Akhal Tekes

["Steve Hallmark" <treedoc@jps.net>]

As a member of the Promotions Committee for the Akhal Teke Association of
America, I'd like to provide an update to RideCamp on the breed in North
America.

Tito Pontecorvo has imported a significant portion of his herd from Russia
to a ranch in Texas.  These horses represent a significant influx of Akhal
Teke blood to the North American Continent.  However, don't be scared off by
Tito's prices.  Just ask anyone who's shipped an equine across the Atlantic.
It ain't cheap!!!  I would suspect that Tito's prices will drop as he's able
to increase his US herd through breeding.  As the recent purchaser of a pure
bred yearling colt from a US breeder, I can assure you that prices for US
bred AT's are comparable to a well bred Arabian or warm blood.  Rest
assured, there are reasonably priced pure breds and crosses available on the
market.

One of the interesting developments that many US breeders are discovering,
is that the US bred horses are maturing out taller than the Russian or
Turkmenistan bred horses.  It is assumed that improved nutrition and early
health care (i.e. worming) may be the reason.  As someone of significant
stature (6'5'), the breeds size coupled with the endurance potential is what
sparked my interest.

Please feel free to e-mail me privately if you would like additional sources
of information on the Akhal Teke breed or for membership information in the
Akhal Teke Association of America.