do share!

nate5

Aug. 3, 2011, 11:18 AM

I should have been more clear in my post. I didn't mean to insult anyone, I know there are tekes competing but because I am a newbie (i have ridden casually my whole life) and because I have zero experience with endurance I would not have the slightest idea where to find or how to pick an appropriate endurance prospect, and I would be super bummed out to wind up with a pretty but useless field decoration.

Lisa, the people that you mentioned that are competing, do they breed regularly or did they do the legwork and find appropriate horses from other breeders?

I am tall (for a girl I guess) 5'10", don't know how much that would affect my selection except that I might need a slightly larger horse.

I figured there was some kind of embargo with Iran, but I thought I would ask anyway.

And another thing I don't have the capacity to break/train a young horse myself, I would more likely be the one to get broken. I would need a horse that was pretty much ready to go and the only 3+ year old horses I see anywhere for endurance are arabs or arab x. If anyone knows of teke or teke x please let me know.

thank you all for the information!

Gindarkh

Aug. 3, 2011, 12:01 PM

Nate5,

There are numerous Akhal-Teke purebreds and partbreds for sale across the US right now. If you PM your specifics I can try to direct you to some of them.

JER

Aug. 3, 2011, 12:48 PM

Just for kicks, I'm linking to some photos of my now 6 year-old 1/2 Akhal-Teke 1/2 TB. I bred her myself, out of my TB mare and by the Teke stallion Super Star.

She's started eventing, just the low levels now but she's a terrific XC horse (her half-sister was an Advanced eventer) and this week, she's participating in a children's dressage competition with an international rider. She has foxhunted and we do have plans to do some endurance with her eventually.

Although her parents are 16hh and 15.2hh, she's topped out at 14.2hh. But she carries an adult very well. You'll notice she has the Teke head/ears/body.

Zizi cantering (http://www.flickr.com/photos/28168510@N07/5828814769)

jumping a crossrail (http://www.flickr.com/photos/28168510@N07/5829356156)

biting her full TB sister (http://www.flickr.com/photos/28168510@N07/5828814671) (you can see how narrow she is)

She's a fun horse, naturally bold, extremely intelligent, and a superb athlete.

:)

nate5

Aug. 3, 2011, 01:38 PM

She is so beautiful!

Out of curiosity what made you want an at x tb cross?

JER

Aug. 3, 2011, 06:22 PM

She is so beautiful!

Out of curiosity what made you want an at x tb cross?

Thank you. :)

I wanted a smallish horse out of my TB mare for myself to ride. That's me in those photos -- I'm 5'7" but very small-boned and lightweight.

I was leery of breeding to a Connemara as my mare is very short-coupled and a difficult ride. I saw the Chronicle stallion ad for Super Star and was quite taken with him so I contacted his owner. They looked like a good match to me.

I wanted something versatile, as I was doing the odd LTD at the time and also like to foxhunt. And Zizi is versatile. She also excels at working cattle.

Lisa Preston

Aug. 3, 2011, 06:49 PM

JER Zizi looks like FUN! That narrow body must be a comfy ride and it sure will radiate heat better than a wide build when she gets to enduro. What a great all-arounder you're making.

TalkTeke

Aug. 4, 2011, 11:40 AM

Although I have never participated in endurance racing, various forums over the last few years have shaken my confidence to get a teke for endurance (because so many of them seem to be beauty pageant winners but not capable of the abilities once attributed to them)

This forum was the first mention I have heard of an old type of these horses existing in Iran.

Has anyone seen these horses in person, does anyone in the states own one?

Is it possible to import horses from Iran? Are there other breeders out there (hopefully in the states) breeding specifically for endurance?

Don't give up the dream! lol

I do agree, there does seem to be a few breeders who focus too much on type, and seem to be overdoing it! Some Teke's remind me of the super dished Arabs bred for Halter, and not good for anything else. (Not saying all Halter Arabs are bad - H Tobago is freaking awesome and not too typey) These Teke breeders don't put out anything I would use for endurance - they are breeding for type at the expense of good conformation.

But there are some great looking Teke studs out there in US and Canada of the type you want.

I own a 3yo Teke x Arab gelding. By Murgab (Alberta, Canada), out of a nice Arab mare. Pictures, pictures... Hmmm... K, Red from 3 months to 2 1/2 years (http://s250.photobucket.com/albums/gg244/GreatGotlands/Red/) and 3+ years (http://s250.photobucket.com/albums/gg244/GreatGotlands/Horses%20in%202011/) The dunskin is a Gotland pony x Spanish mustang. He has a super calm level temperament, SMOOTH movement from his sire and is only 15h so far.

