Under the clear skies of Erbil, the Kurdistan Arabian Horse Beauty Championship 2025 returned to the Erbil International Equestrian Club, marking its seventh consecutive year. The event attracted breeders, riders, and horse enthusiasts from across the region, all drawn by their admiration for the Arabian horse, a timeless symbol of grace, nobility, and endurance.
Recognized as one of Kurdistan’s most prestigious equestrian events, the championship showcased 80 purebred Arabian horses, judged on structure, symmetry, leg soundness, movement, and overall elegance. Competitors vied for the esteemed title of “Most Beautiful Arabian Horse in Kurdistan,” an honor that recognizes both physical perfection and authentic lineage, reflecting centuries-old cultural heritage.
Among this year’s participants, Zryan Talat and her husband entered twelve horses, hoping to repeat their triumph from last year. “Horses are not just a hobby for us,” Zryan said. “They are friends, companions, and a true passion. Last year, we won the top title, and we hope to achieve it again this year.”
Shayma Najmaddin, another competitor and previous winner, shared her affection for the animals. “I love horses because they are intelligent and affectionate,” she said. “Winning last year made this year’s participation even more meaningful.” For Mohammad Azizi, the championship represents more than sport—it is an art form. “It’s like a beauty pageant for Arabian horses,” he said. “Every year, it becomes more refined, more dazzling, and more competitive.”
Highlighting the competition’s youngest talent, Zryan Talat celebrated her ten-month-old Arabian colt, who won first place in its category. “He was the youngest but also the most graceful,” she said. “His movement, the harmony of his form, and the elegance of his head and neck distinguished him from all competitors—he truly earned the golden prize.”
Erbil has steadily established itself as the equestrian capital of Kurdistan, with the International Equestrian Club serving as a hub for breeding, training, and regional competitions. The annual beauty championship preserves Kurdish and Arab equestrian traditions while reflecting the modern revival of the sport, supported by the Kurdistan Regional Government’s investment in culture, tourism, and heritage.
As the event concluded, the rhythmic steps of the horses under Erbil’s autumn sun echoed a timeless message: beauty, tradition, and freedom remain inseparable in the land where the spirit of the Arabian horse continues to run eternal.
