Kazakhstan’s Adai Horses: Racing Towards Global Recognition
Kazakhstan’s Adai Horse Recognized as a Distinct Breed by International Equestrian Community
In a groundbreaking development, the Adai horse, native to the Mangystau Region of Kazakhstan, has been officially recognized as a distinct breed by judges from the international equestrian community in the United Arab Emirates and Almaty. This significant milestone comes after the Adai horses participated in an international horse racing tournament in Kenderli, showcasing their exceptional long-distance racing abilities.
The Adai horse, which originated in the 18th-19th century and is a blend of Kazakh and Turkmen breeds, has its main habitat in the steppes between the Caspian Sea and the Aral Sea. The breed was named after the Adai tribe of the Mangystau Region and has adapted well to the hot climate and herding, grazing on the steppe all year round under the watchful eyes of shepherds.
The recent international tournament in the Mangystau Region aimed to confer breeding status upon the Adai breed of horses. Renowned judges from the international equestrian community were invited to evaluate the Adai horses, and they unanimously recognized the need to confer such a prestigious status on these remarkable creatures.
One of the critical aspects of the tournament was to ensure that the horses not only crossed the finish line first but also maintained a low heart rate and remained free from injuries throughout the rigorous competition. The winner of the tournament was a mare named Kok Zhebe, representing the Adai breed, who excelled in the 100-kilometer distance, showcasing both speed and endurance.
This triumph on the international stage is a testament to the Adai breed’s potential to become a symbol of Kazakhstan’s equestrian excellence, positioning them as formidable competitors against established breeds. The commitment to recognizing the Adai horse goes beyond the tournament arena, with efforts underway to formalize the Adai racehorses as a distinct breed by the end of December.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s directive to recognize the Adai horse and its breeding as a pedigreed animal reflects a commitment to preserving the unique genetic heritage of the Adai breed and elevating it to international acclaim. With their rich history and remarkable capabilities, the Adai horses are set to become ambassadors for Kazakhstan, carrying the legacy of the nation’s equestrian heritage to new heights on the global stage.