There are a few stallions being used in Endurance. Some I drool over. I almost wish I had done more research into Teke studs and picked one of their offspring. But no, happy with Red, we click. Some of the studs I like are in the Stallion directory. http://www.teke.ca/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/2010sdirhr.pdf This directory is cool. Has a bunch of North American Tekes, with their stats, picture, performance history and performance history of offspring (if available). There are directories for previous years too.

Some of the endurance Tekes are already mentioned, but there is also Jas Shearer-McMahon (sp?) with Magic Valley Tekes, her stallion MV Patrickhan (by Astrachan). Both studs have done about 400 AERC miles with her. Dazyrdi (of AT Bolsin (in Alberta??) has done a few LDs.

There was another Teke stud that produced great endurance horse. Cannot remember his name. I think he is recently deceased?? A few months back there were a bunch of his offspring for sale (including some crosses) that looked A-MAZE-ING! Great prices too. Anyone?

QacarXan

Aug. 4, 2011, 11:57 AM

There was another Teke stud that produced great endurance horse. Cannot remember his name. I think he is recently deceased?? A few months back there were a bunch of his offspring for sale (including some crosses) that looked A-MAZE-ING! Great prices too. Anyone?

Kinor maybe?

TalkTeke

Aug. 4, 2011, 12:40 PM

Yeah, think it was Kinor. E-chatted with a few owners of his offspring. Very happy with them.

TalkTeke

Aug. 4, 2011, 12:56 PM

Bred by a person here: Kyzteke?? Thanks for prompting my memory.

Kyzteke

Aug. 4, 2011, 01:04 PM

I just sold Kinor's last Arab X -- a buckskin gelding o/o my best Arab mare (also dam of Inde). He is 5 yrs old and went to a former regional champion endurance rider, so hopefully we'll see him competing next year. Here's a pic:
http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2662507600104425996feBkSN

Kerry Redente (AERC '09 National High Mileage Champion) has a lovely dark palomino filly named Kahlua Gold for sale that was sired by Kinor and is o/o a very nice Arab mare. The full sibling to this filly sold at 30 days of age to endurance rider Mel Hare and we should be seeing that colt competing next year (he's only 3, I think right now).

Shannon Mayfield has 4 Kinor foals o/o various non-Teke mares. The oldest, Octopelle is o/o a Paint mare. He had a pretty successful year in '10 doing LD's, but I haven't heard anything from him this year.

And I just "re-homed" the first horse I ever bred: a TB/Teke mare sired by Pieter. That mare is SO laid back she successfully carted her very ammie/green owner all over the mtns. of Idaho for years, till the owner's health forced her to give the horse up. The mare ("Hero") is now on a permanent lease to a local lesson program, where she recently carted around a 71 yr old beginning rider! That mare is a treasure -- safest horse in the world on the trail.

I do find that most of the Arab/Teke crosses seem to be quieter and more personable than the PB Tekes...they are less stand-offish. But depends on the dam. My Polish Arab mare (triple bred Bask) can throw some real hotties (like Inde), but that came from her, not Kinor.

Again, there simply aren't enough Tekes out there who have really put the miles in to actually prove their talent. 400 AERC miles isn't much, after all.

Out of the actual Tekes who are doing endurance, Patrickhan is looking the best so far, but if you want to breed to him you need to be willing to work with frozen semen, since he was gelded a number of years ago.

I DO have high hopes for Kinor's babies, and I've managed to place afew of them in very promising performance homes, but the jury is out for a few more years.

I have retained his only Teke offspring, a colt I named Kioyote Moon.http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2417243550104425996OVnKeg He was Kinor's last foal and was conceived just a month before Kinor died. His dam is by Astrakhan and o/o a Kys granddaughter, so he is actually linebred to this (so-called) impure line of Tekes. But considering how athlete this line tended to be and were quite proven in performance (Gindarkh competed very successfully in jumpers & eventing off a Kys son back when she was a youngster ;)) this is actually a plus in my mind.

Kioyote is surprisingly mellow given his lineage and loaded with type AND movement, so for now I will keep him whole and we'll go from there.

I do still have Kinor's dam (Karma), who will be 25 yrs old soon, but she is retired from doing anything but eating. But she still looks good...she has the shiniest coat on her I've seen in ages! Here she is back in younger days:http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2910353560104425996WCSNcI

And that's it for me in terms of Tekes, with the exception of Kazakh Heart, a 3/4 sister to Kinor. More about her later...;)

As for the Tekes in Iran, Brent Seutert (sp?) went there twice, hoping to import some of these horses, but as another poster noted, right now it's just impossible because of the political climate.

