CASPIAN EXPORTATION CIRCLED THE WORLD IN 35 YEARS

The Caspian Horse, once considered a lost breed, was rediscovered in the remote Albourz mountain area in northern . The year was 1965 when Louise Firouz first happened upon a uniquely small refined horse. Being an experienced horsewoman, she recognized their kind temperament, intelligence, trainability and athletic movement. She initially used them as riding po­ nies for her children and also for her Norouzabad Riding Academy. Over the years her continued search for these particular types of resulted in 24 Caspian Foundation lines available outside of Iran for breeding.

Louise's quest to save the Caspian included carefully breeding and selectively exporting offspring of these horses to ensure their survival. Louise also pursued scientific research, aided by noted geneticist, Dr. Gus Cothran, of Texas A & M University and many other leading scientists. Most likely she was unaware where her efforts would lead.

Now 38 years later, the Caspian horse has circled the world. The population has increased to approximately 1400, the United States now having the largest number with 612 since the arrival of breeding stock imported from England, Australia, New Zealand, and Belgium in 1995. The decedents ofthe original Foundation stock have now returned to the Middle East to within 50 miles of their homeland.

In May 2007, Commander of the Royal Calvary ofOman, Abdulrazak Alshahwarzi and veterinary of the Royal Court of Af­ fairs, Dr. Elias Nikolakoloulos visited Joyce and Felix Covington at their farm in Brenham, Texas. They were searching for miniature horses on behalf of the Prince ofOman. While at first concentrating on viewing the miniatures bred there at MCC farms Commander Alshabwarzi noticed the lovely herd of Caspian foals, mares and . Joyce gave them a short sum­ mary of the origins of the Caspian, both gentlemen replied that they have heard of the Caspian, but had never seen them. Dr. Nikolakoloulos noted that Oman is just across the Persian Gulf from Iran, where the first Caspian horses were exported. After a pleasant farm tour, with no decisions made, the representatives returned to Oman.

Within a week the Covingtons were contacted and two American bred Caspian mares were purchased by The Royal Calvary of Oman. The outstanding mares selected were: MCCs Golab, 8 years old, mealy color, sired by Marida Manzel, out of Sierra Dane, owned by Joyce and Felix Covington and Cassia Cheragh Crake, 4 years old, blue roan, sired by Hendens Stephens Auseman, out of Marida Cheragh, owned by Vicki Hudgins.

On November 17,2007, Golab and Cassia begin their very well organized and efficient first class trip to their new accommo­ dations at the Royal stables in the capital city of Muscat. They were given special attention and care by their appointed han­ dlers and veterinarian staff. Just two days later Joyce was notified of the safe arrival ofthe horses in Oman by Dr. Nikola­ koloulos.

It is interesting to note both mares were 5 months in foal to MCCs Casper, a sired by Sirhowy Massah out of Woodstock Taliyeh II. These foals will share ancestors in their pedigrees that traveled from their native Iran to England, Aus­ tralia, New Zealand, Bermuda, United States and now Oman.

What started as Louise Firouz's chance meeting with a small stallion named Ostad* has developed into Caspian horses being exported and born throughout the world. Her work with the Caspian is legendary, her accomplishments many, her courage and stamina, second to none. MCC Farms is proud to have been a part ofher years of work.

MCCs Golab with Joyce Coving and Cassia Crake with Vicki Hudgins in Brenham, Texas. Getting the girls ready for the trip and saying our goodbyes. Big ride for little horses, very nice way to travel Cassia arriving at Dallas Airport, Air Cargo Container, plenty big enough Golab IS back there somewhere

Loading into container, Cassia always in the lead, followed by Golab

Private handlers and veterinarians watched over the girls throughout the trip. Cassia just wants to know if there is food served on this flight.

View of the outside stable accommodations, used on nice weather days

Not even aware of how far they traveled Cassia and Golab are having a good roll, scratch and meal in their new home at the Royal Stables in Oman.

Heated and air-conditioned indoor stables for the days when it is not so nice.