Pure bred Spanish stallions of Olympic fame to perform for the first time at Al Fares Dubai 2004

The event assumes significance, given Dubai's rising popularity in the equine industry through Godolphin, the biggest flat racing operation in the world, the annual Dubai World Cup and the FEI UAE World Cup Endurance Ride. The show and auction of Spain's top breed will add a new dimension to Dubai's Arab equine tradition.

The Spanish breed of pure bred stallions shot to fame internationally after winning the prestigious silver at the recent Olympic in Athens. The Breeders' Association of Spain (ANCCE) will showcase three outstanding stallions recently approved by the Spanish Ministry as `Young Recommended Stallions'. The names of the stallions are Colombiano, Africano, Danzarin.

The stallions will arrive by the Dutch KLM carrier, the official sponsor, on December 3, to start a short adapting period before going to the fair, where they will perform everyday in the Arena of Hall 5a. The breed -- known for its beauty, temperament and intelligence -- delighted the equine world recently in the WEG Games in JEREZ 2002, where Spain won the bronze medal in dressage.

Highlighting the relevance of the Spanish auction to Dubai, Mr. Satish Khanna, General Manager, Al Fajer Information and Services, organisers of Al Fares Dubai 2004, said: "The performance and auction of Spain's top breed is one of the most interesting elements of Al Fares this year. The show will be a rare treat for horse lovers from the west and across the region converging at the high-profile event. The Spanish stallions will be among the best stallions participating in the exhibition. It will further fortify Dubai's image as the most preferred equine centre in the region."

Elaborating further on the Spanish breed, Mr. Khanna said the stallions are ideal partners for people who have never ridden before, as well as for the most demanding of riders. The Association of Pure Bred Spanish Horses has been financially backed by ICEX, a Spanish government organisation, for the breed's maiden participation in Al Fares.

The Al Fares Dubai 2004 exhibition will showcase the latest trends in equine art, infrastructure, clothing, accessories and will offer an insight into new products and services for breeding, stabling, horse and horse health. It will also put the spotlight on equestrian sports and lifestyle for horse people.

Al Fares also aims to educate horse lovers by organising seminars and demonstrations during the three-day period. The subjects to be covered at these forums include total horse management, new products and services, nutrition, horse psychology, injuries, diseases, training and exercising, breeding, breaking, grooming, shoeing, horse examination. Visits to equine infrastructure have also been organised.