Also, you would have to establish a new registry if you wanted to track bloodlines using this stock, because none of these horses would be accepted into the current Russian "mother studbook".

All I can say for those of you out there looking for a Teke or a Teke cross to compete off of is do LOTS of homework, see LOTS of horses, check out legs & feet carefully and meet the horse in person if you can.

I hate to say this about a breed I adore, but the simple fact is there IS alot of crap out there -- horses bred for looks and not much else.

Also, I know some people disagree with me on this, but I have found that (in general), these are NOT horses for ammies or real greenies to fumble around with. They tend to be sensitive, very forward, and easily offended (for lack of a better term).

I have a 3/4 sister to Kinor (the aforementioned Kazakh Heart) who is just lovely & may actually be the most athletic horse I've EVER seen, but who I have refused to sell over the years simply because I know she would be a total trainwreck in the wrong hands. After lots of handling, sacking out, etc. I finally put an English saddle on her afew weeks ago while we were in the round pen.

Well, she bucked so hard she bucked the saddle blanket out from under the saddle!!!:eek::eek: When she bucked, her back was actually higher than the highest bar on my 5'6" round pen!! All I could think of was "good gravy, I'm sure glad I wasn't on her for that!!". Here's the little darling:http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2792131860104425996yMmWWA

She's a supreme athlete, but she needs a rider who is just as athletic to bring it out....all others need not apply.

Just sayin'.....;)

Kyzteke

Aug. 4, 2011, 01:14 PM

Yeah, think it was Kinor. E-chatted with a few owners of his offspring. Very happy with them.

Very glad to hear this. Who did you talk to? You can PM me if you'd like.

Losing Kinor was a BIG loss for me, I'll tell you that.

Ozalynda

Aug. 4, 2011, 01:24 PM

There are a few stallions being used in Endurance. Some I drool over. I almost wish I had done more research into Teke studs and picked one of their offspring. But no, happy with Red, we click. Some of the studs I like are in the Stallion directory. http://www.teke.ca/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/2010sdirhr.pdf This directory is cool. Has a bunch of North American Tekes, with their stats, picture, performance history and performance history of offspring (if available). There are directories for previous years too.

Thanks for the plug! My mother and I have compiling this directory for quite a few years now. It is very nice to know that someone actually looks at it!!!! It has moved onto its own website now, but it is not perfect yet. When finally done, it will also have sales horses available, plus european sires and sales horses.
www.akhaltekedirectory.com

And to put in my own plug for the breed, I am starting my homebred filly in endurance this year. I think she is going to be good. :yes:

TalkTeke

Aug. 4, 2011, 01:32 PM

Kyz, who cares about his "purity", I like Kioyote. Look forward to hearing more about him! (snooped your photo album to see pics of him)

Next horse. *grin*

TalkTeke

Aug. 4, 2011, 01:39 PM

Very glad to hear this. Who did you talk to? You can PM me if you'd like.

Losing Kinor was a BIG loss for me, I'll tell you that.

I lost the emails of those I chatted with re Kinor's offspring - computer meltdown. Same goes for my memory!! So cannot tell you names. Sigh. I met them on Ridecamp. One of them sent me photos and told me about her horse. I did more research into Kinor. Said to myself; next one will be one of his!

Very sorry for your loss. Glad he lives on in your colt.

TalkTeke

Aug. 4, 2011, 01:49 PM

Thanks for the plug! My mother and I have compiling this directory for quite a few years now. It is very nice to know that someone actually looks at it!!!! It has moved onto its own website now, but it is not perfect yet. When finally done, it will also have sales horses available, plus european sires and sales horses.
www.akhaltekedirectory.com

And to put in my own plug for the breed, I am starting my homebred filly in endurance this year. I think she is going to be good. :yes:

I check it out every year. Do I send in the info for Murgab's Offspring to you??? Just curious, since will be 2 years before I am competing with him! :lol:

Wish I had seen it before Teke shopping. Though might have ended up with Red anyway. I do really like him! Hope you keep it up. I am horribly nosy and want to see what others are doing! One suggestion: maybe also sort stallions by Breeder/ Farm on the At Stud page??

rekingsfan

Aug. 7, 2011, 04:42 PM

Hello........
I am brand new to this forum as of today and I felt compeled to join because of this thread. I am very interested in Teke's, Arab/Teke crosses and endurance racing. I just wanted to say that I am getting soo much great information from all of you and I appreciate it. I hope this thread keeps going it has been very informative.... I am just getting started so any help with networking, etc. will be greatly appreciated. I live in Lakewood, CA 90712.
thanks, Russell

Kyzteke

Aug. 7, 2011, 05:55 PM

Kyzteke

Aug. 7, 2011, 07:14 PM

Just heard from Mel Hare yesterday. He bought one of Kinor's Arab x foals from breeder/endurance rider Kerry Lee Redente -- the gelding Kajun Bey CCR -- when Kajun was just 30 days old.

