A worldwide sensation where people flock from every corner of the world to descend on the Kentucky Horse Park for one thing: a huge celebration of the horse. Breyer models spill out of every place you turn. Auctions selling some of the most expensive ones you’ll ever see. Mad dashes to get in line for the Special Run models, or to meet that horse that is on a Breyer.

And there we are with our Arabians, central to all of this. A huge group of fifteen passionate Arabian lovers all wanting to do one thing and one thing only: to share the love and joy of the Arabian horse. Myths are busted left and right as our horses snuggle and enjoy the company of all these people that are strangers to us, but connected in our love for these magnificent animals.

Each year the Arabians have one of the largest presences at this event as so many people want to share the love of their horse with the public. We showcase many different styles and disciplines to really show off the versatile Arabian. Each person in the demonstrations is on a volunteer basis with the participants asking to be a part of this.

I have been fortunate to have been a part of this wonderful event for the last two years. This year, we were able to demo something a little out of the norm. Most demonstrations highlight what the Arabian (or any of the other breeds) can do in the show ring. However, not everyone is out to hop right into the show ring. Many want nothing to do with showing, and instead want to see that they can enjoy their horse elsewhere. So this year, after years of standing on the sidelines watching as I demoed one of our horses, my husband joined me in the ring. He looked like a regular guy, wearing his trademark jeans and a t-shirt (adorned with his helmet!), and just plodding along at the walk, trot, and even canter in front of a packed house. His horse, a young green bean to the show world and the youngest horse in the demo, confidently carried him into the ring. No, they weren’t show ring perfect. But that was the point. The point was to show the Arabian was for EVERYONE. The Arabian wasn’t just for show, but was truly the family horse. The horse to take out on those trails. The horse to explore new things, new ideas. The horse that isn’t just some piece of equipment, but your partner in crime.

The crowd loved it. The crowd loved seeing the diverse Arabians showcase nearly everything they do best. From your family horses to your Country English Pleasure horses. From Western to Jumping. From Dressage to Ranch. And the dazzling Native Costume horse who not only galloped around the huge ring, but also demoed as the lead line horse.

There truly isn’t much of a greater stage to showcase the breed to than a packed full arena with wide eyed children staring in awe as the proud Arabian shows them what it’s all about. We want the breed to succeed regardless if it’s a show home or a pleasure home. The absolute best place to do that is where there is noise and kids wanting nothing more than to have a horse. That is where you find The Next Generation. – submitted by Katie Lauer