On April 25, the capital of Turkmenistan became the center of large-scale celebrations dedicated to the nation's pride—the Akhal-Teke horse. The festive events, held at the Ashgabat Equestrian Complex with the participation of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, blended ancient traditions, high art, and the spirit of sport.
The festivities commenced with the unveiling of a monument to the legendary stallion Piyada. A four-time champion of beauty contests (1998–2001) and holder of the "Star of Turkestan" title (2008–2009), Piyada became the gold standard of the breed. Immortalized in motion before the entrance to the complex, he appeared to welcome the guests of the celebration, serving as a reminder of the continuity of glorious bloodlines.
The President’s route to the main grandstand led through a vibrant exhibition presented by the country's regions. Here, within white yurts, history came to life—from intricate jewelry masterpieces to exquisite examples of carpet weaving.
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the finest horses—gifted by every region of the country and its security agencies—to the Head of State. Gozbash, Sumbar, Shabat, Jeyhun, Margush, Nisa, Mertebeli, and Gayratly—each steed embodied the devotion and diligence of the nation's people.
A particularly special moment was the presentation of the stallions Arkahan—intended for the Head of State—and Daghan, a gift for the National Leader of the Turkmen people. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, adhering to time-honored tradition, tied alaja amulets—woven by his mother, Ogulgerek eje, and his grandmother, Ogulabat ene—around the horses' necks; this act served as a vivid symbol of the enduring strength of family and national values.
The central event of the day was the final round of the international contest "Ýylyň iň owadan ahalteke bedewi" (The Most Beautiful Akhal-Teke Horse of the Year). Ten of the breed's finest representatives—ranging from the jet-black Mekan to the grey Merdan—showcased their grace in the arena, appearing first in their natural state and subsequently adorned in magnificent jewelry finery.
The beautiful palomino stallion Hankerven (of the Gaplan line) was named the most beautiful Akhal-Teke horse of 2026. Foaled in 2018, this magnificent horse captivated the judges with his perfect proportions and noble bearing. The winner was presented with the keys to a Toyota Fortuner, a perpetual trophy, and a diploma.
The festivities also marked the conclusion of a creative marathon. Faculty members and students from the Academy of Arts and the Institute of Culture received awards for their outstanding artistic portrayals of the horse in painting, sculpture, carpet weaving, and media arts. Each entry conveyed not merely an admiration for the animal's physical form, but a profound understanding of the Akhal-Teke’s very soul—recognized as the "epitome of harmony."
The celebrations concluded with a festive sadaka and a vibrant musical and vocal performance, paying tribute to the "wings" of the Turkmen people—wings that carry them toward new heights of progress.