He sent me these pics:http://pets.webshots.com/photo/2390185580104425996TddukA
of Kajun, shown just shortly after his 3rd birthday (forward through the album -- there are 2 more new ones).

Mel reports via email: "I have about 5 rides on Kajun so far and all have gone flawlessly. I haven't even picked up the reins yet, as Kajun is so sensitive and tuned into my body!"

That's "Teke" when Teke is handled correctly and with sensitivity.

BTW, Mel lives near the open desert in Utah and has been ponying Kajun (free) out there since he was a yearling. He tells me Kajun loves to lead the way and explore the canyons.

Geeze, he's gonna be ready for Tevis before he's broke!:)

Kajun has a full sister (Kahlua Gold CCR) who is now a yearling. She is the last of the Kinor babies available on the market.

Sure hope a serious rider gets her....

QacarXan

Aug. 8, 2011, 11:19 AM

Kajun has a full sister (Kahlua Gold CCR) who is now a yearling. She is the last of the Kinor babies available on the market.

I keep looking at pictures of her and wishing I were about ten years older and a whole lot more fiscally sound.

Some day I hope to get one of yours, Kyzteke! Probably when Kioyote's at stud. :yes:

Ozalynda

Aug. 8, 2011, 11:45 AM

Here are a couple of pictures of my 4 year old akhal teke filly who will start her first little endurance ride in a couple of weeks. She is not as fat as she looks in the riding picture!

http://www.hestegalleri.dk/uploads_xl_wm/2536512.jpg?23-04-2011_23:13:07
http://www.hestegalleri.dk/uploads_xl_wm/2520511.jpg?23-04-2011_23:13:07

Kyzteke, tell me about Kioyote.

Lisa Preston

Aug. 8, 2011, 01:51 PM

Nice looking girl, Oz.

Kyzteke

Aug. 8, 2011, 04:49 PM

Here are a couple of pictures of my 4 year old akhal teke filly who will start her first little endurance ride in a couple of weeks. She is not as fat as she looks in the riding picture!

Kyzteke, tell me about Kioyote.

Well you know what they say, "the camera adds 100lbs ;)!" Lovely mare,btw.

Kioyote is Kinor's last foal and only Teke foal. His dam was bred by Jas Sherer & was by Astrakhan and o/o a Kys daughter, making him linebred to Kys.

I leased the mare from Betsy Wandler (MT) with the idea I'd get the first foal and send Kia (the mare) back to her in foal to Kinor. The mare was rather hot, but her foals tend to be more mellow -- and she was physically extremely correct, tall, with excellent legs, feet, bone and frame. Nice big butt, like your mare. Fair type; fair gaits.

Kinor died shortly after this mare was bred and Kioyote was born just after a shooting star fell over the barn :yes:.

He's a golden metallic buckskin with 4 whites and a bit of white on his face.

He's been a real surprise -- he is a very easy going dude (for his breed) and looks like he's going to be a good height, with big joints, straight legs and good feet.

Lovely face...not sure where it came from...but HUGE eye and very refined...everyone says he looks like a deer. I posted some pics of him as a foal in one of the posts above.

His gaits are more traditionally "Teke" than Kinor's and he looks Teke to his absolute core. He just turned 1 yr old, so right now I'm just trying to make sure he turns into a good horsie citizen.

He may end up as a stallion...he may end up as a gelding...we'll just have to see. But I'm thinking he's a keeper either way...

Lisa Preston

Aug. 8, 2011, 11:42 PM

Definitely a keeper. Sigh.

Kestrel

Aug. 9, 2011, 01:08 AM

Kyzteke

Aug. 9, 2011, 10:12 AM

rainechyldes

Aug. 9, 2011, 11:33 AM

I hope you don't feel I'm intruding on your thread, but I have some AT/endurance questions and I was hoping many of you experienced endurance people could give some input.

First, I am not thinking about doing this myself. I'm a middle-aged amateur hunter rider and would have no business attempting a competitive endurance ride. I just know very little about the conditioning requirements for endurance for either horse or rider.

Let's pretend that I have a 6 year old conformationally adequate AT that I wanted to take endurance riding in rides lasting several days. How long would it take to condition this horse for for this, and what would a good training program (for the long-term health of the horse) look like?

If I were a beginning rider, how much training (day per week, for how many months) would I need to safely compete?

I know that these questions are wide open in terms of the individual horse and rider, but I would like to hear your opinions, please.

