Kabsztad in Aachen

At approximately 1:55 into the video, one of the judges, Dr. Gianmarco Aragno, in a friendly gesture, shows his clipboard to Kabsztad, who in turn, acknowledges Dr. Aragno's kindness and attention. Perhaps, for Kabsztad, it was a welcomed distraction from the intensity of the show ring. For another person, maybe this fleeting interaction would not even register on their radar, rationalizing it as an insignificant moment, not worthy of their time and attention. However, in their haste, they would miss the heartwarming story of the love that one man obviously has for Arabian horses and the sweet, loving character possessed by the horse, who in return, acknowledges the presence of the man. Within that particular moment, each individual matters to the other. The moment is endearing and sweet to watch and surely, I am even more of a fan of Kabsztad than I was before.

Bred by the Michałów Stud, Kabsztad was one of the lots consigned to last year's Pride of Poland sale, purchased by Flaxman Arabians. Kabsztad is a Laheeb grandson and 25% of his almost 33% Egyptian blood comes via Laheeb. Through Kwestura, there are two lines to Aswan and one line to Nil. Also through *Kwestura, the matriline goes back to Gazella, one of four desert-bred mares purchased by Count Julius Dzieduszycki for his Jarczowce Stud. Gazella founded one of the most influential families in Poland. Like his sire, Poganin, Kabsztad is strong of body with a broad chest and his heart girth is deep. The ratio of a long forearm to a short cannon is almost perfect. However, I would be amiss if I didn't point out that Kabsztad has a little more stretch, a little more length in his flowing lines (that neck, oh my), as compared to his sire and that stretchiness has to come from somewhere, perhaps the impact from the fabulous chestnut mare, *Kwestura? Also, please keep in mind that we are discussing a 17-year old horse!

At the All Nations Cup on Sunday, Kabsztad showed in class 12, for stallions age 11 and older. He earned a score of 92.50, placing second to Equiborn K.A. (QR Marc x Espadrilla), who received a score of 93.71. For me, he was the Supreme Champion of the day. 

***Many thanks to Arabian Essence for their coverage of the 2023 All Nations Cup in Aachen, Germany***