And God took a handful of South wind
and from it formed a horse, saying:
"I create thee, Oh Arabian.
To thy forelock, I bind Victory in battle.
On thy back, I set a rich spoil And a Treasure in thy loins.
I establish thee as one of the Glories of the Earth...
I give thee flight without wings."

...ancient Bedouin legend

The image of a great black Arabian stallion, floating along the beach, nose to the wind, tail flagging, caught the attention of audiences with the release of The Black Stallion, brought the charisma of the Arabian horse to people worldwide with his flowing mane and proud head.

Arabians have existed for centuries and are the only true purebred in the equine world. They have played a significant role in the history of man and horse, and will continue to provide enjoyment and companionship for years to come.

There are many myths and theories concerning the origins of the Arabian horse. The traditional legends, including the Bedouin legend above, have shrouded the Arabian's roots in mystery. Another story is that "In the beginning, God gave Ishmael, son of Abraham, a gift, made of mist and dust, as a reward for Ishmael's faith and dedication to the God of his father. Out of the mist and dust came the first Asil Arabian mare, who was at the time in foal, and produced a son. From these two gifts from God came the beginning of the Asil (pure) Arabian horse.

Though the origin of the Arabian horse remains a mystery, his lineage traces back five thousand years. His ancient ancestors were slightly smaller than the Arabians of today, but otherwise the modern Arabians are exceptionally similar in appearance

Arabian horses are well known for being affectionate and bonding well with humans. People enjoy many activities with their Arabians, from showing to pleasure riding. They have also become the breed of choice in the endurance world because of their stamina and agility. Arabians also compete in racing, cattle and ranch work, and pleasure trail riding. Due to their friendly nature and willingness to work, Arabians are a popular choice for instructional programs and therapeutic riding. Arabians become devoted companions, a testament to their long history of importance in the people's lives they share.

Zoutpan breeds Arabian horses, proud, strong and feisty. The program is not aimed so much at selling the foals, but rather at producing horses that will be excellent performers in endurance racing, a sport that the whole Horn family loves to participate in.

All the Horn children contribute towards this activity, whether it is in the feeding or exercising of the horses or in the special feeding and fitness programmes. Both Andries and Hendri aquired national colours in the junior category for endurance racing.

Affiliated with the Endurance Ride Association of South Africa. (ERASA), Zoutpan annually hosts endurance rides on Zoutpan.

Each of the children hosts their own event so there are at least three Annual Endurance Ride Events, held on the farm. Join them and experience one of the most scenic rides you can do on the Garden Route.

Dates

The following races is on the Endurance Ride Association of South Africa's Ride Calender for 2007

• 11 and 12 May 2007: 80km vetgate system race
• 9 June 2007: 162km CEI *** Vet gate system International race
• 22 September 2007: 80km Vet Gate system race that will be part of the Aloe Festival in Albertinia

Please note

• Only the Main Ride will be competition based
• Qualifying speed for shortlist national team:
  22km per hour (corrected speed)
• Assisted by highly qualified veterinarians