Kyzteke is right in that like all horse issues - it depends.

Personally, I'm on the conservative side, - as we develop 100 mile horses here.
and we expect our horses to compete for many years.

as an example - this year I'm just retiring a gelding - at the age of 26- he's been doing endurance (mainly 50s, usually 1 100 a year) since he was 7 - pretty good career as far as I'm concerned. He'll be doing his last 50 this sept, and then he gets to hang out with the broodmares and be used as a pleasure horse from now on.

I find, as a general rule I go by.
year 1 and 2 - 25-35 mile rides.
end of year 2 if going well - the 1st slow 50.
year 3, 50s - gradually increasing finishing time.
end of year 3 - a slow 100 - if going well
year 4 - 100s. and multi day 50s.

* if Im starting a super difficult horse - I may even do fun rides for a while on it (12-15 miles ) I have a mare doing that this year, she's got great potential, - but consistently works herself into a tizzy - so right now she's learning rather then competing.

Reason being - it takes up to 2 years to develop the soft tissue and bone required for fast 50s (ei racing, - not just a completion)
It generally takes a min. of 3 years to develop a solid 100 miler horse, and even longer to develop a front running 100 mile horse.

you also need to take in other factors - how well the horse does in vet checks, how well they handle the trail challenges - do they waste energy being hyped - they need to learn the job- and some horse take longer then others to get 'it'.

Run them too fast/too hard - your horse won't be around many seasons at all.
Some riders do come right out the gate doing longer/faster distances a certain horse - sometimes they are lucky in they have an exceptional horse - sometimes you never see that horse in a competition again due to breakdowns, either physical or metabolic.

I know endurance isn't always well understood by other disciplines - but it takes time to create an extreme athlete, - which is what you are doing. Same as it takes time and patience to develop a top end horse in any other discipline.

Much like I would'nt enter my 5k running self in an extreme marathon.

As for training times - again it depends.
In endurance - it gets easy (esp for new riders) to over condition their horses, until they learn how to rate their horses fitness levels.

My 25 miler horses generally only may due 10-12 miles per week on the trail - the rest in the ring (ring work is important)
my 50 miler horses generally do 20 miles a week - depending on their race schedule, they may not do any trail work other then a quick gallop if they've been racing steadily.
same with my 100s, - sometimes a lung opener is all they need in between -
or I may have them out doing some short interval training workouts. it all depends on the horse, some of our horses require continued work on their 'bottom' as I call it - or kick - so they have that little extra to give on the last loop to outrun other front runners.
the main trick (and it's hard to learn) is to not over ride your horses. Usually I suggest finding an experienced endurance rider to ride with and mentor you - it makes a world of difference when learning the sport - and most endurance riders you'll find are extremely gracious with their time and knowledge.

Gindarkh

Oct. 2, 2011, 01:56 AM

Have just learned there will be at least one purebred and two halfbred Akhal-Tekes competing at Tevis this year. Will try to update with results afterwards.

Kestrel

Oct. 2, 2011, 03:04 AM

Kyzteke

Oct. 2, 2011, 11:58 AM

So the person who buys a 6 year old, appropriate horse from an endurance rider/trainer (and leaves it in training with them) could reasonably expect the horse to be conditioned/trained to a level to do 50 miles within two years ;). This is what I suspected. That owner is getting taken for a ride in more that one way.

Yes, unless there are other issues (soundness/temperament/behavior). Not every horse is suited for endurance. Some start to show problems early on.

But just the basic physical conditioning? A year at the MOST for a 50 would be MHO.

Kyzteke

Oct. 2, 2011, 12:00 PM

Have just learned there will be at least one purebred and two halfbred Akhal-Tekes competing at Tevis this year. Will try to update with results afterwards.

Most of the last few years you can follow the race in (close to) real time on the Western States website. Just know your rider's number and you can check each vet check -- the post the time in and time out for each rider...also if they get pulled.

I know Monica is riding RHR Atash (Inde) and Jas is riding Patrick....who else?

Gindarkh

Oct. 3, 2011, 07:10 AM

One of Susie Morrill's Madras halfbreds is the third entrant from what I have heard.

Lisa Preston

Oct. 5, 2011, 04:15 AM

Aw, I thought there was a fourth when I saw Gesa entered, but she's going on an a-rab.

Kyzteke

Oct. 5, 2011, 07:26 AM

One of Susie Morrill's Madras halfbreds is the third entrant from what I have heard.
Do you have either the rider's or the horse's name?

Lisa? Do you? I like to follow along from my couch :winkgrin:

Gindarkh

Oct. 5, 2011, 09:52 AM

Do you have either the rider's or the horse's name?

