Rare Colombian horse makes Middle East debut

Dubai:Shaikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance, attended the Dubai International Horse Fair where a unique ‘Paso Fino’ Colombian horse breed made its debut in the Middle East.

Colombian exhibitor AlphaOmega, which exports Paso Fino horses, have introduced prospective buyers, breeders and trade visitors to the breed and have reported keen interest shown by the regional equestrian industry.

It’s Manager Ricardo Avila Pineda said: “With a slightly convex profile of the head, an arched and muscular neck, slender and straight legs as well as small hooves, the Paso Fino is a widely sought after breed for smooth riding, endurance riding, horse shows, equestrian competitions and parade mounts.

“We have seen many interested buyers at the show who are eager to purchase this breed, which can sell from Dh150,000 up to Dh 7 million for champion horses.” Pineda explained that the Paso Fino, meaning ‘Fine Step’ in English, refers to the smoothness, elegance, and well-coordinated movement of the horse’s four hooves, which makes it so unique.

Shaikh Hamdan also met nine-year-old Mustafa Husam Ikermawi a well-respected Arabian horse photographer who presented Shaikh Hamdan with a photograph.

“I like taking photos of Arabian horses and it’s also a good challenge to take beautiful horse pictures because they are fast moving objects,” said the youngster.

TDubai International Arabian Horse Championship which conclude today.