President Serdar Berdimuhamedov arrived at the International Ahal-Teke Equestrian Complex, where he participated in celebrations dedicated to the glorious date – Turkmenistan's Independence Day.
Competitions of the best Ahal-Teke horses, traditionally held by Turkmens during holidays and national celebrations, have become a special symbol of returning to their roots, ancient customs, and traditions of their ancestors. This bright and spectacular event is not just a competition of the best representatives of the unique and ancient Ahal-Teke breed, but a true hymn to the unparalleled beauty and grace of the "heavenly horses."
As many centuries ago, a grand celebration is not complete without equestrian competitions, allowing riders not only to showcase their skill and courage but also to demonstrate the strength, beauty, and grace of their loyal friends – the Ahal-Teke horses, which are endowed with the highest epithets. Proverbs and sayings accumulated over centuries, such as "A horse is the wings of a warrior's soul," "A horse is known in the race, and a man in battle," "A horse is a warrior's friend," "Upon rising in the morning, visit your father, and then your horse," symbolize the immense respect and reverence for the horse by the Turkmen people.
The Ahal-Teke breed of horses is the result of the labor of our ancestors, nurtured on the ancient Turkmen land over many centuries. The "paradise" horses, which have become the heritage of human civilization, are recognized as elite among all other horse breeds in the world. These magnificent creatures are distinguished by their loyalty, exterior beauty, speed, and endurance. They are the pride of the nation and the "wings of its soul."
Today, the state creates the necessary conditions for the development of horse breeding and equestrian sports based on the achievements of modern world practices in this field.
In Turkmenistan – the original homeland of the "winged" horses – the development of horse breeding is recognized as a matter of state importance. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov pays great attention to the extensive work being carried out in the industry, which is based on scientific foundations. A significant contribution to this noble cause belongs to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov.
Domestic horse breeders are doing everything possible to preserve the purity of the Akhal-Teke breed and increase their population. Efforts are being intensified to develop horse breeding and equestrian sports in the independent Motherland, exchange useful practical experiences, and engage in constructive cooperation with foreign countries. The inclusion of the art of Akhal-Teke horse breeding and the traditions of decorating horses as one of the elite types of Turkmen art in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO has further enhanced the global fame of the Akhal-Teke horses, considered a masterpiece of national and world culture.
On September 27, the "paradise" horses once again showcased their full splendor at the festive parade held in the capital in honor of the 33rd anniversary of the Motherland's independence.