I think the rider's name is Christina ? Horse's name is maybe Midnight Sky's Luna or something close and her number is 110...

Lisa Preston

Oct. 8, 2011, 04:33 PM

Luna's listed as an a-rab, too. I asked Susie if she had a Teke or half in the race and she didn't know of one.
Last I checked, Jas was thru the first checkpoint!

QacarXan

Oct. 9, 2011, 08:34 AM

Patrickhan made it the full 100!

http://www.teviscup.org/webcast/riderquery.php?number=157

Kyzteke

Oct. 9, 2011, 01:11 PM

Patrickhan made it the full 100!

http://www.teviscup.org/webcast/riderquery.php?number=157

Hooray!! The first full Teke to complete the Tevis!! Yee Hah!!!

monicabee

Oct. 12, 2011, 02:37 PM

Jas and Patrick are back in Colorado. Patrick at least will get to rest for a while, though he was feeling good, Jas reported from the road. There are pictures on Facebook here:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150321157958301.337856.122967233300&type=3

I was along as official chronicler. Monica Bennett and Inde are in the pictures. Luna and Christina Kramlich-Bowie did complete (62nd place), but I didn't get a chance to hunt them down as we were busy crewing for seven riders including Jas. However, I met lots of great horses of all breeds and some other people who knew the Akhal-Teke. T

Jas bred Patrick for this job. She has brought him along slowly and carefully, and it shows. It was Patrick's first 100 miler, though he has done back-to-back 50's, which are harder in some ways. Her goal at the ride was to take as much time as necessary to finish, and that's exactly what they did.

It was very inspirational, and now I have to go write the story!

I

Singh559

Mar. 28, 2012, 05:38 AM

Sorry to revive such an old thread, but I didn't feel it would be right to create a new thread and start from scratch. It's now quite established that the Russian SB is fairly flawed due to the fact that it recognizes partbred ATs far from the standard/original Akhal Teke. This creates quite a problem for individuals who are trying to find the right Akhal Teke as it may be harder to look at bloodlines. For example, in the arabian breeds it's easier to look at the bloodlines that are the best, say for example endurance or show.

For someone new to the scene, can someone suggest where I should start to educate myself on the bloodlines of the Akhal Teke horses. I am very interested in the endurance scene that this breed used to dominate but now, even in its home country the breed is being bred for the trait of speed over endurance. I want to understand the bloodlines in hopes to empower myself to make an educated decision when the time comes to own an Akhal Teke and possibly breeding to help save the originality of the breed.

:)

TalkTeke

Mar. 28, 2012, 02:52 PM

Singh559

Mar. 29, 2012, 06:48 AM

I really don't see the problem here.

Would I care if 6+ generations back my boy had a TB as an ancestor? Well, no, because my boy has an Arab mom. :lol: But anyway, the % of TB in a highbred is so small, as to not bother me.

Though I guess it would depend on how many outcrosses were in the lineage, and the number of occurances in the pedigree.

I would be WAY more concerned with picking an AT with excellent conformation (and I see way too many Pure Breds that are "typey" and praised... but have some glaring conformational faults!) This is way more improtant for endurance than some mythical magical lineage (IMO).

I would also be more interested in the endurance performance of more recent ancestors, than from a century or two back. Or else I am going to drop endurance riding for dressage, because Red is a great-grandson of Absent! We could CLEAN UP! :D (Side note: Red's trainer actually said he might make a real good dressage horse... I said he needs a better rider than me!)

There are several breeders here in North America breeding Tekes for endurance (right here on this thread!) Though I heard the horrid news that Jas lost Patrickhan's frozen semen in a fire. Hope that's a false rumour!

And I thought the partbreds and high breds were seperated out? Wasn't there a big brouhaha here in NA a few years back about some imported horses being "not pure" and loosing "Pure bred" status?

Anyway, just my opinion.

BTW, Red is doing well in training. She started him beginning of March and is astounded by his rapid progress and willingness to learn. She said she loves to ride him. I have ridden him once and had a blast. I plan to do a few training rides this year and begin competition next year. Whoot!

