The Arabian Culture Through The Equine Industry
Synopsis: In the Arabian peninsula, horses are an essential part of society. They embody culture, wealth, nobility, as well as being a living embodiment of grace and power. In Qatar, the breeding and training of horses has been developed into both a science and an art.
Arabian Culture Through the Equine Industry
HUMANITY for humankind, humanity for all God’s creatures.
This production documented the International efforts for humanity as per the request of HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Hamad bin Abdullah bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, the Emir/ Ruler of Qatar, to express Qatar’s rich history in the true equine spirit.
The event series echoes the influence, the love, and the respect for the equine heritage of the Middle Eastern culture from their domestication of the horse dating from 522-483 B.C.E., to present day. From ornately decorated horses and their riders in classic traditional attire as seen during the sword dance to the many spectacular cultural exhibitions throughout the festivities.
The initiative, which raised in excess of One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000.00 USD) for Children in Crisis, founded by The Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson, for the children victims globally. The Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson and The Princess of Wales, Diana (Diana Frances Spencer) often teamed up to support these charity efforts. In this event, the focus was on children victims of the Oklahoma bombing here in the United States. Hence the song “Yesterday’s Child” on the soundtrack performed by “JAR” (Jean Albert Renaud) reflects that.
The main setting takes place in Qatar, known as The Qatar International Desert Marathon, sometimes known as ”Desert Storm”. This grueling desert 26-mile (41.84 kilometers) marathon served as an international platform illustrating the Arabian culture in an humanitarian light whereas the horses were extremely cared for and could only compete if the team of veterinarians approved the entire state of affairs from the terrain, fitness of the horse, and the conditions for the rider throughout the race. So, all aspects were carefully monitored.
Internationally known equine trainers, jockeys, veterinarians, athletes, Olympians, Royal family members, Heads of States, entertainers of tv, the “big screen”, and stage, all participated to make this event a collaborative statement of good will. To name a few: Jean A. Renaud, music entertainer, horse breeder & trainer, equestrian personal coach for DOY, Sarah Ferguson; Patrick Swayze, Golden Globe actor, Bo Derek model and actor; Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson; Princess Alia bint Hussein of Jordan; Emmett Ross Olympian Gold Medalist, Qatar Endurance Chef d’Equipe; Katherine Kelly Lang, Emmy nominated actor, best known for “The Bold & The Beautiful”; and Dr. Keely A. Smith, head veterinarian for HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Al Shaqab Stud Farm.
