Intro
Known for their greyhound-like appearance and coats that often gleam with a metallic shimmer, the Akhal-Teke horse is one of the easiest breeds to recognize by sight. They are quite simply built for speed and stamina in hot weather.
Origins
Thought to be over 3000 years old, Akhal-Teke horses are descendant of the ancient Scythian type horse and named for the Teke tribe of the Akhal oasis. Prior to being claimed and named, the breed evolved their signature long, lean look and amazing coat colors from the hard life of a plains animal. Scarce resources and large predators caused them to develop long, high-set necks, lean legs and natural golden coat camouflage.
Once controlled breeding began, extreme physical isolation and a strong sense of tradition maintained relatively pure bloodlines. The Teke tribe has always been nomadic and their horses prized as fast, hardy war mounts. Over time horses became an obvious measure of wealth, so they have always been well cared for and treated like family.
Changing Times
While their breeding may have once been highly traditional, the Akhal-Teke impressed upon the Russians as well. During the Russian occupation, private owners were stripped of their animals which were taken to large, state-owned stud farms. Many owners chose to flee the country, rather than relinquish their prized possessions.
A Long Ride
It was later decreed that animals taken to the stud farms were to be slaughtered for food, so breeders released as many of the animals to their native desert lands as they could. These actions by dedicated breeders probably saved the Akhal-Teke breed.
In 1935, fifteen Akhal-Teke animals were ridden over 1800 miles from Ashgabat to Moscow (in 84 days). The ride was undertaken to demonstrate their amazing strength to Stalin, in the hopes of earning his permission to continue their breeding. The plan worked.
Modern Akhal-Teke
The modern animals are not so very different from their ancient ancestors. This is in large part due to the tribes who have always loved and bred them. In 1991 Turkmenistan was liberated and they define horse breeding as a nationalistic concern, even an art form, giving it a large amount of credibility. The Akhal-Teke has also been declared a national treasure and their lovely image graces the state seal.
Today Akhal-Teke enthusiasts can be found all over the world and the number of farms are growing. This is a cherished breed, as they are the last remaining strain of the mighty Turkman.
Features
Average height 14.2 – 16 hands
Strong natural and soft gaits
Built for stamina and speed
Surefooted and strong
Physique
Head is long and light
Large, expressive eyes
Long slender, high-set neck with short, fine mane
Narrow in the chest with a long back
Legs are slender and long
Traditional Colors
All colors, but pale golden is the preferred color (their metallic glimmer is not due to the champagne dilution gene which doesn’t run in the breed’s genetics).
Temperament
Spirited with high energy
Highly sensitive
Bold and brave
Bright and able
Use
General riding horse
Race horse
Eventing and show horse
Helpful Links
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Akhal-Teke Association of America
Akhal-Teke Society of America
Akhal-Teke Canada
Where to Buy
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