Yeah, I agree a small TB % hardly matters, but in the long term to keep the breed alive I think it would be beneficial to try and keep the breed as low as possible. After the registration and proper handling of the breed then crossing isn't a problem at all. Actually, i'm not against cross breeding at all. As Ky said in the first post, I agree that breeding should not only be purity driven, but also practicality. The reason why I asked about bloodlines for Akhal Tekes is because I heard* that there are a few main pure arabian bloodlines that tend to fare better in various sporting events - whether it's endurance or show. Not too sure, that's why I had asked. :lol:

Out of the following Akhal Teke breeders, does anyone on Chronofhorse forums know of any of them? Could anyone vouch for any of these listed breeders as being reputable/legitimate/honest. I only know of one and that is Central Asian Equines (a highly reputable breeder, has a lot of experience with the breed and knows her stuff! )

http://www.argamak.ca/links/

United States:
Colorado: Magic Valley Akhal-Tekes / Sharon Saare
Florida: KaraKum Akhal-Tekes / Absolute Akhal-Teke
Idaho: Akhal-Teke Ranch
Indiana: IRUS Stables / Greystone Eventing
Michigan: Freedom Run Farm
Minnesota: Shah’Zadeh
North Carolina: Oasis Akhal-Tekes
Oregon: Page Creek Ranch / Heatherstone Farms
South Dakota: Noris Peak Ranch
Texas: Akhal Texas
Virginia: Central Asian Equines/ European Performance Horses
Washington: Akhalteke.cc / Cascade Gold Akhal-Tekes

Specifically (since they're closer to California), does anyone Know or have heard of the breeders from: Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Colorado, or Texas? Either way, i'd like to hear about all the breeders from the list above, hopefully I can visit at least one over the summer. :cool:

Lisa Preston

Mar. 29, 2012, 10:39 AM

There are some other studs your list missed. Also, Teke-Arab crosses, are a consideration, if you're willing to consider a half-Teke.

The thing with wanting proven parents with lots of roven enduro get on the ground: enduro is too small a world and too time-consuming a project. There just aren't a lot of Tekes with a lot of AERC miles and years. (It is really easy to pull the numbers from the AERC site with a horse or rider name.)

I looked off and on for a few years, got more serious last year, found over a dozen Teke-Arab crosses between weanling and 4 yearsold in the west (which to me means west of the Mississsippi, including Canada). Picked the pony last fall and just finished the second quarter of initial legging-up. Pony will get to conservative enduro coming summer but won't get to a hundred for several years, won't have a significant history that will make her Teke papa look good for a long time.

Singh559

Mar. 29, 2012, 07:31 PM

Can you list the other studs that my list mentioned (i got it off the website above) and perhaps can anyone tell me which ones are trustworthy/reputable Akhal Teke breeders. I only know of one from the list above.

I tried going to the AERC website to search for breeds but I wasn't able to really find a search option that allowed me to view all the ATs. I did find a list of total registered ATs (and other breeds), but that was no help. I'm guessing the best thing when getting an AT horse (since there's a very limited enduro scene), looking at conformation and how he's been bred is just about all you can do.

Good luck on your Akhal - Arab. Do you have any pics and is there any endurance history with the at sire?

Ozalynda

Mar. 31, 2012, 07:38 AM

It's now quite established that the Russian SB is fairly flawed due to the fact that it recognizes partbred ATs far from the standard/original Akhal Teke.
:)

While I will not argue that there are problems with the Russian Studbook (managed by VNIIK), I am not following you here. :confused:

There is a partbred section of the book and a purebred section of the book. Partbred section is at least 50% teke and purebred is as close as purebred as is possible considering the "pollution" of the breed with TB crossing in the early parts of the 20th century. The book was closed in 1935 and no new introductions of TB blood has been allowed. This is a big issue right now with the attempts to return the population of horses in Turkmenistan to the main studbook amidst claims of illicit use of TB's in breeding there where horseracing is especially important.

But back to your statement. How are the tekes of today "far from the standard/original Akhal Teke"? There is quite a lot of variation within the breed, and one should not be misled by photos of racing fit 2-year-olds.

I will agree that it is problematic to purchase an akhal teke for a specific sports discipline based on pedigree. There are not enough sports results for the breed (due largely to the low numbers and the concentration on racing in russia/turkmenistan/etc.). The results there are can be attributed as much to the lucky combination of horse and rider as to a specific bloodline.

Best of luck in your hunt for a horse!

Singh559

Apr. 4, 2012, 11:37 PM

While I will not argue that there are problems with the Russian Studbook (managed by VNIIK), I am not following you here. :confused:

There is a partbred section of the book and a purebred section of the book. Partbred section is at least 50% teke and purebred is as close as purebred as is possible considering the "pollution" of the breed with TB crossing in the early parts of the 20th century. The book was closed in 1935 and no new introductions of TB blood has been allowed. This is a big issue right now with the attempts to return the population of horses in Turkmenistan to the main studbook amidst claims of illicit use of TB's in breeding there where horseracing is especially important.

But back to your statement. How are the tekes of today "far from the standard/original Akhal Teke"? There is quite a lot of variation within the breed, and one should not be misled by photos of racing fit 2-year-olds.

