Above: Greg Knowles demonstrating the best angles to capture a horse at for marketing materials.
By Ally Nelson
As featured in the Winter 2025 issue of Arabian Horse World
Royal Arabians remain at the forefront of our industry and always give back to their community. Their annual Educational Seminar is a perfect example of this. This January, they graciously opened their doors to guests and brought people from around the country to educate them. On Saturday, guests were greeted at 9 am with a light breakfast, and shortly after, Greg Knowles, an employee of Royal Arabians, started the seminar by discussing the ins and outs of judging a halter horse. Conformation was an important topic, as was finding harmony and balance among all important aspects of the Arabian horse. Next up was Michael Byatt, who educated the audience on the upcoming GCAT (Global Championship Arabians Tour). He explained the importance of the event and the exposure it will bring to our horses!
A lovely lunch was served and the seminars continued. Next, Greg Knowles educates the viewers on essential steps that should be taken before your horse goes to a training facility, including ensuring your horse is trained to lead safely and that they are comfortable wearing a halter and blankets. Next was the discussion of photography and videography. Having great footage of your horse allows the professionals to market them correctly. Using a beautiful Arabian statue, Greg demonstrated the best angles to capture with a camera. Greg graciously engaged the crowd and opened up opportunities for questions.
Horses were presented on both days for spectators.
Lastly, on Saturday, Koopman CPA taught the guests about running an Arabian horse business, focusing on Equine Accounting and Tax Law. This information was well received and of great value to those in attendance. Closing up day one, Royal Arabians presented an exotic group of sales horses, and all enjoyed cocktails, dinner, and welcoming conversation.
Day two of the educational seminar began with their annual pancake breakfast. In conjunction with Hilary Hoffman, Lara Ames of the Arabian Horse Times then took to the stage, educating the guests on the importance of social media. Social strategies were brought to everyone’s minds, and many inquisitive questions were asked. In today’s world digital marketing has become so powerful and all guests walked away with new tips to further their reach. Roger Souza of RS Equine, a top breeding veterinarian, gave a great speech on reproduction, enlightening the audience on how best to prepare their mare for the upcoming breeding season. Austin Garret then took the mic and delivered a very informative presentation of all the amateur and prize money programs that our industry has to offer. The guest’s eyes lit up when they heard the expansive dollar amounts to be won.
Owners of Beni Hashim Arabians, Arabian Soul Partners, Royal Arabians, and Desert Sky Arabians.
As the day slowly ended, guests were again guided to the presentation area, and more stunning horses were paraded in front of the crowd. A few of the up-and-coming colts pranced across the stage, followed by the breeding stallions of Royal Arabians.
All those in attendance had a wonderful time and left with a wealth of knowledge. We commend Royal Arabians and their dedication to making the Arabian horse industry a better place.
