In this episode of the We Love Arabian Horses podcast, host Paul Kostial sits down with Jonathan Horowitz, Executive Director of the Arabian Jockey Club (AJC), to discuss the growth and evolving role of Arabian racehorses within the breed. Now in his second year leading the AJC, Jonathan reflects on the successes of the past year, both on and off the track, and shares his vision for the future of Arabian racing.

One of the year’s biggest highlights was the UAE President Cup, a major event that showcased the strength of American-bred Arabian racehorses. Several U.S. horses also made an impact internationally, proving the quality of American bloodlines. Beyond racing, the Race Bred Arabian Series was launched to highlight the many ways retired racehorses excel in other disciplines, including eventing, endurance, and ride-and-tie competitions. Jonathan shares his own experience competing in eventing with his Arabian, reinforcing the breed’s natural versatility and adaptability.

Jonathan also discusses the significance of race-bred Arabians in the broader breed community, explaining how racing has shaped the development of many top sport and performance horses. He highlights influential stallions like Orzel and Sambor, whose bloodlines continue to impact the breed decades later. While Arabian racing in the U.S. has only been formally organized since 1959, its influence extends far beyond the track, helping to produce horses with the athleticism, endurance, and heart that make Arabians so special.

A key focus of the AJC is connecting the racing world with the broader Arabian horse community, ensuring that race-bred Arabians are recognized for their talent and contributions. By sharing success stories and increasing engagement, the AJC hopes to encourage more horse owners to consider race-bred Arabians for disciplines beyond racing. Looking ahead, Jonathan is excited about the future of Arabian racing, noting that each year brings new stars and fresh opportunities for the sport to grow. He also sees potential for collaboration between racing and other disciplines, such as starting young Arabians on the track before transitioning them to sport careers.

Throughout the conversation, Jonathan and Paul emphasize the passion and sense of community that fuels Arabian horse enthusiasts. They discuss the importance of sharing stories, engaging with others, and celebrating the breed’s unique heritage. Jonathan encourages listeners to tag We Love Arabian Horses when sharing their own Arabian experiences, helping to spread awareness and appreciation for these incredible horses. With momentum building in both racing and the broader Arabian world, the future looks bright for the breed and its many devoted fans. 🐎

Join us for an engaging conversation with Michael Byatt as we explore the significance and impact of the exciting new GCAT Americas series, set to launch next month.

This five-show extravaganza kicks off in Scottsdale, AZ (February), followed by spectacular events presented in Miami Beach, FL (April), São Paulo, Brazil (July), Brandon, Canada (August), and culminating in the grand championship finale in Las Vegas, NV (September).

Drawing upon decades of experience, Michael shares his invaluable insights and historical perspective, likening the GCAT events to a “Cirque du Soleil” for Arabian horses—where artistry, athleticism, and tradition unite in a truly unforgettable spectacle.

This brief yet informative interview offers a glimpse into what makes this groundbreaking Arabian horse show series a must-see, while celebrating the incredible cultural and equestrian heritage it represents.

Don’t miss this exclusive conversation as we prepare to launch the GCAT Americas journey in Scottsdale next month—a revolutionary celebration of Arabian horse excellence!

Listen in with Mike Beethe & Melissa Schalles as they share about the upcoming 70th Anniversary of the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, hosted by the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona.

HIGHLIGHTS: Lotsa new prize money added this year (over $1,000,000+ in prize money), plus... new classes added this year (including a variety of walk/trot options for kids and adults), along with the 70th Anniversary historical display "walk down memory lane" – seventy years of Arabian breed super-stars – horses, breeders and owners! Make sure to listen in if you may enter the show, helpful updates for everyone.

Jump in with us as we chat with Rob Bick, always one who shares thoughtful ideas, mostly based on history and logic, and open-minded thinking. Rob chats about the breed, its history, breeders, grassroots, shows, days, trainers, classes, schedules, having fun... and so much more. Rob's always open minds to new thoughts and, new ways of looking at problems, turning to opportunities for the Arabian horse and the Arabian horse community.

Stan Morey, AHA Executive Director, gives an upfront point-of-view and comments on four key topics: 1) US National Show, 2) The Importance of Equine Welfare Awareness, 3) Walking Into Convention, and 4) New Revenue Streams for AHA, 2025 & Beyond. Stan's forthright, very clear in his direction and, he openly shares his perspective on a few key topics. It's worth your time to listen in, especially if you're going to convention, and/or... you're a bit uneasy about AHA and its future. Thanks to Stan for so graciously sharing both his time and his thoughts.

Listen in with Dave Daugherty, Chairman, US National Show Commission, as he shares with us about this year's national championship show. Dave shares updates regarding the numbers, some parties, roving interviews, the City of Tulsa, prize money and more – several helpful updates regarding what to expect at this year's show.

Listen in with Rodrigo Gonzalez, Arabian Soul Partners (Mexico), as he shares some history, how he got started, and a variety of topics regarding breeders and successful breeding in today's global marketplace.

Rodrigo shares about choosing the best stallions, the vital importance of the mare, choosing trainers and, relationships around the world.

Rodrigo also shares some future insights regarding what's coming and, how breeders can cultivate the most successful foundations for success – it's not the same today as even just a few years ago.

What a delight, chatting with Margo Smith Shallcross about Cass Olé, The Black Stallion, and hearing all the 'back stories' – The White House, Reagan's Inaugural Parade, the Black-Tie Ballroom, and so much more. Margo generously shares about the horse, the family, the job, the tour, and the movie stars. It was quite a story and, loaded with adventures and activities, much of which is the breed's most famous Arabian, publicly, ever. At least in the top three. Listen in with Margo and, hear some robust PR, much of which could apply just as easy today.

Listen in with Sue O'Neill and Greg Knowles, Co-Chairs of the Arabian National Breeder Finals show in Scottsdale, as they share about the show, its history, new plans, added prize money and, a significant effort to invite and welcome newcomers in the local area. The committee is invested in many news ideas, with some lofty growth and educational goals too.

Sue and Greg share about each topic, the importance of collaboration, and working together in the community to encourage invitation and open doors.

SPORT HORSES • Our 24th AHA-focused podcast, two vibrant Arabian breed advocates, Amy Miller & Noelle Roberts share a walk down memory lane, while also sharing much about current day Arabian and all-breed sport horses, the many disciplines, working together as a community, prospecting young horses, getting connected as an amateur, and sweepstakes classes.

They also discuss the good work of the AHA Sport Horse Nationals and National Show Commission. This podcast is packed with helpful sport horse insights, knowledge and experiences.🐴🌿🤠

Thanks to Jim Porcher for his help to get this podcast organized!