I will agree that it is problematic to purchase an akhal teke for a specific sports discipline based on pedigree. There are not enough sports results for the breed (due largely to the low numbers and the concentration on racing in russia/turkmenistan/etc.). The results there are can be attributed as much to the lucky combination of horse and rider as to a specific bloodline.

Best of luck in your hunt for a horse!
I see, thanks for clearing up how the studbook works. Would an expert on the breed be able to find an Akhal Teke (based on physical and visual) analysis of the horse that would do better in a field such as endurance?

But back to your statement. How are the tekes of today "far from the standard/original Akhal Teke"? There is quite a lot of variation within the breed, and one should not be misled by photos of racing fit 2-year-olds.

Ah, I see. That would make a lot of sense. So the reason for the variation in these two horses is not necessarily because they have more TB % or aren't like the original AT breed, it could very well be because they're more fit and tuned for short distance racing. Correct me if i'm wrong.

http://www.akhal-teke.pro/uploads/h_photos/1852_1323472474.42.jpg

rainechyldes

Apr. 4, 2012, 11:59 PM

I understand that you are interested in ATs specifically for endurance - but I feel I need to interject..
If you spend some time looking at the more successful endurance horses in the sport, you'll find that regardless of breed, - they all usually share common attributes - that alone if you train your eye and 'feel' for a horse, will undoubtably bring you closer when the time comes to picking that prefect for you AT partner - than any endless discussions purely based on bloodlines.
- Conformation
-Temperament
etc etc

Not saying that bloodlines shouldn't come into play - however at the moment - there isn't a huge amount of ATS being used/bred for endurance that I am aware of, in the PNW any rate.

I know a few very small AT breeding operations that are aiming for endurance ..however their bred stock are just coming into their own. their 1st endurance potential horse did LDS last year, may be moving to 50s this coming year, I don't know

Of course, my oinion is worth about 2cents -- so take it for what it's worth:)

but in now going past 3 decades in our family of breeding endurance purpose bred arabians, and arabianx appaloosas.. bloodlines don't always tell the 'whole' story - and I would certainly never depend solely upon them when making a purchasing decision.

Breeding for a specific discipline as we all know takes time.. and sometimes heartache. hehe. 20 years from now, we may see a ton of absolutely purpose bred ATs
- and while I don't plan really on ever owning one, I adore them, as they are certainly head turners, so I do hope for that day for sure:)

QacarXan

Jul. 28, 2012, 02:38 AM

I looked at the Tevis Rider list for this year and didn't see any purebred Tekes. Anyone know of some crosses that might be there?

Lisa Preston

Jul. 29, 2012, 10:07 AM

One of the entrants riding TBD has Tekes and halfs...I shot her an email to ask which pony she's taking.

QacarXan

Aug. 2, 2012, 10:25 AM

One of the entrants riding TBD has Tekes and halfs...I shot her an email to ask which pony she's taking.

Thanks for doing that. Has she responded yet?

prudence

Aug. 4, 2012, 07:35 AM

Horse breeds on the Tevis Cup Ride this year are included here:

http://teviscup.org/tevis-results/2012-tevis-webcast/2012-live-results

Some are still TBD on the list though.

Bluesy

Aug. 4, 2012, 12:12 PM

I can't answer the original poster, as I am not an endurance rider, nor have I ever owned or even ridden one, but I definitely want to own one sometime in my life.

I got the chance to handle a AT stallion (this one (http://akhal-teke.ca/dazyrdi/)) that was at my barn, and I just adored him. When ever I was leading him and he was being a goober - as in going to bite me - I'd stop and glare at him as if to say "What ARE you doing?" and he'd be all like "oh, nothing." and just be fine.

I had also done a presentation in college on the Teke horse - and it just cemented my love for these loffly horses.

And I don't remember which poster owns Superstar - but I am such a big fan of his! He is just gorgeous and so lovely. (He was certainly in my presentation :))

And those who posted pictures of you AT's and AT crosses - Lovely lovely lovely. Jealous ;)

QacarXan

Aug. 4, 2012, 01:14 PM

Lisa Preston indicated above that there was a "TBD" rider who has Tekes, so we're waiting to hear if she used a Teke, a cross, or something else entirely.

Also, in case anyone hasn't looked in a while, there's a load of new pictures on the Akhal Tekes in Iran (https://www.facebook.com/groups/129182163758999/) facebook page.

Lisa Preston

Aug. 7, 2012, 05:35 PM

Didn't start, Quarx.

Anyhoo,
entries
http://www.teviscup.org/results/21-results/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3&Itemid=1176
which still had TBD horses--

and results

http://www.teviscup.org/tevis-results/2012-tevis-webcast/2012-webcast-live-results