The Uzbek capital of Tashkent recently played host to a grand series of events celebrating the “heavenly” horses, including high-stakes equestrian competitions, the “Pearl of the East” World Beauty Championship, and the international scientific-practical conference titled “The Akhal-Teke Horse: A Symbol of Friendship Among Peoples.”

Turkmenistan was represented by a high-level delegation comprising equestrian experts, cultural figures, and members of the media.

International Conference: “The Akhal-Teke Horse – A Symbol of Friendship Among Peoples”

On 8 May, the Yangi Toshkent Conference Hall hosted a major international forum that brought together heads of relevant government agencies, diplomats, research scientists, and breeders from Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and several other nations.

The conference served as a vital platform for discussing the historical significance of the Akhal-Teke breed in world civilization and evaluating modern strategies to preserve its unique genetic heritage.

A key point of discussion was the breed’s status as one of the world’s oldest, having fundamentally influenced global horse breeding. Participants highlighted a major milestone in the recognition of Turkmen breeders’ efforts: the 2024 inscription of the national nomination, “Akhal-Teke Horse-Breeding Art and Traditions of Horse Decoration,” onto the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Delegates noted that the scholarly and literary works of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov—including titles such as “The Akhal-Teke: Our Pride and Glory”—remain foundational resources for understanding the role of these “winged” steeds within a global cultural context.

Particular interest was shown in the innovative infrastructure established in the “smart” city of Arkadag. Professors from the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding shared insights into the work of the Equine Scientific and Production Center and the UNESCO Club “Akhal-Teke Horses: Ambassadors of Peace.”

Modern Turkmenistan continues to demonstrate a comprehensive approach to the industry. This includes the commissioning of state-of-the-art equestrian complexes and research centers, the continuous improvement of working conditions for breeders, and the training of a new generation of specialists. Furthermore, the nation is actively integrating advanced selective breeding methods and veterinary controls while promoting equestrian sports and circus arts on the international stage.

Uzbekistan members of the International Association of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding, including those honored as “Honored Horse Breeder of Turkmenistan,” shared practical expertise in population growth and maintaining breed purity. Discussions delved into modern nutritional standards, traditional seis (training) methods, and expanding business networks between international breeders.

The conference reaffirmed that the Akhal-Teke horse remains a living symbol of regional integration and good-neighborly relations, weaving together the history, culture, and modern technologies of Central Asia.

On the sidelines of the forum, bilateral meetings took place between heads of equestrian and circus departments from Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, as well as representatives of specialized academic institutions. The parties exchanged views on promising avenues for cooperation, focusing on knowledge sharing and the implementation of joint projects in Akhal-Teke breeding.

Equestrian Competitions and the “Pearl of the East” Beauty Contest

On 9–10 May, the Tashkent region hosted a series of high-profile equestrian events and the “Pearl of the East” beauty contest. The first day was dedicated to classic flat racing, where Akhal-Teke horses from the leading studs of both nations showcased exceptional speed and endurance.

In the race for two-year-old horses, competing for the prize sponsored by the State Concern “Türkmengaz” and the Ministry of Energy of Uzbekistan, the golden-palomino mare Pula (Uzbegim Otlari, Uzbekistan) claimed victory. She was followed by Gadymydag and Gazaply, both representing the Akhal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan, who took second and third places respectively.

The competition reached its peak during the 1,600-meter races for horses aged four and older:

• The Prize of the President of Turkmenistan: Won by the stallion Muattor-khon (Uzbekistan), with Gunesh from the Ashgabat Equestrian Complex finishing as runner-up.
• The Prize of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan: The renowned stallion Dovamat, from the Akhal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan, secured a brilliant victory. In the subsequent heat, Begzada, from the same complex, earned the silver medal.

The winners, trainers, and jockeys were honored in a festive ceremony. Key awards included modern passenger cars:

• On behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, a car was awarded to trainer Kh. Khamitov and jockey Z. Kulmatov (Uzbegim Otlari).
• On behalf of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, car keys were presented to the People’s Horse Breeder of Turkmenistan, K. Agamyradov, and jockey P. Orazov, following the stellar performance of Dovamat. 

World Championship: “Aygytly” Crowned Absolute Champion

The crowning jewel of the forum was the World Beauty Championship for Akhal-Teke horses, held on 10 May. The event brought together elite specimens from Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.

By unanimous decision of the international jury, the stallion Aygytly, from the Akhal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan, was declared the Absolute World Champion.

Aygytly, a descendant of Ari and Altynbash from the famous Skak line, was adorned with the “Pearl of the East” and “World Champion” ceremonial blankets. His trainer, People’s Horse Breeder of Turkmenistan Kakamurat Agamyradov, received the top prize from the President of Uzbekistan—a new car, along with the championship trophy and a certificate of honor.

Turkmen horses demonstrated excellence across various age categories:

• 2-year-olds: Meledag (Fakirpelvan line) from the International Akhal-Teke Equestrian Complex was named World Champion.
• 3-year-olds: Gunesh (Turkmenistan) secured a podium finish with a silver medal.
• 6 years and older: Aygytly took the top spot, outpacing strong contenders from Uzbekistan.

The championship further underscored the spirit of mutual respect between the two nations. While the top award for the stallions was presented by the President of Uzbekistan to a Turkmen master, the top prize in the mares’ category was provided by the President of Turkmenistan to the winning Uzbek team.

The Absolute Champion among the mares was a horse representing Uzbekistan. Her trainer was presented with a modern vehicle, trophies, and certificates on behalf of the Turkmen leader.

The event concluded as a resounding success, reaffirming the Akhal-Teke’s status as a peerless cultural treasure and a catalyst for strengthening international ties.///nCa, 11 May 2026