A September Gathering at Highview Egyptian Stud

by Lisa Abraham

On the eve of the 2010 National Breeders' Conference in Atlanta, Ga., Lisa and Steve Zukowski of Highview Egyptian Stud, and Judith Forbis of Ansata Egyptian Stud hosted another "Gathering," in Trenton, S.C. The guest list was international; breeders and industry professionals were represented. A very special welcome was extended to celebrated European equine journalist, Monika Savier, from Italy. Monika, who is a regular contributor to many of the major European and Middle Eastern Arabian medias, is also a Straight Egyptian breeder. Accompanying Monika were her stud manager, Elizabeth Auer, a breeder herself, and her reproductive vet, Simona Orvieto.

Steve Zukowski, Joe Ferriss and Lisa Zukowski

On this colorful fall day, the gathering began as we sat comfortably under a tent for an intimate stallion presentation. First, resident handler Steve Diamond presented International Champion Ansata Qasim (Farres X MB Moneena). Ansata Qasim, an alabaster beauty, is affectionately referred to by Lisa as "our fairytale stallion." Ansata Qasim has an ethereal quality that stimulates a breeder's passion. Moments later, Steve descended from the barn to the tent with a horse who has been compared to his immortal sire, Imperial Imdal. The 16-hand VA Regal (Imperial Imdal X Taja Moniet), bred by renowned horsewoman Barbara Valle, is an exceptional example of this visionary breeder's skill in creating the sublime. Regal possesses presence, style and substance compatible with the highest expectations of his esteemed breeder and his very proud owners. The finale of this presentation was the classic 20-year-old stallion, Ansata Nile Emir, a Halim Shah son, out of Ansata Nile Charm, daughter of the legendary Ansata Nile Queen. With a Babson tail female line, Ansata Nile Emir, co-owned with Bridgette Orwig, not only represents a special page in the history of the Ansata, but is also depended upon to carry the vision forward.

Steve Diamond and Ansata Pegasus

After both Ansata Qasim sons - Ansata Pegasus (X Ansata Jalala) and Ansata Star of Qasim (X NF Safiyyah) - got the opportunity to dazzle us with their two-year-old colt charm, we traveled to the upper barn where the mares and babies could be presented. As a group, we then walked the pastures. At times we were kindly approached for various reasons: kisses, carrots and pets; while at other times, we found ourselves completely surrounded by young girls vying for attention. A very sweet scene anywhere, but we weren't just anywhere, and these weren't just any horses. Competing for our attention were none other than the daughters of Ansata Qasim, Ruminaja Bahjat, Ansata Sinan, Imperial Imdal, Ansata Malik Shah, Ansata Hejazi and daughters of many other internationally important stallions. This honor was not lost on any of us.

Judith Forbis, Elizabeth Auer and Monika Savier

After spending the afternoon with the horses, the evening was warmly shared at Lisa and Steve's private home. There, Monika, Elizabeth and Simona cooked and served an authentic Italian feast. There were five courses: two types of pasta, two types of pizza, and a tiramisu that was absolutely fabulous! To say the least, this was a special evening. In addition to being blessed by the international celebrity of Monika Savier and her lovely companions Elizabeth and Simona, we were also blessed by each other. These gatherings provide us unique opportunities to relax and enjoy the intimate company of fellow breeders who share commonalities. Thanks to all who made this gathering so very special, and thanks especially to that priceless tie that binds us all together, the love of the Egyptian Arabian horse.

See all of the great photos by Lisa Abraham below!